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130. American Southwest with Kids May 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Jess and Megan walk us through their recent family getaways to two standout Hyatt properties in the American Southwest: the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale in Arizona and the Hyatt Regency Tamaya in New Mexico. From flights on Southwest® using Companion Passes to family-friendly resort and cultural activities, they break down exactly how they booked, what they loved, and what they'd do differently next time.

Grand Hyatt Scottsdale: Renovated Luxury with Resort Vibes

Fresh off a huge renovation and rebrand, the former Hyatt Regency Scottsdale is now the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale—and Jess and Megan each had three-night family stays to check it out.

The resort has ten pools, including a three-story water slide, a sandy beach area for little kids, and a separate adults-only pool. There's even a rock-climbing wall, putting green, and weekly birds of prey show. The club lounge, while small, included complimentary breakfast, drinks, appetizers, and desserts, and Jess made good use of the free happy hour drinks by taking them poolside.

Their biggest warning? Avoid Thursday–Saturday stays if you're sensitive to noise—live music in the lobby those nights is extremely loud and carries to guest rooms. Jess called it the biggest damper on an otherwise enjoyable trip.

Hyatt Regency Tamaya: Hidden Gem Near Albuquerque

Megan also shares her family's stay at Hyatt Regency Tamaya, located on the Santa Ana Pueblo in New Mexico. Recently renovated and still a Category 4 Hyatt, it offered unique Native American cultural experiences, incredible mountain views, and tons of free family activities.

Megan's family enjoyed nightly s'mores by the fire pit, cultural storytelling sessions, hands-on artisan demos, and a pueblo bread tasting. There are multiple pools, bike rentals, and even a horseback riding stable on-site.

This resort is just 30 minutes from Albuquerque's airport and offers easy access to Santa Fe and Petrified Forest National Park not too far away—making it perfect for road trip loops or a more relaxing extended stay.

If you're dreaming of a warm-weather escape filled with adventure, learning, and luxury—without the luxury price tag—this episode is packed with inspiration and real-world tips for traveling the Southwest on points. Hit play and start planning your family's next trip!

Links:

Webinar: How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free
Grand Hyatt Scottsdale: https://www.hyatt.com/grand-hyatt/en-US/scott-grand-hyatt-scottsdale-resort
Hyatt Regency Tamaya: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/tamay-hyatt-regency-tamaya-resort-and-spa
Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:30 – Intro + overview
01:00 – Flights on Southwest® + Companion Pass
03:00 – Costco car rental + tips for family travel
08:00 – Grand Hyatt Scottsdale: room types, points cost, parking fees
13:00 – Club lounge pros/cons
18:00 – Pool features, beach area, adult-only spaces, kids' activities
23:00 – Live music noise issues + what to know before booking
31:00 – Hyatt Regency Tamaya
34:00 – Hotel background, cultural ties, and points cost
38:00 – Pools, spa, activities, and Guest of Honor details
41:00 – Cultural experiences
44:00 – Horseback riding + why this property is a favorite for families

129. Costa Rica Spring Break May 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Jess, Pam, and Alex break down their recent spring break trips to Costa Rica—highlighting three unforgettable resorts, two different travel styles, and one shared love for how easy (and affordable!) this country is to explore with points and miles.

Flights on Points

Alex and Jess both flew Southwest—Jess from Houston and Alex from Salt Lake City—and Pam chose United. Between Southwest Companion Passes, smart rebooking, and good timing, Jess got a great deal for round-trip flights for four people. Pam, always loyal to United for the elite-status perks, flew out of Denver and got a free upgrade to first class on the way home.

Where They Stayed: Andaz Papagayo, Rio Perdido, and Tabacón

Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort (Hyatt Category 8): A luxury resort with monkeys, pools, and a new beach club you access by boat. Jess scored a Bay View Suite with a birthday upgrade, while Alex's family enjoyed connecting rooms with a rollaway for the kids.
Rio Perdido (Hilton SLH): Jess took her family here for a more boutique, off-the-grid experience. Set in the rainforest with private bungalows, thermal rivers, and mud baths, Rio Perdido offered a quieter, more immersive vibe.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa (Hilton SLH): Pam and Alex's family stayed at this jungle escape near La Fortuna. Booking via Hilton points and free-night certificates, they enjoyed connecting rooms, views of the Arenal Volcano, and unlimited access to the hot springs.

Rental Cars, Shuttles, and Driving Tips

The Squad breaks down everything you want to know about whether to rent a car or book a shuttle service in Costa Rica and how to decide which option is best for your trip. They even advise on what kind of vehicles to avoid renting and recommend a great woman-owned transportation service if you don't want to drive yourself.

Activities: Adventures for All Ages

Alex's crew went full-on jungle mode with:

A zipline and rappelling canyon tour through Maquique Adventure
A night walk with frog and snake sightings (not for the faint of heart!)
Exploring La Fortuna

Jess and Ella did a canyon adventure at Rio Perdido, complete with a pro photographer tagging along. Meanwhile, everyone raved about thermal pools and monkey spotting!

Whether you're team luxury resort or jungle bungalow, this episode proves that Costa Rica is made for points travelers—and families.

🎧 Listen now to hear every detail and decide which Costa Rica combo is right for your next adventure.

Links:

https://www.maquiqueadventure.com
Viator night walk: Night Walk Around The Arenal Volcano
Maleku Tours: Maleku Tours - https://www.malekutours.com
Pam's Upgrade Template: How to Request a Hotel Room Upgrade

Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:30 – Flights, airport tips, and how we booked on points
05:00 – Rental cars vs. shuttles
13:00 – Andaz Papagayo
33:00 – Rio Perdido
40:00 – Tabacón
53:00 – Activities: Ziplining, wildlife, and rainforest excursions
1:01:00 – Comparing all three resorts

128. Pam's Return to Thailand May 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Pam shares her full itinerary from her recent return to Thailand—a dream trip she's been wanting to repeat since her very first adventure on points and miles years ago. From business-class flights on Singapore Airlines, to luxury stays at the Conrad, Ritz-Carlton, and Banyan Tree—and of course, daily massages for $12—Pam takes us through every high (and low!) of the trip.

How Pam Booked Her Flights

The trip started with a Thrifty Traveler Premium alert: saver award space on Singapore Airlines from San Francisco to Bangkok. Pam positioned to SFO from Denver and visited the Polaris Lounge before the long-haul flight—cookie skillets included!

Stop #1: Koh Samui – The Conrad vs. The Ritz-Carlton

Pam's first two nights were spent at the Conrad Koh Samui, booked with Hilton free-night certificates. Next, she moved to the Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui, using two Marriott free-night certificates. So which luxury resort won Pam over? Listen to find out what Pam loved about the Conrad that made it the winner over the Ritz-Carlton.

Stop #2: Krabi – Luxury, Views, and Boat Tours

Next up was Krabi, where Pam and her crew splurged on a paid stay at the Banyan Tree Krabi. This peaceful resort had amazing views, but the food was disappointing. It provided a great base for day trips to Hong Island, Railay Beach, and the Phi Phi Islands. And with massages available nearby from $12 to $30/hour, Pam was in heaven!

Final Nights: Park Hyatt Bangkok & Grand Hyatt SFO

Before flying home, Pam spent one night at the Park Hyatt Bangkok, booked for 25,000 Hyatt points. She raved about the architecture, location, outstanding food, and luxurious vibe—and she can't wait to go back.

Then Pam stayed one night at the Grand Hyatt SFO, an airport hotel she loves for its breakfast and convenience—even though it's now in the same category as the Park Hyatt Bangkok!

Pam's take? Thailand is one of the most affordable and rewarding destinations you can book with points and miles. Use airline miles to get there, pay cash or use points for luxury stays, and save room in your budget for daily massages!

🎧 Tune in now to hear the full recap—and start dreaming up your own Thailand itinerary!

Links:

How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free - https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation
Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:30 – Why Thailand was Pam's first—and forever favorite—points trip
03:30 – Singapore Airlines business class
06:45 – Polaris Lounge tips + stressful positioning lesson
08:30 – Two nights at Conrad Koh Samui
12:00 – Comparing the Conrad and Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui
15:00 – Touring temples, elephant sanctuaries, and quirky local stops
17:30 – Thai massage culture: $12 treatments and $30 spa experiences
19:00 – Banyan Tree Krabi
24:00 – Island hopping, jellyfish sightings, and tailor-made suits
26:00 – Luxe comfort at the Park Hyatt Bangkok
29:00 – Why Thailand is a fantastic value for points

127. Would You Rather!? – Points Talk Edition May 06, 2025

Show notes

This week's episode is a little different—and a lot of fun. Jess, Pam, and Alex are joined by Traci for a special game of Would You Rather!? – Points Talk Edition. Traci challenges the squad with a lineup of delightfully diabolical travel questions designed to reveal where they really stand when it comes to their points and airline preferences, personal travel quirks, and loyalty trade-offs.

From Business Class Woes to Economy Wins

The episode kicks off with a tough one: would you rather have a lie-flat seat in business class next to an annoying stranger, or an entire economy row to yourself? At least one of the squad's answers will probably surprise you!

Individual Perks vs. Points Value: Globalist or the Award Chart?

Next, Traci challenges the group with Hyatt's ultimate tradeoff: would you rather have lifetime Globalist status or a guaranteed fixed award chart for 20 years? Is there dissent or do Alex, Jess, and Pam all come down on the same side on this one?

Real-Life Dilemmas and Points Preferences

From there, the questions get personal:

Learn about Alex's secret grocery-store card confession.
Would Jess rather stay at a Park Hyatt in a city she doesn't like (Venice) or a Holiday Inn Express in a city she loves (Tokyo)?
Would Alex rather have her beloved Southwest® Companion Pass or 600,000 Hyatt points?
Would Pam choose only domestic luxury travel or international budget travel if she could only choose one?

Tough Transfers & Redemption Realities

The squad also weighs in on (and disagrees about) transferring highly valued points with or without bonuses.

Nice Problems to Have

They also daydream about future loyalty-program changes they'd love to see, like new Citi cards, United partnering with a second bank, and Capital One adding Alaska as a partner. (A girl can dream!)

The Great Collectibles Debate: Ducks or Houses?

The episode ends on a light note, with the squad picking which flight souvenirs they'd rather have (rubber ducks or Delft houses) and which ones they'd be more likely to try to get permission to pinch.

This episode is full of laughs, strong opinions, and lots of travel daydreaming. Hit play now and see which "would you rather" choices you agree with—and which ones you totally wouldn't! 🎙️✈️

Links:

Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute by Minute:

00:30 – Welcome + how the game works
01:00 – Business class vs. economy row showdown
04:00 – Globalist vs. award chart test
07:00 – Grocery points dilemma
10:00 – Jess's hotel showdown
12:00 – Pam's domestic luxury or international budget stays
14:00 – Companion Pass or Hyatt points?
16:30 – Pop-up jail vs. 7/24 status
19:00 – 100K airline-only points or 60K flexible points?
20:00 – Business class: food or bedding
23:00 – Dream program changes
26:00 – Fun fantasy airline partnerships
31:00 – Transfer bonus dilemma
36:00 – KLM vs. Lufthansa souvenirs
39:00 – Turkish Airlines vs. Virgin Atlantic souvenirs

126. Jess's Family Trip to Japan on Points—Spring Break for $200?! Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Jess takes us step-by-step through her family's spring break trip to Japan—a points and miles masterpiece that cost just $200 total out of pocket for four round-trip flights and multiple hotel stays. From first class flights to washer/dryers in hotel rooms, this trip had it all. Whether you're dreaming of cherry blossoms, bullet trains, or Hello Kitty cafés, this episode is packed with tips for making Japan happen—without breaking the bank.

Flying to Japan in Style with AA Miles

Jess booked her family's flights using American Airlines miles, flying on Japan Airlines from Chicago to Tokyo, and shares her tips for snagging first-class saver award seats, business-class seats, and also premium-economy seats.

Staying in Tokyo, Family Style

For the Tokyo leg, Jess chose the Hyatt House Shibuya, a new property that has quickly become her top recommendation for families.

Kyoto on a Budget with Hyatt Place

After Tokyo, the family took the bullet train to Kyoto and stayed at the Hyatt Place Kyoto, a Category 2 gem offering amazing value.

Activities included exploring Fushimi Inari Shrine, tasting local snacks at Nishiki Market, and spending several hours with deer at Nara Park—Molly's favorite part of the trip!

Luxury Final Night at the Conrad Tokyo

For their final night, Jess used Hilton free-night certificates to stay at the Conrad Tokyo, a luxury property with top-tier service. From Hello Kitty water bottles at checkout to executive-lounge cocktails, it was the perfect way to end the trip. Jess doesn't recommend it for the location alone, but if you've got free night certificates, she says it's 100% worth it.

A trip to Japan for a family of four with flights and hotels for $200? This is the power of points and miles. Hit play now and hear how Jess pulled it off—and how you can too.

Links:

Points Talk Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com
How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free: How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free - https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/
Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya: https://www.hyatt.com/hyatt-house/en-US/tyoxs-hyatt-house-tokyo-shibuya
Hyatt Place Kyoto Review: Hyatt Place Kyoto Review - Travel Mom Squad - https://travelmomsquad.com/hyatt-place-kyoto-review/
SmartEx App (for Shinkansen tickets): Tokaido Sanyo Kyushu Shinkansen Internet - https://smart-ex.jp/en/app/download/index.html
Reservation Service | Tokaido Sanyo Kyushu Shinkansen Internet Reservation Service - https://smart-ex.jp/en/app/download/index.html
Voice Map app: Walking Tour App » VoiceMap - https://voicemap.me/walking-tour-app
Cat rescue cafe: Home | 宿木カフェ＆レストラン - https://www.yadorigicafe.com
Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:30 – Flights to Japan: AA miles, upgrades, and flight tricks
07:00 – Booking first class seats and handling premium economy changes
12:00 – Transportation in Tokyo and using transit cards for kids
16:00 – Hyatt House Shibuya: why it's perfect for families
23:00 – Favorite Tokyo experiences: TeamLab, shopping streets, latte art & cat cafés
29:00 – Kyoto stay at Hyatt Place + must-dos like Nara Park and local markets
36:00 – Final night at Conrad Tokyo with Hilton free-night certificates
42:00 – Recap of highlights, family takeaways, and why Jess is ready to go back

Sneak Peek Inside Points Talk Premium: Ask Us Anything Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

In this sneak peek from Points Talk Premium, we're giving you a taste of one of our monthly "Ask Us Anything" episodes—where we answer real questions from our subscribers about using points and miles to travel smarter.

Subscribe to Points Talk Premium for full access to monthly deep-dive tips, behind-the-scenes content, and personalized Q&As.

Subscribe Now: https://pointstalk.supercast.com

125. TMS Heads South of the Border—Points-Powered Trips to Mexico & Honduras Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad is heading south! Jess shares her birthday trip to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, and Pam and Alex walk us through their tropical getaway to Roatán, Honduras. From charming colonial cities to vibrant beachside resorts, both of these escapes were powered by points and miles—and they're breaking down exactly how you can do it, too.

Jess's San Miguel de Allende Birthday Getaway

For her birthday, Jess wanted a trip that was cute, walkable, and filled with culture—and San Miguel de Allende checked all the boxes. She used points to book her flights and free nights at a boutique hotel that had cash rates of $800/night—a steal!

Jess shared how San Miguel felt totally different from places like Cancun—more Spanish-speaking, with rooftop restaurants, cobblestone streets, and an artsy vibe. She loved practicing her Spanish and appreciated how kid-friendly the town was (though leave the stroller at home). Highlights included a rooftop pool, the hotel's mascot dog Pancho (who even has his own Instagram), and a standout breakfast. Pro tip: order the San Miguel–style eggs!

Roatán with Pam & Alex: Direct Flights & Island Vibes

Pam and Alex flew to Roatán using United miles and IHG points. They started their stay in a bungalow—secluded, rustic, and quiet—then upgraded mid-trip to a Premium Ocean View room in the newer building.

Beach Time, Dining, and That Sweet Island Energy

Roatán was a totally different vibe—bustling but beautiful. From colorful buildings to locals selling snacks on the beach, Pam and Alex loved the laid-back charm. Highlights included hotel spa visits, hospitality hours, and free snorkel gear and kayaks, plus great dining spots in town. Even when the resort was at maximum capacity, it still felt relaxing and fun. Alex and Pam both liked this resort even better than the Kimpton Grand Cayman, which is high praise!

If you're dreaming of warm weather and want a new destination to add to your points wish list, this episode is packed with inspiration, strategy, and a few laughs. Tune in and start planning your own tropical escape! ☀️🌴

Links:

Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad
Webinar: https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/
Numu Hotel: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/mexico/numu/bjxub
Kimpton Grand Roatán: https://www.grandroatanresortandspa.com/us/en

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:30 – Intro: Why we love heading south in the winter with points
01:00 – Jess's birthday trip to San Miguel de Allende
04:00 – Booking with Aeroplan and staying at Numu Boutique Hotel
07:00 – Tips for families, babywearing, and rooftop culture
13:00 – Room service prices, local food, and practicing Spanish
15:00 – Pam & Alex's flight and IHG hotel booking for Roatán
21:00 – Room types: bungalow vs. ocean view
27:00 – Resort highlights, spa, and food options
34:00 – Beach-chair drama and family-friendly vibes
42:00 – Comparing Kimptons
46:30 – Why we'd go back—and why you should go!

124. All About the IHG Hotel Program Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we're diving deep into IHG One Rewards—a hotel program that often flies under the radar but has serious potential. From practical Holiday Inns to luxury Kimptons and InterContinentals, we're sharing our experiences using IHG points and free-night awards, how we earn them, and why buying IHG points (yes, buying!) can actually be a smart move.

What Even Is IHG?

Before diving into points and miles, most of us didn't even know IHG was the brand behind properties like Holiday Inn, Candlewood Suites, Kimpton, Hotel Indigo, and InterContinental. Jess shares how she earned free IHG stays back in the day by mailing in 90 index cards, and Pam tells how she thought Crowne Plazas were the height of luxury before she knew the full IHG lineup.

IHG Credit Cards: What to Know

Alex breaks down the three different IHG credit card options and how their benefits stack up so you can decide which one might work best for you. She also outlines two of the unique benefits that make two of these cards a great deal: getting a fourth night free on award stays and earning free-night certificates you can top up.

Buying IHG Points Can Actually Make Sense

Pam shares why she regularly buys IHG points—especially during 100% bonus sales—for heavily discounted stays at high-end IHG properties. She calls it a "no-brainer," and Jess agrees—IHG is one of the only programs where buying points often makes sense.

Where We've Used IHG Points and Awards

From a Kimpton in Barcelona, to airport Holiday Inns, to a Crowne Plaza in Bruges, we share how we've stretched our points and free-night certificates. Jess highlights how easy it is to top off a 40k free-night certificate online, and Alex reminds everyone about the best ways to book longer stays for couples.

We also discuss:

IHG status levels
Using certificates online (a breeze!)
The IHG brands we love most
Our dream stays: Six Senses, Kimpton in Sydney, and Hotel Indigo Galápagos

Links:

All About IHG Credit Cards: All About IHG Credit Cards - Travel Mom Squad - https://travelmomsquad.com/ihg-revamps-credit-cards
Purchasing IHG Points: Does It Make Sense? Purchasing IHG Points: Does It Make Sense? - Travel Mom Squad - https://travelmomsquad.com/purchasing-ihg-points-does-it-make-sense/
Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:30 – Our intro to IHG
03:00 – What cards we've had and what we recommend
06:45 – The best perks and status levels with IHG cards
09:30 – Why we buy IHG points (and how it saves $$$)
13:30 – Free-night certificates and how to use them wisely
18:00 – Where we've stayed using IHG points and awards
21:00 – The brands we love: Kimpton, Indigo, InterContinental
26:00 – Favorite past stays + the IHG hotels we want to try next

If you've been sleeping on IHG, take another look. Whether you're after practical one-night stays or a luxury resort getaway, there's more value here than you think.

🎧 Tune in now and start planning your next points-powered stay.

123. Behind the Magic—Ways to Save at Disney World This Summer Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Jess and Alex are sharing all the magic, insights, and travel tips they brought back from a recent media event at Walt Disney World. From exclusive behind-the-scenes tours to exciting new ticket and resort updates, they're joined by Megan—Travel Mom Squad's Disney expert—to talk about how to make a Disney trip more affordable, less stressful, and extra special using points and miles.

What's New at Disney World? Big Updates & Summer Deals

During the media event, Jess and Alex sat in on a panel with Disney execs and Imagineers who revealed upcoming changes and summer promotions—like 50% off tickets for kids (ages 3–9) and free dining plans for guests booking resort packages. They also shared how Disney is working to simplify the experience, with improvements to the Lightning Lane system and new family-focused resort programming.

Why Staying On-Property Might Be the Best Deal

One of the biggest takeaways? Staying at a Disney resort may cost less than you think—especially when you consider perks like free transportation, early park access, and even character visits right in the hotel. The team shares highlights from a private resort tour, including a peek at value resorts like Art of Animation (with family suites for six!), the moderate Coronado Springs, and the deluxe Boardwalk Inn. Megan also breaks down recent stays at the Swan and Dolphin, All-Star Music, and off-property Hyatts—and why she's team Disney all the way.

Making Disney More Affordable with Points & Miles

Jess, Alex, and Megan walk through the credit cards they recommend for offsetting the cost of Disney, including the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card for erasing ticket purchases and American Express® Gold Card for dining. They also explain how to book hotels using points for on-site stays.

Park Tips, Lightning Lanes & Planning Strategies

From early-entry tips to the best times to ride Peter Pan (hint: before 9am), this episode is packed with practical Disney advice. Megan also shares how she used the Southwest® Companion Pass to cut flight costs and why her family skipped Lightning Lanes altogether on some trips.

Planning a Disney trip this summer? This episode is packed with what you really need to know—straight from the Travel Mom Squad's latest Disney adventure. Hit play or share it with a Disney-loving friend! 🎢🏰✨

Overwhelmed at the thought of planning your own Disney vacation? Travel Mom Squad has partnered with Mouse Counselors, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, to help community members maximize their Disney and travel experiences!

Links:

Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad
Disney Offers: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/special-offers
Get Away Today affiliate link: Get Away Today - Discount Disney Vacations & Beyond
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: https://travelmomsquad.com/capital-one-venture-rewards-credit-card
Cash-Back Card: https://travelmomsquad.com/cibpremier

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:30 – Behind-the-scenes insights from Disney's media event
08:00 – Major summer deals: 50% off kids' tickets & dining plan updates
14:00 – Disney resorts overview: value, moderate, and deluxe picks
30:00 – Megan shares on-property vs. off-property comparisons
40:00 – Tips for early entry, Lightning Lanes, and maximizing park time
45:00 – Using points and credit cards to make Disney more affordable
51:00 – Final thoughts and favorite takeaways

122. Pam's Trip to New Zealand Using Points and Miles Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

New Zealand has been high on so many of your travel wish lists—and for good reason! In this episode, Pam shares details from her recent two-week adventure on the North Island of New Zealand, including how she booked business-class flights, multiple free hotel nights, and even covered rental cars and excursions—all using points and miles (and one fortuitous mistake fare). From kayaking Cathedral Cove to digging out hot tubs at Hot Water Beach, it's a trip full of unforgettable experiences and major travel inspiration.

Finding Flights to New Zealand: A Challenge (and a Win!)

Getting to New Zealand in business class is no easy feat, but Pam pulled it off. After struggling to find availability, she scored two one-way business-class award tickets from Dallas to Auckland. The return flight was a mistake fare in United Polaris for just $1,000 cash (normally $3,800+).

Points-Powered Luxury: Park Hyatt Auckland & More

Pam raved about the Park Hyatt Auckland, calling it one of her favorite Park Hyatts ever. For just 25,000 Hyatt points per night, she enjoyed stunning views of the harbor, incredible Globalist breakfast, and unbeatable service. She also used Capital One Venture X credits to cover stays at boutique resorts.

The Itinerary: Coastal Drives, Kayaks, and Tiny Houses

Bay of Islands: Booked via Capital One credits, with a scenic boat tour to Hole in the Rock
Cathedral Cove: Kayaking through crystal-clear waters to one of New Zealand's most famous spots
Hot Water Beach: Digging hot tubs in naturally heated sand
Rotorua & Lake Taupo: Rafting a 21-foot waterfall, visiting Maori villages, and relaxing in Hilton luxury
Bonus Stay: A tiny house Airbnb—Pam's dream come true!

The Total Cost Breakdown

Using a mix of points, miles, Capital One credits, and cash, Pam calculated her total out-of-pocket costs at around $3,000—a fraction of the $28,000+ retail value for flights and hotels. With ten nights of free hotel stays, complimentary breakfasts, and first-class flight experiences, it was an unforgettable journey made possible by smart planning and strategic redemptions.

Links:

How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free - https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation
Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad

Episode Minute By Minute:

00:30 – Why Pam did New Zealand: Take 2
03:00 – Booking flights with AA miles and a United mistake fare
08:30 – Pam's advice for finding flights to New Zealand
13:00 – Park Hyatt Auckland + Waiheke Island day trip
18:00 – Bay of Islands and boutique hotel stay
21:00 – Tiny house stay and Cathedral Cove
26:00 – Rafting a waterfall and Maori village experience
31:00 – Hilton Lake Taupo and relaxing
35:00 – Flying United Polaris home + final night at Grand Hyatt DFW
38:00 – Cost recap and final thoughts on why Pam can't wait to return

Thinking about a trip to New Zealand? This episode will show you it's totally possible with points and miles—and that even Grandma can conquer a 21-foot waterfall! 🛶🌿✈️

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