How Airline and Hotel Loyalty programs are changing due to COVID-19, coronavirus.
Given the global situation concerning COVID-19 (the coronavirus), frequent travelers have stayed at home and are practicing social distancing instructions in order to prevent further spread of the illness. As we hope for the safe health of others, we're all dreaming of a return to normal travel. While no one can quite predict when that might be, travel companies have made moves to keep their programs active and members engaged. Here's a list by Ramsey Qubein on what to know about travel loyalty program changes, elite status, and qualifications moving forward.
Accor Live Limitless
Accor’s loyalty program is crediting 50 percent of the status nights and points required to requalify for your current status level. This automatically gets you halfway toward the same status for next year.
Aeroplan
Air Canada is pausing the expiration of miles until May 14, which means if you had miles set to expire before then, they now last until mid-May. Altitude members are receiving additional eUpgrade credits in their accounts, which are valid until May 31, 2021.
Best Western Rewards
Best Western was one of the first to extend status for members until January 31, 2022. This means that your current status remains the same unless you earn a higher level this year. Plus, anyone who was downgraded in status based on travels in 2019 will be boosted to their previous level until January 31, 2022, as well.
Cathay Pacific Marco Polo Club
Cathay is automatically adding monthly increments of points between now and April to get travelers closer to status thresholds even when they cannot travel. In addition, those with lounge passes, upgrade certificates, and Gold Companion Card nominations will receive six-month extensions to use them.
Choice Privileges
Any points set to expire have been extended through the end of May 2021.
Delta SkyMiles
If you have upgrade and companion certificates that were supposed to expire this spring, the validity has been extended through the end of the year.
Emirates Skywards
The airline is lowering elite threshold requirements between now and May 2020 by 20 percent.
Etihad Guest
The airline is delivering bonus tier miles on a monthly basis to pad member balances and help them toward annual elite thresholds during the travel slowdown.
Flying Blue
Miles will no longer expire this year, and for those with status expiring this spring, elite status requirements are being lowered by 25 percent.
Hilton Honors
Any points that were scheduled to expire between now and May 31 will be extended.
IHG Rewards Club
IHG was a first mover in making status easier for travelers. Travelers now have lower requirements to earn elite status. For example, Gold Elite status now requires 7,000 qualifying points (instead of 10,000) or seven qualifying nights (instead of 10) this year to earn status. Top-tier Spire Elite status only requires 55,000 qualifying points (instead of 75,000) or 55 nights (instead of 75).
Marriott Bonvoy
If you have free night or Suite Night awards (used for room upgrades on eligible stays) in your account, these will be extended until December 31, 2021. In addition, any points set to previously expire will be extended to the same date.
Qantas Frequent Flyer
Status is being extended for current elite members by 12 months.
Radisson Rewards
Current elite status has been extended through February 2022, and any upcoming points expiration has been extended through the end of August.
Shangri-La Golden Circle
The current elite status is being extended for another year to December 31, 2021.
Virgin Flying Club
Elite status is being extended by six months.
World of Hyatt
Proposed changes to award categories (the designated number of points needed to redeem for a free night’s stay) will not go into effect this month as planned. Instead, it will be postponed to 2021. That’s good news for stays at many luxury hotels, where the free-night points rate was going to increase.
Why haven’t other brands made adjustments yet?
Given the uncertainty of the current situation, some airlines or hotels may be waiting to see the extent of travel disruption before making an announcement. Even currently announced loyalty program adjustments may change again before the end of the year. As we wait for the curve to flatten, be expecting more change to occur to our favorite hotel and airline programs.
Can I get from International Terminal G to Terminal 3 at SFO without going through security?
Can I get from International Terminal G to Terminal 3 at SFO without going through security?
Airside connector between Terminal 3 & International Terminal G
I recently was on a trip to San Francisco, flying from HNL to SFO on Hawaiian airlines and trying to figure out If I could access Terminal 3 without going through security. Our flight attendants and check-in personal said we would have to re-clear security again and online blogs were vague, but we suspected otherwise. Terminal 3 has the American Express Centurion Lounge and 2 restaurants (San Francisco Giants Clubhouse, Yankee Pier) that Priority Pass members & their one other guest can receive $28 of dining credit each.
So can you access TERMINAL 3 from International TERMINAL G?
The answer is: YES, via the Airside Connector
Directions: Upon landing in International Terminal G, proceed toward the end of the terminal, walking along the left side. DO NOT go outside security or else you will have to re-clear security again, instead make a left and you will see the United Polaris Lounge.
Keep walking and you will eventually come to the Terminal 3 airside connector, a small enclosed walkway that connects both terminals. Continue walking through it and follow the signs that lead to Gate F and you eventually find gate F1 which is Terminal 3.
It’s important to not pass any “No Re-entry Signs” or else you will have to re-clear security again.
More info on SFO Terminals
There are 4 main terminal areas that you can commute to without having to go through security again. Those areas are:
International Terminal A (Gates A1-A12)
International Terminal G (Gates G91-G102) connects to Domestic Terminal 3 (Gates 60-90)
Domestic Terminal 1 (Gates 40-48) connects to Domestic Terminal 2 (Gates 50-59)
Domestic Terminal 1 (Gates 20-28)
Below is a list of Airlines operating from their terminals at SFO:
International Terminal A
AeroMexico
Avianca
British Airways
Cathay Pacific
China Airlines
China Eastern
China Southern
El Al
Emirates
Finnair
French Bee
Hawaiian Airlines
Iberia
Icelandair
Interjet
Japan Airlines
JetBlue
KLM
Korean Air
Level
Norwegian
Philippine Airlines
Qantas
Sun Country Airlines
Virgin Atlantic
WestJet
International Terminal G
Aer Lingus
Air Canada
Air China
Air France
Air India
Air New Zealand
Asiana Airlines
Copa Airlines
Eva Air
Fiji Airways
Lufthansa
SAS
Singapore Airlines
Swiss International Air Lines
TAP Air Portugal
Turkish Airlines
United Airlines
Terminal 1
Delta Air Lines
Frontier Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Terminal 2
Alaska Airlines
American Airlines
Terminal 3
United Airlines
Before you plan your trip to SFO, make sure to map out the locations of the lounges you want to visit. The 2 restaurants give you a total of $56 dining credit to use. If you want to take full advantage of this, dine at one restaurant and order take out/have a drink at the other. If you are full, maximize your credit by ordering premium water bottles for your travels.
Alaska Airlines strengthens relationship with American Airlines and will join One World Alliance in 2021
It has been officially announced today that Alaska Airlines will be joining the Oneworld alliance by the summer of 2021. This is BIG NEWS because in light of the recent advancements with Delta airlines. Alaska Airlines rewards offer some of the best point redemptions of any airline rewards program, and this update allows for potential opportunities for earning and redemption through other partner carries. Below is a projected timeline of Alaska Airline’s plans.
Effective immediately:
Redeem Alaska Mileage Plan™ miles on all American Airlines flights (subject to award availability).
Access any of American's nearly 50 Admirals Club locations worldwide with an Alaska Lounge membership.*
Continue to earn and redeem Alaska Mileage Plan miles on our current portfolio of 16 Global Partners.
Starting Spring 2020:
Earn Alaska Mileage Plan miles on any American Airlines flights, domestically and internationally.
Starting Summer 2021:
Earn and redeem Alaska Mileage Plan miles on all oneworld airlines (subject to award availability).
Alaska elites will enjoy privileges, including priority boarding, premium seating, baggage benefits and more when you fly on American Airlines or any oneworld airline.
Access 650 lounges within the oneworld network as an MVP Gold or Gold 75k member.
The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card
There are NO major credit card companies that transfer points to Alaska Airlines, but they do have a Visa Signature that comes with a nice sign-up bonus and makes you eligible to purchase Alaska's Famous Companion Fare.
The companion fare entitles the cardholder to purchase one round-trip coach companion fare on Alaska Airlines from $121 (USD) ($99 base fare plus applicable taxes and fees from $22 depending on your flight itinerary) when traveling with another guest on a paid published coach airfare on the same itinerary, booked at the same time.
Ongoing benefits of the Visa Signature® card include:
Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ from $121 ($99 base fare plus taxes and fees from $22) every year on your account anniversary for Alaska flights booking on alaskaair.com with no blackout dates.
Free checked bag on Alaska flights for you and up to six other guests on the same reservation.
Earn 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases.
Earn 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
New: Get 20% back on Alaska Airlines inflight purchases when you use your new card.
New: Receive 50% off Alaska Lounge day passes when you use your new card.
No foreign transaction fees✝, plus chip-enabled for enhanced security when used at chip-enabled terminals.
No mileage cap.
Miles won't expire on your active account.
Low Annual fee of $75†
Visiting the ANA Lounge at the Honolulu International Airport
ANA has two lounges at HNL international airport. The first is the ANA lounge & the second is the more prestigious ANA Suite lounge for their premiere International flyers. Located in Terminal 2 (on the 3rd floor above Gate c4) at the Honolulu International Airport, ANA lounges offer a luxurious and inviting atmosphere and provides various functions and facilities that fit the needs of each and every on of their valued customers. We recently got a chance to tour the new ANA Lounge at the Daniel Inouye International Airport. Here are our thoughts.
THE CREDIT HACKER LOUNGE REVIEW:
Lots of seating here at the ANA lounge at HNL
AMBIANCE: (5/5) By far the best lounge and atmosphere at the HNL Airport! Clean, big with privacy, this lounge surpasses all other lounges at HNL. We love that the large windows in the lounge allow you to see the tarmac and watch planes depart for takeoff. The lounge layout & design reminds us of the DELTA lounge in NARITA!
FOOD: (5/5)
Since its an ANA Lounge, Japanese food was the staple here with curry, ginger pork, musubis & Japanese tofu soup. We loved the options and open bar as well. We recommend the sparking Rosé for drinks.
Greeted by the wonderful ANA staff and the front desk.
SERVICE: (3/5)
Upon arrival, I was greeted by the wonderful ANA staff. They made us feel welcomed and very special, but it was a different story inside. Although this was an ANA Lounge, the service inside wasn’t up to par with ANA standards. It seemed like most (not all) of the workers were grumpy and eager for everyone to leave by 1:00 pm since this lounge does close after the last departing ANA flight which is around 2:00 pm. The staff inside were not ANA workers but outsourced locally by a company.
Uniquely designed children’s play area.
EXTRA AMENITIES: (4/5)
What stands out as an extra amenity here is the uniquely designed children’s area. It’s enclosed and creative design allows children to have fun while not interrupting other guests in the lounge. The self-serve ice cream station was definitely a PLUS for us. Of course, I had to get a vanilla swirl with oreo crumbs on top.
OVERALL SCORE: (4.25/5 0
This is by far the best and largest lounge at the Honolulu International airport. It’s a unique design, great selection of food and drinks make this lounge an outstanding lounge.
HOW TO ACCESS:
1. First Class customers on ANA and/or Star Alliance member carrier operated flights, and one accompanying guest on ANA and/or Star Alliance member carrier operated flights per customer.
2. Business Class customers on ANA and/or Star Alliance member carrier international flights.
3. ANA Diamond Service members, ANA Platinum Service members and ANA Super Flyers Card members on ANA and/or Star Alliance member carrier operated flights, and one accompanying guest on ANA and/or Star Alliance member carrier operated flights per customer.
4. Star Alliance Gold members on ANA and/or Star Alliance member carrier operated flights, and one accompanying guest on ANA and/or Star Alliance member carrier operated flights per customer.
5. Customers using Premium Economy Service. * Out of pocket: USD 40 / Narita/Haneda: JPY 4,000 on ANA website (application in advance)
* Sadly, Priority pass doesn’t grant access to this lounge. .
Stopping by the American Express Centurion Lounge in SFO
Stopping by the American Express Centurion Lounge in SFO
On our most recent trip to Gilroy, California, my wife and I stopped by the American Express Centurion Lounge in SFO before our departing flight to Honolulu, HI.
Having an American Express Platinum card grants myself and 2 other guests complimentary access to the Centurion Lounge. This is a mid-tier lounge with a beautiful design, high-quality food, and great amenities. This was not my first Centurion Lounge experience, but I wanted to visit and dine at this one specifically at SFO. Here is our review.
THE CREDIT HACKER LOUNGE REVIEW:
AMBIANCE: (5/5) Centurion Lounges have to be one of my most favorite designed lounges. The modern architecture, chic furniture, and bold colors make this lounge stand out amongst the rest here at SFO. At the entrance stands a two-story glass wall with blue glass doors which then lead you with the option of a glass staircase or elevator to get to the 2nd floor, where the lounge is at.
There are different areas of the lounge created for different uses. A dining area for those just wanted a meal, a lounging area for traveling that wants to eat and rest, and a business area for travelers that are growing their hustle while drinking a glass of wine.
FOOD: (5/5) The food at the Centurion Lounge is always excellent. This one, in particular, had an open kitchen, a lunch buffet, and an open bar.
Open kitchen concept at the Centurion Lounge, SFO
Lunch and dinner are served from 11 a.m. to 10:45 p.m. and include items like tomato bisque, salads, grilled chicken, and herb-roasted potatoes. The menu is from the brilliant mind of Chef Daniel Patterson, a James Beard Award winner.
What’s so special about Daniel Patterson you might ask? He is the Oakland-based restaurateur/chef who started Alta Group, which includes the wildly popular San Francisco hotspot, Besharam, located in the Minnesota Street Project of Dogpatch. Besharam offers the global flavors of India just as nicely as his other restaurant, Kaya, does Jamaican. - Upgraded Points
At the bar, I got one of their dignature drinks called the Gin Basil Fizz which was made with St. George Botanivore gin, lime juice, Aqua Perfecta Basil Eau de Vie, sparkling wine. It was delicious and refreshing to say the least!
SERVICE: (4/5) The American Express staff is normally very professional and accommodating. The standards are high at these lounges, so you expect all staff to be friendly as well. Everyone was for the most part except the bartender who was a bit rude. Not sure if she was having a bad day.
I read that this lounge has complaints of being always busy with no open seats. That was surely the case when we arrived. I was hoping some of the servers would help us find seats, but instead, we waited around 10 minutes aside until a table was open.
Complimentary Wine Tasting at the centurion Lounge, SFO
EXTRA AMENITIES: (5/5)
A special amenity at the SFO lounge is its complimentary wine tasting. To get started, go up to the bartender and ask for a tasting card, a receipt that gives you five free pours from the automatic wine machine. Talk about a great deal! We sadly didn’t get to try this but I definitely wanted to include in this review. This lounge also comes standard with showers, so if you are a bit sweaty from traveling to the airport, you have the option of a nice warm shower!
OVERALL SCORE: 4.75/5
The Centurion lounge is one of the main reasons why I still have my American Express Platinum card. We often visit relatives and travel to San Francisco & Las Vegas, both airports have Centurion Lounges. American Express has an excellent product in their lounges, and I’m hoping they expand and have more around the World. Maybe one in HNL??? lol probably not…
How do I access The Centurion Lounge?
Access to The Centurion Lounge is complimentary for global Platinum Card®, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card and Centurion® Members.
Platinum® Card members who receive complimentary access may enter with up to two guests at no additional charge.
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card Members may bring up to two guests at a per-visit rate of $50 per person, per location.
Centurion members may enter with up to two guests or immediate family (spouse or domestic partner, and children under 18) at no additional charge.
To access The Centurion Lounge, the Card Member must present The Centurion Lounge agent with the following upon each visit: his or her valid Card, a boarding pass showing a confirmed reservation for same-day travel on any carrier and a government-issued I.D- name on card must match government-issued I.D. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card Members are only eligible to visit The Centurion Lounge when flying on a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight.
Important Centurion Lounge Access Rules
There are 2 very important rules to remember regarding access to the Centurion Lounge and these rules apply to cardholders and guests:
Rule #1 – The Three Hour Rule:
According to American Express, “depending on capacity, we may limit lounge access to within 3 hours of boarding pass departure time to ensure that all guests have an exceptional experience”.
This means that you can be denied access to the lounge until it’s within 3 hours of your departure time. While the policy seems to indicate that it’s based on capacity, it appears to be enforced more times than not especially given how busy SFO is all times of the day. For this reason, don’t plan on getting to the lounge more than 3 hours prior to your flight.
Rule #2 – Departure & Connecting Flights Only Rule:
You must have a departing flight or connecting flight out of SFO to access the lounge. Unfortunately, this means that if you are arriving into SFO without an outbound flight that day, you will not be granted access.
Annual Fee increase for the Chase Sapphire Reserve from $450 to $550
Photo by CNBC
It’s confirmed! Chase has raised the annual fee for the Chase Sapphire Reserve from $450 to $550. Although this seems like bad news, Chase has added additional benefits to Sapphire card holders. Lets take a look to see if it’s worth it.
Increased Annual Fee increase starts on January 12
Rumors of the increase were confirmed by The Points Guy, which learned that the increase will start on January 12. If you already have the card and are due to renew before April 1, 2020, you’ll be able to renew at the $450 rate; after April 1, everyone will pay the $550 annual fee.
Apply before January 12 to pay the $450 annual fee for the first year. This is an incredible opportunity, since you’ll not only recieve the lower annual fee for the first year, but you’ll get both the old and new perks.
Added Benefits to Chase Sapphire Reserve Users.
With the increased annual fee come a few extra perks for users to take advantage.
DoorDash DASHPASS Membership
Free DashPass for up to 2 years, immediately upon activation. Normally $9.99/month.
Save an average of $4 - $5 per order
Enjoy zero delivery fees and reduced service fees on orders over $12.
Up to $120 in statement credits, $60 through 12/31/20 and $60 through 12/31/2021, on DoorDash purchases. No activation required.
Lyft Pink
Free Year of Lyft pink membership (actual cost $19.99 per month)
15% off unlimited car ridesSave on every car ride you take — any time, anywhere.
Priority airport pickups Get picked up faster at the airport when it’s busy.
Relaxed cancellations We’ll cover three cancel fees per month if you rebook within 15 minutes.
Surprise offersGet seasonal discounts and exclusive savings.
Waived lost and found feesWe’ll take care of the return fee every time.
Bikes and scootersEnjoy 3 free 30-min. bike or scooter rides per month (in select markets).
So is it Worth it?
Bottom line, this isn’t good news for Chase Sapphire Card holders. The perks seem to be very identical to American Express Platinum Uber credit and the American Express Gold Door Dash credit, but does it justify the $100 annual fee increase? No, unless you already use Lyft & DoorDash on a regular basis.
Even though the annual fee will increase, we still find incredible value through the Chase Sapphire Reserve earning potential and redemptions for the UR portal and transfer partners.
Are there other options?
Yes! If you feel like the annual fee increase doesn’t justify your expenses and you’re getting a negative ROI, here are some options for you.
Downgrade to the Chase Sapphire Preferred.
The Annual fee is still $95 and you have 25% increase value in the UR portal and the same transfer partners as the Reserve.
Move to American Express.
American Express has a great network of cards that can yield just as much or more than the Chase card system. You also pay a bit more for better travel partners and travel perks.
Move to Citi Bank
Why?? because the CITI trifecta is an amazing point yielding system that has been under the radar the last few years. The newly changed benefits to the Citi Thank you card to 2x back, the ability to combine CITI ThankYou points, and CITI’s transfer partners makes the ROI for first class flights even better than the Chase Trifecta! (We go over this in the Credit Hacker Mentorship)
Applying for Global Entry // Details for Hawaii Residents
WHAT IS GLOBAL ENTRY?
Global Entry is the US government’s way of approving "trusted travelers" to gain quicker access through customs after international travel. Global Entry includes TSA Precheck, which provides an expedited passage through security at many US airports.
Global Entry makes traveling much quicker and more seamless. Landing from an international trip is a breeze, with just a few moments on the fast-pass line at customs through the Global Entry kiosks.
Also included is the TSA Precheck benefits, which are frequently used when traveling domestically. You will really appreciate the time you save not having to wait in long security lines. Also, you don’t have to fill up three bins with personal items, since you can keep my shoes, coat, and belt on and don’t have to remove liquids and laptop from your bag.
The way it works is, you go to these kiosks, present your machine-readable passport or U.S. permanent resident card, have your fingerprints scanned for identity verification, and complete a customs declaration. You’ll then get a receipt and be sent on your way to the baggage claim area.
If it works the way it should, you'll be off the plane, reunited with your baggage, and on your way home in no time. Just be aware though that even if you're accepted into the Global Entry program, CBP does caution that "members may still be selected for further examination when entering the United States." You should also know that if you apply for and get accepted into Global Entry, you’ll automatically be enrolled in TSA PreCheck.
HOW TO ENROLL:
1. Visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler Program website and create a Login.gov account.
Before starting your Global Entry application, you must create a Login.gov account here.
2. Complete your Global Entry application
The application takes about 20 minutes to complete. You’ll need several documents, including your valid passport or U.S. permanent resident card and driver’s license or other ID. You’ll have to fill out a comprehensive history, including your current and previous addresses for the past five years, employment history for the past five years, and international travel history for the past five years.
Once you complete your application and are “conditionally approved,” you will be asked to schedule your in-person interview.
3. Pay the $100 Fee
The fee for applying for Global Entry is $100. When you consider the time you save going through security with TSA Precheck and going through US customs after traveling internationally, it’s well worth the money. BELOW is a List of Credit cards that will reinburse you the Global Entry Fee.
4. Schedule and attend your in-person interview
After completing the Global Entry Application and paying the fee, you must now check the interview availability for your closest Global Entry Enrollment Center location (most are at airports) before applying. Alternatively, you can complete your Global Entry interview on a return flight from an international trip, which you don’t need to make an appointment in advance for. *This applies those at the HNL International Airport.
5. Attend Your in-person Interview
My interview was scheduled 2 months after my application was submitted at the Daniel Inouye International Airport. Yelp didn’t help much getting me there, so I provided some pictures and direction on how to get there. *HAWAII RESIDENTS, LOOK BELOW
You will need to bring your valid passport and driver’s license or other ID to your interview. They will also take a copy of your fingerprints. The interview itself takes a mere 10 minutes! I was expecting heavy screening and interrogation, but all they did was confirm my identity and take a picture.
Once you’ve completed your interview, you will be approved to begin using Global Entry. You will receive your Global Entry card in the mail 7-10 business days after approval, but don’t have to wait for it to arrive to have the benefits.
BEST CREDIT CARDS FOR GLOBAL ENTRY AND TSA PRECHECK
Here is a list of credit cards that re-imburse your Global Entry Fee.
Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $100 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry OR TSA Pre✓® application fee.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $100 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry OR TSA Pre✓® application fee. This benefit is also available to additional card members on the account.
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $100 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry OR TSA Pre✓® application fee.
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Visa® credit card
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $100 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry OR TSA Pre✓® application fee.
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: Receive a $100 automatic statement credit for the cost of the Global Entry and TSA Pre✓® application fee.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard®
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $100 credit once every five years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry OR TSA Pre✓® application fee.
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: Either $100 or $85 statement credit for the application fee when you apply for either Global Entry or TSA Pre✓®, every four years.
IHG® Rewards Club Premier Credit Card
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: Receive up to a $100 credit once every four years when you use your card to pay your Global Entry OR TSA Pre✓® application fee.
FOR BUSINESSES
The Business Platinum® Card from American Express
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: This card reimburses you once every four years for your TSA Pre✓® or Global Entry application fees, and that credit is available to each cardholder on the account so your employees can also take advantage of this offer.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
Global Entry/TSA Pre✓® fee reimbursement details: This card reimburses you once every four years for your TSA Pre✓® or Global Entry application fees.
Visiting the DELTA AIRLINES SKY CLUB at HNL
We got a chance to stop by the DELTA AIRLINES SKY LOUNGE at the Honolulu International Airport, located in Terminal 2 (Inside Security). Near Gate F1. Rated as “SOLID” & “WORTH A DETOUR” on Loungbuddy, we had to stop by and do a review. We have been here before, but it was worth a second stop for a review.
AMBIANCE: (4/5) This is definitely on the top 5 of the best lounges of the 14 at the Honolulu International Airport. This lounge has received a facelift with modern furniture, stylish lighting, and attractive colors.
FOOD: (4/5) The spread here was great, definitely more than snacks. They have a nice sized buffet with chicken, beef curry, rice, and other sides. There is an open bar and of course, an espresso machine!! you won’t go thirsty here!
SERVICE: (4/5) You are greeted by the lovely Delta staff who really make your stay here enjoyable and peaceful. There was a delay on our flight, but we were well informed of the changes and adjustments that were made by the front desk.
EXTRA AMENITIES: (3/5)
Other than a business center and an open bar, everything here is pretty standard and ordinary.
OVERALL SCORE: 3.75/5
To learn how to access, check out our latest write up on the DELTA SKY CLUB at HNL.
HOW TO ACCESS:
If you are flying with Delta, or a Sky Team partner like Air France or KLM, in a first or business class cabin on an international flight, you will also receive complimentary access to the Sky Club. You will also be able to access the lounge in this manner if you are traveling on certain transcontinental routes within the US in first or business class. You will not be given any guesting privileges with this method of access.
America Express Platinum card Holders -When it comes to lounge access, you won’t find a better card option than the Platinum Card from American Express. Just for holding the card, you will receive complimentary access into the Sky Club when you are flying with Delta. And while you won’t be able to bring in guests for free, you will be able to bring up to two guests into the lounge for $29 each.
Carry the Delta Reserve Credit Card from American Express - Much like the Platinum Card from American Express mentioned above, just for holding the Delta Reserve personal or business credit card from American Express, you will receive complimentary Sky Club access when you are flying with Delta. And beginning on January 30, 2020, cardholders will receive two, one-time guest passes to the Delta Sky Club each year. With an annual fee of $450, most will be better off going with the Platinum Card from American Express option. It has an annual fee of only $100 more ($550) and it simply provides many more benefits. If you don’t need the Reserve for earning MQMs and MQDs towards Delta status, go with the Platinum card mentioned above.
Hold Delta Gold or Platinum Medallion Status and Fly Internationally - If you hold either Delta’s Gold or Platinum Medallion status you will be able to access the Sky Club free of charge if you are traveling internationally on Delta or a Sky Team partner regardless of which cabin you are flying in. You can have a ticket in any class of service and receive free access. Further, you can bring one guest in with you at no charge.
Carry the Delta Gold or Platinum co-branded American Express credit card - For holding the Gold or Platinum SkyMiles credit card from American Express, you will receive discounted Sky Club access of $29 per entry. You can also bring in up to two guests for $29 each.
However, starting on January 30, 2020, Delta SkyMiles Gold cardholders will no longer be able to buy a single visit Sky Club pass. This option will still be available for Delta SkyMiles Platinum cardholders but the cost will be increased to $39 for each visit.
The Most sought-after travel perk, the Southwest Companion Pass
We recently got the chance to fly Southwest Air on our recent trip to Kona using our AMEX Platinum airlines credit. For a more detailed review of the flight, check out our friend’s @islandmiler ’s blog!
With news of the SouthWest Effect hitting our islands (Hawaiian Airlines inter-island sales down 16% in Q2), be on the lookout for Southwest Credit card bonuses!
The Southwest Companion Pass is one of the most sought-after travel perks in the Travel hacking industry. When acquired, whenever you fly with Southwest Airlines, a companion can fly FREE with you for the remainder of the year and the next full calendar year. It only requires 110,000 Southwest points earned in one calendar year to score it, but there are a few credit card combinations you can make right now to earn those points with just two credit cards. Here’s how Southwest defines points that will count:
“Companion Pass Qualifying Points are earned from your revenue flights booked through Southwest Airlines, your points earned by making purchases with a Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Credit Card, and your base points earned from Rapid Rewards partners.”
*The pass is valid for the rest of the year in which you earn it plus the entire following year. Timing is everything so plan effectively!
Here is a brief rundown of the Southwest Credit Card’s and their current bonuses.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card
Earn up to 60,000 points. Earn 40,000 points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, earn 20,000 points after you spend $12,000 on purchases in the first 12 months your account is open.
VALUE: $900
$75 annual Southwest travel credit; 20% back on in-flight drinks, Wi-Fi, messaging and movies; and four Upgraded Boardings in the A1–A15 position each year (worth up to $50 each). $149 annual fee.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card
Earn up to 60,000 points. Earn 40,000 points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, earn 20,000 points after you spend $12,000 on purchases in the first 12 months your account is open.
VALUE: $900
No foreign transaction fees, earn points toward A-List status, $99 annual fee
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card
Earn up to 60,000 points. Earn 40,000 points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, earn 20,000 points after you spend $12,000 on purchases in the first 12 months your account is open.
VALUE: $900
3,000 anniversary bonus points, $69 annual fee
Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card
Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months
VALUE: $1,200
Four A1–A15 annual boarding passes, Inflight Wi-Fi credits, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application statement credit every four years, 3x points on Southwest charges. $199 annual fee.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Earn 60,000 points when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months
VALUE: $900
No foreign transaction fees, earn points toward A-List status, 6,000 points at each renewal, $99 annual fee.
How to get Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite in 2019
Is Marriott Gold Elite worth it? in my opinion, it is! Marriott has a 5 tier reward system: Silver, Gold, Platinum, Titanium & Ambassador, but the reals perks start when you qualify for Gold Elite? Marriott Members enjoy all the benefits of Gold Elite status after completing only 25 eligible nights in a calendar year — including redemption nights, but if you don’t stay at Marriotts too often? GET A CREDIT CARD!!
Listed below are the credit cards that give you an Gold Elite status with Marriott
Penha Longa Hotel & Resort in Portugal.
1. The Platinum Card® from American Express provides automatic Gold Elite status.
2. The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card provides automatic Gold Elite status.
3. The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card (no longer open to new applicants) provides automatic Gold Elite status.
4. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card allows you to earn Gold Elite status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each account year.
5. The Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card allows you to earn Gold Elite status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each account year.
6. The Marriott Premier Plus Business Credit Card (no longer accepting applications) allows you to earn Gold Elite status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each account year.
What value does Gold Elite status give you? (info from @thepointsguy)
25% point bonus ($90): As a Gold Elite member in the new program, you’ll earn 25% more points than a regular member, which works out to 2.5 additional points per dollar spent at most hotels. Since I’m assuming 30 nights with an average rate of $150 per night, that works out to an additional 11,250 points, worth $90.
Kauai Marriott Resort - Kalapaki Beach
Priority late checkout ($50): Gold members also enjoy a priority late checkout of up to 2pm, though it is subject to availability. Since there’s a stated time (in contrast the the aforementioned Silver perk), I’ll bump the value up slightly.
Elite phone line ($25): Same benefit, more frequent utilization
Complimentary enhanced internet ($30): Even though all members enjoy free internet when booking through a Marriott channel, Gold members can take advantage of faster speeds with complimentary enhanced internet access. I typically find that hotel Wi-Fi is decently fast, though if you like to stream videos or engage in other high-bandwidth activities online, the faster speed can make a difference. I’ll use the same value for this perk from previous posts: $1 per night.
Upgrades to enhanced rooms ($600): Gold members are also eligible for space-available upgrades to enhanced rooms at check-in. This may include rooms on higher floors, rooms with special amenities or rooms on the Executive Floor, but it explicitly excludes suites (per the terms & conditions). Since this perk is similar to what Hilton Gold members receive, I’ll use the same valuation of $20 per night.
Welcome gift ($50): If you’re a Gold Elite member, you’ll receive a welcome gift of extra Marriott points at check-in, either 250 points for limited-service properties or 500 points for full-service locations. Given the assumed split above, you’d earn an average of 375 points (worth ~$3.38) for each of your 15 stays.