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Apache is functioning normally

June 9, 2023 by Brett Tams

Higher education could soon become more affordable for more than 700,000 of the incarcerated people in the U.S. Starting July 1, they’ll become eligible for Pell Grants for the first time in nearly 30 years, regardless of sentence length or conviction.

Pell Grants are a type of need-based financial aid from the federal government that gives recipients up to $7,395 per academic year to cover college costs like tuition, books and other fees. Unlike a loan, the grants never need to be repaid; students qualify based on financial need.

Incarcerated people — those in juvenile justice facilities and local, state and federal correctional facilities — will be able to use these Pell awards to pay for prison education programs (PEPs), which can lead to credentials like a professional certificate, an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree from a partner university.

Though the change is effective July 1, students may not be able to enroll in a PEP using Pell Grants immediately, says Ruth Delaney, associate initiative director at the Vera Institute of Justice focused on education reform in prisons. Some programs may start this fall, she says, but even then, enrollment won’t begin until later in the summer.

Here’s what you need to know about the Pell Grant expansion for prison education programs and how incarcerated students can access these funds.

Impact of Pell expansion for incarcerated students

Without access to Pell Grants, higher education has been virtually out of reach for most incarcerated people, who earn an average minimum wage of 86 cents per hour in typical prison jobs, according to a 2017 analysis by the Prison Policy Initiative, a nonprofit public policy think tank. There were nearly 800 PEPs in the early 1990s, but after a 1994 crime bill blocked incarcerated students from receiving Pell Grants, the number of PEPs shrank to eight by 1997, according to the Vera Institute, a nonprofit that supports criminal justice reform.

Obtaining a higher education degree or certificate can help incarcerated students find stable careers and better pay when they reenter the workplace. People who participate in correctional education are also 43% less likely to return to prison within three years than those who don’t participate, according to a 2018 report by the Rand Corp., a public policy research organization.

Some incarcerated students have been able to access Pell Grants for years as part of an experimental program called Second Chance Pell established by President Barack Obama in 2015. As of 2022, incarcerated students had earned more than 7,000 credentials through the program. For example, Georgetown University launched its Prison Scholars Program in 2018 to bring higher education to incarcerated students in Washington, D.C., and Maryland.

“Financial aid is one piece of this puzzle,” says Rachel Rotunda, director of government relations at the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators. “This is a big change for students, but it’s also a big change for institutions and really the whole higher ed prison education community.”

Submit FAFSA to qualify for a Pell Grant

To be considered for a Pell Grant, incarcerated students must fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Because correctional facilities may offer limited or no internet access, students may need to submit a paper copy of their FAFSA application to partner college representatives at their facility. Then the partner college will submit the FAFSA on the student’s behalf to the office of Federal Student Aid, which will evaluate the application and determine the student’s eligibility and grant amount.

“A lot gets facilitated through the college, which means that the prospective student likely already knows what college they’re going to be applying to,” Delaney says. “The other side to that is that it’s rare to see more than one college program at a single prison.”

Though incarcerated students can legally submit the FAFSA as early as July 1, they may need to wait until their facility’s education staff is ready to accept applications and a PEP course is slated to begin.

Incarcerated students shouldn’t worry about filing the FAFSA months ahead of time; they’ll likely need to submit the FAFSA around the time they’re slated to enroll in a PEP, Delaney says. Deadlines will vary by program.

“There tends to be a bit more of a condensed timeline for enrollment [in prisons] compared to the more community-based timeline,” Delaney adds.

Other grants and scholarships to pay for prison education programs

Incarcerated students are blocked from receiving federal student loans, which can provide undergraduates with up to $12,500 in funds each year that must eventually be paid back.

But if a Pell Grant award is not enough to cover the cost of a prison education program, students may turn to other funding sources. This may also be necessary if a student embarks on multiple degrees or takes extra time to finish a program because Pell Grants can be used for no more than six years.

And in many cases, the colleges running PEPs are putting their own resources into making them affordable, Rotunda says, “to ensure that they’re able to offer high-quality programming and to provide students the same level of support that they would be providing for any other student.”

Where to get answers to your questions

If you’re incarcerated and have questions about the FAFSA, Pell Grants or PEPs, you can reach out to the following resources:

A financial aid administrator or other education representative at your correctional facility:

Varies by correctional facility.

Send questions to the Education Department by mail. Address letters to:

U.S. Department of Education

c/o Prison Education Programs

400 Maryland Ave SW

Washington, DC 20202

If you have internet access, send questions to the Education Department by email:

Incarcerated students with defaulted student loans

If you’ve defaulted on student loans in the past, you can sign up for a temporary government program called Fresh Start. This program will return your loans to good standing, allowing you to submit the FAFSA and receive a Pell Grant while incarcerated.

If you now have a loan in default, you’ll need to send a letter to:

P.O. Box 5609

Greenville, TX 75403

In your letter, include your full name, Social Security number, date of birth and the following statement: “I am a confined or incarcerated individual. I would like to use Fresh Start to bring my loans back into good standing.”

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 9, 2023 by Brett Tams

We admit IHG Hotels & Resorts hasn’t traditionally been an all-inclusive-heavy hospitality group. That’s soon to change, though, thanks to IHG’s new partnership with Spanish hospitality company Iberostar. The move will incorporate the all-inclusive Iberostar Beachfront Resorts into the IHG One Rewards program. The partnership will include up to 70 resorts across the Americas and the Mediterranean, including Northern Africa.

Until the IHG-Iberostar alliance comes online, travelers can choose from several true all-inclusive resorts within the IHG family and more properties that include full-board or half-board rates. Family-friendly hotels in Jamaica, ultra-luxe wellness retreats in India and Maldivian resorts with overwater bungalows — these are some of our favorites.

Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay All-Inclusive

Montego Bay, Jamaica

HOLIDAY INN RESORT MONTEGO BAY/FACEBOOK

Best for: Families sticking to a budget on a Caribbean vacation.

Why stay here: A vacation at this all-inclusive resort won’t break the bank, but it still comes with a private beach in a prime Montego Bay location.

Best way to book: Book directly with IHG to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points and enjoy any elite benefits.

One of IHG’s true all-inclusive resorts, the Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay has a prime location on Jamaica’s northern shore. It’s less than 10 minutes from Sangster International Airport (MBJ) and just 15 minutes from Montego Bay’s commercial center. Since this is an all-inclusive resort, though, there’s no real need to leave the property.

The hotel has a private sandy beach plus a small island with lounge chairs for sunbathing across a shallow lagoon. Access to nonmotorized water sports is included.

For activities and entertainment, there are two pools, a spa, kids and teens clubs, and sports courts. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are also included in the rate. Meals are served at the buffet or four a la carte restaurants that span Jamaican to Italian cuisine. There is also a smattering of bars, including a pool bar at the adults-only section of the resort. (The pool bar is a welcome spot for couples, as the 500-plus rooms here are often filled with families.)

Rates at the Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay All-Inclusive start at $197 or 50,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Holiday Inn Resort Ixtapa All-Inclusive

Zihuatenejo, Guerrero, Mexico

HOLIDAY INN RESORT IXTAPA ALL INCLUSIVE/FACEBOOK

Best for: West Coast families or couples seeking a long-weekend getaway.

Why stay here: This beachfront resort is located within a five-minute walk of downtown Ixtapa.

Best way to book: Book directly with IHG to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points and enjoy any elite benefits.

Ixtapa may not be the first place that comes to mind when considering resort destinations on Mexico’s west coast, but that means you’ll find solid deals here. This is true of the Holiday Inn Resort Ixtapa, an all-inclusive beach resort with an ideal location across the street from Ixtapa’s main shopping and entertainment area. There are 431 rooms, including suites with two bathrooms that are ideal for families. Adjoining rooms are also available.

The property features two pools, four restaurants, a sports bar, a kids club and a gym. Unfortunately, though, there’s no spa. The resort offers access to a public beach, so you’ll likely have to contend with beach vendors. Compared to other all-inclusive resorts, amenities are more limited, so we recommend this property for long-weekend getaways rather than full-week stays. Still, there’s no denying you can find great deals here.

Rates at the Holiday Inn Resort Ixtapa All-Inclusive start at $182 or 50,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

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Six Senses Vana

Dehradun, India

SIX SENSES VANA/FACEBOOK

Best for: An all-inclusive wellness retreat in a serene, nature-friendly environment.

Why stay here: Enjoy an in-depth wellness consultation at the start of your stay. Based on this consultation, a plan of treatments, activities, experiences and meals will be designed just for you.

Best way to book: Book directly with IHG to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points and enjoy any elite benefits.

If beach vacations aren’t your thing, consider an all-inclusive wellness retreat. One of the luxury brand’s newest properties, Six Senses Vana sits outside the Indian city of Dehradun on 21 private acres in the foothills of the Himalayas. Though you can book single-night stays, the property is best known for its multi-day wellness programs. Options include five-night sleep, detox and yoga programs, and 14-night and 17-night Ayurveda programs.

Even if you don’t select one of those more intensive programs, you’ll still receive wellness consultations and personalized treatments, nutrition plans and access to group activities — all of which are included in the rate. You’ll receive a kurta, or tunic, to wear while you’re on the property and given a red-string blessing for your wrist.

Beyond all the wellness treatments and programs, there’s also time for a little fun. Enjoy a pool, sports courts and a cinema when you’re not getting a massage, taking a yoga class or spending time in the meditation cave.

Rates at Six Senses Vana start at $1,003 or 100,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

INTERCONTINENTAL BORA BORA RESORT & THALASSO SPA/TIM MCKENNA/FACEBOOK

Best for: Island-hoppers searching for that perfect overwater villa experience.

Why stay here: The 13,000-square-foot Deep Ocean Spa offers Polynesian-inspired treatments performed in serene glass-bottom bungalows.

Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn IHG points while enjoying elite-like benefits and on-property credits or via American Express’ Fine Hotels + Resorts or Chase’s Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection, or redeem your points by booking directly with IHG.

Scratch your overwater bungalow itch with a stay at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, where all 84 guest villas hover above the water. You can upgrade from a standard beach view to a Mount Otemanu view or splurge on a two-bedroom villa with a private pool.

Though not an all-inclusive property, the resort does offer a half-board rate that comes with breakfast and dinner. (Potential guests should note that dinner does not include drinks or room service.) Breakfast is absolutely worth it, though. Our reviewer noted extensive offerings, from cold spreads to an omelet station to a Polynesian specialty table.

The included dinners are three-course meals at either the Reef Restaurant or the Sands Restaurant, which serve French and international cuisine, respectively. You’ll have to pay out of pocket for the exquisite dining experience at the Le Corail Restaurant, a romantic French fine dining spot.

One can’t-miss amenity at this resort is the Thalasso Spa. As its name indicates, the spa focuses on thalassotherapy treatments that incorporate sea-based ingredients. The treatment rooms are overwater, so you can look at the fish beneath you during a massage.

Rates at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa start at $1,148 or 120,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort

Raa Atoll, Maldives

INTERCONTINENTAL MALDIVES MAAMUNAGAU RESORT/FACEBOOK

Best for: Families and couples looking for a Maldivian experience with a more all-inclusive feel.

Why stay here: From The Retreat, an adults-only enclave, to the family-centered, three-bedroom overwater residences, each guest can find a space right for them.

Best way to book: Book directly with IHG to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points or via Chase’s Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection.

Though it’s not an all-inclusive resort, the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau does have an all-inclusive package — a pretty stellar one at that. The package includes three meals daily, unlimited alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, seaplane transfers, a 30-minute photoshoot, and Club InterContinental benefits like afternoon tea and happy hour.

Keep in mind that there’s a four-day minimum stay to book this package. If you plan to stay for fewer days, consider the half-board option that just includes breakfast and dinner (and that 30-minute photoshoot and Club InterContinental benefits).

The resort has 81 villas — including overwater bungalows — and caters to all types of travelers, including families. There’s a kids club with a water park, but there’s also an adults-only pool with a swim-up bar (not to mention a spa and fitness center) for couples or adult groups on vacation. The cuisine is quite varied at the five restaurants, one of which is a Mediterranean spot at the lighthouse.

Rates at the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort start at $974 or 120,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

InterContinental Resort Mauritius

Fort Balaclava, Mauritius

INTERCONTINENTAL RESORT MAURITIUS/FACEBOOK

Best for: Families and couples who don’t mind having kids around.

Why stay here: It’s easy to relax at this beach resort, where the vibe is delightfully laid-back and low-key.

Best way to book: Book directly with IHG to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points and enjoy any elite benefits.

Coming off a renovation in 2021, the InterContinental Resort Mauritius is a high-design resort on a private beach. While it has offered all-inclusive packages in the past, they’re not always available. Instead, you might have to go with a half-board package.

Still, hotels in Mauritius, including this one, often have lower prices than their counterparts in other Indian Ocean nations. This can make spending on lunch a palatable affair (pun intended). There are four restaurants here, plus a beach bar and a lobby bar.

The resort is largely family-friendly and offers a standout kids club with robust programming. It also has extensive event and meeting space — you’ll really find all sorts of travelers here. While the hotel is set on a beach, the sea here isn’t all that great for swimming. However, there are two lovely pools. There’s also a boat house where you can rent kayaks and snorkel gear, and book boating excursions.

Rates at the InterContinental Resort Mauritius start at $336 or 76,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

INTERCONTINENTAL PHU QUOC LONG BEACH RESORT/FACEBOOK

Best for: Beach-loving families and couples looking for a Southeast Asian getaway.

Why stay here: On Vietnam’s largest island, this resort has everything you need for a tropical vacation, from two massive pools to six bars and restaurants to a spa.

Best way to book: Book directly with IHG to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort is not an all-inclusive property, but it actually has a pretty impressive full-board package. The deal includes a buffet breakfast plus a three-course lunch and dinner at three of the property’s four restaurants (excluding the fine-dining restaurant Lava).

Each guest also receives a daily cocktail at the Ink 360 rooftop bar, as well as 20% off food and nonalcoholic beverage bills as part of the IHG One Rewards Dining Privilege. That includes sweet treats at the Pearl Lounge and grab-and-go items at Mercado.

The resort houses most of its 459 rooms in one of five towers, including the 19-story Sky Tower, which features a rooftop bar. However, there are also stand-alone three- and four-bedroom villas with private pools. Enjoy shared amenities like four pools (including a lap pool and one with a waterslide), a spa, a fitness center, a kids club, sports courts and a beach hut from which guests can partake in nonmotorized water sports for free.

Rates at the InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort start at $148 or 26,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino

Noord, Aruba

HOLIDAY INN RESORT ARUBA-BEACH RESORT & CASINO/FACEBOOK

Best for: IHG One Rewards members who want to earn and burn points while vacationing in Aruba.

Why stay here: A massive resort in the center of it all, this property is ideal for budget-conscious families, as kids 11 and younger stay and dine for free and only a dining fee is charged for guests between 12 and 19.

Best way to book: Book the Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino directly through the resort’s website, as it’s the only way to reserve the all-inclusive package.

The Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino is a solid choice for families. It offers a “kids stay free” deal for guests 19 and under who stay in a room with their parents, and a “kids eat free” deal available to children 11 and under.

Its all-inclusive package kicks the hotel up a notch for adults, too. It includes three meals a day in any on-property restaurant, house drinks and nonalcoholic beverages, a $75 spa credit, and a 25% discount for tours and water sports by a third-party operator. The package does require a four-night stay, but that shouldn’t be hard to meet.

The 590-room resort is located on the popular Palm Beach in Noord, and it offers guests three pools, a kids club, sports courts, five restaurants, a lobby bar and cafe, a spa and a casino. There are also complimentary bike rentals for guests who want to explore the area.

Rates at the Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino start at $250 or 45,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

South Malé Atoll, Maldives

HOLIDAY INN RESORT KANDOOMA MALDIVES/FACEBOOK

Best for: IHG One Rewards members looking for a reasonable redemption rate in one of the world’s most exclusive destinations.

Why stay here: This is one of the more affordable resorts in the Maldives that still has overwater bungalows — and solid snorkeling and surfing.

Best way to book: Book directly with IHG to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The Maldives might have a reputation for over-the-top luxury, but there are several properties that offer a strong value. The Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is one of them.

Though it’s a more basic property, it has overwater bungalows and an all-inclusive package that comes with three meals a day at Kandooma Cafe, a beverage package for alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, shared airport transfers and complimentary nonmotorized sports. On top of that, kids 11 and under stay and eat free here.

If you’d like to dine beyond Kandooma Cafe, there are a few eateries and bars for light snacks. The Kitchen restaurant offers a full sit-down affair. The resort features a spa, a pool and a kids club. However, overall, amenities are a little limited. There are free snorkel trips each morning, and you can snorkel on your own around part of the resort. This is also one of the few places in the Maldives you can surf.

Rates at the Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives start at $183 or 30,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Crowne Plaza Jordan – Dead Sea Resort & Spa

Swemieh, Jordan

CROWNE PLAZA JORDAN – DEAD SEA RESORT & SPA/IHG

Best for: Travelers exploring Jordan who need a few days of rest and relaxation.

Why stay here: A grand resort on the Dead Sea, this property has a nearly 60,000-square-foot pool called The Lake, as well as an adults-only infinity pool.

Best way to book: Book directly with IHG to earn or redeem IHG One Rewards points and enjoy any elite benefits.

Many visitors to Jordan rush off to Petra and Wadi Rum on an action-packed itinerary. When it comes time for a rest, though, there’s no better place to go than a beach resort on the Dead Sea. The Crowne Plaza Jordan – Dead Sea Resort & Spa provides the perfect respite — with an all-inclusive package to boot. The offer includes three meals a day plus soft drinks.

This is a sprawling resort with 420 rooms set on a private beach, but its nearly 60,000-square-foot pool can easily compete with the Dead Sea. There’s also a similarly sized spa with 30 treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy circuit and a Dead Sea saltwater pool, among other wellness amenities.

Of the four appealing dining venues, the Burj Al Hamam restaurant, which serves Lebanese cuisine, is a standout. The Promenade Restaurant is also popular for its beach views and cocktails at sunset.

Rates at the Crowne Plaza Jordan – Dead Sea Resort & Spa start at $160 or 27,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.

Source: thepointsguy.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 9, 2023 by Brett Tams

After more than three years on the back burner, monthly federal student loan payments will finally resume 60 days after June 30 — and 1 in 5 borrowers could struggle when that happens, according to a new analysis from the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Many borrowers could also fall behind on other debt obligations when student loan payments resume. More than 1 in 13 student loan borrowers are currently behind on other bills, an increase from before the pandemic, per the June 7 CFPB report, which analyzed a sample of about 32 million borrowers with outstanding federal student loans.

President Joe Biden’s one-time debt cancellation plan could impact these findings. The Supreme Court is expected to decide by the end of June whether the proposal to erase up to $20,000 in student loan debt per borrower can be implemented. But even if the Supreme Court upholds Biden’s student debt plan, payments will still resume on any remaining debt later this summer.

The CFPB report also touched on risk factors, such as borrower age and the fact that millions of loans are being transferred to different servicers. If you think you’ll struggle when repayment resumes, there are steps you can take now to put yourself in a better position.

Younger borrowers face budget concerns

Borrowers who left school and exhausted their six-month payment grace period during forbearance will need to fit student loan payments into their budget for the first time. That could be a challenge, especially if they’ve rented a pricier apartment, financed a car or taken on other debt with the assumption that they could afford those monthly bills.

And many have done just that, the CFPB found. Today, younger borrowers (ages 18-29) face higher monthly bills than they did prior to forbearance. The typical younger student loan borrower now has median nonstudent loan, nonmortgage monthly debt payments north of $200, up from about $65 in March 2020.

Servicer switches complicate repayment

To make matters even more confusing, the servicer that manages your student loan payments may have switched over the past three years. More than 14 million borrowers — 44% of the CFPB’s sample — will have to work with at least one federal student loan servicer that’s new to them since March 2020.

As a result, these borrowers may need to find out who their new servicer is, in addition to creating new logins with their new servicer and signing up for automatic payments again.

What to do if you’ll struggle when student loans resume

Although this report paints a bleak picture of what’s to come in a few months, student loan borrowers still have time to get ahead of payments and make a plan. Making a plan will be crucial, since the consequences of not paying your bills when they resume can be severe: It could lead to student loan default, a damaged credit score and seized paychecks.

Here are a few steps you can take today to set yourself up for success and avoid missing payments.

If your income fell, or you’re already struggling with other bills

An income-driven repayment (IDR) plan can cap your monthly student loan bills at a set percentage of your income and erase remaining student debt after you make payments for a set number of years. You could owe as little as $0 per month.

To sign up, contact your student loan servicer. You can submit paperwork now so that you’re set to go into an IDR plan when payments resume.

If your servicer has switched

Your federal student loan servicer landscape may have changed over the past few years. You’re supposed to get a letter or email from both your old and new servicer if this happens, but you may have missed a notification if you moved, for example.

If you’re not sure who your servicer is, log in to My Federal Student Aid using your FSA ID to find out. There, you can see your current servicer, view loan details, apply for a direct consolidation loan or sign up for an IDR plan.

If you’re preparing to pay student loan bills for the first time

If it’s your first time paying student loans, you may need to log in to your FSA account to figure out who your servicer is and how much you owe. Your servicer will be able to tell you how much your monthly payment could be under various repayment plans.

And if you have other major monthly bills beyond student loans, now’s the time to take a good look at your spending habits and budget. This could mean reevaluating your current lifestyle.

If you already have student loans in default

If you had student loans in default before forbearance began, you should enroll in a temporary government program called Fresh Start, which allows you to get your student loans back in good standing, build your credit score and sign up for an IDR plan.

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

Whether you’re in the process of creating your bucket list or you’ve already checked off most experiences, we have another one you’ll likely want to add: watching the total solar eclipse from a cruise ship deck in 2024.

Trust me on this. A total solar eclipse trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — even if you’re not an astronomy geek.

On Aug. 21, 2017, I climbed to the top of the Green Ridge Lookout in Bend, Oregon’s Deschutes National Forest in the early morning hours to wait for the moon to pass between the sun and Earth. At approximately 10:19 a.m. PDT, I witnessed one of the most amazing events of my life while donning solar eclipse glasses and sipping Champagne on a mountaintop as the sky darkened around us.

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This awe-inspiring experience is even better at sea. Discover the best solar eclipse cruises setting sail in 2024 and why they are the places to be when the moon blocks out the sun’s light.

When and where is the total eclipse in 2024?

A total solar eclipse over water and mountains. LG0RZH/GETTY IMAGES

The total eclipse on April 8, 2024, will occur in North America, beginning in the South Pacific Ocean. It will pass over Mexico, the U.S. and Canada, with Mexico’s Pacific Coast predicted to be the first locale to experience totality at 11:07 a.m. PDT. The eclipse path will extend from Texas to Maine and then exit off the Atlantic coast at Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

Why book a cruise to watch the eclipse?

Approximately 31 million U.S. residents live inside the path of totality for the 2024 eclipse, 2.5 times more than the 12 million residents that lived within the path of totality in 2017, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com. So, if you can witness the eclipse from land, why would you want to head out to sea to watch it?

First, you’ll sail with a small group of like-minded eclipse enthusiasts and have access to astronomy and space exploration experts. You can also avoid the crowds and traffic on land with people driving to the viewing spots and jockeying for the best places to park and watch the show.

Additionally, a cruise ship positioned off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico, will provide four minutes and 26 seconds of totality, close to the maximum viewing anywhere along the eclipse path.

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Related: Travel to these places to see the total solar eclipse in April 2024

“Many people think that a large ship rocks too much to view a solar eclipse. But they’re actually steady enough to do high-quality photography,” said J. Kelly Beatty, senior editor of Sky & Telescope, a print and online magazine for avid sky and stargazers.

Beatty explains that a ship’s maneuverability and weather instrumentation are essential since they provide the flexibility to sail to another location for optimal visibility. Also, if you’re sailing with astronomy experts, they can help guide the crew on the bridge to reposition the ship so all passengers have the best views of the eclipse.

Only a few cruise lines and professional groups are planning festivities for the big event. So, book your spot soon for the ultimate total solar eclipse viewing party in North America. Below are the best solar eclipse cruises for 2024.

Holland America Line

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

Holland America Line offers two sailings where the ships will be positioned in Mexico for the total eclipse. A representative for the line says they will host special events for the sailings, although the line hasn’t released specific details yet.

The line’s 14-day Solar Eclipse & Mexican Riviera itinerary on the 1,432-guest Zaandam sails round trip from San Diego on March 30, 2024. The ship will call on eight ports in Mexico, including Mazatlan, where it will be positioned the day before for optimal viewing of the eclipse from the ship’s wraparound deck.

Konigsdam’s 22-day Solar Eclipse & Hawaii Circle voyage departs from San Diego on April 5, 2023, for Mexico, where the ship will also be positioned off the coast of Mazatlan for the eclipse. Following a stop in Puerto Vallarta, the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam will sail across the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii, disembarking in Hilo on April 20.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Holland America ship

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises’ 10-day Mexican Riviera with Total Solar Eclipse cruise is already sold out for the rare event aboard the 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess.

Due to the popularity of the solar eclipse-themed cruise, the line added another sailing with a different itinerary — a 15-day Panama Canal cruise aboard the 3,080-guest Emerald Princess. This ocean-to-ocean extended voyage from April 5 to 20 will depart from Los Angeles and end in Fort Lauderdale.

Highlights of the voyage include six ports of call, six days at sea and total solar eclipse viewing between Cabo San Lucas and Huatulco, Mexico, on April 8. An astronomy and space exploration enthusiast, Fred Cink, will be on board to answer questions. Guests will also enjoy eclipse-themed drinks and bites while watching the rare phenomenon.

Prices start at $1,999 per person for an inside stateroom with Princess’ “no frills” cruise fare, which includes core experiences — accommodations, dining and entertainment.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

Sky & Telescope and Insight Cruises

If you want to go all in on the eclipse theme, consider booking with a special interest group. Sky & Telescope and Insight Cruises have partnered to offer S&T’s 2024 Total-Eclipse Cruise aboard Holland America’s Zaandam, departing on March 30, 2024. You could book the sailing on your own, as noted above, but if you want to be part of a group of like-minded travelers and have access to special events and educational programming, it’s worth paying more to go with Sky & Telescope.

The themed cruise’s optional speaker program has an impressive lineup of experts, including Sky & Telescope’s Rick Fienberg, whom Beatty refers to as the “expert’s expert.” Other special guests include actor and singer Tim Russ and former astronauts Jeffrey Hoffman and Garrett Reisman.

Beatty says he anticipates their group will be the largest organized solar eclipse group on the ship, with about 200 attendees.

Prices for the cruise vary, depending on the stateroom category and add-ons like beverage packages and specialty dining. The entire conference program for the event is $1,750 per person, which includes a one-hour cocktail party package every night of the cruise.

The mini-conference option is $750 per person and allows passengers a one-time admission to each speaker’s presentation. Traveling companions who don’t want to attend either conference will be charged a “facility fee” of $200 per person, which includes invitations to the group’s private parties (beer and wine included) and access to the group’s exclusive viewing area during the solar eclipse.

UnCruise Adventures

Safari Voyager at sunset in Granito de Oro, Mexico. UNCRUISE ADVENTURES

UnCruise Adventures is offering a seven-night eclipse sailing aboard its 66-passenger Safari Voyager.

The round-trip voyage departs on April 6 from San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, and features several days at sea, including time spent whale and dolphin watching on the beautiful Sea of Cortes. Expert guides and fellow umbraphiles will be on board to share in the excitement of this adventure at sea.

The ship will position northwest of Mazatlan for the eclipse, and the crew will be on hand to provide viewing and photography tips to best capture the once-in-a-lifetime moment. Afterward, guests can celebrate with a glass of Champagne or other beverage.

Stops include Isla San Francisco, Isla Partida and Bahia de la Paz, where passengers can opt to swim whale sharks.

Prices start at $7,150 per person and include all meals, excursions and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. Gratuities are an additional expense.

Ring of Fire Expeditions and Eclipse Tours

Ring of Fire Expeditions and Eclipse Tours are hosting a nine-night land and cruise package that begins on April 1. The itinerary features a one-night stay in Acapulco, Mexico, an eight-night voyage on Swan Hellenic’s new ship Diana, an eclipse expedition in Mazatlan and a solar eclipse briefing at sea before eclipse day.

Ring of Fire Expeditions has an exclusive charter for the 196-passenger ship. The memorable voyage features science experts Paul D. Maley of NASA’s Johnson Space Center Astronomical Society and Michael Shara from the American Museum of Natural History. This sailing will be Maley’s 84th solar eclipse trip and Shara’s fourth total solar eclipse adventure.

Prices cover most expenses, including a pre-cruise hotel stay, pre- and post-cruise transfers, a welcome dinner at the hotel, all meals and an onboard open bar, complimentary Wi-Fi, all excursions and gratuities.

Passengers will disembark in La Paz, Mexico, on April 10.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

Source: thepointsguy.com

Posted in: Moving Guide Tagged: 2, 2017, 2023, 5 best, About, accommodations, adventure, All, bar, beer, before, bend, best, big, book, bridge, bucket, bucket list, crowds, deck, dining, discover, driving, Entertainment, event, events, expense, expenses, experience, experts, Features, Financial Wize, FinancialWize, fire, forest, glasses, green, guest, guests, guide, Guides, hawaii, history, hours, in, interest, LA, Land, Life, list, Live, LOS, los angeles, maine, More, mountains, museum, national forest, natural, new, News, offer, offers, or, Oregon, Other, park, parties, party, photography, Planning, points, Prices, quality, questions, Reviews, sailing, san diego, san francisco, San Jose, science, society, South, space, specialty, stories, texas, time, tips, Travel, trust, weather, wi, Wi-Fi, will

Apache is functioning normally

June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

A classic saltbox Colonial built in 1690 in Woodbury, CT, is the oldest home on the market this week on Realtor.com®.

The spacious property boasts the original wood shop where craftsmen are said to have created everything from wainscoting to built-in cabinetry.

Other vintage gems to hit the market this week include a center-chimney Colonial in New Hampshire, a charming Cape Codder in Massachusetts, and a New Jersey stone home.

Scroll down for a full look at this week’s 10 oldest homes.

Price: $589,000
Year built: 1690
Saltbox Colonial: 
This two-bedroom gem is one of the oldest homes in Woodbury, according to the listing.

The 2,034-square-foot residence features wide-plank flooring, original wainscoting, wood-paneled walls, and exposed-beam ceilings. Three fireplaces can be found throughout the home, including two with ovens.

The 3-acre property also features a two-story barn, a woodworking shop, and a shed with an attached outhouse.

Woodbury, CT

(Realtor.com)

———

Price: $499,000
Year built: 1718
Cute Cape: 
This four-bedroom Cape Codder features built-in bookshelves, two fireplaces, and wide-plank pine floors.

The 1,580-square-foot residence has been updated over the years. The kitchen has maple cabinets and granite countertops, and the dining room has built-in cabinetry. New windows were recently installed on the first floor.

The detached garage includes a work area with new electrical.

Weymouth, MA

(Realtor.com)

———

Price: $400,000
Year built: 1730
Francis Chase Homestead: 
This center-chimney Colonial boasts five fireplaces, wood-paneled walls, exposed beams, and wide-plank floors.

Affordably priced, the three-bedroom home is in need of some TLC. The open kitchen has a wood-burning stove with a beehive oven. The living room offers an oversized brick fireplace.

The 4-acre lot includes a two-car garage and a four-stall barn with a paddock.

Newton, NH

(Realtor.com)

———

Price: $1,100,000
Year built: 1731
Berkshire beauty:
This three-bedroom home has been thoughtfully modernized over the years.

Measuring 3,148 square feet, it features three en suite bedrooms, two offices, and a solarium. While there aren’t many interior photos, the listing notes that the “tastefully renovated home” offers large living rooms and an eat-in kitchen.

The 1-acre lot sits on Hubbard Brook. A second dwelling on the property is currently being rented out as a quilt shop, but it could be transformed into a guesthouse.

Egremont, MA

———

Price: $679,000
Year built: 1735
Cute half-Cape:
This cozy, three-bedroom home has been beautifully modernized over the years.

The 2,878-square-foot residence still features exposed-beam ceilings, preserved hardwood floors, and a fireplace with a beehive oven. The bright living room boasts built-in bookshelves, and the kitchen has granite countertops. The family room includes access to an oversized deck out back.

The primary suite is upstairs and features a cathedral ceiling. The newly renovated lower level has a wet bar and additional living space.

The 2-acre lot includes frontage along Soules Pond.

Kingston, MA

(Realtor.com)

———

Price: $1,295,000
Year built: 1736
John Bassett House:
This three-bedroom, waterfront dwelling is part of the Marblehead Historic District, located in the Colonial neighborhood of Old Town.

The four-story, 2,160-square-foot home features wide-plank wood flooring and wood-beam ceilings throughout. You can enjoy picturesque views from two decks. The fenced-in lot also has a patio and a detached, one-car garage.

Marblehead, MA

(Realtor.com)

———

Price: $1,750,000
Year built: 1740
Bantam Farm: 
This updated, four-bedroom farmhouse offers wide-plank floors, three fireplaces, and built-in beds.

The cozy living room comes with built-in bookcases and an exposed-beam ceiling, and French doors lead to an airy sitting room. The bright kitchen has Mexican tile flooring and a large island with a prep sink. Sliders from here open to a large patio that overlooks the landscaped yard.

The first-floor bedroom could be used as an office. The remaining bedrooms are upstairs.

The 2.5-acre property includes a two-bedroom guest cottage, a one-bedroom art studio, and a barn.

Stamford, CT

(Realtor.com)

———

Price: $1,075,000
Year built: 1740
Stone home: 
Historic highlights of the 2,052-square-foot home include random-width pine flooring, exposed stone walls, and a Dutch door.

There are no interior photos available, but the listing says the home features “a fieldstone fireplace with wood stove insert, exposed beams, many windows, and sliding glass doors leading out to the expansive stone patio.”

The 4.8-acre lot comes with a two-car garage, including loft space that could be used as a studio or office.

Stockton, NJ

(Realtor.com)

———

Price: $839,000
Year built: 1743
Lt. Joseph Sanborn House: 
This three-bedroom home is said to have been part of the Underground Railroad.

While it does need some work to restore its historic beauty, the 3,440-square-foot home features many period details. Highlights include four fireplaces, original wood paneling, and exposed-beam ceilings. The large living room boasts a cathedral ceiling and a wood-burning stove. The dining room has a wall of built-ins.

This 4-acre property abuts Applecrest Farm and comes with a four-stall barn with a heated tack room, and a three-car garage.

Hampton Falls, NH

(Realtor.com)

———

Price: $599,900
Year built: 1747
Waterfront wonder:
Overlooking Wethersfield Cove, this five-bedroom Colonial has been thoughtfully modernized over the years.

Measuring 3,661 square feet, the home boasts a bright kitchen with a two-tier island and a custom pantry. Wide-plank flooring, three fireplaces, and original wood paneling can be found throughout the residence.

The primary suite comes with a custom closet and a spacious bathroom. You can enjoy waterfront views from the stone terrace or the balcony off the family room.

The 1.2-acre property includes a separate one-bedroom living space to accommodate extended family and guests.

Wethersfield, CT

(Realtor.com)

Source: realtor.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

Heading out on vacation can be fun, but what happens when you have pets at home? Whether it’s a beloved cat or the family dog, leaving them behind can leave you with more stress than it’s worth.

Thankfully, there are a number of airlines that’ll allow you to travel with your pets, whether that’s in the cabin or as cargo. Alaska Airlines is one of these — and it’s one of the best options out there for those traveling with pets.

Let’s take a look at the Alaska Airlines pet policy, what it looks like to fly with pet cargo and requirements for bringing your pet in the cabin.

Video preview image

Alaska Airlines pet cargo policy

There are two ways Alaska Airlines allows you to bring your pet as cargo: traveling on the same flight as you or separately — and the requirements are different for each.

Traveling on the same flight

If you’re going to be flying at the same time as your pet, you’ll need to check your pet to travel within the climate-controlled baggage compartment.

Here are the criteria for doing so:

  • Pet and carrier combined cannot exceed 150 pounds. 

  • The fee is $150 one way.

  • Accepted animals include cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, household birds, nonpoisonous reptiles, potbellied pigs, rabbits and tropical fish.

  • You must have a health certificate issued by a veterinarian. 

For travel within the state of Alaska or active duty military (and their dependents) the cost to check a pet is $100.

🤓Nerdy Tip

Recent NerdWallet analysis found the average pet fee to be $113 across major U.S. airlines.

In order to book your pet’s travels, you’ll want to either call Alaska Airlines at 800-252-7522 or use its website’s chat feature to secure a reservation.

This can be done after booking your own flight, but it’s better to do so sooner rather than later as the number of pets allowed in the baggage compartment is limited.

There are some restrictions for breeds and younger animals. For example, pets with snub noses, such as bulldogs and Persian cats, are unable to travel in the baggage compartment.

Finally, there are some limitations when it comes to traveling during certain periods of the year.

Those on Alaska flight numbers 2000-2999 or 3300-3499 are unable to check pets in the baggage compartment from Nov. 15 to Jan. 10 each year due to weather.

Shipping separately

If you won’t be traveling on the same flight as your pet, it’s still possible for them to catch their own flight. Alaska Airlines’ Pet Connect service is available on specific flights subject to weather conditions and destination.

Like checking your pet as baggage, you’ll need to meet a series of requirements, including providing access to food and water, a comfortable and sturdy carrier and a health certificate.

For unaccompanied pets, Alaska only allows travel during periods when the temperature is between 45 and 85 degrees. It’s possible to make an exception provided you have a vet letter stating that your pet is acclimated to more extreme weather types.

Pet Connect reservations can be made between 30 days and 24 hours prior to travel, though there are different requirements if some of the travel takes place on another airline.

The same breed restrictions apply for Pet Connect flights as for checking your pet as baggage, so be sure to double-check before booking.

Alaska Airlines in-cabin pet options

If your pet is small enough to fit under an airline seat, they’ll be able to travel in the cabin with you. Alaska Airlines doesn’t specify a weight requirement for pets, though they must be able to stand up and turn around in their carrier under the seat.

  • The fee is $100 one way. 

  • Acceptable animals include cats, dogs, rabbits and household birds. 

  • You must be 18 or older to travel with a pet in the cabin. 

  • Your pet counts toward your carry-on allotment. 

  • You can travel with a maximum of two pet carriers in the main cabin if you also purchase an adjacent seat. 

  • Dogs and cats must be at least 8 weeks old. 

  • The pet must stay in the carrier at all times. 

  • Up to two pets of the same species can travel in one carrier provided they fit comfortably. 

There is a limited number of pets allowed in the cabin on each flight. In first class, up to three pets can be accommodated. In the economy cabin, up to eight pets are allowed per flight.

How flying with pets on Alaska compares to other airlines

It beat out all other competitor airlines to take the top spot for those traveling with pets. This is thanks to a number of factors, including how many animals you’re allowed to bring, the cost of traveling with a pet and the types of animals allowed.

Other things that were considered include whether the airline offers cargo services, if you’re allowed to bring your pet to the lounge and how well they handle pet transport.

Final thoughts on Alaska Airlines pet cargo

Alaska Airlines’ pet policies are some of the best in the business, with great options for those looking to travel with their pets.

This is true whether you’re planning to bring them in the cabin or check them as cargo. Its prices are among the lowest for airline pet travel and the variety of animals it accepts is more generous than most.

However, you’ll want to note that there are still some restrictions involved with the breed of animal that can fly, as well as dates during the year when traveling with pet cargo is unavailable.

Before you book, do your research to ensure that your pet meets all the requirements of traveling on Alaska Airlines.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

Disney’s new live-action version of “The Little Mermaid” is bringing a new generation of fans under the surface and into the timeless, classic story.

If seeing “The Little Mermaid” on the big screen isn’t quite enough for you, then you can book a trip to go “Under the Sea” where life is the bubbles. There are vacation destinations worldwide where you can hang out with mermaids or sometimes even learn to swim, just like Ariel and her mer-friends.

We can’t guarantee that a hot crustacean band will randomly burst into song, but we can bet you’ll have a fin-flipping good time.

Orlando World Center Marriott — Orlando, Florida

ORLANDO WORLD CENTER MARRIOTT

Less than 2 miles from Walt Disney World at the Orlando World Center Marriott, guests can meet “real” mermaids during Mermaids & Glow pool parties on select Saturday nights throughout 2023. Parties are at the Falls Pool and include meet-and-greet photo opportunities with the mermaids, pool games, arts and crafts, glow face painting, giveaways and more.

You can browse details and party dates on the hotel’s website.

Pullman Maldives Maamutaa — Maldives

PULLMAN MALDIVES MAAMUTAA

Guests of the all-inclusive Pullman Maldives Maamutaa resort can learn how to become a mermaid in one of four different PADI-certified courses, ranging from beginner to advanced. Guests can test their fins in the PADI Discover Mermaid Experience or take their mer-lessons a step further by completing the full series of mermaid certifications. Beginner courses are designed for guests ages six and older, while more advanced courses require a higher minimum age.

If your schedule doesn’t allow for a full mermaid lesson, you can also schedule a swimming session with the resort’s “real-life” mermaids. Or, opt for a mermaid photo shoot that includes the use of a beautiful, shimmering mermaid tail and 10 digital photos in the resort’s swimming pool.

Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel + Spa — Vero Beach, Florida

KIMPTON VERO BEACH HOTEL + SPA

The Mermaid For a Day program at the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa lets guests ages 6 to 10 “experience the magic of mermaids” with a one-hour group mermaid session that includes a commemorative photo.

Guests can also book the overnight Mermaid For a Day Getaway, which includes a mermaid-themed welcome gift and a colorful mermaid tail for your child to take home. Make reservations for the one-hour experience and the overnight package by calling or emailing the hotel directly.

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Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa — Maui, Hawaii

THE MINDFUL MERMAID

Guests of the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa can choose from a variety of mermaiding courses designed for a range of ages and skill levels.

There is a Mini Mermaid Class (starting at $109 per person) for children ages 4 to 7 and a Social Media Mermaid Class (starting at $149 per person) that focuses on creating photos and videos for teens and adults. There is also a Beginner Mermaid Class (starting at $149 per person) that focuses on swimming skills for guests ages 8 and older. All classes take place in the resort’s lagoon-style pool.

Mermaid Freedive — Florida (various locations)

If your travels take you to Florida, Mermaid Freedive offers courses, retreats and photo shoots for all skill levels at locations across the state.

You can view the full list of courses on the Mermaid Freedive website. Some options include introductory courses at the Hilton West Palm Beach for children ages 6 to 9 and weekend-long mermaid retreats for adults in North Florida’s natural spring waters. No matter which course you choose, you’ll earn an official PADI mermaid certification after completion.

Four Seasons Bora Bora — Bora Bora, Tahiti

Later this year, guests of the Four Seasons Bora Bora will be able to become PADI-certified mermaids.

No matter your skill level, there will be a class that helps you feel comfortable embracing your mer-sona in the resort’s gorgeous, crystal-clear lagoon. The turquoise waters and the marine life swimming below the surface make a beautiful setting for learning to swim like a mermaid.

Silverton Mermaid School — Las Vegas, Nevada

SILVERTON CASINO HOTEL

The Silverton Casino Hotel in Las Vegas is well-known for its mesmerizing mermaid shows. The casino is home to a 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium with thousands of marine animals, including some very special mermaids. For those who dream of joining their ranks, Silverton holds a 90-minute mermaid experience for visitors ages 7 and older at the Silverton Mermaid School.

Prices start at $175 but vary depending on which class type you choose, and you do not need to be a guest of the hotel to visit the Silverton Mermaid School.

Weeki Wachee Springs State Park — Weeki Wachee, Florida

For decades, people have traveled to Weeki Wachee Springs to see the world-famous mermaid show. However, watching from the other side of the glass just isn’t enough for some visitors. Luckily, Weeki Wachee’s Sirens of the Deep Mermaid Camp allows mer-curious guests to become mermaids during a two-day camp.

The camp is designed for adults ages 30 and older and includes underwater training sessions where you will learn the basic moves that Weeki Wachee mermaids perform during their shows. Former Weeki Wachee mermaids teach the sessions, which occur in Weeki Wachee’s freshwater springs.

Bottom line

Whether your kids are Ariel-obsessed or you want to realize a lifelong dream of donning fins and reliving the days you perfected your mermaid hair flip in the pool, there are vacation spots all over the world that can help you become a mermaid for a day. Whatever you do, though, don’t take relationship advice from evil sea witches.

Related reading:

Source: thepointsguy.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

KrowdFit is a digital wellness engagement platform that makes it possible to earn cash-back rewards when you use its app to track activities like steps, sleep and meals. The company also offers the $0-annual-fee KrowdFit Wellness Rewards Mastercard, which can help improve your financial fitness when you spend on self-care.

Cardholders can earn an impressive and uncapped 4% cash back on an expansive list of eligible “health, wellness, medical and lifestyle partners” — including Walmart and Target — in addition to 2% back on grocery purchases and 1% back everywhere else. Better yet, those rewards are issued instantly, so you won’t have to wait until the end of your billing cycle to redeem them.

According to a KrowdFit representative, you’ll need a FICO score above 650 to qualify for the card, which comes with a virtual card number for immediate use upon approval.

Here are five things to know about the KrowdFit credit card.

1. Earn outsized cash back on wellness purchases and more

The KrowdFit Card offers 2% cash back at grocery stores (excluding membership stores like Costco) and 1% cash back on all other purchases. While those rates are unspectacular, the card stands out thanks to the breadth of categories that qualify for its stellar 4% rate. Some of those categories include:

  • Food: Restaurants, specialty markets and “miscellaneous” food stores.

  • Fitness: Sporting goods stores, bicycle shops, membership clubs and dance studios.

  • Health care: Medical and dental providers, health insurance and drugstores.

  • Wellness: Massage parlors, spa services, and health and beauty shops. 

  • Clothing: Family clothing stores, sports apparel and shoe stores.

  • Outdoor activities: Public and private golf courses, country clubs, and sporting and recreational camps.

  • Transportation: Including boat, motorcycle and snowmobile dealers. 

  • Discount stores: Including Walmart, Target and others.

As of this writing, more than 30 merchant category codes (MCC) qualify for 4% cash back — a massive number for a no-annual-fee card that doesn’t require active management, such as tracking a bonus calendar or opting into bonus categories.

Also, if you make a purchase that you think should qualify for bonus cash back and it doesn’t, you can request to have the MCC code added to KrowdFit’s list.

2. Get one year of KrowdFit Premium and extra cash giveaway entries

Like many apps, KrowdFit has two versions: a free one with advertisements, and a premium one without the ads that promises a few additional perks. Cardholders will receive a one-year complimentary membership to KrowdFit Premium, normally $1.99 per month.

To incentivize healthy living and activity, KrowdFit offers cash giveaways that are paid out Monday, Wednesday and Friday of every week, in addition to a $5,000 physical activity cash giveaway on the first day of every month. The more you use the app to track things like sleep, diet and activity, the more entries you get.

3. See your credit line and interest rate before the hard pull

When you apply for a credit card, the issuer will typically conduct a hard inquiry to determine your creditworthiness. That inquiry can often lead to a temporary decrease in your credit scores, even though it’s generally conducted before you know what credit limit and interest rate you’re being offered.

But the KrowdFit card lets you see whether you’ll be approved — including the credit limit and interest rate — before you receive a hard pull. That way you know exactly what you’re being offered and whether it’s worth the impact to your credit scores. A hard pull is conducted only after you accept the offer.

Who doesn’t want to be rewarded?

Create a NerdWallet account for personalized recommendations, and find the card that rewards you the most for your spending.

4. Receive an instant virtual card number

Once you accept the credit line and interest rate provided through the preapproval process, you’ll immediately receive a virtual card number. This number gives you instant access to your credit line and can be added to your virtual wallet or used online for purchases.

Once you receive the physical card in the mail, simply replace your virtual card number with the number on the front of your card.

5. There’s no sign-up bonus

The ongoing rewards structure for the KrowdFit card is solid, but the card lacks something other no-annual fee cards offer — a sign-up bonus. Whether you’re looking for cash back or travel miles, a sign-up bonus is the easiest way to pile up rewards.

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card card has a $0 annual fee and offers the following sign-up bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value. You’ll also earn 3 points per $1 spent on travel, dining, gas, public transportation, streaming services and phone plans.

Or there’s the Chase Freedom Flex℠, which also has a $0 annual fee and features the following sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. In addition, you’ll earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories you activate each quarter; 5% back on travel purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal; and 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases. All other nonbonus-category purchases earn 1% back.

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

One highlight of the World of Hyatt award program is that it still uses award charts to determine the points you’ll need to redeem for a free night. The World of Hyatt award chart for Hyatt hotels and resorts, as well as participating Small Luxury Hotels of the World and MGM Rewards destinations, has eight categories. Award prices range from 3,500 points for an off-peak Category 1 night to 45,000 points for a peak Category 8 night.

For this article, we selected some of the best Hyatt Category 4 hotels. We’ve chosen properties from various Hyatt hotel brands, ranging from a Hyatt Place to a Park Hyatt. A standard room at these hotels costs 12,000 points on off-peak nights, 15,000 points on standard nights and 18,000 points on peak nights. These hotels are also some of the best Hyatt free night hotels since you can use Category 1-4 promotional awards earned through the World of Hyatt Credit Card as Milestone Rewards and as Brand Explorer awards to book these hotels.

Hyatt Place Panama City Beach / Beachfront

Panama City Beach, Florida, USA

HYATT

Best for: Staying beachfront in Panama City Beach.

Why stay here: With a beachfront pool, beach access and family-friendly rooms, this Hyatt Place is a strong choice for a low-key beach vacation.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The oceanfront Hyatt Place Panama City Beach / Beachfront is just a short walk from Panama City Beach’s Pier Park. Ample shopping, activities and restaurants within walking distance make this a compelling location for a family beach vacation.

You can book a 333-square-foot room with a king bed and a sofa bed or a 367-square-foot room with two queen beds and a sofa bed using points or free night certificates. If you want to book a paid rate, the property also offers gulf-view rooms, rooms with kitchenettes and even family-friendly rooms with a king bed, bunk beds and a sofa bed. All rooms include at least a minifridge, but some rooms with kitchenettes have a full-size refrigerator.

The Hyatt Place Panama City Beach / Beachfront charges a daily resort fee of $45.20 from March 1 to Oct. 31 and a daily resort fee of $28.25 during the rest of the year. The resort fee includes parking for up to one vehicle. Plus, this Hyatt Place offers some amenities you wouldn’t typically expect at this brand, including a resort-style pool, lazy river, outdoor games, weekend entertainment and seasonal beach chair service. If you book a free night award — which includes redeeming Hyatt points or using Category 1-4 promotional awards — or you have Hyatt Globalist status and book an eligible rate, you can enjoy waived resort fees.

Daily breakfast at the Breakfast Bar is included in your stay. The Breakfast Bar offers hot and cold items, coffee, milk, juice and tea. You can purchase drinks and snacks poolside from Coconut Charlie’s Pool Bar or beachside from the Beach Bar. If you don’t feel like leaving the hotel for dinner, visit Coconut Charlie’s Beach Bar & Grill for waterfront views, food, drinks and occasional live entertainment. Finally, an on-site market offers a selection of packaged grab-and-go items.

Rates at the Hyatt Place Panama City Beach / Beachfront start at 12,000 points or $198.93 per night, including the $28.25 resort fee.

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort

Orlando, Florida, USA

MICHAEL STAVARIDIS/HYATT

Best for: A family-friendly golf trip to Orlando.

Why stay here: With a lagoon-style pool with a slide, an award-winning golf course and complimentary shuttle service to Disney and Universal, this resort is a particularly good choice for families.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

I stayed at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort in Orlando several times almost 20 years ago. What I remember most about the resort is its Grand Cypress Golf Club, with holes designed by Jack Nicklaus. I also remember relaxing at its 800,000-gallon pool as well as its waterfalls, caves and waterslide.

The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort has 779 rooms, including 46 suites. Rooms are 360 square feet and offer one king bed or two double beds with views toward Orlando, the pool or a lake. Meanwhile, suites start at 702 square feet. You can book standard rooms starting at 12,000 points per night, standard suites starting at 21,000 points per night and premium suites starting at 24,000 points per night.

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Unfortunately, the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort charges a nightly resort fee of $45 plus taxes and fees per room. However, you can avoid this fee if you book a free night award. Plus, Hyatt Globalist members can avoid the fee when booking any eligible rate. You’ll get transportation to and from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and Disney Springs as part of the daily resort fee. You’ll also get access to a seven-hole pitch and putt course, a miniature golf course, bike rentals, a rock climbing wall and more.

The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort offers various dining options. Guests looking for a quick, casual experience will enjoy the grab-and-go market and the On the Rocks poolside restaurant. Meanwhile, guests looking for an upscale experience can book dinner at Four Flamingos, A Richard Blais Florida Kitchen. Lakehouse Restaurant & Bar offers all-day dining, and its sub-restaurant, Lakehouse Sushi Bar, is open for dinner. Finally, you can enjoy afternoon or evening drinks and snacks at The Lobby Bar.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort start at 12,000 points or $229.51 per night, including the $50.63 resort fee.

Related: Splash into fun: The 14 best hotel pools in Orlando

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Downtown, San Diego, California, USA

MANCHESTER GRAND HYATT SAN DIEGO/ZACH BENSON/FACEBOOK

Best for: Hyatt loyalists wanting a downtown stay right on the water.

Why stay here: Whether you’re in town for a convention or simply want to explore downtown San Diego, this luxurious Hyatt property is a great use of points.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn and redeem points, or via Chase’s Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection for elitelike perks and on-property credits.

The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego hosts plenty of conference and convention guests, but it’s also well located for tourists near Seaport Village. Many guests applaud this waterfront hotel for its views, including those from its 40th-floor bar and rooftop pool decks.

Most Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego rooms are 340 square feet with city or bay views and one king bed, two double beds or two queen beds. However, the property also offers several different suite types, starting with a 700-square-foot Signature Suite. You can book standard rooms starting at 12,000 points per night, club rooms starting at 18,000 points per night, standard suites starting at 21,000 points per night and premium suites starting at 24,000 points per night.

The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego has two outdoor pools: a fourth-floor family pool and a third-floor adults-only pool (that, at the time of writing, was closed). There’s also a 24-hour fitness center.

The hotel charges a destination fee of $39 plus tax per night. Unfortunately, this fee doesn’t offer enough value for most guests. However, you can avoid paying the destination fee if you’re a Hyatt Globalist staying on an eligible rate or if you book a free night award.

You’ll have seven dining options at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego. One highlight is Sally’s Fish House & Bar, which lets you enjoy sustainable seafood, craft cocktails and California wines at lunch and dinner next to the boardwalk and the San Diego Bay. Another highlight is Top of the Hyatt, a 40th-floor lounge offering cocktails and small plates alongside city and bay views. There’s also a seasonal pool bar and grill. Or you can order something from GrandEats if you want food delivered to your room.

Rates at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego start at 12,000 points or $262.82 per night, including the $43.88 destination fee.

Related: The best hotels in San Diego

Thompson Chicago

Gold Coast, Chicago, Illinois, USA

THOMPSON CHICAGO/FACEBOOK

Best for: Luxury travelers looking for homey touches and easy access to Lake Michigan running trails and other local venues.

Why stay here: You’re looking for a neighborhood feel to your stay and want easy access to the Loop — without actually staying in the Loop.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt or the hotel website to earn and redeem World of Hyatt points, or through the Chase Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection to enjoy elitelike benefits.

The Thompson Chicago is a boutique hotel located a short walk from the start of the Magnificent Mile. The surrounding neighborhood is great for food and shopping.

You can redeem Hyatt points for a 320-square-foot standard room at the Thompson Chicago with one king or two double beds. If you want to book a paid rate, there are also high-floor rooms, lake-view rooms and various suites. Dogs are welcome at the Thompson Chicago for no additional charge, although you should contact the hotel before your stay for more details.

The Thompson Chicago has a popular lobby bar, Salone Nico, that serves rustic Italian cuisine and drinks. Meanwhile, Nico Osteria offers all-day dining with a focus on Italian seafood. You can also order room service or venture out to sample the many restaurants in the neighborhood.

This property charges a $17 destination fee that provides premium internet, local newspapers and 24-hour fitness club access. There aren’t many other amenities to note at this hotel. You can avoid paying the destination fee if you’re a Hyatt Globalist staying on an eligible rate or if you book a free night award.

Rates at the Thompson Chicago start at 12,000 points or $216.69 per night, including the $17 destination fee.

Related: The 17 best Chicago hotels

Hyatt Regency Seattle

Seattle, Washington, USA

TAGGART COJAN SORENSEN/HYATT

Best for: Tidy, clean rooms in a quiet part of downtown Seattle.

Why stay here: This beautiful hotel with modern rooms is in an excellent location just a block away from the Paramount Theatre and within walking distance of many major attractions.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The Hyatt Regency Seattle is in the heart of downtown Seattle. It’s within walking distance of both convention centers and just a short walk from tourist attractions such as Pike Place Market and the Seattle Art Museum. Moreover, the hotel participates in various sustainability initiatives, including donating leftover, untouched food to a local nonprofit.

You can book 320-square-foot standard rooms starting at 12,000 points per night, 500-to-725-square-foot standard suites with a separate living area starting at 21,000 points per night and 735-square-foot (or more) premium suites starting at 24,000 points per night. One of the premium suite types even offers a private fitness space with a Peloton bike, yoga mat and arm weights. All rooms have either one king bed or two queen beds.

The Hyatt Regency Seattle offers the largest hotel meeting venue in the Pacific Northwest, so it understandably caters to conference, wedding and convention travelers. The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center with Technogym equipment and Peloton bikes (although the bikes were temporarily unavailable at the time of writing). You can bring one dog weighing 50 pounds or less if you pay the $50-per-stay pet fee.

Andare Kitchen & Bar on the lobby level offers all-day, Italian-inspired dining. The venue offers a vegan menu, a weekday happy hour and a bar that’s open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. You can also enjoy downtown views alongside steakhouse favorites and wine if you opt for dinner at Daniel’s Broiler on the hotel’s second floor. Check out the Market on the second floor if you want something quick. You can also order room service or check out the neighborhood’s many restaurants outside the hotel.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Seattle start at 12,000 points or $195.62 per night.

Related: A Hyatt hop through Seattle: Which Hyatt should you choose on your next trip to the Emerald City?

MGM Grand

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

MGM GRAND/MGM

Best for: Travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and action in one place.

Why stay here: There’s an epic lazy river you can float around on all day.

Best way to book: Book directly on the MGM Grand’s website.

The MGM Grand in Las Vegas is well known for its 6 1/2-acre Grand Pool Complex, which features four pools, three whirlpools and a lazy river. There are always great shows at the MGM Grand, which currently hosts Ka by Cirque du Soleil, Jabbawockeez and David Copperfield; of course, there are also slots, table games and poker in the casino. You can also get a spa treatment at the MGM Grand Spa & Salon or hit some balls at the on-site Topgolf.

The MGM Grand has many different accommodation types and categories across its 5,000 rooms and suites. However, you can only book a 350-square-foot studio king room with Hyatt points or free night certificates. Unlike other stays where resort fees are waived if you book a free night award, this policy doesn’t apply at MGM Rewards destinations like the MGM Grand.

Hyatt members can match their status to MGM Rewards. By doing so, Hyatt Explorists and above can get waived resort fees at MGM properties with their matched MGM Rewards Gold status — but only when booking through MGM Rewards (not World of Hyatt). The MGM Grand charges resort fee of $39 plus tax, so you may want to forgo redeeming Hyatt points for your stay and instead book a paid rate through MGM Rewards if you have Gold status or higher. Best of all, you can still earn Hyatt elite-qualifying nights when you book through MGM Rewards.

You’ll find plenty of dining options at the MGM Grand. On the upscale end, MGM Grand offers L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon for French dishes prepared in front of you, Hakkasan Restaurant for Cantonese dishes, Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak for high-quality cuts from small family farms, and Joël Robuchon for fine French dining. If your dining budget is more modest, there’s also Grand Wok Noodle Bar, Nellie’s Southern Kitchen, Greek Sneek and Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House. Or, you can enjoy the MGM Grand Buffet, Tap Sports Bar or various options in the food court.

Rates at the MGM Grand start at 12,000 points or $114.63 per night, including the $44.22 resort fee.

Related: Why Hyatt elite members should book through MGM when visiting Las Vegas

Andaz Mexico City Condesa

Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City, Mexico

HYATT

Best for: An eclectic stay in the artsy Condesa neighborhood near Parque Mexico.

Why stay here: This chic hotel offers great service, an appealing location, compelling views from the pool and a dog-friendly Wooftop Beer Garden.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The Andaz Mexico City Condesa opened in January 2023 with 213 rooms and is already getting good reviews. However, guests note you can sometimes hear music in the rooms at night, so this may not be the best property for you if you’re a light sleeper. The hotel’s neighborhood provides ample dining options and a central location for tourists — just a short walk from Parque Mexico and various art galleries.

Booking a free night award will get you a 344-square-foot standard room with one king bed or two double beds overlooking Insurgentes Avenue or the hotel’s internal patio. If you book a paid rate, you can reserve a city-view room or several suite types, including a 667-square-foot terrace suite with a large private outdoor terrace.

The 17th floor of the hotel offers a rooftop pool with great city views, and the Cabuya Rooftop restaurant and bar. The hotel also offers a 24-hour fitness center, a spa and a beauty salon. You can get teas and coffees at the Derba Matcha Cafe and enjoy a drink in the dog-friendly Wooftop Beer Garden & Canine Club. If you bring your dog for your stay, you’ll need to pay a fee of $100 per pet per room.

Rates at the Andaz Mexico City Condesa start at 12,000 points or $259.02 per night.

Related: Here’s how to quickly stock up on Hyatt points for your next vacation

Alila Fort Bishangarh

Bishangarh Village, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

HYATT

Best for: A luxurious stay in a converted 233-year-old fort.

Why stay here: With a thoughtful design, farm-to-table dining and activities native only to Bishangarh, you won’t regret adding this unique Alila to your India trip.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits, or via American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts.

Alila Fort Bishangarh, located between Delhi and Jaipur in India’s Rajasthan, has 59 rooms and suites and is housed in a 233-year-old fort. I used two Category 1-4 promotional awards to stay at this amazing property and can wholeheartedly recommend a stay if you visit Rajasthan.

You can book a 562-square-foot Heritage Room with one king bed or two twin beds starting at 12,000 points per night or an 800-square-foot Grand Suite with one king bed starting at 24,000 points per night. You can also use points plus cash to book a 700-square-foot Royal Suite with one king bed or two twin beds. If you want to book a paid rate, you have all these options plus a 912-square-foot Regal Suite and a 1,054-square-foot Presidential Suite on offer.

There’s plenty to keep you busy at Alila Fort Bishangarh. You’ll find Spa Alila, an infinity pool with compelling views of the fort, a 24-hour fitness center and Play Alila for children. The hotel also offers numerous excursions and experiences, including cooking classes, a guided visit to the Bishangarh Village Market and the opportunity to visit a milk factory.

And you’ll find some impressive dining options on-site — which is good since most guests will eat most, if not all, of their meals on-site. Amarsar is open all day with Indian and international dishes on offer. On select nights, Nazaara is open with local cuisine prepared in traditional Rajput hunter style; it’s a memorable terrace-dining experience that you’ll enjoy if you can handle some Indian spices and aren’t a picky eater. Meanwhile, Haveli is open for poolside meals and drinks throughout the day, and Madhuveni offers cocktails, cigars and tapas in a beautiful, intimate space.

Rates at the Alila Fort Bishangarh start at 12,000 points or $206 per night.

Related: The best ways to fly to India with points and miles

Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile

Paris, France

HYATT REGENCY

Best for: Travelers looking to stay just a short walk from historic sights, such as the Arc de Triomphe.

Why stay here: Located between La Defense and the Champs-Elysees, this well-located hotel offers excellent views over Paris (from the city’s highest bar), a Regency Club and small but functional rooms.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile in France offers amazing views from its 34-story skyscraper, especially if you snag a room with Eiffel Tower views. Although it’s northwest of the Paris core between La Defense and the Champs-Elysees, it’s just a 20-minute walk to the Arc de Triomphe and a 20-minute journey by metro and foot to the Louvre.

Despite having 995 rooms and suites, finding standard room award availability at this hotel can be difficult. The rooms are small — even for Paris — but 237-square-foot rooms with Regency Club access start at 18,000 points per night. Standard 474-square-foot suites start at 21,000 points per night, and premium 753-square-foot suites start at 24,000 points per night. Award availability is often limited at this hotel, so you may need to book a paid rate to get the room type you want. If you want to ensure your group gets connecting rooms, consider booking a family room.

The Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile doesn’t have too many amenities. Still, it has a 24-hour fitness center and a Regency Club on the 34th floor (for Hyatt Globalist members and those in eligible rooms). You’ll likely want to eat outside the hotel for many of your meals, but you may want to visit the 34th-floor Windo Skybar for views, cocktails and tapas. If you do want to eat on-site, Mayo Restaurant offers daily breakfast and weekday lunch buffets, and the grab-and-go Mayo Market offers quick bites daily from 7 a.m. until 2 a.m.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile start at 12,000 points or $253.85 per night.

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Park Hyatt Jakarta

Jakarta, Indonesia

HYATT

Best for: City views and that new-hotel vibe in the heart of Jakarta.

Why stay here: Spacious rooms with modern, yet dark, design and a friendly, professional staff make this one of the best luxury hotels in Jakarta.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The Park Hyatt Jakarta in Indonesia opened in July 2022 with 220 rooms, including 36 suites. This Park Hyatt is a nine-minute walk from the Stasiun Gondangdia train station and within walking distance of various shopping malls and restaurants.

You can book 613-square-foot standard rooms with a king bed or two twin beds starting at 12,000 points per night. Meanwhile, you can book three standard suite types ranging from 936 to 1,367 square feet starting at 21,000 points per night. You can book premium suites starting at 24,000 points per night. The rooms and suites have Indonesian touches and excellent views, as the rooms start on the 25th floor.

While staying at the Park Hyatt Jakarta, you can enjoy the outdoor pool, a sun deck with city views and a 24-hour fitness center on the 35th floor. The hotel also offers a spa.

The Park Hyatt Jakarta offers several dining outlets. Dining Room serves Indonesian and Italian cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner on the 22nd floor, while Kita Restaurant offers Japanese cuisine for lunch and dinner on the 37th floor. On the 23rd floor, Conservatory offers several multiuse spaces where you can work, relax or socialize while enjoying European cafe-style comfort food and light meals.

If you’re looking for a drink or live music, check out The Bar on the 23rd floor or Kita Bar on the 36th floor.

Rates at the Park Hyatt Jakarta start at 12,000 points or $308.04 per night.

Related: The 23 best Hyatt hotels in the world

Hyatt Regency Tokyo

Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

HYATT

Best for: This old yet stunning hotel is well connected to Tokyo’s JR trains and metro.

Why stay here: Clean and spacious (albeit slightly dated) rooms and a Regency Club let you rest while the hotel’s location in the middle of Shinjuku lets you explore Tokyo.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The Hyatt Regency Tokyo is an older property, but it’s in a solid location, just a five-minute walk from Tokyo’s Shinjuku station. This hotel offers 746 rooms, including 18 suites, across 17 room types. Although it doesn’t offer a pool or onsen, it does have a spa and fitness center with Technogym equipment.

If you want to redeem a Hyatt free night award, you can book a 301-square-foot standard room with one king bed or two twin beds starting at 12,000 points per night. Meanwhile, 376-square-foot Regency Club rooms start at 18,000 points per night, and standard suites start at 21,000 points per night. The Regency Club, available to Hyatt Globalist members and guests staying in club rooms and suites, offers views over Shinjuku Central Park for breakfast, tea service and evening cocktails.

You may want to eat outside the hotel for many meals while visiting Tokyo. If you prefer to eat on-site, the Hyatt Regency Tokyo offers Beijing and Shanghai cuisine for lunch and dinner at Jade Garden, Italian-inspired fares at Caffe and Japanese dishes at three different venues. You can also try fine wines and whiskeys at Eau de Vie or order room service if you want to dine in your room.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Tokyo start at 12,000 points or $266.07 per night.

Related: The best ways to travel to Japan with points and miles

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui

Kowloon, Hong Kong

HYATT

Best for: A prime location in the heart of Hong Kong, just a short walk from the harbor and two metro stops.

Why stay here: Offering spacious (for Hong Kong) rooms and a Regency Club, this well-located property provides compelling city and harbor views from most rooms.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

The Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui is in the heart of Kowloon next to the Tsim Sha Tsui station. It’s an easy walk from the Star Ferry and Avenue of Stars. Tourists will enjoy its excellent location, as many attractions are easily accessible by foot or public transit.

This Hyatt Regency has 381 guest rooms and suites, each offering views of Victoria Harbour or the city. The least expensive room type — and the one you can book starting at 12,000 points per night — is a 301-square-foot standard room with one king bed or two twin beds. You can also book club rooms starting at 18,000 points per night, standard suites starting at 21,000 points per night and premium suites starting at 24,000 points per night. If you’re looking to book a paid rate, it may be worth shelling out a little more to guarantee a corner room or a view of Victoria Harbour.

You’ll find an 82-foot outdoor heated swimming pool with views over the surrounding neighborhood at the Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui. The outdoor pool deck includes a children’s pool, a whirlpool and lounge chairs. Plus, you’ll find a 24-hour fitness center with Technogym equipment on the 10th floor.

There’s plenty of excellent dining in Hong Kong, regardless of your budget. But, if you want to eat at the Hyatt Regency, you’ll find dim sum and barbecued pork at The Chinese Restaurant, an international buffet at Cafe, fine dining cooked tableside at Hugo’s and drinks with nightly live entertainment at Chin Chin Bar. Additionally, eligible guests can enjoy continental breakfast, all-day coffee and tea service, and evening canapes and cocktails at the Regency Club.

Rates at the Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui start at 12,000 points or $219.44 per night.

Related: What is World of Hyatt elite status worth?

Andaz Bali

Sanur, Bali, Indonesia

HYATT

Best for: A relaxing holiday that feels authentically Balinese.

Why stay here: Built around mature landscaping in the style of a modern Balinese village, this beachfront resort lets guests relax with an attentive staff and a thoughtful design.

Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.

Andaz Bali is an attractive beach resort next to the Hyatt Regency Bali on the eastern coast of Bali, Indonesia. Guests love the resort’s landscaping, modern rooms and large pool.

There are 149 rooms, including 20 suites and 22 villas. The standard rooms are 710 square feet and include a living area, floor-to-ceiling windows, garden views and one king bed or two twin beds. But you can also reserve pool-view or ocean-view rooms and private pool villas if you book a paid rate.

There are various types of suites you can book with points or cash. Standard rooms start at 12,000 points per night, standard suites start at 21,000 points per night and premium suites start at 24,000 points per night.

The Andaz Bali is designed to feel like a modern interpretation of a Balinese village. The resort has three swimming pools: ocean-facing Liang for fun, secluded Santhi for relaxation and kid-friendly Alit for families. Andaz Bali also offers a spa with a 24-hour fitness center, sauna, steam room, yoga studio and hydrotherapy pools.

There are ample dining options at the Andaz Bali. The Fisherman’s Club offers light bites, meat and seafood for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Wok Wok is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner with Indonesian comfort food. Blue Oven is open daily for dinner with Mediterranean favorites, while Fire Fox is open Thursday through Saturday in the evening for Asian steakhouse delights. Deli & Bakery is open daily from noon to 10 p.m. with drinks, cakes, desserts and homemade ice creams.

Rates at the Andaz Bali start at 12,000 points or $256.52 per night.

Related: 5 easy ways to maximize Hyatt award redemptions

Source: thepointsguy.com

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Apache is functioning normally

June 7, 2023 by Brett Tams

If Memorial Day 2023 was any indication, travelers should brace for big Fourth of July crowds at airports. On the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened roughly 2.7 million people at U.S. airports, the highest checkpoint volume thus far in 2023.

And summer travel is only just getting started. In 2019, the Friday before Memorial Day was the third-busiest day at U.S. airports for the entire year, losing only to the Sunday after Thanksgiving and the Sunday after July Fourth. This may indicate that airports could be even busier around Independence Day than Memorial Day weekend.

Making Fourth of July travel predictions is tricky this year because the holiday falls midweek, on a Tuesday. Some folks may take Monday off to enjoy a long weekend, while others may save their vacation time for a different holiday.

With that in mind, here’s some guidance around booking July Fourth weekend air travel and how you might be able to avoid the crowds (and potentially save money on airfare).

The best and worst days to fly July Fourth weekend

TSA collects data daily to capture the number of passengers screened at its U.S. checkpoints. NerdWallet analyzed the past four years of this data for the seven days before and after July Fourth.

In each of the past four years, the Friday before July Fourth was the busiest travel day ahead of the Fourth of July weekend. If that trend continues this year, travelers should expect U.S. airports to be especially full on Friday, June 30.

Are airports busy on July Fourth? The data shows the holiday is the least busy day to fly, with airport crowds averaging just 81% of what they are relative to the busiest travel day.

Based on an average of the past four years, here are the worst days to travel around July Fourth weekend, ranked from most to least crowded.

Pre-holiday:

  1. Friday before.

  2. Thursday before.

  3. Monday before.

Post-holiday:

  1. Sunday after.

  2. Monday after.

  3. Thursday after.

Instead, consider these options. Here’s what the data showed as the best days to travel over July Fourth, ranked from least to most crowded:

Pre-holiday:

  1. Saturday before.

  2. Tuesday before.

  3. Sunday before.

Post-holiday:

  1. Saturday after.

  2. Friday after.

  3. Wednesday after.

The smarter, cheaper Fourth of July travel itinerary

Based on recent historical trends, most people will kick off their Fourth of July weekend as early as possible, jetting off on Friday, June 30 — or even ducking out of the workweek early by departing on Thursday, June 29. Most travelers will likely maximize their weekends, waiting until Sunday, July 9, to fly home.

But following typical July Fourth holiday travel patterns could mean costs in terms of airfare and time spent waiting in line at the airport. Deviate from that schedule to find lighter crowds and perhaps better July Fourth flight deals, too.

Try these travel days instead:

Embrace Saturday travel: Rather than rush out from work on Friday afternoon to jump on a flight, relax at home that evening and depart Saturday morning instead. Simply shifting your trip by one day could likely result in going from one of the busiest to lightest travel days of the July Fourth travel period.

The same goes for traveling back home. While it can be tempting to extend your trip as long as possible before work starts on Monday, skip the Sunday flight and fly home on Saturday instead. Bonus: You’ll give yourself a day at home to rest and recover before you hit the next workweek (how responsible of you).

Fly on July Fourth: If you don’t mind traveling on the holiday, you’re looking at the single emptiest air travel day of the period.

Do one better by flying out early on the holiday. Travel booking app Hopper’s spring 2023 Flight Disruption Outlook found that flights that depart from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. are half as likely to be delayed versus flights with scheduled departure times after 9 a.m.

Plus, a morning flight improves your odds of catching the fireworks at your final destination.

Fly on Wednesday, July 5: Will July 5 be a busy travel day in 2023? Likely no. This year, July 5 falls on a Wednesday, one of the cheapest days to fly year-round. Plus, according to TSA’s data, July 5 has been a consistently light travel day. In 2019, July 5 was the lightest travel day for the week after the holiday (July 5 fell on a Friday that year).

Moreover, for U.S. domestic economy tickets in 2022, Wednesdays were about 22% lower than peak prices on Sundays, according to a NerdWallet analysis of Hopper data.

July Fourth travelers in 2023 can feel confident that a July 5 flight itinerary will afford them cheaper airfare plus less congested airport queues.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

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