Wonderland on Points | Credit Card Rewards & Budget Travel | Presented by Yahoo! Travel

Mary Ellen and Jo
  • 4.8 (239)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A show where two adventurous moms share everything they have learned about traveling on credit card points and how to explore the world on a budget.

  1. 3D AGO

    192. Midweek Mini: News Roundup- The Hyatt Hoax, the Short-Lived TSA Nightmare, and United Airlines Changes

    It has been a wild week in the world of points and miles — and we’re breaking it all down for you. In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we talk about the viral Hyatt rumor that sent travelers into a panic (and why it turned out to be completely false), plus what it teaches us about verifying information before hitting “share.” We also cover unexpected shutdowns impacting Transportation Security Administration systems and Global Entry, what that could have meant for travelers if it had actually gone through and why having backup tools and travel apps can save you serious stress at the airport. And if you fly United Airlines, you’ll want to hear our breakdown of their latest loyalty updates — especially how co-branded credit cards are becoming more important than ever (and how that can benefit your whole family). If you care about staying ahead in the ever-changing travel landscape, this is one you won’t want to miss. This episode is presented by Yahoo! Travel. Don't forget to sign up for the Y! Wonder Newsletter written by yours truly. Mentioned in this Episode: Betsey's Instagram Mobile Passport Control My TSA App Find Us On Online: Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate Links: Seats.Aero BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription! Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    17 min

  2. 5D AGO

    191. From Paparazzi to Points Pro with The Points Partner

    **This episode was recorded before the drop of the current transfer bonus to Virgin Atlantic In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we chat with Owen Beiny of The Points Partner, about how he went from paparazzi photographer to mastering the world of points and miles. We dive into transfer bonuses, smart redemption strategies, and how families can unlock outsized value from their credit cards without overcomplicating the process. We also talk about stacking opportunities—like monthly promo awards with Air France—when it makes sense to move your points, and why mindset matters just as much as math in the points and miles game. If you want practical travel tips, real redemption inspiration, and a reminder to celebrate your wins, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. This episode is presented by Yahoo! Travel. Don't forget to sign up for the Y! Wonder Newsletter written by yours truly. Mentioned in this Episode: Owen's Fly Free Academy Course Book a FREE Card Consultation with Owen Find Us On Online: Owen on TikTok ThePointsPartner.com Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate Links: Seats.Aero BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription! Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links FlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution! Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    57 min

  3. FEB 18

    190. Midweek Mini: We Can FINALLY Tell You Our BIG SECRET!

    In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we take a moment to celebrate a big milestone and reflect on how far this podcast has come. We talk about how we started with a simple dream and a clear vision to represent budget-conscious families in the travel space, and how the support from our community has shaped everything we’ve built. Hearing from listeners along the way has continually reminded us why this work matters and confirmed that there’s a real need for accessible, realistic travel advice. We also share some exciting news about our new partnership and the launch of a newsletter where we’ll be bringing our travel tips and insights to a new platform. We chat about what it means to branch out into writing while staying true to our mission of making travel more attainable for families. Most importantly, we want to reassure everyone that the podcast isn’t going anywhere—this is simply a new chapter built on the same heart, message, and gratitude we have for every listener who has supported us along the way. ✈️If you are interested in signing up for the Y! Wonder Newsletter click HERE and look for the pop up at the bottom of your screen! Find Us On Online: Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate Links: Seats.Aero BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription! Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!) Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links FlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution! Tripiamo Driving Tutorials Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    12 min

  4. FEB 16

    189. Points, Purpose, and the Philippines with @YourPalCharlotte

    In this episode, we chat with Charlotte about how her love of travel began and how that journey led her to the Philippines, where missions work and orphan care have deeply shaped her life. She shares how God’s timing and meaningful community have guided her travels, and how visiting the Philippines can be both impactful and surprisingly affordable. We also talk through practical tips for getting there with points and miles, why the strong U.S. dollar stretches far, how to use Grab for getting around, and why carrying cash still matters. From incredible Filipino hospitality and flavorful local dishes to the fun of plane spotting, this episode is a heartfelt glimpse into travel with purpose in the Philippines and beyond. Find Us On Online: Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Charlotte's TikTok Charlotte's Youtube Mentioned in this episode: Make Friends In Unexpected Places Merch "I'll Never Forget Today" Reel AeroLopa Seat Maps Affiliate Links: Seats.Aero BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription! Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!) Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    1h 2m

  5. FEB 11

    188. Midweek Mini: Best Current Offers -Card Round Up

    In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we dive into some of the best current credit card offers in the points and miles world and break down what they really mean for travelers. We explore standouts like the current Southwest (mini) Companion Pass offer available through their personal credit card. We also discuss the Capital One Venture, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless, and Hyatt Personal, sharing how each one fits into a smart travel rewards strategy. Throughout the conversation, we emphasize the importance of having a clear credit card application strategy, especially when navigating rules like Chase’s 5/24, and why understanding annual fees versus real-world value matters more than flashy bonuses. We also share our excitement about recent changes in the Sapphire credit card landscape and how these offers can dramatically enhance your travel experiences when used intentionally. Find Us On Online: Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate/Referral Links: Southwest Personal Cards CapitalOne Venture (Use the pre-approval tool on this landing page) Chase Sapphire Seats.Aero BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription! Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!) Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links FlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution! Tripiamo Driving Tutorials Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    19 min

  6. FEB 9

    187. Breaking Down Wells Fargo with Points Millionaire @KaungFi

    In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we sit down with Kaung, a nurse and finance expert who has turned points and miles into a powerful tool for traveling smarter. We talk about how his journey into the points world started while planning his wedding and how he used credit card rewards to fund an unforgettable honeymoon in Europe. Kong shares some of his more creative strategies, including earning points in unexpected ways, and walks us through how he thinks about risk when trying new approaches. We also dig into Wells Fargo and their often overlooked presence in the points space, breaking down the Autograph card and the Autograph Journey card, including who they’re best for and how their transfer partners can unlock real value. On top of that, we cover recent updates to Chase Sapphire rules, current transfer bonuses worth paying attention to, and what all of this means for everyday travelers. We wrap up by chatting about Kong’s upcoming travel plans, including theme parks and future trips to Europe, as he transitions into full-time content creation in the points and miles world. Find Us On Online: Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Mentioned in this episode: Choice Hotel episode Granada Episode Kaung's TikTok Kaung's Youtube Affiliate Links: Seats.Aero BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription! Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links FlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution! Tripiamo Driving Tutorials Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    38 min

  7. FEB 4

    186. Midweek Mini: Mary Ellen is A GLOBALIST!

    In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we catch up and share personal updates from our own points and miles journeys. We talk about how we’re currently thinking about credit card strategy, including Joanna’s extensive experience managing multiple cards and why loyalty still plays an important role when it comes to long-term value. We also dig into American Express business cards, what makes them so compelling, and how we decide whether to keep, downgrade, or close a card. We also share the story of Mary Ellen’s unexpected path to earning Hyatt Globalist status and why it ended up being one of the most rewarding travel surprises. We talk through how loyalty programs and strategic stays can add real value to your trips when you understand how they work. Throughout the episode, we emphasize the importance of community in the points and miles world. We encourage listeners to ask questions, share what they’re learning, and stay connected, because this space is better when it’s supportive and collaborative. We wrap up by sharing our excitement about upcoming travel and what we’re looking forward to next. Find Us On Online: Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate Links: Seats.Aero BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription! Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!) Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links FlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution! Tripiamo Driving Tutorials Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    19 min

  8. FEB 2

    185. A Family Getaway at Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay

    In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we dive into a domestic stay that genuinely surprised Mary Ellen and her family: the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay. We talk about why this resort feels like a hidden gem and why trips closer to home can be just as exciting and meaningful as international travel, especially when you’re using points and miles strategically. We walk through the location, the overall feel of the property, and why it works so well for families looking for an easy, relaxing getaway. We also cover the nuts and bolts of booking, including how to use points, what cash rates looked like, and how much value we were able to get from a card credit. We share our honest experience with the rooms and dining options, including how breakfast offerings can change depending on occupancy and timing, which is helpful to know before you arrive. We spend time highlighting all the activities that make this stay such a win for families, from the beautiful indoor pool and hot tub to outdoor options like kayaking and putt-putt golf. We also talk about the game room that was a huge hit with the kids and the cozy communal spaces throughout the resort, including multiple fireplaces that made the property feel warm and inviting. This property reminds us just how powerful points and miles can be when it comes to making domestic travel feel special. Find Us On Online: Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Wonderland On Points Blog Affiliate Links: Seats.Aero BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription! Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!) Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Chase/Capital One/Amex Card Links FlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution! Tripiamo Driving Tutorials Our Favorite Travel Necessities We receive a small commission when you choose to use any of our links to purchase your products or apply for your cards! We SO appreciate when you choose to give back to the podcast in this way!

    36 min
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4.8
out of 5
239 Ratings

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A show where two adventurous moms share everything they have learned about traveling on credit card points and how to explore the world on a budget.

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