Boxed.com is a fairly new online retailer that has been making waves for their commitment to eliminating the Pink Tax. What is the Pink Tax? It refers to women’s products that are taxed as luxury items or marked up substantially compared to men’s products. Have you ever noticed how men’s razors are often cheaper and … Read more
I don’t churn credit card much. Sure, I’ve gone a little nuts in the past with Alaska Visa card applications and I did take full advantage of the 100,000 miles Citi AAdvantage Executive card offer three years ago. But I don’t regularly churn credit cards like most people in this hobby do. My game is … Read more
Ritz Carlton recently announced that they will be unveiling a cruise line consisting of three ships that will begin sailing in 2019. Tailored to those who want a luxury cruise experience with a trusted hotel brand, The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection will offer itineraries in Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Eastern Canada, New England, the Caribbean, and Latin … Read more
Yesterday, Uber announced a new in-app tipping feature in Seattle, Minneapolis, and Houston. In-app tipping will be rolled out throughout the U.S. by the end of July, ‘so we can get the experience right.” So this is essentially a test-run to work out any kinks before a mass roll-out. That makes sense, but I am … Read more
Food is probably of the biggest expenses most people factor into their travel budgets. Sure, you can eat every meal at McDonald’s, but if you’re traveling abroad, you probably want to experience something of the local culture. Food is one of the best ways to do that. Whether you’ve got your eye on a Michelin … Read more
I started a new full time job a month ago. I was a little concerned about how it would affect my manufactured spending activities, but I’m happy to report it’s been largely positive. My work schedule is manageable and the commute is easy. Luckily, I don’t have to sacrifice my weekends or spend an inordinate amount of … Read more
Office Depot has just announced a major revamping of its rewards program. Starting July 1, 2017 Office Depot rewards members earn 2% in rewards on EVERYTHING. That’s right, all members will receive 2% back in the form of reward certificates on all spending. No restrictions. You may be thinking: “That’s great and all, but I don’t … Read more
One of the most common pieces of advice you’ll hear in this hobby is “Don’t earn points and miles speculatively.” It means you shouldn’t collect points and miles without a goal in mind. Rewards programs can (and will) devalue their currencies without so much as a notice. Sometimes they do have the decency to give … Read more
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you’re short on miles but paying for travel isn’t an option? Perhaps you’ve focused on collecting miles that have been devalued or there is no award availability. Maybe you have a last minute trip coming up and just don’t have enough ways to stock up on … Read more
One thing I get asked about most often by newbies is how I decide when to redeem miles and when to pay for travel. After all, points and miles are precious. Whether you’re earning them from credit card sign-up bonuses or via manufactured spending, you’re giving up something (credit score drop, cash, time) in return … Read more