Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Credit Card Points

Ever wondered how a tropical vacation to Roatán might feel, but worried about the cost? Or maybe you’re wondering where Roatán even is! Well, buckle up and grab a piña colada because Pam just returned from an unforgettable adventure to Roatán, and she’s here to spill all the details on how she did it on points and miles. This will be the next tropical vacation on your dream list list! 
Hey, it’s us, the Travel Mom Squad—Pam, Jess, and Alex—and in today’s episode, we’re taking a deep dive into Pam’s recent journey to the beautiful island of Roatán, located off the coast of Honduras. Pam, fresh off the plane, is bursting with stories from her three-generational trip with her daughter and granddaughter. From their luxurious stay at the Kimpton Grand Roatán to exploring the island's lush landscapes and vibrant coral reefs, Pam’s got tips and tricks to share that could make your next vacation both lavish and affordable.
Now, you know we’ve all raved about the Kimpton Seafire in Grand Cayman before, so the big question on our minds was: How does the new Kimpton in Roatán stack up? Well, Pam’s here to tell you all about it, from the breathtaking ocean views to the unique 'barefoot luxury' vibe that Kimpton nails so perfectly.
Whether you’re a points and miles pro or just starting to dip your toes in, this episode is packed with insights that’ll have you booking your next island getaway faster than you can say "snorkel." So pull up a beach chair, tune in, and let’s dive into the tropical bliss of Roatán with Pam.
 
Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey:
How to Get Your Next Vacation For Nearly Free:  https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/ Award Travel Academy: https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=TMSWEB150 Current Best Credit Card Offers:  https://travelfreely.com/travelmomsquad/  Our Website:
https://travelmomsquad.com
Connect With Us:
Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad
Links for this episode:
Kimpton Seafire Resort: Luxury in Grand Cayman  Kimpton Hotels Are My Favorite IHG Brand  Purchasing IHG Points: Does It Make Sense? All About IHG Credit Cards IHG Personal Card: Travel Mom Squad | Card Offer IHG Business Card: Travel Mom Squad | Card Offer  
Episode Minute By Minute:
0:50 How did Pam get to Roatán? All about her flight journey and a night in Houston. 3:00 Pam touches down in Roatán and heads to the stunning Kimpton Grand. 5:18 Let’s talk points: How much did Pam's luxurious stay cost in points? 7:49 Getting around in Roatán made easy: Pam's tips on hotel shuttles and local transport. 10:17 First impressions: Pam falls in love with the Kimpton Grand Roatán. 12:41 Underwater adventures: Snorkeling around the island. 13:55 Feasting in Roatán: Where Pam dined and what she loved. 17:37 Don't miss out! Learn how you can travel like Pam in our upcoming webinar. 18:05 Back to the food: More on Pam’s top dining spots right near the beach. 22:00 Kimpton Roatán vs. Kimpton Seafire: Pam weighs in on which one stole her heart. 25:02 Celebration time: How the Kimpton Grand Roatán made a birthday special. 30:45 Wrapping up: Why you'll want to pack your bags for Roatán after this chat.  

In this episode, we're whisking you away on a global adventure from the vibrant streets of Austin, Texas, to the magical world of Disneyland, and across the pond to the historic landscapes of Scotland. Join us, the Travel Mom Squad (Pam, Jess, and Alex), as we dish out the details of our latest journeys, all fueled by the power of points and miles.
Austin, Texas - iHeart Podcast Awards
First up, Pam and Alex hit Austin for the iHeart Podcast Awards. Nominated for Best Travel Podcast, we share the excitement, the glamour, and yes, a little bit of the nerves that come with walking the red carpet. From dressing dilemmas to rubbing elbows with celebrities (or nearly missing them), this trip was a whirlwind of emotions and an unforgettable experience. And though we didn't snag the award this time, we left with full hearts and even funnier stories. 
Disneyland - A Dream Come True
Next, Alex takes us to the happiest place on earth - Disneyland. This wasn't just any trip; it was a carefully planned adventure on a budget. Staying at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach before heading to the magic of Disney, we had beach days, park days, and everything in between.  
Scotland - A Journey Back in Time
Jess wraps up our travel tales with her family's trip to Scotland, a land rich in history and breathtaking views. Flying with Singapore Airlines in premium economy, they started their journey in the vibrant city of Edinburgh before venturing to a real-life castle, Schloss Roxburghe. Jess shares how they maximized points for stays in historic hotels, navigated the scenic train rides, and soaked in the culture and beauty of Scotland. From Edinburgh Castle to the oldest pub in Scotland, this trip was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
We've had a blast and can't wait to share all the tips, tricks, and laughs from these trips. Whether you're dreaming of your next big adventure or just looking for inspiration to use those points and miles, we've got you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into our travel stories, get inspired, and start planning your next journey. Hit play to join us on these incredible adventures and maybe start plotting your own!



Links From This Episode:
Kimpton Charlotte Square: https://www.kimptoncharlottesquare.com/
Schloss Roxburghe: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/scotland-united-kingdom/schloss-roxburghe/edidr?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_edidr Edinburgh Castle Tour: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/311241 The Spence Afternoon Tea: https://gleneagles.com/townhouse/eat-drink/the-spence/ Sheep Heid Inn: https://www.thesheepheidedinburgh.co.uk/#/  
Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey:
How to Get Your Next Vacation For Nearly Free:  https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/
Award Travel Academy: https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=TMSWEB150
Current Best Credit Card Offers:  https://travelfreely.com/travelmomsquad/
 
Our Website:
https://travelmomsquad.com
 
Connect With Us:
Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad  
Episode Minute By Minute:
0:45 Excitement about our podcast award nomination and all the fun (and surprises) in Austin. 04:54 Alex spills on taking the kids to Disneyland with points and miles - magic on a budget! 14:54 Jess shares her love for Scotland, weaving points and miles into another unforgettable journey. 44:26 Wrapping up with our favorite moments and an invite to swap travel tales in the Travel Mom Squad community.

Ever daydreamed about jetting off on an around-the-world honeymoon? Or perhaps the mere thought of planning such an important adventure feels daunting? Fear not, because in today's episode, we sit down with the extraordinary Devan Sullivan, aka one-half of Point Sisters. She's back from a seven-week honeymoon that circled the globe, and the best part? It was almost entirely funded by points and miles.
Devan shares the low-down on how she strategically planned her wedding expenses to amass over 1 million points, which she then turned into a breathtaking journey worth over $50,000 – and all for a fraction of the cost. From business class flights that crisscrossed continents to luxurious stays in some of the world's most coveted hotels, Devan's tale is nothing short of a points-and-miles masterclass.
Join us, Alex and Jess, as we dive into the specifics: the cards that made it all possible and the unforgettable experiences that came with each destination. Devan’s story is not just about the incredible savings (although spending just over $3,000 on a trip valued at $51,914 is pretty remarkable), but also about the doors that smart use of points and miles can open for travelers.
And if you’re wondering about logistics, like how one packs for a seven-week, globe-trotting honeymoon in just a carry-on, Devan has got you covered there, too. Her tips and tricks might just inspire you to plan your own epic adventure.
So, whether you're planning a honeymoon, dreaming of an around-the-world trip, or just love a good travel story, this episode is for you. Remember, these kinds of adventures are within reach, and Devan’s journey is the perfect blueprint for making the most out of your points and miles. Hit play to embark on this extraordinary journey with us, and let's explore the world together.
 
Links From This Episode:
Find Devan & Kelsi on IG: https://www.instagram.com/pointsisters/
Book ANA Around the World with Devan & Kelsi: https://pointsisters.com/award-booking-request/
Safari Planner: Lucky from Lion Guides Safari (www.lion-guides.com)
Great Circle Mapper: http://www.gcmap.com/
 
Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey:
How to Get Your Next Vacation For Nearly Free:  https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/
Award Travel Academy: https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=TMSWEB150
Current Best Credit Card Offers:  https://travelfreely.com/travelmomsquad/
 
Our Website:
https://travelmomsquad.com
 
Connect With Us:
Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad
Episode Minute By Minute:
2:00 Devan dives into how she harnessed credit cards to rack up over 1 million points, with a nod to the military benefits that sweetened the deal. 7:27 The lowdown on the ANA around-the-world ticket: booking challenges and required flexibility 16:31 From flights to luxurious nights, Devan shares how she used points for posh hotel stays. 21:49 The African safari part of the honeymoon comes into play, the one segment not booked on points but every bit worth it. 25:53 Luxurious stays in Zanzibar at Marriott and Hyatt properties 33:46 Safari and gorilla trekking adventures in Africa offer unforgettable encounters and insights. 38:23 The incredible value points provide in Asia! Devan relives hotel stays in Malaysia and Singapore. 41:33 Bali becomes a hotel-hopping haven, showcasing multiple high-end properties and the strategic use of points for extraordinary experiences. 47:11 Packing for 7 weeks in just a carry-on? Devan shares her tips and tricks for efficient travel packing. 51:13 The grand total reveals the staggering savings and value achieved through points for flights and hotels  

In this latest episode, we're taking a deep dive into the often overlooked yet incredibly rewarding world of co-branded airline and hotel credit cards. Imagine jet-setting in business class to the Maldives or unwinding at a luxury resort in Bora Bora—yes, we've done that, and much, much more, all thanks to these specialty cards. We, the Travel Mom Squad (Pam, Jess, and Alex), are here to share the ins and outs of co-branded cards, from the perks that make them invaluable to our personal favorite redemptions.
While we often sing the praises of flexible points from cards like Chase and Capital One, co-branded cards hold a special place in our wallets and our hearts. Why, you ask? For starters, they're the gateway to brand loyalty benefits, such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and that all-important annual free night certificate. 
Pam kicks things off with her love for the United card, thanks to her proximity to Denver's hub, illustrating the practical benefits of brand loyalty. Jess dives into the strategy behind selecting the right hotel card, emphasizing the importance of a planned redemption. Alex shares her approach to keeping a balanced portfolio of airline points to capitalize on award sales.
As we dissect the benefits, strategy, and unforgettable trips enabled by our co-branded cards, you'll see why these often underrated tools are indispensable in our points and miles game. Whether you're drawn to airline perks, hotel luxury, or simply more travel for less, co-branded cards might just be the missing piece in your points and miles puzzle.
Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality, from the Maldives to Disneyland and beyond, without breaking the bank? Hit play to listen to the full episode and join us, the Travel Mom Squad, on this points-fueled adventure. Discover how co-branded credit cards can unlock a world of travel possibilities, making every trip more affordable and enjoyable. Your next nearly-free vacation awaits! (Follow the links below) 

 
Links:
Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey:
How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free: https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/ Award Travel Academy: https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=TMSWEB150 TMS Best Offers: https://travelfreely.com/travelmomsquad/  
Our Website:
https://travelmomsquad.com
 
Connect With Us:
Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad  
Episode Minute By Minute:
00:00 Introduction to the benefits of airline and hotel co-branded cards 01:00 Discussion on the value of flexible points vs. fixed points 01:48 Benefits of co-branded cards: Brand loyalty and specific perks 04:27 Real-world examples of co-branded card benefits 05:23 Jess's strategic approach to hotel and airline co-branded cards 07:06 Alex's criteria for opening and keeping hotel and airline cards 11:22 Pam's extensive collection of hotel cards and her rationale 15:53 Keeping vs. closing co-branded cards: When and why 25:18 Favorite redemptions and experiences thanks to co-branded cards 36:04 How co-branded cards fit into our broader points and miles strategy 44:31 Closing thoughts: How co-branded cards can enhance your travel  

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the exclusive world of airport lounges, those serene havens tucked away from the hustle and bustle of crowded terminals. Imagine slipping into a luxurious lounge, where complimentary gourmet meals, cozy seating, and even showers after a long flight become your pre-boarding ritual. Well, Pam, our resident lounge aficionado, insists on arriving hours early just to bask in these tranquil spaces—and honestly, who can blame her?
We, the Travel Mom Squad (Pam, Jess, and Alex), are peeling back the velvet rope to give you the inside scoop on how you, too, can access these luxe lounges. It's not just for the suit-clad business traveler anymore; with the right credit card, the world of airport lounges opens up to anyone seeking a touch of luxury in their travel experiences.
From the Priority Pass network that spans the globe to the opulent American Express Centurion Lounges and the newcomers like Capital One and Sapphire Lounges, we're sharing our personal favorites and why some lounges have us planning our airport arrival times around a lounge visit.
But it's not all about splurging on premium-class tickets. We'll let you in on how certain credit cards offer complimentary access or even ways to purchase entry into these coveted spaces, making the lounge experience accessible for all travelers, regardless of your ticket class.
So, whether you're a seasoned lounge visitor or new to the game, this episode is packed with our best tips, favorite lounges, and a few laughs along the way. Ready to transform your travel days with a touch of lounge luxury? Join us on this adventure, and let's explore the best airport lounges around the world together. Hit play to listen to the full episode for all the juicy details and find out why Pam might just start vacationing at the airport!
 
Links:
Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey:
Award Travel Academy: https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=TMSWEB150
[FREE Webinar] How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free:  https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/
 
Our Website:
https://travelmomsquad.com
 
Connect With Us:
Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad
Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad
 
Links From This Episode:
https://travelmomsquad.com/airport-lounge-access/ https://travelmomsquad.com/using-priority-pass-at-an-airport-restaurant/ https://travelmomsquad.com/credit-cards-with-priority-pass-lounge-access-2/ https://travelmomsquad.com/american-express-centurion-lounges-review/  
Episode Minute By Minute:
00:17 Meet the Lounge Queen: Pam's early arrival for lounge luxury. 01:00 Why we're obsessed with airport lounges: Pam's insights. 03:45 The golden ticket to lounge access: Credit cards that open doors. 03:47 Unveiling Priority Pass: Your passport to hundreds of lounges worldwide. 09:25 American Express Centurion Lounges: A step above in luxury. 13:05 United Club Lounges: Access with one-time passes and the value of United's premium cards. 16:14 Plaza Premium Lounges: An international gateway to comfort. 19:00 Delta Sky Club Lounges: Exclusive access and amenities. 21:26 Capital One Lounges: Unique offerings and the charm of to-go snacks. 23:44 Sapphire Lounge by Chase: A new player in the lounge game. 27:30 Experiencing lounges via business and first-class tickets: Top picks from around the world. 33:50 If you could only choose one card for lounge access: Our picks. 36:00 Exploring the best lounges with business or first-class tickets: Personal favorites. 39:52 Conclusion and how airport lounges transform travel experiences.  

Welcome to another exciting episode of Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad, where today, we're diving into the world of luxury flights. We're sharing our most unforgettable first and business class flights. Join us—Pam, Jess, and Alex, as we turn left upon boarding, stepping into the realm of spacious lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and exceptional service, all made possible through the savvy use of points and miles.
 
Why Luxury Flights?
 
Flying first and business class offers more than just comfort; it's about the entire experience. From exclusive lounge access to onboard amenities like pajamas, amenity kits, and even showers in the sky, luxury travel transforms your journey into a part of the vacation itself.  
Throughout the episode, we share not just our experiences but also the lessons learned, like the importance of choosing the right flights to maximize awake time to enjoy the amenities, and tips for booking these luxurious experiences using points and miles.
We also delve into the lighter side of luxury flights, from our collection of airline pajamas to debating the best in-flight ice cream sundaes. It's not just about the destinations but the joy and comfort we experience getting there. 
Whether you're a seasoned traveler in the points game or just starting out, this episode is packed with inspiration, tips, and a few laughs to guide you toward your next luxury travel experience.
Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality without the hefty price tag? Join us on this luxurious journey across the skies. Grab your headphones, or turn up the speaker, and dive into the world of first and business class travel like you've never heard before. And remember, this is just a glimpse into the possibilities that await when you play the points game right. 
Hit play to listen to the full episode and embark on this high-flying adventure with us, the Travel Mom Squad!


Links:
Free Gifts and Resources To Start Your Points and Miles Journey:
How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free: 
https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation/
Award Travel Academy:  
https://travelmomsquad.teachable.com/p/thmata?coupon_code=TMSWEB150
 
Our Website:
https://travelmomsquad.com
 
Connect With Us:
Newsletter signup: https://travelmomsquad.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelmomsquad/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travelmomsquad Facebook group: Travel Mom Squad: Travel on Points | Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelmomsquad  
Links From This Episode:
https://travelmomsquad.com/review-of-emirates-first-class-seats-milan-jfk/ ​​https://travelmomsquad.com/flying-etihad-apartments-for-65k-miles/ https://travelmomsquad.com/singapore-suites-dream-flight/ https://travelmomsquad.com/business-class-seats-worth-it/  
Episode Minute By Minute:
00:02 Introduction to luxury flights with the Travel Mom Squad. 01:16 Pam shares the appeal of business and first-class travel. 02:02 Highlights of luxury flight experiences: lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, and premium beverages. 03:11 The delight in on-board amenities like amenity kits, PJs, and exceptional service. 06:28 Discussion on Emirates first-class experience. 07:47 Jess reflects on her shift from economy to luxury travel and its worth. 09:23 The trio discusses their first-class experiences and shares specifics about Emirates. 12:13 Pam shares her experiences with Cathay Pacific and Singapore Suites. 14:33 Insights into flying business class, with mentions of Qatar QSuite and Turkish Airlines. 16:41 Pam talks about United Polaris and other memorable business class flights. 18:49 Jess adds her favorite business class flights, including Singapore Airlines. 20:34 The squad discusses the importance of points and miles in achieving luxury travel. 21:55 Questions about the best luxury travel experiences: seats, food, and service.