Tech & Travel Guru
This was my first time trying United’s new service from Carlsbad (CLD) to Denver (DEN), which launched on March 30, 2026. I booked the itinerary for 30,000 United MileagePlus miles one-way from CLD–DEN–FCA, all in First Class. While it wasn’t the best mileage redemption, cash fares to Kalispell (FCA) were...
After another incredible ski trip to Niseko, it was time to head back home. I booked this Japan Airlines flight from Tokyo Narita (NRT) to San Diego (SAN) through Cathay Pacific for 89,000 Cathay miles plus $260 in taxes. I snagged the award 360 days in advance when Business Class...
On a recent trip, I checked a bag with Alaska Airlines and connected onto American Airlines for the rest of my journey. I made the connection, but my bag didn’t. It was left behind in Las Vegas after my quick hop from San Diego. While connecting in Charlotte, I checked...
I recently had a layover in Las Vegas, just a few weeks after American Express debuted its new Sidecar Lounge concept. Designed for travelers on tighter schedules, it’s a refreshing alternative for anyone looking to grab a quick bite or drink without committing to the full lounge experience. The LAS...
If you’ve ever flown internationally into the U.S. with a connection, you know the dreaded checked baggage claim and recheck. You land, wind your way through passport control, wait at baggage claim, haul your suitcases through Customs, only to hand them right back to the airline minutes later. It’s repetitive,...
I booked this Japan Airlines flight from LAX (Los Angeles) to HND (Tokyo Haneda) through Qatar Airways, using 103,000 Avios miles and $453 in taxes, 360 days in advance when the First Class schedule opened. While not the most economical option, the availability made it worth the extra taxes, especially...
Happy New Year! In 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on three exciting international trips. Over the course of the year, I traveled a total of 59,000 miles, visiting four countries—about 23% fewer miles than in 2024. Below is a snapshot of my adventures throughout the year… ...
When flying from Tokyo to Sapporo, you have plenty of options, with flights departing almost every hour on both ANA and JAL. I found a great fare for J Class (Domestic Business) on JAL, so I booked directly with them. The one-way fare was JPY 23,030, though prices for this...
Airline award tickets keep getting devalued, and premium cabin availability seems harder to find with each passing year. So when a unicorn appears, you book first and think later. While searching for a quick weekend getaway this month, I stumbled upon a true gem: a Business Class award seat on...
For my return flight from Europe, I decided to experience Finnair’s Business Class after flying Emirates to Milan. About eight months ahead of time, I was able to secure an award seat on their flagship route, Flight 1, from Helsinki to Los Angeles. Pro tip: to unlock more award availability...
Recent Comments