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

Stay up to date with the latest in travel rewards, credit cards, and hotel loyalty programs in this episode of Wonderland on Points. We break down recent updates from Hilton Honors, including new status tiers like Diamond Reserve and what they mean for travelers looking to maximize hotel benefits. We also cover current credit card offers, changes to the American Express Platinum Card (including Saks credits), and smart strategies to keep earning and redeeming points efficiently. Plus, we celebrate giveaway winners and share community updates, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in points and miles, travel hacking, and maximizing rewards in an ever-changing landscape.Find Us On Online:Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterWonderland on Points Youtube ChannelMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:CardpointersComfrt.com 15% OFFHalara (use code "Wonderland" for 10% off)Tobiq 15%Our Favorite Credit CardsComfrt.com 15% OFFOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

Dreaming of the Galápagos Islands? In this episode of Wonderland on Points, Lauren Trimble shares how she used points and miles to book an unforgettable family adventure to Ecuador—including flights, inter-island travel, and eco-friendly accommodations. We break down everything you need to know about planning a Galápagos trip with points, from navigating island hopping logistics to experiencing once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters and supporting local conservation efforts. If you’re looking for practical travel tips, family-friendly strategies, and a realistic guide to turning this bucket-list destination into a points-and-miles redemption, this episode is packed with everything you need to get started.Mentioned in this Episode:Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Find Us On Online:Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterWonderland on Points Youtube ChannelMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:CardpointersComfrt.com 15% OFFHalara (use code "Wonderland" for 10% off)Tobiq 15%Our Favorite Credit CardsComfrt.com 15% OFFOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

In this episode, we share a quick midweek roundup of what’s new in the points and miles world, including recent devaluations, changing transfer ratios, and upcoming long-haul airline options. We break down what these updates mean for your travel strategy and how to stay flexible as programs evolve.We also cover practical tips like using Resy dining credits, exploring new hotel and condo-style redemptions, and—most importantly—managing credit card balances responsibly. If you want to maximize your points and stay financially smart, this episode is a must-listen.GIVEAWAYEnter the Giveaway HERE (Must enter by MIDNIGHT on Wednesday April 1)Comfrt.com 15% OFFUse code "Wonderland" for 10% off at Halara!15% off of TobiqBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Find Us On Online:Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterWonderland on Points Youtube ChannelMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

In this episode, we’re joined by fellow podcaster, Kelsey Graves as she shares highlights from her family’s Arizona adventure, including the breathtaking Grand Canyon and stunning Antelope Canyon. She breaks down what’s worth planning ahead for, how to navigate these popular spots with kids, and how her family used points and miles to elevate their trip, including a stay at the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort.We also cover practical tips like the best times to visit, booking tours in advance, and what it’s like renting a car through Turo. If you’re dreaming of a national parks trip, this episode will help you save money, avoid crowds, and create a smoother, more memorable family experience.GIVEAWAYEnter the Giveaway HEREComfrt.com 15% OFFUse code "Wonderland" for 10% off at Halara!15% off of TobiqMentioned in this Episode:50% off Cardpointers!!!Kelsey's Digital ItineraryTrip Tales PodcastFind Us On Online:Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterWonderland on Points Youtube ChannelMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Our Favorite Credit CardsRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Comfrt.com 15% OFFOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

We’re celebrating 200 episodes of Wonderland on Points 🎉 and we truly can't believe it! In this special episode we give you a few life updates, a bit of points and miles news and because we couldn’t celebrate 200 episodes without giving back to you, our amazing community, we’re also sharing some exciting giveaways—including travel gear and tools we personally love. This episode is part celebration, part education, and all about helping you travel smarter, better, and more.GIVEAWAYEnter the Giveaway HEREComfrt.com 15% OFFUse code "Wonderland" for 10% off at Halara!15% off of TobiqBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Find Us On Online:Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterWonderland on Points Youtube ChannelMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

Airline loyalty programs can feel confusing, frustrating, or even impossible to crack—but in this episode we’re breaking down how to actually make them work for you. Join us as we dive into airline loyalty, points strategies, and smart family travel with Kyle Olsen, Travel Products Editor at CNN Underscored and a travel expert.We break down how airline loyalty really works today, how alliances expand your options, and when pursuing status actually makes sense—including updates to programs like United Airlines and American Airlines. But the real surprise? The family travel value hiding inside Frontier Airlines.Frontier has quietly built some powerful perks for families—especially on a budget—with creative ways to earn status and benefits that can significantly lower the cost of flying with kids. If you’ve written it off before, this episode might change your mind.Whether you’re chasing status or just trying to travel more as a family without overspending, this episode offers a fresh take on airline loyalty.Mentioned in this Episode:BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Episode 101 with the founder of CardPointersFind Us On Online:Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterWonderland on Points Youtube ChannelMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Our Favorite Credit CardsRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Comfrt.com 15% OFFOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

In this Midweek Mini of Wonderland on Points, we’re catching you up on the latest points and miles news that could impact your travel plans. We break down updates to dining credits from American Express, ongoing interview delays for Global Entry, strategies for maximizing free night certificates with Hilton Honors, and new award booking flexibility from Marriott Bonvoy that lets travelers top off free night awards with additional points. If you love traveling on points and want to stay up to date on the latest changes in credit card rewards, loyalty programs, and travel strategies, this quick episode will help you make smarter decisions with your points.Mentioned in this Episode:Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterWonderland on Points Youtube ChannelTravel With Kids PodcastComfrt.com 15% OFFFind Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we’re taking you inside Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, one of the most talked-about all-inclusive resorts in Mexico’s Riviera Maya.We share what it’s really like staying at this stunning beachfront resort—from the food and service to the activities and overall atmosphere—and why it consistently ranks among the best all-inclusive resorts in the region. We also walk through smart booking strategies, especially in light of award chart changes across Hyatt properties, and how travelers can still maximize their points for an incredible luxury getaway.If you’re dreaming about turquoise water, powder-soft beaches, and an adults-only escape near Cancun, this episode is packed with practical tips. We also share advice for traveling in the Riviera Maya, what to expect from resort amenities, and why this area of Mexico continues to be one of the most popular destinations for points and miles travelers.Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary trip, or simply want to experience a top-tier all-inclusive resort using points, this episode will help you decide if Secrets Maroma Beach deserves a spot on your travel list.Mentioned in this Episode:Episode 131 - Italy on PointsSeats.Aero@Diveintopoints InstagramHyatt Business Card ReferralRakuten Podcast EpisodeJen's BlogJennifer Maren PhotographyRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Find Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

In this episode of the Wonderland on Points podcast, we share a midweek roundup of what’s happening in our points and miles world—new credit cards we’re opening, trips we’re planning, and a few of the challenges we’re running into along the way.Along the way, we talk about strategies for finding summer award flights, how transfer bonuses can boost your points balance by up to 30%, and why flexibility with dates and routes can dramatically improve your chances of booking great flights.If you want practical tips for getting more value from your points and choosing the right travel credit cards, this episode is full of helpful insights.Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterMentioned in this Episode:Hyatt Business CardTravel Party of 5 PodcastFind Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

In this episode of the Wonderland on Points podcast, we sit down with mom and points traveler Cam Snyder from @ThePointsPrinciple to talk about planning a memorable 48-hour trip to Mexico City using points and miles. Cam shares why Mexico City is an incredible destination for families, with amazing food, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class museums.We also dive into how she got started in the points and miles world and how she uses those strategies to make international travel more accessible. From booking award flights to choosing the right hotel location, Cam walks us through the key decisions that shaped her family’s short but unforgettable Mexico City adventure.Along the way, we talk about navigating transportation in such a massive city, why location matters when choosing a hotel like the Hilton Mexico City Reforma, and how to balance points versus cash when booking your stay. If you’re thinking about visiting Mexico City, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you plan a smooth and rewarding trip.Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel NewsletterMentioned in this Episode:Cam's ReelSeats.AeroOur FAVORITE Travel Backpack!Find Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:BEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we dive into the recent changes in Hyatt’s points and miles program. We unpack the confusion caused by early fake reports and break down the actual updates to the award structure, exploring both the positive and negative impacts. We discuss immediate category changes affecting several hotels and share strategies for booking before these changes take effect, so your points go further.We also highlight the value of the travel community, sharing insights and lessons learned to help listeners make smarter travel decisions. Positive updates include digital point sharing among members, and the award structure is expanding from three to five categories which makes planning ahead more important than ever. Booking sooner can help avoid future price hikes, and leaning on the travel community remains a key strategy to stay resilient and informed.This episode is presented by Yahoo! Travel. Don't forget to sign up for the Y! Wonder Newsletter written by yours truly.Find Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

In this episode of Wonderland on Points, we’re sharing our honest review of Grand Decameron Los Cabos in Cabo San Lucas — an all-inclusive stay booked with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts points. And we literally CANNOT believe how amazing it was for the cost!We break down how to use Wyndham points (transferred from CapitalOne) for an all-inclusive in Cabo, what flying Southwest Airlines was like with the new seating, and whether this resort is truly a budget-friendly option for family travel. From dining reviews and grocery store hacks to snorkeling excursions and spontaneous flight changes, we’re covering what worked, what didn’t, and how to stretch your points and miles further in Mexico.If you’re planning a Cabo family vacation, considering a Wyndham all-inclusive, or looking for smart travel tips to save money, this episode is for you.Episode Sponsors:Y! Wonder NewsletterComfrt.com 15% OFFMentioned in this Episode:Alejandro the Cabo Concierge - Whatsapp: +52 867 104 4384Cabo Escapes Snorkeling TourViator Horseback Riding ExcursionFind Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

*** The day that we dropped this episode was the same day Hyatt announced their ACTUAL changes. We will be dropping an entire episode about this next Wednesday**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 InstagramMobile Passport ControlMy TSA AppFind Us On Online:Mary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

**This episode was recorded before the drop of the current transfer bonus to Virgin AtlanticIn 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 CourseBook a FREE Card Consultation with OwenFind Us On Online:Owen on TikTokThePointsPartner.comMary Ellen | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Our Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

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 | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!)Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

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 | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogCharlotte's TikTokCharlotte's YoutubeMentioned in this episode:Make Friends In Unexpected Places Merch"I'll Never Forget Today" ReelAeroLopa Seat MapsAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!)Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

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 | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate/Referral Links:Southwest Personal CardsCapitalOne Venture (Use the pre-approval tool on this landing page)Chase SapphireSeats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!)Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

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 | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogMentioned in this episode:Choice Hotel episodeGranada EpisodeKaung's TikTokKaung's YoutubeAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

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 | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!)Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!

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 | JoFacebook GroupWonderland On Points BlogAffiliate Links:Seats.AeroBEST PRICE on CardPointers subscription!Flipside Luggage (Use code WONDERLAND for 25% OFF!)Comfrt.com 15% OFFRakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS)Chase/Capital One/Amex Card LinksFlyKitt- the BEST Jet Lag Solution!Tripiamo Driving TutorialsOur Favorite Travel NecessitiesWe 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!