
Advertise on podcast: Points and Miles Travel Chats
Rating
4.9from
This podcast has
24 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Michele - Fancy Travel PointersExplicit
No
Date created
2025/10/28
Latest episode
2026/09/23
Average duration
30 min.
Release period
19 days
Description
Welcome to the Points and Miles Travel Chats podcast. I'm Michele from Fancy Travel Pointers, and I believe your everyday spend is the secret to extraordinary travel. If you’ve ever worried that points are too complicated, or wondered if a busy family with public school schedules and competitive sports could really travel with points — I’m here to show you it’s absolutely possible. Here’s what I know for sure: it’s not about spending more, and keeping my credit score sky-high is always front and center. I’ll give you actionable steps and teach real, repeatable strategies that transform the way you earn points and the value you get from them.
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Check latest episodes from Points and Miles Travel Chats podcast
Booking Qatar Qsuites, Singapore Air Business & Cathay Pacific Business With Points
2026/09/23
In today's episode, we're chatting about
Episode overview
How I booked Qatar Qsuites for a family of three — and averaged just 72K points per personUsing a 30% transfer bonus to British Airways to book Qatar AirwaysWhy Singapore Airlines is my go to option when booking for familiesBooking Cathay Pacific business class from Hong Kong to Los Angeles Using Alaska Atmos miles to book short haul Cathay Pacific business class for a steal!Release dates, transfer bonuses, repositioning flights, and other strategies that helped make these bookings work
📋 SHOW NOTES
Airline Rankings - Best Business Class Airlines
Favorite Transferable Points - Top 5 fav card options
Underrated Airline Miles - The recent deals I've gotten
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
How We Saved $40K on a Luxury Family Trip to Thailand & Bali Using Points
2026/09/03
In today's episode, we're chatting about...
How we planned a two-week family trip to Koh Samui, Thailand and Bali for three, and why I started planning it almost a year aheadFlying Singapore Airlines Business Class to/from Asia using points instead of paying the $28,000+ cash priceHow I booked Bangkok Airways via Qatar Airways with pointsOur three-night stay at Conrad Koh Samui, including the private pool villas, incredible breakfast using 120,000 Hilton points per nightUsing a Marriott 85K free night certificate + 184,000 Marriott points for three nights at Vana Belle Koh SamuiOur one-night strategy at Alila Ubud The absolute showstopper: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, including our massive private pool villa and how we booked two nights for 280,000 Marriott points + $490 instead of $5500+Exploring Ubud, the Monkey Forest, rice fields, temples and Balinese villagesOur two-night stay at Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts, including the huge villa, private pool, ocean views and beach club using 120K Hilton points per nightUsing Fine Hotel + Resort credit at Jimbaran Puri, for our final night in Bali My biggest takeaways for families who want to use points for premium-cabin flights and luxury hotels in Asia
📋 SHOW NOTES
Full Trip Report - 2 weeks in Asia on points
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
How to Get Luxury Hilton Hotels for a Fraction of the Cash Price
2026/08/27
In today's episode, we're chatting about
Episode overview
Why Hilton is becoming a larger part of our points travel strategy The reason Hilton’s free night certificates are incredible and how we used ours at a $2,000+ per night resortHow, when and why buying Hilton points could be part of your travel strategyThe Hilton fifth-night-free benefit makes Hilton points stays even more attractiveHow Hilton’s dynamic pricing can be addressed with free night certificatesSome of our favorite Hilton stays so far, including Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos, Conrad Koh Samui and LXR Bali — plus which ones I'd actually go back to.
📋 SHOW NOTES
All about Hilton Free Night Certificates
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
Halfway Through 2026: Points, Cards & Travel Update
2026/08/20
In today's episode, we're chatting about
The 5 cards we’ve opened so far in 2026 and the 760,000 points those welcome offers earned usHow transferable points + diversifying points give us more optionsThe 3 cards on my radar to open nextWhy airline cards are becoming essential for getting the best dealThe Qatar Qsuites + Maldives trip I absolutely did NOT need to book…but did anyway when a 30% transfer bonus came along 😂 📋 SHOW NOTES
New card in 2026 - Capital One Venture Business
Got this card again with EIN - 100K points
I got this with 200K points welcome offer - But you may be able to get up to 300K!
Great hotel option - love the free night certificates
I used the 30% transfer bonus to British Airways to book Qatar - current transfer bonuses
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
We Saved $15,000 On Our Europe Christmas Market Trip Using Points
2026/04/17
In today's episode, we're chatting about
Finding business class flights to Europe over Thanksgiving break for 115K points ROUND TRIP Piecing together flights, trains, and hotels - my best points saving tipsThe unexpected theme park day that was a major highlightReal talk: train strikes, airport chaos, and what to do when plans fall apartHow we covered $15,000+ in travel with pointsThe exact booking timeline (and why waiting will cost you)
📋 SHOW NOTES
BRAND NEW Card - Capital One Venture Business
Thrifty Traveler Alert - this link saves $20 on 1st year premium subscription
Family Photoshoot in Bruges - Who we recommend (FIVE stars)
New to points? Start with this card (3x dining & 3x online grocery) or this card (4x dining & 4x grocery)
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
Deep Dive: Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards
2026/04/08
In today's episode, we're chatting about
Why Alaska’s Atmos Rewards program is a total sleeper hit in award travel Alaska miles (Atmos Points) can be harder to earn - how we've changed our strategy to earn moreReal examples of business class award flights to Tahiti and Europe booked via AlaskaDon't sleep on the Global Companion Certificates The exact sweet spots (like 4,500-point flights 😳) you should be looking forThe “phantom availability” issue—and how to avoid getting burned
📋 SHOW NOTES
Just released (from Q2 in podcast)....
Massive offer #1
Massive offer #2
Rakuten - Earning Bilt Points via Rakuten
seats.aero - My #1 search tool
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
3 Ways We Maximize Points Earning - Without Signing Up For a New Card
2026/04/01
In today's episode, we're chatting about
Don’t want to open more credit cards? These 3 strategies still stack serious pointsSimple “2-card combo” that maximizes everyday spending without overthinking itWhy shopping portals are the most overlooked (and easiest) way to earn extra pointsThe mistake almost everyone makes with everyday spending—and how to fix it How “player 2 mode” and referrals can double your points (and free hotel nights)
📋 SHOW NOTES
3x dining & online grocery - my go-to card
4x dining & grocery - this one is a forever keeper
Rakuten - Earning Bilt Points via Rakuten
Rakuten - Earning more points via Rakuten
Shopping portals - Overview, shopping portals explained
Calculating your 5/24 - Everything you need to know
Hilton - These Free Night Certificates are the best out there
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
My Hyatt Award Change Game Plan - Panic Booking and Diversifying
2026/03/24
In today's episode, we're chatting about
Hyatt is moving from 3 pricing tiers → 5 tiers (and yes… it’s a big deal)Why luxury redemptions (Category 7–8) are getting hit the hardestThe exact bookings I made before the changes hit (and why)A simple trick to lock in lower rates even if your plans aren’t setThe underrated Globalist benefit most people aren’t using right nowI’m officially diversifying into Marriott, Hilton, and IHGThe truth: Hyatt isn’t dead… but your strategy needs to change📋 SHOW NOTES
Marriott - Great options for diversifying point earning
Hilton - These Free Night Certificates are the best out there
Shop a lot at Costco or Sam's? - My go to card for Costco or Sam's
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
How We Save Thousands on Disney & Universal Trips Using Points
2026/03/10
In today's episode, we're chatting about
How to save money on theme park trips to Disney and Universal using points and credit card perksStrategies for finding the best award flights to OrlandoWhen to check airline alliance partners for cheaper award pricingWhy hotel points and free night certificates can make theme park stays much more affordableHow to stay on Disney property using points or travel portal bookingsThe strategy for booking Universal hotels that include Express PassesWays to reduce the cost of park tickets using credit card milesWhen a Universal annual pass might actually be cheaper than regular tickets📋 SHOW NOTES
Step-by-step - Using Venture Miles for theme park tickets
Rakuten - Earn Bilt Points
Earn the best transferable points and airline points
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Current Best Offers - My top choices this month
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K poin
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
Bora Bora on Points: Using points for Business Class Flights & Overwater Bungalows
2026/02/24
In today's episode, we're chatting about
How we flew business class to Tahiti for 120,000 points per person roundtripThe “loophole” that sparked this trip — and how to book award flights now that it’s goneSt. Regis Bora Bora vs. Westin Bora Bora — which one felt magical and whyHow we upgraded to an overwater bungalowSmart Marriott strategies (including transfer bonuses + buying points on sale)What Bora Bora actually costs once you’re there (real food & drink prices)Tips to save money on dining in Bora Bora
📋 SHOW NOTES
Step-by-step - How to book Bora Bora with points
Bora Bora trip breakdown plus reviews and overall tips - article
Rakuten - Earn Bilt Points
Earn the best transferable points and airline points
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
Current Best Offers - Curated by spend, annual fees and travel style
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
Southwest Companion Pass Deep Dive: Timing, Strategy & Big Savings
2026/02/18
In today's episode, we're chatting about
What the Southwest Companion Pass actually is Different ways to earn itTiming strategy to maximize nearly 2 full years of useThe most common mistake people make How to earn two Companion Passes with the right player strategyThe shortened “mini” Companion Pass offers and when they make senseHow to add and switch companions (without accidentally removing someone from a flight)Easy ways to top off your account if you’re just short of 135,000 pointsWho this pass is best for (and when it’s NOT worth it)
📋 SHOW NOTES
FREE Southwest Companion Pass Guide - (you'll get this via email after signing up - check your spam folder if you don't see it)
Southwest Companion Pass FAQs with current offer info
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
Current Best Offers - Curated by spend, annual fees and travel style
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
Italy at Christmas on Points: Flight Cancellations, Rebookings, and Big Wins
2026/02/03
In today’s episode, we’re chatting about
How multiple flight cancellations months before departure turned into better flightsVirgin Atlantic vs. Air France/KLM: flexibility differences you must know before bookingHow we flew round-trip business class to Europe over Christmas for under 90,000 points per personTips for surviving tight international connections (Amsterdam’s short-connection line)The magic of Italy in winter: fewer crowds, better weather, and unforgettable experiencesExcursions worth splurging on (and one expensive food tour I wouldn’t repeat)How a mix of points + cash covered nearly $20,000 in flights and hotelsWhy flexibility—not perfection—is the real secret to booking peak-season award travel SHOW NOTES
Tours we booked & recommend from this trip:
Tours of the Real Hidden Venice
Venice pasta & tiramisu making class
Tuscany Bike Tours
Hunt for truffles in the Tuscan woods
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
Hyatt Deep Dive – Why Hyatt Is the Best Hotel Program for Award Stays on Points
2026/01/27
In today's episode, we're chatting about
Why Hyatt is the best hotel program for points (yes, even if you’re a Marriott loyalist)The magic of Hyatt’s award chart — and why it saves you thousands of points per stayHyatt elite status explained (Discoverist → Explorist → Globalist) and what perks actually matterA deep dive into Hyatt Milestone Rewards (Guest of Honor, Suite Upgrades, Free Nights)How Hyatt free night certificates work (and the expiration gotchas to watch for)My favorite Hyatt stays booked on points — from Maui to Kyoto to Hong KongThe smartest way to earn Hyatt points without putting everyday spend on hotel cards
📋 SHOW NOTES
The secret to more free Hyatt stays - exactly how I earn all those points
One of the best helpers for earning status
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
Current Best Offers - Curated by spend, annual fees and travel style
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
How We Saved $20,000 on a London & Paris Family Trip Using Points
2026/01/20
In today's episode, we're chatting about
How our family pulled off London & Paris in peak summer using mostly pointsThe exact business class flights we booked (102K points roundtrip per person!) & hotel award nights Real talk about Europe hotel occupancy rules for families Niche but gold tips: Eurostar mistakes to avoid, laundry hacks in Europe, plus tour wins (and fails)A full look at what we used cash for vs what we used points for📋 SHOW NOTES
Booking JetBlue Mint via Qatar - including step by step how to move Avios from British Airways to Qatar
Points we use for Hyatt award stays - earning transferable points (not hotel specific points) is key
Thrifty Travel Premium Newsletter - use "fancy" at checkout for $20 off 1st year
MaxMyPoint - Set up hotel alerts for award availability
New to points & Miles? Start with my favorite card!
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
Current Best Offers - Curated by spend, annual fees and travel style
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
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Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
How I’m Planning 2026 Travel on Points (Without Overdoing It)
2026/01/13
In today's episode, we're chatting about
Why 2025 was an “amazing but too much” travel year—and the hard family conversations that forced a reset for 2026The mindset shift from chasing every deal to deciding what “enough” travel actually looks likeA full breakdown of what’s booked for 2026—including Bora Bora, Asia, Mexico, Disney, and luxury US staysHow points, free night certificates, companion passes, and credits are being stacked to save tens of thousandsWhy opening fewer cards can still unlock incredible travel—and how comparison culture gets this wrongWhy diversifying hotel points and leaning into credits matters more than ever going forwardProof that you don’t need nonstop luxury travel to “do points right”—you just need a strategy that fits your life📋 SHOW NOTES
Elevated Marriott Offer - And how to get the most from it
Ritz Carlton card - How to access via product change
Love luxury travel perks & credits? This card is my fav for lux travel
How to earn Bilt points via Rakuten
Rakuten Sign Up Bonus - New sign ups get $50 off after making $50 purchase in 1st 90 days
📋 READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR POINTS TRAVEL?
Free points & miles guide – PDF downloaded over 17K times
Fancy Travel Pointers Instagram – keep up to date on all the latest points news
Fancy Travel Pointers Facebook – great place to share wins, ask questions
Fancy Travel Pointers Newsletter – sent weekly to over 24K points lovers!
Current Best Offers - Curated by spend, annual fees and travel style
👋 Hi! I'm Michele!
A points and miles expert, using points for family vacations to Japan, Hawaii, Thailand, Greece, Italy, Spain, theme parks and so much more.
I don't believe in spending more to earn more points. The key is knowing how to earn the best points and getting massive value from them.
With a teenager in competitive sports & public school, traveling during the busiest of times is our family's norm. I'll show you my best tips & strategies to use points for making incredible family travel happen.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fancy Travel Pointers is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as Bankrate.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information was correct to the best of my knowledge at time of recording. Always double check/verify information about cards and or bookings.
Podcast reviews
Read Points and Miles Travel Chats podcast reviews
Jaqui M 2026/09/30
Awesome
Love all your tips!
caylange 2026/05/01
INFORMATIVE
I live and breathe by what Michele says. Both from instagram and now her podcast! It’s has really broken me out of my shell with travel credit cards!
KtDo12345 2026/04/09
The info you need!
This podcast is quickly becoming one of my faves! Michele delivers clear and concise information for maximizing your points and miles. I appreciate th...
christine cohen 2026/04/09
Helpful and Understandable
So much helpful information presented in a way that made sense to someone who knew almost nothing about the world of points and miles!
Mmmmfield 2026/04/09
Ok
Ok for information but sooo generic it’s not helpful. “A card”, “a certain card”, it seems like she just wants to refer people to her links or is afra...
Mrs. Auto 2026/04/08
A Must Listen Podcast!
Michele is the best! I have followed her on instagram for several years and learned so much about the world of points and miles! With so much I have l...
Rrttyyuuiiooppcubrhgfez 2026/04/03
Listen to Her!
I have learned a lot from listening to this podcast. Love hearing how she has earned and used points for amazing travel.
Rachaelj99 2026/01/27
Great!
I have loved listening to this podcast. Been follow on Instagram for a while and was excited when the podcast started!
Kels&Fam 2026/01/21
Loving this podcast!
I just found this show but am loving it so far, have binged it over the last couple of weeks. 🙂 Her information is helpful, easy to understand, and p...
EverydayPointsFan 2026/01/16
Makes Points & Miles Click
Michele is awesome and makes points and miles easy to understand. Her trip details are clear, practical, and truly encouraging to replicate. I always ...
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