New York and the surrounding metropolitan area are big enough to accommodate three nearby airports, namely New York-John F. Kennedy, New York-LaGuardia and Newark Liberty International Airport.
The latter airport, Newark, is actually located in neighboring New Jersey, but it’s still relatively convenient for those who are looking to fly from New York City to elsewhere. And nothing makes travel better than a premium airport experience — especially when it comes to lounges.
Let’s take a look at Newark’s airport lounges, where they’re located and the hours that they keep.
About EWR lounges
Newark airport (EWR) is a major international airport with a variety of lounges. This includes lounges from domestic airlines such as United Airlines and American Airlines as well as options from international carriers like British Airways and SAS.
The Newark airport lounges are spread across all three of its terminals, which means you should have access to a lounge no matter where you’re flying.
Terminal A: United Club, Delta SkyClub and Admirals Club
Newark is a hub for United Airlines, which is while you’ll spot multiple versions of its Club lounges throughout the terminals.
United Club
Across from gate A27 on the upper level.
Open daily 5 a.m. to 9:15 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass to enter.
Access is available to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin on a United or Star Alliance flight, those with a day pass, active duty military and those with United or Star Alliance elite status on an eligible international flight.
Along with complimentary food and beverages, guests of the United Club in Newark can enjoy a relaxing place to rest before their flight.
American Airlines Admirals Club
Across from Gate A8 on the mezzanine level.
Open 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and Saturday, and 4 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. all other days.
Must present a boarding pass to enter.
Open to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin, those with a day pass ($79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles), active duty military, those with American or Oneworld elite status on an eligible international flight and qualifying AAdvantage credit card holders.
The American Admirals Club in Newark features all your standard amenities such as snacks, a full-service bar, TVs, Wi-Fi and conference rooms.
Delta SkyClub
Near gate A8.
Open daily 5 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass to enter.
Open to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin on Delta or SkyTeam flights, those who hold eligible credit cards and those with Delta or SkyTeam elite status on an eligible international flight.
The Delta SkyClub in Terminal A opened in 2023 and offers passengers access to a buffet, premium bar, semi-private workstations and ample seating options.
Terminal B: British Airways Lounge, SAS Lounge and USO Center
Newark’s Terminal B is where most international flights will depart, so it makes sense that you’ll find lounges from overseas airlines here.
British Airways Lounge
Near gates B50 to B58.
Open daily from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass to enter.
Open to those flying in an international premium cabin and those with Executive Club or Oneworld elite status on an eligible flight.
The British Airways Lounge in Newark provides a pre-flight dining area for those on evening flights, along with an all-day self-serve buffet, a staffed bar, separate workstations and showers.
SAS Lounge
Near gate B60.
Opens one hour before the first SAS flight and closes 30 minutes after the last SAS flight departs.
Must present boarding pass.
Open to those flying in an international premium cabin on an SAS flight and those with EuroBonus or Star Alliance elite status on an eligible flight.
The SAS lounge offers a self-serve buffet, bar, free Wi-Fi, a phone room and a guest office.
USO Center
Level 2 Door 9, outside security.
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hours may be extended from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. when volunteers are available.
Open to active duty, guard and reserve members of the military as well as their dependents.
USOs provide a nice place for service members to relax before or after their flights. You’ll typically find snacks, comfy chairs and even video games in a USO center.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Military members can get the annual fee waived on The Platinum Card® from American Express. This gets active duty members access to even more luxe travel benefits and lounges. Terms apply.
Terminal C: United Club and United Polaris
Terminal C only operates United flights and therefore only offers United lounges. That said, the lounge you’ll be able to visit will depend on what kind of United ticket you have.
United Club
Near Gate C74.
Open daily from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass.
Access is available to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin on a United or Star Alliance flight, those with a day pass, active duty military and those with United or Star Alliance elite status on an eligible international flight.
United Club
Mezzanine level, near Gate C123.
Open daily from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass.
Access is available to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin on a United or Star Alliance flight, those with a day pass, active duty military and those with United or Star Alliance elite status on an eligible international flight.
In addition to food and drinks, guests can take advantage of showers and semi-private workstations at this lounge location.
United Polaris
Between gates C102 and C120.
Open daily from 5 a.m.to 10 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass.
Open to those flying United Polaris or Star Alliance international first or business class flights.
The United Polaris lounge in Newark is available exclusively to those flying international premium cabins — and it shows. You’ll find high-end food, nap pods, showers, private dining and more at these lounges.
Lounge access for United cardholders
Travelers who hold certain United co-branded credit cards can benefit from the airline’s strong lounge presence at Newark. The following cards can get you into any of the airport’s United Club lounges:
United℠ Explorer Card
on Chase’s website
United Club℠ Infinite Card
on Chase’s website
United℠ Business Card
on Chase’s website
United Club℠ Business Card
Details
Annual fee:$0 intro for the first year, then $95):
Lounge access: Two one-time United Club passes after account opening and each year for your cardmember anniversary.
Annual fee:$525.
Lounge access: Primary cardholders get a United Club membership.
Annual fee:$99:
Lounge access: Two one-time United Club passes after account opening and each year for your cardmember anniversary.
Annual fee:$450.
Lounge access: Primary cardholders get a United Club membership.
Still not sure?
Final thoughts on the lounges in the Newark airport
Newark airport has its fair share of lounges, especially if you’re flying on United Airlines. All three of Newark’s terminals feature airport lounges, which improves your odds of boarding your next flight out of EWR feeling full and fresh.
Day passes are available in Terminal A and Terminal C for eligible flyers, and certain co-branded airline credit cards can get you access, too.
The information related to the United Club℠ Business Card credit card has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.
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 2024, including those best for:
Orlando is home to the “most magical place on Earth” — Walt Disney World Resort — which makes it a popular destination for tourists. With so many people visiting the local theme parks, attractions and restaurants, the airport can get very crowded.
Enter Orlando’s airport lounges, which can provide a sanctuary from the throngs of travelers while you enjoy complimentary beverages, snacks and other benefits.
Learn more about which Orlando airport lounges are available, where they’re located and how you can get in.
About the lounges at Orlando airport
Currently, there are seven airport lounges spread across all three terminals at Orlando International Airport. Other than the USO Lounge, each lounge is located inside airport security, which means that you must have a valid ticket to visit them.
Admission to these lounges varies based on ticket type, elite status or which credit card you hold. In some cases, you may even be able to purchase a day pass to enjoy lounge benefits.
Terminal A
Orlando’s Terminal A has limited airport lounge options, though may be the most versatile. Its Priority Pass lounge is ideal for travelers because access isn’t limited to a specific airline. Plus, Terminal A has the USO lounge, which offers exclusive access to active duty military.
The Club at MCO Lounge
Location: Terminal A, adjacent to XpresSpa near Gates 1-29.
Opening hours: Daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Lounge amenities
The Club at MCO Lounge Orlando Airport offers complimentary snacks, beverages and Wi-Fi. It does not have premium food or spa services, but guests can take advantage of its complimentary showers.
How to enter the lounge
Since there are two The Club at MCO lounges at Orlando’s airport, access is restricted based on which gate you’re flying out of. This The Club lounge is available to travelers departing from Terminal A Gates 1-29 and Terminal B Gates 30-59. All others must visit the other location.
Visitors can access the lounge beginning three hours before departure. To enter, purchase a day pass for $50 from The Club website or use your Priority Pass benefits.
USO Welcome Center Lounge
Location: Terminal A, outside of security on Level 1.
Opening hours: Daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lounge amenities
The USO Welcome Center Lounge offers complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea and snacks. Visitors can access free Wi-Fi and enjoy DVDs and multiple video game systems. It includes a children’s play area, sleeping quarters and quiet areas, plus a library.
How to enter the lounge
USO lounges are available to active duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves and Guard, plus their immediate families. Admission is not available to military retirees, disabled veterans and others who have previously served in the military.
Terminal B
Terminal B is where you’ll find the lounges for the major domestic airlines. Travelers must have elite status, a qualifying ticket, a lounge membership or a day pass to enter. If you don’t qualify, the Priority Pass lounge is another option.
American Airlines Admirals Club
Location: Terminal B, near Gate 55
Opening hours: Daily from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lounge amenities
Inside this Orlando airport lounge, travelers can enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks, including a full-service bar. This location does not offer conference rooms for visitors. Guests can also use the complimentary Wi-Fi to access the internet to check email, stream shows or browse the internet.
How to enter the lounge
Complimentary entrance to the Admirals Club in Orlando is available to club members when flying on American Airlines or one of its partners.
Additionally, you receive free entrance if you have a ticket for a first or business class international, transcontinental or other domestic flight by American Airlines or a Oneworld airline.
Elite status members of a Oneworld airline with Emerald or Sapphire status can also enter the lounge for free with any ticket for American or a Oneworld partner.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® provides complimentary access to Admirals Club lounges when flying on any American or Oneworld flight. This card also provides complimentary access to immediate family members or up to two guests who are also flying on American or a Oneworld partner.
Day passes are capacity-limited, but available for purchase online or on-site for $79 (or 7,900 AAdvantage miles) when flying on American or a Oneworld partner flight.
U.S. military personnel traveling in uniform are offered free admission to Admirals Club lounges when flying American; these guests may also bring their immediate family or up to two guests.
Delta Sky Club
Location: Terminal B, near Gate 71.
Opening hours:
Open 4:30 a.m to 9:45 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
Open 4:30 a.m to 10:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday
Lounge amenities
The Sky Club in Orlando offers complimentary snacks, beer, wine, spirits and liquor. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi during their stay. It does not have showers, premium food or conference rooms.
How to enter the lounge
Delta Sky Club members can access the lounge when flying Delta or one of its partners, unless they purchased a basic economy ticket.
Purchasing a domestic or international Delta One ticket provides complimentary entrance to the Sky Club. Additionally, if you’re flying on an international first or business class partner flight, you receive free entry.
Delta Medallion elite status provides free access based on the type of ticket purchased. Diamond, Platinum or Gold members can enter the lounge for free when flying Delta Premium Select internationally or on any Delta One flight. One guest can accompany the member if they have the same class of ticket.
SkyTeam Elite Plus members can access Sky Club lounges for free on a SkyTeam international flight or on a domestic flight connecting to a same-day international flight.
Those traveling on partner flights not operated or marketed by Delta can access the lounge for $50 per person. Reserve cardholders can bring immediate family members or up to two guests into the lounge for $50 per person.
The Platinum Card® from American Express, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express and Centurion cardholders receive complimentary entrance to Sky Club lounges when traveling on a Delta-operated or Delta-marketed flight operated by WestJet. They can bring up to two guests or immediate family members at a rate of $50 per person. Terms apply.
Delta no longer offers day passes for sale.
The Club at MCO Lounge
Location: Terminal B, near Gate 91.
Opening hours: Daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Lounge amenities
In addition to complimentary snacks, spirits, beer and wine, this lounge also offers a children’s area. Guests can use the complimentary shower before departing on their flight. It also includes complimentary Wi-Fi for streaming, browsing the internet and checking email.
The children’s area provides an opportunity for children to burn off energy before the flight while the parents enjoy the lounge’s benefits.
How to enter the lounge
Of the two Orlando airport lounges from The Club at MCO, this one serves passengers departing from Terminal A Gates 100-129 and Terminal B Gates 70-99. Passengers departing from other gates within Terminal A and B should visit the other The Club at MCO Lounge location.
United Club
Location: Terminal B, near Gate 43
Opening hours: Daily from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lounge amenities
The United Club lounge offers a full-service bar, light snacks and Wi-Fi for free to its guests. The lounge also has a children’s area for young guests and their parents. A conference room is available for an additional fee for travelers needing to conduct business.
How to enter the lounge
There are many ways travelers can gain access to this United Club lounge. Passengers on United Polaris or business class international or transcontinental flights receive complimentary admission, as can those flying first or business class on a Star Alliance member airline.
Star Alliance Gold members also have access to United Club lounges when traveling on an international flight by any Star Alliance airline.
Travelers can also purchase a United Club membership using cash or by redeeming miles. The price starts at $550 or 75,000 miles per year and varies based on your elite status level.
United Club℠ Infinite Card includes a complimentary United Club membership. With this membership, you and your eligible travel companions can enter these lounges for free whenever you fly on United or a partner airline.
United also offers free admission to active U.S. military personnel traveling on United. This includes those dressed in uniform, on leave orders or traveling on rest and recuperation papers.
Terminal C
The only airport lounge in Terminal C is the Plaza Premium Lounge. Travelers can access this lounge with qualifying credit cards regardless of which airline they’re flying.
Plaza Premium Lounge
Location: Terminal C, on the second floor overlooking Palm Court.
Opening hours: Daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Lounge amenities
The Plaza Premium Lounge at Orlando International offers complimentary draft beer, food and Wi-Fi. Guests can also use its “luxury washrooms with spa-like shower facilities” to freshen up when they arrive or before their flight departs.
This lounge also offers an entertainment space for families, including a turtle drop game and a curated Orlando Storytelling Wall.
How to enter the lounge
Plaza Premium lounges partner with many major banks to offer complimentary access for travelers. However, it is not included with Priority Pass membership.
Eligible cards for this airport lounge in Orlando include:
Travelers can also book a day pass online through the Plaza Premium website. Price may vary based on when you’re traveling, how many are with you and how long you stay. A three-hour visit in April 2024 is available for $69.18 per person.
🤓Nerdy Tip
If you’re buying a day pass, you can save money by purchasing a multi-visit pass ranging from two, five or ten days.
The bottom line
Whether it’s your final destination or you’re on a layover before your next flight, Orlando airport lounges offer an escape from the noise inside the terminal.
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 2024, including those best for:
Singapore Airlines is known for providing exceptional service, regardless of which cabin you fly. That excellent service starts at the check-in counter with a generous baggage allowance for all travelers — even those who book the cheaper “Lite” or “Value” fares. However, Singapore Airlines baggage policies vary based on the fare you purchase and even where you’re flying.
Let’s review what you need to know about Singapore Airlines baggage allowance.
Singapore Airlines’ baggage policies
To/from the U.S. and Canada
All Singapore Airlines passengers on flights to or from the U.S. and Canada can check two bags for free.
In economy and premium economy classes, checked bags can weigh up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) each.
Business class, first class and Singapore Suites passengers can check bags that weigh up to 70 pounds (32 kilograms) each.
Elite status members get extra bags on top of this base allowance. KrisFlyer Elite Gold and Star Alliance Gold members (e.g. United Airlines Premier Gold and above) get an additional free checked bag for a total of three free checked bags. Singapore Airlines PPS Club members get two additional checked bags for a total of four complimentary bags.
Let’s run through a couple of examples to clarify how Singapore Airlines baggage allowance works for U.S. flights:
Non-elite economy passenger: Two bags up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) each.
Star Alliance Gold (United Premier Gold or higher) elite in economy: Three bags up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) each.
Star Alliance Gold (United Premier Gold or higher) elite in business class: Three bags up to 70 pounds (32 kilograms) each.
PPS Club elite flying in premium economy: Four bags up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) each.
Regardless of the cabin, checked bag dimensions need to measure less than 62 inches (158 centimeters).
🤓Nerdy Tip
Your baggage allowance may vary if you’re using another airline first — such as flying United Airlines to connect to your Singapore Airlines flight. Check your ticket to be sure of your checked baggage allowance.
Other destinations
On Singapore Airlines flights that don’t travel to the U.S. or Canada, the airline uses a weight allowance system. Instead of limiting the number of bags you can check, you’re instead limited by a weight. Passengers can check as many bags as they’d like so long as the total weight is under the allowance.
In short, all passengers get at least 55 pounds (25 kilograms) of baggage allowance. Higher allowances are granted for passengers who book higher fares and elite status members.
Here’s the Singapore Airlines baggage allowance by fare type:
Lite and Value: 55 pounds (25 kilograms).
Standard and Flexi: 66 pounds (30 kilograms).
Premium economy: 77 pounds (35 kilograms).
Business class: 88 pounds (40 kilograms).
Suites and first class: 110 pounds (50 kilograms).
KrisFlyer Elite Gold and Star Alliance Gold elites get an additional 44 pounds (20 kilograms) of baggage allowance. PPS Club members get to double the base baggage allowance.
Baggage allowance for infants
Infants are entitled to their own baggage allowance on Singapore Airlines.
For U.S. and Canada flights, the infant baggage allowance is one piece weighing up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) for economy and premium economy tickets or 70 pounds (32 kilograms) for business and first class tickets.
On all other flights, infants get up to 22 pounds (10 kilograms) of checked baggage allowance.
Parents traveling with an infant can also check the following:
Fully collapsible stroller or pushchair.
Carry-cot or car seat.
If you need to check more than your baggage allowance when flying Singapore, it’s going to cost you. However, it’ll cost less if you plan ahead. By purchasing your extra baggage allowance in advance, you can save up to 25% off the rate you’d pay at the airport.
Singapore Airlines’ convoluted extra baggage fee charts charge fees that vary based on the following three factors:
How far in advance you purchase the extra baggage allowance.
Whether you’re flying on Singapore Airlines flights to/from the U.S. or another region.
The distance of your flight.
You’ll get the biggest discount when purchasing excess baggage allowance more than 48 hours before your scheduled departure time. Or purchase between six and 48 hours before departure for a 10% discount.
Singapore Airlines generally doesn’t accept checked bags weighing more than 70 pounds (32 kilograms). If you need to check a bag heavier than that, the airline directs you to call your local Singapore Airlines office.
More restrictive carry-on policies
In addition to your checked baggage allowance, passengers can carry at least one piece of baggage onboard. However, the size and weight limitations for Singapore Airlines’ carry-on bags is less than what many U.S. travelers may be accustomed to.
Regardless of the cabin, your carry-on bag cannot weigh more than 15 pounds (7 kilograms), and the dimensions cannot exceed 45 inches (115 centimeters). For reference, an Away Original Carry-On suitcase barely fits these limitations, measuring a combined 44.4 inches (112.8 centimeters).
Economy and premium economy passengers can carry one bag on board. Business class, first class and Singapore Suites passengers can carry on up to two bags — subject to the same size and weight limitations.
Singapore Airlines baggage policies recapped
The baggage allowance on Singapore Airlines depends on your cabin and where you’re flying. For flights going to or from the U.S. or Canada, all passengers can check up to two bags weighing up to 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and carry on one bag weighing up to 15 pounds (7 kilograms).
On flights not touching the U.S. and Canada, passengers get at least 55 pounds (25 kilograms) of checked baggage allowance plus one carry-on bag weighing up to 15 pounds (7 kilograms).
Star Alliance Gold elites — which includes United Premier Gold and above — get an additional free checked bag or extra baggage weight allowance, depending on the type of flight. Plus, business and first class passengers can carry a second bag onboard.
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 2024, including those best for:
Wholesale, HELOC, Marketing Products; STRATMOR on Customer Experience; More Strong Data Driving Rates
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Wholesale, HELOC, Marketing Products; STRATMOR on Customer Experience; More Strong Data Driving Rates
By: Rob Chrisman
Fri, Feb 16 2024, 10:42 AM
It was a sad day earlier this week for anyone who likes food out of a toaster as the inventor of Pop-Tarts passed away at age 96. (Yes, Pop-Tarts were invented… they don’t grow naturally in the wild.) Something else that isn’t found naturally is airline seat pricing. We’re in mid-February, and conference activity will increase, and families will start thinking about summer vacations. That often means flights. Prices do go up significantly 21, 14, and seven days before a flight, so keep that in mind. (For anyone who is genuinely interested, here’s an easy to read scholarly article on the awkward way in which airlines set seat prices.) And while we’re talking about dollars, recent Commentaries have mentioned the shift in regional manager’s pay to more profit-based rather than strictly volume, as well as how it is illegal to pay LOs on profits under TILA’s LO Comp Rule. Addressing management pay, attorney Steve Lovejoy with Shumaker Williams pointed out that, “If the branch manager is a producing manager, meaning he/she originates, or so much as talks to consumers, their compensation cannot be based on profitability of a loan, the branch or the company.” (Today’s Commentary podcast can be found here and this week’s is sponsored by Lender Toolkit and its AI-powered AI Underwriter and Prism borrower income automation tools. By providing lightning-fast underwriting decisions, your market reputation with borrowers and Realtors will soar, which means more repeat and referral business. Hear an interview with Figure’s Anthony Stratis on trends in home buying and the HELOC space.)
Lender and Broker Services, Products, and Software
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TPO Products for Brokers and Correspondents
Merchants Bank of Indiana continues to grow and recently announced the addition of a Mini-Correspondent offering to its BCU Mortgage Services platform. BCU Mortgage Services offers a dedicated Wholesale and Mini-Correspondent channel to Banks and Credit Unions. If you are a financial institution tired of Investor churn, check out Merchants. They are a strong and committed counterparty. Having recently reached $17 Billion in assets, they continue to leverage their diversified business model to grow market share and assist their lending partners. In addition to BCU, they also offer a full Correspondent Lending platform to Banks and IMBs offering Non-delegated and Delegated underwriting. Their commitment goes further, they are a top 3 Warehouse provider and are looking to grow their retail footprint. Contact Ron Berry, Retail Sales Leader to learn more about their LO opportunities. Contact Rob Wilson, Correspondent Sales Executive to learn more about their Correspondent or BCU Mortgage Services offering for Financial Institutions.
Rocket Pro TPO is continuing to support broker partners by providing professionally designed marketing toolkits & customizable flyers tailored to brokers’ specific needs, saving time and effort. For first-time homebuyers living within the 21 eligible metros, Rocket Pro TPO’s Purchase Plus product has no AMI limits and provides a $5,250 grant assistance which can be a powerful benefit paired alongside the customized open house flyers. Recently at IGNITE Live, Rocket Pro TPO announced that by utilizing Credit Upgrade, broker partners were able to save clients a combined total of over $21 million in 2023! Those are savings clients and brokers alike would all want to contribute to in 2024. Interested in learning more about a Broker or Non-Delegated Correspondent partnership? Contact Rocket Pro TPO to learn more.
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Exciting times lie ahead for American Financial Resources, LLC (AFR) as the recent change in ownership to a fund led by members of Proprietary Capital, LLC is now finalized. Keen observers may have noticed changes in pricing, and this trend’s expected to continue. AFR, known for its excellence in specialized loans, is poised to elevate its position even further. The infusion of capabilities from the expertise from the team at Proprietary Capital opens doors to broader product development, execution, and market growth. While AFR will remain a leader in specialized loans, the discerning eye will observe a notable expansion beyond the specialty niche. This ownership change marks the beginning of a new era for AFR, promising enhanced offerings and a commitment to the experience of our customers in all channels. Stay tuned for a journey of growth and innovation with AFR at the forefront. Contact AFR Today!, 1-800-375-6071.
Now that we’ve entered the new year, it’s time to set new goals and meet updated production targets. Axos Bank’s Wholesale & Correspondent Lending program offers unique financing solutions to help you reach those goals. Qualify more buyers with Pledged Assets for loans of up to $30MM Closed-End Seconds with a CLTV of 85%, buy-before-sell options, and Reverse Exchanges. For more information, reach out to your AE. Don’t miss our free webinar, Buy Before Selling Options, on Feb. 20, for valuable mortgage origination tips to help you reach your goals. Our Axos Residential Warehouse Lending team is also available to provide strategic direction and support your business growth. Schedule a call today! Email Eric Nelepovitz or call the Warehouse Lending team at 888-764-7080 to learn more about our warehouse program.
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Capital Markets
The Bank of Oklahoma’s trade desk reminded everyone who deals with margin requirements that FINRA 4210 is coming, effective May 22, 2024. “We want to make it clear to our originator clients that BOK is not subject to FINRA’s 4210 rule. We are a bank dealer that is governed by the OCC, not FINRA.”
A common email that I am receiving now from lenders is, “Is the economy hot or cold. Which way is it pushing rates?” Mortgage rates are inching up after reports of hotter-than-expected inflation data showed continued strength in the U.S. economy. The Federal Reserve doesn’t set mortgage rates, but with inflation still over its 2 percent target alongside a robust job market, the market continues to focus on when the Fed will start cutting its benchmark interest rate, which is currently keeping mortgage rates elevated.
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.77 percent as of Feb. 15, according to data released by Freddie Mac and up 13 basis points from the previous week. (One basis point is equal to one hundredth of a percentage point.) Mortgage rates were last at this level in mid-December when rates fell below 7 percent for the first time since August. For perspective, a year ago, the 30-year mortgage rate was averaging 6.32 percent. So, the economy has been performing well so far this year and rates may stay higher for longer, not helping the spring homebuying season or production numbers.
That said, a drop in U.S. retail sales yesterday helped soothe traders’ nerves about an overheated economy after this week’s inflation print came in above expectations. Retail sales declined 0.8 percent month-over-month in January compared with a 0.2 percent downwardly revised decline in December. Factory production decreased in January for the first time in three months, pointing to a loss of momentum. These reports were unduly influenced by weather-related issues over the course of the month. Weekly jobless claims also unexpectedly declined by 8k to 212k, indicative of a growing economy. However, the rising level of continuing jobless claims displayed the challenge in currently finding a new job after a layoff.
Today’s economic calendar contains some first-tier data, including the producer price index, which will be closely watched as it should help define the Fed’s next steps. PPI in January, +.3 percent, ex food and energy +.5 percent, versus expectations of increasing 0.1 percent month-over-month and 0.7 percent year-over-year. We’ve also had housing starts (-14.8 percent, but thought to be weather-related!) and building permits (-1.5 percent), seen increasing to 1.465 million and 1.510 million from 1.460 million and 1.493 million; later is the preliminary February Michigan sentiment number. Three Fed speakers are currently scheduled to close out the week: Richmond President Barkin, Vice Chair for Supervision Barr, and San Francisco President Daly. We begin the day with Agency MBS prices worse .250 than Thursday evening, the 10-year yielding 4.31 after closing yesterday at 4.24 percent, and the 2-year at 4.67.
Employment
Kind Lending, LLC is pleased to announce that Will Fisher has joined Kind as the Executive Vice President of Non-QM. Will brings with him over 11 years of experience in building and designing Non-QM platforms and products. He has served in executive roles at LoanStream where he successfully built a non-QM-focused operations and sales teams. Additionally, Michael Falce has joined the team as the Director of Capital Markets, Non-QM Division. He boasts an award-winning background in Non-QM lending spanning over 15 years, with a strong focus on Capital Markets. Kind Lending is extremely excited for the experience and skills that both Will Fisher and Michael Falce bring to the team and the direct contribution they will have in the continued focus and growth of Kind’s in house Non-QM product offerings. To learn more about opportunities at Kind Lending, visit us here.
Steve Adamo, President of Residential and Consumer Lending looks to continue to expand OceanFirst Bank’s Residential Lending division. In 2023, the Bank saw top producing Loan Officers join the team as well as expanding its geography in the new metropolitan market of Washington D.C. OceanFirst Bank blends the benefits of an independent mortgage company with the stability of a banking environment. The Bank provides their Loan Officers with a strong portfolio, direct agency lending, retained servicing, innovative marketing and technology products and services, and the ability to lend nationally as a National Association bank. Additionally, our NeighborFirst program has benefits such as a low-down payment, no Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), and no LLPAs based on credit score or loan amount. Contact John Costa, Senior Vice President and Head of Mortgage Sales or 609.444.6121 to take your business to new heights. FDIC | Equal Housing Lender | Equal Opportunity Employer
US Mortgage Corporation proudly celebrates 30 years of unwavering excellence. Founded by Steven A. Milner on February 17, 1994, the company has evolved into a national leader in the mortgage sector and continues to invest in growth fueled by its deep ‘YOU&US’ Culture and commitment to its Mission that ‘everyone deserves a roof over their head’. From its inception, US Mortgage has been committed to transforming homeownership dreams into reality. It’s remarkable journey from a local lender to a nationally recognized mortgage leader has been propelled by the trust of its amazing team who focuses on longevity through putting others first. US Mortgage is thrilled to announce an ambitious expansion plan that underscores their commitment to growth. “As we celebrate 30 years of excellence, we are energized by the possibilities that lie ahead. Our expansion signifies not just growth but an unwavering commitment to serving our clients, referral partners, and each other with the highest standards of professionalism,” said Steven A. Milner. For info, contact: Mike Veli, VP of Strategic Growth.
I have not conducted a formal study of the matter, but it seems like few people actually retire from our business. Many hang on, doing their jobs or consulting into their 70s or even 80s. Not so with Susan Semba of the Idaho Housing and Finance Association who is retiring after 40 years in the trenches. Susan has supported her local MBA Chapter, Idaho Mortgage Lenders Assoc., for 30+years included being President, chairing the Pacific NW Lenders Conference, and always willing to be a speaker. She has been a mentor and strategic partner for HFAs across the country. As Susan heads to Las Vegas for a little golf Chuck Kracht will assume the role of VP of Homeownership Lending and Servicing. Congratulations all the way ‘round.
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Snapshot: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is best for consumers who travel frequently and want to earn bonus points on flights, hotels and car rentals. Although it has a high annual fee, it also comes with a generous welcome offer, gives you access to more than 1,300 airport lounges and includes multiple types of travel insurance.
Pros
Cons
5X points on flights
Steep annual fee
10X points on hotels and rental cars booked with Chase
Focuses heavily on travel rewards
Includes trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance
1-to-1 point transfer to multiple hotel and airline loyalty programs
Full Review of Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card
This card is great if you want to earn bonus points based on your travel spending. As part of the Visa network, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® works at millions of merchants around the world, making it a convenient option for road warriors. Additionally, your Chase Ultimate Rewards® points are even more valuable when you use them to book travel through the Chase portal.
What You’ll Like About This Card
Annual Travel Credit
Every year, Chase gives you statement credits worth up to $300 based on your travel spending. To receive the credit, you must use your Chase Sapphire Reserve® card to make eligible travel purchases. Flights, car rentals, hotel bookings, bus fare and parking fees all count toward this requirement.
If you qualify for the full $300, you can earn back more than half the cost of the annual fee just by using your Chase Sapphire Reserve® card to pay your travel expenses. Note that the card resets every year around your anniversary date, not at the end of the calendar year.
Generous Welcome Offer
Need more credit?
Chase also offers a generous welcome bonus for new cardholders. bonus_miles_fulll
Travel Insurance Benefits
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® comes with several types of travel insurance:
Trip cancellation: If you have to cancel a trip for a covered reason, one of Chase’s insurance partners may reimburse you for your prepaid, nonrefundable expenses. For example, if your travel companion passes away before your departure date, you may be able to recoup the money you spent on flights and hotels.
Trip interruption: Sometimes, you have to end a trip earlier than expected due to an emergency. For example, if you come down with a serious illness overseas, you may have to return to the United States right away. If this happens, one of Chase’s travel insurance partners may reimburse you for your prepaid, nonrefundable expenses.
Baggage delays: If you’re traveling via a common carrier, such as a commercial airline or railroad, Chase may reimburse you for clothing, toiletries and other expenses associated with baggage delays. A common carrier is any company that charges members of the public for transportation services.
Auto rental collision damage waiver: Your Chase Sapphire Reserve® also comes with rental car coverage. To use this benefit, you must decline the collision insurance offered by the rental company. If you’re in an accident or someone steals or vandalizes your rental, one of Chase’s insurance partners may pay to replace or repair the vehicle.
Bonus Points on Travel Categories
One of the best reasons to get the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is because you get extra bonus points on several types of travel expenses. If you use Chase to book a hotel or rent a vehicle, you’ll earn 10 bonus points per dollar spent. For example, a hotel stay worth $500 gives you 5,000 bonus points.
You’ll also earn 5 points per dollar spent on airfare. If you spend $1,200 on a first-class ticket to Hawaii, for example, you’ll earn 6,000 bonus points. Chase offers 3 points per dollar spent on other travel expenses.
Bonus Points on Dining Purchases
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is even more beneficial if you dine out frequently. When you make an eligible restaurant purchase, you’ll earn 3 points per dollar spent.
Airport Lounge Access
Chase Sapphire Reserve® members have access to more than 1,300 airport lounges around the world. You’re also allowed to bring up to two guests per visit.
Additional Value When Redeeming Through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
The value of your bonus points increases by 50% when you redeem them through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. This makes it easier to use your bonus points to cover your travel expenses.
The Drawbacks
High Annual Fee
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® comes with an expensive annual fee. Although this is a bit steep, you can easily earn back the fee if you qualify for the $300 annual travel credit and use some of your other card benefits.
Focus on Travel
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a great credit card if you travel frequently. It may not be the best fit for your needs if you’re a homebody who prefers to earn bonus points in other categories, as non-travel categories only earn bonus points at a rate of 1 point per dollar spent. For example, if you spend $300 on clothing, you’ll only earn 300 bonus points.
Is It Worth It?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is absolutely worth it if you travel or dine out often enough to earn more than the annual fee in benefits. Note that this card is reserved for consumers with scores in the good to excellent range.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® FAQ
Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card hard to get?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card is somewhat hard to get, as it’s reserved for consumers with good to excellent credit scores.
Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card better than the Chase Sapphire Preferred® card?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® comes with more benefits than the Sapphire Preferred®, but it also has a much higher annual fee. If you’re looking for an inexpensive card with good benefits, you may want to consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® card. Otherwise, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card gives you access to better perks.
Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card a luxury card?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card is a premium credit card, but it’s not one of the cards in the Luxury Card portfolio. Luxury Card issues the Mastercard® Titanium Card™, the Mastercard® Gold Card™ and the Mastercard® Black Card™.
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If you know you can’t commit to a full year, subletting a room or living in a short-term apartment might be your best option.
Never subleased an apartment before? We’ll break it down for you!
What does it mean to sublet an apartment?
The legal definition of subletting is leasing or renting a part, or all, of your lease or rented property, to another person called a subtenant. Subtenants have responsibilities to both the tenant and the landlord, but the tenant is still responsible for paying rent to the landlord and for any damage done to the property.
In simpler words, a sublet, or sublease, is when the original tenant transfers the lease to a subtenant for the remaining duration of the lease period — typically less than a year.
While it varies case-by-case, it typically involves a lease transfer fee and does not require the full move-in costs that one-year leases usually have. Therefore, subletting a room or apartment is a great option if you value affordability and flexibility.
Who is involved when subleasing?
Landlord: The owner of the townhouse/apartment. They receive rent on a monthly basis from the tenants.
Tenant/Sublessor: The renter who signs the lease must pay monthly rent to become a resident of the apartment. The contract period is usually one year.
Subtenant/Sublessee: The person who may live in said townhouse/apartment and commits to paying the rent for their period of stay. However, they’re not officially on the lease. Their point of contact is the tenant (the person obligated to pay the landlord).
What are the legal and financial responsibilities?
Every lease differs, so you first need to figure out if it’s even allowed. If you’re the tenant, read your contract again to ensure that your landlord allows subletting. If you’re the subtenant, ensure that tenant is following the proper procedure.
Regardless of what the lease outlines, it’s a requirement to talk to your landlord about the fact that you want to sublease. If they allow it, they’ll inform you of the procedure that you must follow — it could involve either a transfer of lease and/or a subletting fee.
Alternatively, the landlord may not permit it at all. Tenants/subtenants must adhere to the decision of the landlord or they hold the right to sue/evict or charge hefty fines to both the tenant and the subtenant from the apartment.
Subleasing often involves a fee for processing the addition of the subtenant on the lease agreement. In case there is a lease transfer, there may be penalty fees for breaking the lease. The landlord may request a security deposit from the subtenant, as well. In certain rare cases, there is no fee.
Read the fine print in your subletting contract: Length of stay, utilities, rent amount, parking fees. These are important factors that all parties must agree on. It’s in all parties’ best interests to sign a sublease contract to make sure you’re protected and have the rules for both parties in writing.
Make sure you know what type of sublet you’re agreeing to
There are two main forms of subletting.
Both the sublessor and sublessee are jointly responsible for the apartment and all associated costs.
The original tenant is fully responsible for the lease and is thus responsible for complying with all rules and regulations. The original tenant is liable for any damages and missed payments on behalf of the sublessee.
Read more on the regulations here.
Benefits of subletting a room or an apartment
A sublet isn’t as much of a commitment. Now more than ever, signing on to a one-year lease is something to think twice about. Sublets are much more lenient, and allow you the flexibility during these unpredictable times.
Another pro is that sublets are much more affordable. People looking to transfer their lease will sometimes negotiate on rent. Even a small amount can certainly add up, making a large difference in your overall cost.
And finally, people seeking subletters typically leave their apartments completely furnished, or offer to sell their furniture at a discount. Not only will this save you money, but it also makes all the difference when you’re trying to move in furniture up a few flights of stairs. Definitely a huge perk of subletting!
Benefits of finding someone to sublet your apartment
You don’t have to break your contract. In most cases, breaking a lease is not an option. If you’re committed to a lease, then finding someone to sublet your apartment means you don’t throw money away. Nobody wants to pay for an apartment they aren’t living in.
Another perk is the ability to leave your apartment for a few months, but still move back in eventually. With subletting, you don’t need to give up your apartment.
And by subletting, you don’t need to urgently leave the apartment and pack up your entire life. We all know how difficult moving is in general, not to mention on short notice.
Drawbacks to subletting a room
While subleasing is a great option for someone looking for short-term housing, there are a few drawbacks to the process.
For the renter, it’s only temporary. If you find a great place to live, you know that you’re going to have to move out eventually. So don’t fall in love with your temporary digs.
For the tenant, there are always risks when having someone come into your place when you’re not there, especially if you have really nice things. Think of it like if you were to Airbnb your apartment, there’s always a chance something could get stolen. Also, if your sublessee bails on you or fails to pay the rent, your landlord will still come after you for that missing payment.
What to keep in mind while searching for sublet?
Make sure a sublet is the best option for your circumstances: Will you live in this apartment for less than a year? Do you want to avoid upfront costs that come with a full-year lease? Do you want flexibility? If you answered yes to these questions, you should definitely consider subleasing an apartment.
Make sure to start early. If you’re seeking a sublet for the spring semester, now’s the perfect time to start. It’s best to give yourself at least two months when starting your apartment search. Oftentimes, people with available apartments start searching for a subletter two months in advance, while others leave it until the last minute. To give yourself ample time to find an apartment that fits your budget, location and lifestyle, start your search early.
And remember, there may be a lot of competition. When you start early, you get in touch with more people looking for a place to sublet. That gives you more choices in terms of who you want to have living in your room. By giving yourself time, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know them. Ask them all the important questions: Background checks? Will they pay on time? Is your landlord OK with it? Will they keep your room clean? Are your roommates OK living with them?
How can I find a short-term rental?
Now more than ever, there are various platforms to use to search for sublets or short-term rentals.
Facebook is great if you want to write a short description of your apartment and post a few pictures for more elaboration. It’s also great for networking due to the sheer volume of people using the platform for the purpose of seeking/subletting an apartment. However, if you’re the one finding a room/apartment, you’re bound to spend hours on your Facebook timeline reading every little detail to find your perfect fit. This happens because, in the post format, the information is not standardized.
If you want an interactive experience, Hoamsy is a Boston-based platform that uniquely allows you to list and find sublets. Once you make a profile, you’ll get personalized leads based on your preferences. Once you find a match, you can directly connect with them through Hoamsy’s direct messaging feature. It’s a great resource for people looking to find sublets.
Apartment rental sites like Apartment Guide and Rent. are good platforms to use if you have a very specific apartment in mind. You can filter your search to show only properties that offer short-term rentals. They also have listings available in most major cities and give you a ton of guidance on all aspects of moving on their blogs.
Enjoy your freedom of subletting a room
It’s always good to have options and flexibility and subletting a room definitely gives you the opportunity to do that. Just much sure you understand the process before you get started, and get permission from your landlord before doing anything!
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional legal or financial advice as they may deem it necessary.
Clarissa Garza is a Product Marketing Associate at Hoamsy, a real estate tech platform, where she works on content creation, acquiring new users and copywriting. Clarissa is a student at Boston University with experience in marketing and journalism. Aside from Hoamsy, she is a Statehouse Correspondent at The MetroWest Daily News.
The Minnesota-based airline Sun Country has its own credit card for frequent fliers of the budget carrier. The Sun Country Visa credit card, issued by First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO), has an annual fee but also some perks that may make the card a worthwhile investment. Certainly, this card could make sense for people who fly Sun Country’s relatively limited routes: The airline is in more than 100 airports across the U.S., Mexico, Central America, Canada and the Caribbean.
But if Sun Country airline doesn’t satisfy your travel plans, then the Sun Country credit card won’t do much for you, either. In that case, a general travel card or another airline card would be a better fit.
1. It has an annual fee
You’ll pay $69 a year for the Sun Country credit card, placing it within the mid-tier travel card category. Compared with similar cards, the Sun Country falls a little short in terms of value. For example, for a slightly higher annual fee, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2x miles on everything else, a $100 credit for Global Entry or PreCheck every four years, and perhaps most importantly, the ability to transfer miles to Capital One’s 15 travel partners.
2. Perks can help offset the fee
Sun Country cardholders get the following benefits, some of which can help recoup some of the annual fee:
Priority boarding on Sun Country flights every time you fly.
One free premium drink per flight.
50% off seat selections and first checked bag for you and your travel companions when traveling on the same itinerary. Seat selections and bag fees must be prepurchased to receive the discount.
The ability to get 10,000 bonus points if you spend at least $10,000 over 12 consecutive billing cycles beginning with the account anniversary. Points are worth 1 cent each, so 10,000 bonus points are worth $100 toward Sun Country flights.
3. It has a decent sign-up bonus
New Sun Country Visa cardholders can get 25,000 points if they spend at least $1,000 in the first three billing cycles after account opening. Because 1 point is worth 1 cent, the sign-up bonus is worth $250. Note that the bonus can only be redeemed toward more Sun Country flights.
The Sun Country card’s welcome offer is fine, but it’s hardly the best. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, widely recognized as the gold standard among mid-tier travel cards, has a $95 annual fee, but the sign-up bonus is far superior to the Sun Country card’s. New Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card holders get the following welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
4. The card pairs well with Sun Country’s loyalty program
The Sun Country card earns the most points on Sun Country bookings, but it has some good everyday spending categories, too. The card earns:
Unlimited 3 points for each $1 on Sun Country purchases.
Unlimited 2 points for each $1 on gas and groceries. (Wholesale clubs are ineligible.)
Unlimited 1 point for each $1 on everything else.
Even better, rewards earned with the credit card are stackable with Sun Country’s loyalty program, Sun Country Rewards. Members of the Sun Country Rewards Program get:
2 points for every $1 spent directly with Sun Country, either online at suncountry.com or by calling Sun Country Reservations.
1 point for every $1 spent on bookings made through a travel agent or other travel websites.
That means if you have the Sun Country credit card and are enrolled in the Sun Country Rewards Program, which you can do at www.suncountry.com, you’ll earn 5 points per $1 on Sun Country purchases.
Rewards don’t expire as long as the account is open and in good standing.
5. Redemption is limited
Points earned with the Sun Country card are only redeemable for travel booked directly with Sun Country including flights, seats, checked bags and vacation packages. Again, consider a general travel card or another airline card if you want more redemption options.
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is a collective of high-end properties that meet high standards for service and style. There are more than 500 boutique hotels in 90 countries that make the grade.
SLH will not become one of the many Hilton Honors brands, but the strategic partnership between the two unlocks the door to significantly more luxury properties than are currently in the Hilton portfolio.
For now, the details of using Hilton elite status benefits and credit card perks at SLH properties are still being ironed out, but Hilton members will soon be able to earn and redeem points at the participating luxury hotels.
What happens to the World of Hyatt partnership?
As Hilton Honors ramps up its partnership, World of Hyatt will end its connection with SLH. This comes on the heels of Hyatt’s new acquisition of travel club platform Mr. & Mrs. Smith, which gives World of Hyatt members plenty of opportunity to earn and redeem points at more than 1,500 luxury properties. Hilton will have an exclusive partnership with SLH.
9 Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties to look forward to booking with Hilton points
To book these new hotel options, Hilton Honors members can use any of Hilton’s traditional reservations channels to book a stay at participating SLH hotels. This includes earning and redeeming points, which multiply when you use a Hilton Honors co-branded credit card.
Hilton Honors is also a transfer partner of AmEx Membership Rewards. No matter which credit card you use, these are some of the exciting SLH options that may participate in the Hilton Honors partnership.
1. The Principal Hotel, Madrid
Along the famous Gran Via, this hotel is close to popular shopping, theaters, nightlife, dining and tourist attractions like the Prado and Retiro Park.
Be sure to visit the one of the rooftop restaurants and bar for cocktails and tapas before heading out to a night on the town.
2. Inverlochy Castle, Scotland
Want to sleep in a castle? Hilton Honors points could be your chance. The 19th century Inverlochy Castle is in the Scottish Highlands where guests can slumber like royalty.
Other activities include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, golf and even a ride on the Hogwarts Express train of Harry Potter fame.
3. Hotel Excelsior, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Hugging the Adriatic Sea, this year-round hotel provides excellent views of the city’s famous Old Town (which was used for filming King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones”) and the popular island of Lokrum across the bay.
Instead of a traditional sandy beach, guests have a stone-lined deck from which they can take a dip in the water or lay back in the sun. There is a heated indoor pool and spa when the weather is not ideal for sitting by the sea.
4. Nimb Hotel, Copenhagen
Facing Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, this hotel looks like part of a fairytale. Not only is there a convenient rooftop pool and sun deck available for guests, but anyone that stays here enjoys free access to Tivoli Gardens when it is open.
5. Hemingways Nairobi
Hemingways Nairobi is a solid option for visitors either before or after a safari trip because of its location near Nairobi National Park. It has its own gardens offering tranquility from the city of Nairobi, one of East Africa’s bustling downtowns.
An outdoor swimming pool, massive guest rooms and plenty of green space are all less than 30 minutes from the city-center Wilson Airport, where many safari flights depart.
6. The Anam Mui Ne, Vietnam
Along the East Sea, this resort is similar to a Hawaiian getaway with beautiful sea views and two sparkling swimming pools.
The Vietnamese restaurant serves traditional regional recipes from around the country, and don’t miss the evening sundowner music and dance performances.
7. Viceroy Bali
This small, family-owned resort five minutes from Ubud is surrounded by rice fields and lush foliage ideal for guests looking for a wellness vacation, especially one focused on meditation and self-improvement.
Its 40 private villas offer oversized infinity pools, and local experiences include everything from a walk through the rice paddies to Balinese dance lessons and temple offerings.
8. Keswick Hall, Charlottesville, Virginia
This luxury resort overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Virginia countryside boasts renovated interiors, a new spa and a Jean-Georges’ restaurant.
History buffs will appreciate its proximity to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.
9. The Roundtree, Amagansett
In the Hamptons on Long Island, this boutique hotel provides respite from the bustle of New York City and puts visitors within reach of the Atlantic Ocean.
A beach buggy takes guests to the shore during the summer, but back at the property, there is a lot to do, too. This includes popcorn and s’mores by the fire pit, afternoon tea and cookies, biking around the area, golf, baking classes and wine tastings.
The accommodations are made up of rooms, suites and private cottages.
The Hilton Honors and SLH exclusive partnership recapped
Hilton Honors members have another option for earning and redeeming points now that there is an exclusive partnership between Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. As long as you make a reservation through a Hilton channel, SLH hotels now offer Hilton Honors members access to more than 500 boutique hotels around the world.
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 2024, including those best for:
Looking for the best fun jobs that pay well? Many people dream of having a job they love that also pays well. I completely get it – you don’t want to hate working a job that you’ll be at 40 hours a week! I’m very grateful to have a job that I love. I don’t…
Looking for the best fun jobs that pay well?
Many people dream of having a job they love that also pays well. I completely get it – you don’t want to hate working a job that you’ll be at 40 hours a week!
I’m very grateful to have a job that I love. I don’t dread any day of the week, and I genuinely love what I do. Due to that, I hope everyone gets to feel the same about their job as well.
Thankfully, it’s easy to find a job that lets you do what you enjoy and still pays you a good paycheck. Whether you love working online or driving fast cars, there are many job options that let you have fun while also making good money.
Whether you want to make extra income or find a full-time job, there are many fun jobs that pay well that may interest you.
Fun Jobs That Pay Well
When you’re looking for a job, it’s great to find one that you find fun and that also pays well. Here are some top choices to start with:
Bloggers work from anywhere and write about topics such as family, recipes, personal finance, travel, and more. This is what I do, and I think it’s a ton of fun. Plus, it pays very well!
Art therapists use creativity to help others. They draw or paint as a way to support people’s emotional health. This job requires a master’s degree, but it combines art with helping people, which can be very rewarding.
A Ferrari driving instructor teaches others how to drive a luxury sports car. It’s not just exciting; it can also pay between $90,000 and $120,000 a year.
If you like spotting mistakes in content, then finding a proofreading job may be perfect for you. Proofreaders act like an extra set of eyes to read articles, papers, books, ads, and other written content.
Below are over 40 other fun jobs that pay well that I recommend learning more about.
1. Blogger
If you want to find a fun job that pays well, my favorite way is to start a blog. That’s exactly what I do for a living!
A blog is content written on a website. It usually includes articles like what you’re reading here.
You can blog about something you’re passionate about or something you know a lot about. Or even a topic you want to learn more about (people love following others’ firsthand journeys!).
I began Making Sense of Cents in 2011, and since then, my blog has earned me over $5,000,000 over the years.
I started my blog on a whim to share my own money journey. At first, I didn’t even know people could earn money from blogs or how to make a successful one. And now, it’s my full-time job!
There are many ways to make money blogging such as:
Advertising revenue (banner ads that you see in blog posts)
Sponsored blog posts (when a blogger partners with a company to promote a specific item or company)
Affiliate marketing (when a blogger receives income for referring readers to a product)
Selling digital products or services (such as courses, clothing, books, and more)
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
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Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
2. Printables designer
Making and selling printables can be a fun way to earn money. When you create printables on Etsy, you only need to make one digital file for each product. After that, you can sell it many times to make more money.
Printables are things you can find online and print at home.
These can be things like a planner, coloring pages, wall art prints, greeting cards, gift tags, and so much more.
I buy printables frequently, and so do others all the time. Recently, I bought a printable for my daughter and it was a useful tool to help teach her the alphabet. I love that I can easily search what I’m looking for and get exactly what I want – plus I can print it right at home quickly!
Recommended reading: How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
3. Voice actor
A voice-over actor is someone you hear but don’t usually see in things like videos on YouTube, documentaries, radio ads, TV ads, corporate talks, online courses, audiobooks, video games, movies, and cartoons.
Voice actors don’t necessarily need experience for this job (although it can be helpful later on). What’s important is having a voice that matches what the company is searching for.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Voice Over Actor
4. Photographer
As a photographer, you get a special chance to capture moments and tell stories with your camera. Photography has many different areas where you can focus, and they can be both satisfying and financially rewarding.
Here are some examples:
Photojournalist – You document events for media outlets, such as National Geographic.
Wedding Photographer – Your role would be capturing wedding moments in couples’ lives.
Stock photo photographer – Photographers can sell their pictures on stock image sites, which are really popular. These sites let customers purchase pictures for things like websites, TV shows, books, and social media.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
5. Buy and sell flipper
Being a buy-and-sell flipper means you’re into flipping items for profit.
This includes getting undervalued things from flea markets, garage sales, or online places and then selling them for more money.
This could be things like clothing, electronics, furniture, cars, and so much more. Basically, anything and everything!
Your success depends on how good you are at finding good deals, knowing the values in the market, and selling things again for a profit.
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This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.
6. Proofreader
As a proofreader, your careful attention to detail can become a rewarding career. Proofreading means going through texts to fix grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes before they get published. This job is important to make sure written content is clear and doesn’t have errors.
Many people, like authors, website owners, and students often hire proofreaders to make their work better. There’s a big need for proofreaders, and you can find jobs on various platforms.
Even the best writers can make mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why getting a proofreader can be really helpful for almost everyone.
In fact, although I have written over 2,000 articles, I have a proofreader who will have proofread this very blog post.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year)
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This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
7. Freelance writer
Freelance writers create content for clients, like blog posts and advertising. Freelance writing usually involves working independently. Clients give you a topic, you write about it, and then you might receive feedback, like suggestions to improve or add paragraphs.
You can write about any topic that you want to – such as travel, money, home, and so on.
How much you make as a freelance writer depends on your experience and the topics you write about. When you start, you might earn around $50 to $75 for a 500-word article. As you get better, you can charge more. For a 1,000-word article, you could make between $100 and $150. If you do well over time, you can ask for even higher rates.
I was a freelance writer for many years before transitioning to full-time writing here on Making Sense of Cents. It’s a great career where you can mostly work from home on your own.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs
8. Graphic designer
A graphic designer is someone who makes designs for people and businesses. As a digital designer, you might create images, social media graphics, printables, T-shirt designs, business cards, stickers, logos, and more.
As a graphic designer, your main job is to communicate through visuals. You use a mix of typography, images, color, and layout to convey messages and brand identities. This field gives you the freedom to express your creativity in different ways, whether it’s through digital designs or print materials.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money As A Digital Designer
9. Social media manager
Being a social media manager is an exciting career choice and your main job is to take care of how a company or person appears online on different platforms. Your tasks include interacting with followers, selecting content, and planning social media posts.
Here are the key areas you typically need to focus on:
Content creation – Create fresh, original posts tailored to each platform.
Engagement – Interact with the audience by responding to comments and direct messages.
Strategy planning – Use data analytics to drive social media strategies, aiming for increased engagement and reach.
The salary can vary, and you can choose to do this job either part-time or full-time.
10. Social media influencer
Related to the above, you can make money with your own social media accounts as well.
Have you ever followed someone on Instagram or TikTok and thought to yourself that it would be fun if you could do something similar?
Social media influencers use different online platforms to create, share, and connect with content that their audience likes. Your success depends on growing a big group of followers and establishing yourself as a trusted voice in your specific area.
As an influencer, you’ll create your brand by sharing your interests, pictures, and opinions on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and others.
You can earn money through sponsored posts (when brands pay you to promote their products or services in your Instagram posts), affiliate marketing (earning commissions from sales through your referral links), and by creating digital products like ebooks or online courses.
I’ve been a social media influencer for years, monetizing my Instagram and Facebook accounts. It’s a great experience as I get to collaborate with companies I love and promote products I already use.
11. Veterinarian
If you have a passion for animals, then becoming a veterinarian may be a great fit for you.
Veterinarians have a skilled and fulfilling role dedicated to animal health and welfare. The main responsibility is to provide medical care to animals, diagnose health problems, and perform surgeries.
Vets work in private clinics, animal hospitals, research facilities, zoos, and more.
The veterinarian career path is rewarding as it lets you blend a love for animals with the chance to make a positive impact on their lives.
To become a veterinarian, you must complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program and obtain a state license to practice. This usually involves:
A bachelor’s degree
A four-year veterinary program
The national average salary for veterinarians is around $100,000 per year.
12. Marine biologist
One job that I dreamed of as a kid was to become a marine biologist. It always sounded like so much fun to work with water and sea animals.
Marine biologists study marine organisms and how they behave and interact with the environment. Your work might take you from coastal wetlands to the deepest parts of the ocean.
Here are some of the things they do:
Conduct research on marine wildlife and ecosystems
Monitor the health of marine habitats
Develop conservation plans
Educate the public and policymakers
Marine biologists are important for understanding marine life and contributing to ocean conservation efforts.
13. Mystery shopper
Retailers, restaurants, and financial institutions need mystery shoppers for detailed feedback to improve their customer service and products.
This might not be a full-time job, but it can provide you with some extra money each month.
I remember when I first learned about mystery shoppers. I was working at a clothing store, and we would have mystery shoppers come in to see how we were doing. We never knew who the mystery shopper was, but we would get to read their report afterward and see what they thought of us.
After learning about mystery shopping, I found a website where I could become one as well. It sounded like fun to get paid to shop.
I would make about $150 to $200 per month through mystery shopping, and I also got free items and services, like $100 to spend at restaurants (where I had to provide feedback while I was there), makeup, and more.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Mystery Shopper
14. Architect
Architects have a special mix of creativity and technical skills, allowing them to design buildings that are not just attractive but also functional and safe.
Their role includes making detailed plans, and considering factors like sustainability, budget, and client needs.
To become an architect, you typically need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture and you’ll need state licensure, which is obtained by passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
15. Stunt person
A stunt person is a cool job where you use your physical skills to create exciting action scenes for movies, TV, and live shows. It’s a big part of making the action look real and thrilling.
To do this job, you might need lots of training in things like martial arts, gymnastics, or extreme sports. You also have to be good at handling pressure and follow safety rules closely.
16. Professional video gamer
Yes, if you like video games, you may actually be able to make money as a professional video gamer.
While the amount of money you can make will definitely vary, top gamers have the potential to earn from tournament prizes, sponsorships, and streaming content for fans:
Tournaments: Prize pools can be large, reaching into the millions for top-ranking competitions.
Streaming: Platforms like Twitch and YouTube pay through ads, subscriptions, and donations.
Sponsorships: Companies may endorse you and pay you with sponsorships or free items.
You could maybe even find a job working for a video game designer, testing out video games so that companies can improve their video game design.
Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
17. Chocolatier
Many people at some point in their lives want to become the person who makes chocolate and candy – sounds amazing after all, right?
A chocolatier is someone who uses cooking and art skills to make chocolates. It’s a job that needs creativity, precision, and a good sense of taste.
You might work for yourself, making chocolates, or you may even work for a large chocolate company. I know people who do both!
18. Personal trainer
If you want to find a job that you’ll love, becoming a personal trainer may be it.
Personal trainers play an active role by combining fitness with motivational skills to help people reach their health and fitness goals. This job includes:
Assessing clients’ fitness levels and health conditions
Developing personalized workout and nutrition plans
Demonstrating exercises and routines to clients
Tracking clients’ progress and adjusting plans as needed
How much you earn as a personal trainer can change a lot based on where you work, your qualifications, and the clients you get. Personal trainers usually make an average of $40,000 to $70,000 per year.
19. Supercar driving instructor
Supercar driving instructors have an exciting job where they help people learn how to drive fast cars on racetracks.
The role includes teaching safety and giving an exciting experience as well as explaining how to handle the vehicles, follow track rules, and use advanced driving techniques.
You can usually earn a high income doing this, plus you get to drive some of the world’s most exotic supercars.
20. Toy designer
Being a toy designer is probably most children’s dream career. After all, who hasn’t loved toys at one point in their life?
The toy industry is always looking for creative designers to make new toys that will grab kids’ attention and imagination.
Toy designers have a cool job where they mix creativity with making things work well. The main aim is to create toys that are fun and help kids learn and grow. This special job combines artistic skills with knowing about how children think and learn.
21. Restaurant critic
Restaurant critics evaluate dining establishments and share their experiences through written reviews. Their main responsibility is to provide an unbiased review of the food quality, service, ambiance, and overall dining experience.
To gain experience and get started, begin by developing your taste buds and learning about different cuisines. This can involve:
Going to cooking workshops
Exploring different food places when you travel
Creating your own blog or starting an Instagram dedicated to food
22. Brewmaster
If you love craft beers and enjoy understanding how fermentation works, becoming a brewmaster could be a fun and rewarding career.
Brewmasters manage the brewing process, such as creating recipes, choosing ingredients, and making sure the quality is top-notch during production.
To start, you might need formal education, such as a degree in brewing science or a related field. However, some brewmasters climb the ladder from roles like brewing assistants, gaining experience through on-the-job learning.
23. Fashion designer
Fashion designers make clothing, accessories, and shoes, and they draw designs, pick fabrics and patterns, and guide how the products designed should be made.
Fashion designing can be a fulfilling career if you love fashion and enjoy creating. It gives you a chance to express yourself personally and can even lead to getting noticed in the industry.
24. Food stylist
Food stylists combine culinary art with aesthetics, making sure that dishes not only taste good but also look delicious and perfect for photographs.
Their duties include choosing ingredients thoughtfully, preparing the food, and presenting it in a way that’s visually attractive. This is important for different media like advertising, packaging, cookbooks, and film.
25. Event planner
Event planners organize events, from big corporate conferences to small weddings. Their main job is to make sure every part of the event matches the client’s vision, fits the budget, and meets the goals.
According to Glassdoor, the average pay for an event planner is around $50,000 per year. Your salary can change based on things like your experience, where you work, and the size and type of events you handle.
26. Animator
If you’re looking for fun jobs that pay well, then becoming an animator may be it!
Animators make visual creations, and their main focus is on designing characters, environments, and entire worlds in 2D or 3D formats.
Here’s what you may work on:
Character design: Create and develop characters for various media.
Story development: Collaborate on storyboards to plan out visual narratives.
Animation: Work with digital tools to animate drawings and models.
The animation industry values creativity and technical skills and also pays competitive salaries with the opportunity to contribute to exciting storytelling processes. Whether you’re involved in creating animated TV shows, movies, or video games, being an animator can be both enjoyable and financially rewarding.
27. Real estate agent
Real estate agents are professionals who help people buy and sell properties, such as houses and commercial buildings.
I know a few real estate agents, and they all seem to love their jobs. They get to see beautiful new homes and properties and help their clients find their dream property.
Plus, they usually set their own schedule, which can help you create a better work-life balance.
28. Private investigator
Private investigators conduct investigations on various matters, including legal, financial, and personal issues.
This may include doing things like surveilling someone to get information, interviewing people to get details, researching public and legal documents, as well as gathering evidence for cases.
Here are some steps to becoming a private investigator:
Have a high school diploma or equivalent. Perhaps even get a degree or certification in criminal justice or a related field.
Gain experience in a related field such as law enforcement or the military.
Acquire a private investigator license, as required by your state.
29. Romance novelist
Starting a career as a romance novelist can bring both fulfillment and income. If you love storytelling and especially romance, this can be a fun one to think about.
Recommended reading: How to Make Money Self-Publishing Short Romance Novels
30. Interior designer
Interior designers mix creativity with practicality to decorate the insides of properties. Their job is to design and put in place the aesthetic and functional aspects of residential or commercial spaces.
Your job would be to create an environment that looks good and is comfortable for your clients.
31. Airline pilot
Airline pilots have a career that is both exciting and has the potential to make a lot of money. Their main job is to pilot commercial aircraft, flying from one place to another, and making sure everyone on board, including passengers and crew, stays safe.
Some of their daily duties include:
Conduct pre-flight inspections
Navigate the aircraft
Communicate with air traffic control
Monitor weather conditions and aircraft systems
Lead the crew and manage any in-flight issues
32. Drone pilot
Drones have gained popularity lately, not just for recreational use but also for jobs requiring aerial photos and videos. This creates a growing opportunity for individuals to start small businesses and make money with their drones.
Your job as a drone pilot may be to:
Take high-quality images and videos from unique perspectives, such as for real estate, construction, or events.
Perform inspections, surveys, and mapping for various industries like mining or agriculture.
Analyze data and images to give insights to clients.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money With A Drone
33. Sommelier
Sommeliers have a lot of knowledge of wine and can share it in a fun way.
This job is usually found in upscale restaurants, and this role involves suggesting wines that go well with customers’ meals, conducting wine tastings, managing wine service, and taking care of the wine cellar.
34. Chef
Chefs, of course, play an extremely important role in a restaurant kitchen, crafting menus and overlooking meal execution. Their primary responsibilities include tasks like:
Menu Design: They create food menus for a restaurant.
Food Preparation: They oversee and sometimes partake in the detailed preparation of ingredients.
Cooking: They cook the restaurant meals and oversee other cooks in the kitchen.
35. Cruise director
Cruise directors make sure passengers have an unforgettable experience aboard a cruise ship. This job requires a fun personality and excellent skills in managing both entertainment programs and a team of staff members.
Their responsibilities include planning and supervising all onboard entertainment, such as shows, events, and activities.
We went on an around the world cruise recently and had an amazing cruise director. It looked like such a fun job, and they got to travel everywhere that we did (of course!).
Recommended reading: How To Get Paid To Travel The World (18 Realistic Ideas!)
36. Astronomer
Astronomy is a field that combines the excitement of exploring the cosmos with the satisfaction of solving complex problems. As an astronomer, you enter a world dedicated to understanding celestial phenomena and the principles of the universe.
Usually, a Ph.D. in astronomy or a closely related field is needed to conduct independent research or work at a university. However, with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you might find opportunities at planetariums, observatories, or assisting with research.
37. Netflix tagger
If you’re seeking a fun yet rewarding job, becoming a Netflix tagger could be an interesting option. In this job, you watch Netflix content and assign specific labels to shows and movies, influencing the platform’s recommendation algorithm.
To get started, you will need to apply through the Netflix jobs portal, where available positions are listed. Experience in film and media studies, while not mandatory, can give you an advantage.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Ways To Get Paid To Watch Netflix
37. Geologist
Geologists explore and study the earth’s composition, processes, and history.
Their job can lead to finding valuable resources like minerals, oil, and gas, and they also have an important part in environmental conservation and predicting natural disasters.
38. Dog walker
If you love pets, then this is the fun paying job for you!
Dog walkers do exactly that – walk dogs while their owners are busy, such as at work or on vacation. If you like dogs, then this can be a fun way to spend time with animals and get paid for it.
To become a sought-after dog walker, you should be reliable, good with animals, and you should have excellent customer service skills to build connections with clients. Dog walking allows you to enjoy the fresh air, bond with different dogs, and make money doing something you love.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money
39. Ethical hacker
Ethical hackers think and operate like malicious hackers but with a specific goal: identifying and fixing security vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
They act as safeguards, testing and securing systems to prevent potential breaches for companies.
This job involves a lot of problem-solving skills, as you are looking for possible security problems.
40. Travel agent
If you like planning trips, then becoming a travel agent may be a great way to have a fun high-paying job.
Travel agents craft and sell travel experiences. They help advise clients on different travel destinations and arrange transportation, hotels, tours, and more. It’s a job that not only pays well but allows you to help others travel.
You may help people plan their honeymoon, a trip to Disney World, an around-the-world cruise, and so much more. There are travel planners for every kind of trip that you can think of.
Your knowledge and skill in handling the challenges of travel planning make you a very important help to travelers who want their experiences to be stress free.
The average annual salary can vary by a lot, and this can be either a part-time or full-time job. There is a lot of job growth too, as more and more people are going on vacations!
41. Personal shopper
Personal shoppers give a shopping service for clients who either lack the time or the style to select their own stuff. As a personal shopper, your job may range from picking clothing to finding the perfect gift.
You may work at a high-end retail store, or you may be a freelance personal shopper – there are many jobs in this field!
42. Park ranger
Have you ever been to a beautiful place like Yosemite National Park and wondered what it would be like to work there?
Park rangers work in places like beautiful national parks and get to enjoy the scenery every single day. Their responsibilities include protecting and managing parks, wildlife, and historical sites and making sure that both the natural resources and the visitors exploring them are safe.
To become a park ranger, you usually need a combination of education in fields related to conservation, environmental science, or wildlife management, and relevant work experience.
Recommended reading: 15 Outdoor Jobs For People Who Love Being Outside
43. Tour guide
Being a tour guide gives you a chance to share your love for travel or history with others, all while making a living. You’ll get to be in different places like historical sites, museums, or outdoor adventures.
This can be a low-stress job with a big fun factor – as you get to explore places that you probably already love and are an expert at.
Recommended reading: How to Make Money as an Airbnb Experience Host
44. Yacht crew
Working on a yacht can be a thrilling job that mixes travel, adventure, and the chance to meet new people, along with the possibility of earning good money.
If you work on a yacht, your job could be as a captain, mechanic, server, cleaner, chef, and more. If you’re on a smaller boat, you might even handle all these tasks.
Jobs on a yacht or big sailing boat are usually hard work, but the perk is that you get to travel with most expenses covered, while also earning a high income.
45. Flight attendant
Being a flight attendant is important for making sure passengers are comfortable and safe. You’re like the friendly face of the airline during flights, taking care of different needs and keeping service standards high.
Plus, you get to enjoy the unique perk of discounted or free travel, which is a big perk of becoming a flight attendant.
Flight attendants can earn a good income, and the benefits are excellent. They usually make between $50,000 to over $100,000 a year. The training to become a flight attendant usually takes around 1 to 2 months.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Flight Attendant And Make $61,640 Each Year
46. Art therapist
Art therapists combine the creative process with psychological healing to provide a unique kind of mental health therapy. They conduct one-on-one or group therapy sessions, and being an art therapist can be very fulfilling as you help people discover their voice and heal through art.
Art therapists work at schools, psychiatric hospitals, veterans associations, and more. Usually, you need a master’s degree to enter this field.
They use art therapy to assist people in expressing their emotions, dealing with complex feelings, and enhancing self-awareness. Their job isn’t just about being artistic; it’s deeply connected to therapeutic practices that help a variety of clients.
Another job similar to this is becoming a music therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to find fun jobs that pay well.
What is the most high-paying fun job?
The most high-paying fun job can vary based on your skills and interests. Some high-paying fun jobs include being a blogger, pilot, stunt person, and romance book author.
What are random jobs that pay well?
There are many unique jobs, such as a private island caretaker, yacht captain, or a voice-over artist.
Which is the most exciting and highest paying job in this world?
This will depend on who you ask! Maybe it’s being a pilot, a stunt person, an actor, or something else.
What are some fun jobs that pay six figures?
Some fun jobs that pay over $100,000 may include becoming a blogger, selling printables, photographer, architect, and more.
What are some low-stress fun jobs that pay well?
Jobs like a yoga instructor or a massage therapist can be low stress and fun, and they provide a good income, especially when experienced or working in more affluent areas.
What are some fun jobs that pay well without a degree?
You can pursue jobs such as a social media influencer, a real estate agent, or a personal trainer, which can pay well and be rewarding without requiring a traditional four-year degree.
Best Fun Jobs That Pay Well – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best fun jobs that pay well.
There are many fun careers that pay a part-time or full-time income.
Careers like voice acting, managing social media, and ethical hacking not only pay well but also let you have a good balance between work and life. The key is to know your talents and find the right fit in these exciting jobs.
I have been working a fun job for many years now, and I really really love it. It makes each day enjoyable and I actually look forward to work. I hope that you get to one day say the same as well.
What do you think are the best fun jobs that pay well?
The best travel rewards are the ones that get you where you want to go, and some do a better job of that than others. Airline miles can help you book free flights and hotel points can help you book free rooms, but transferable points (like Chase Ultimate Rewards and AmEx Membership Rewards) can do both — and more.
Here are six reasons why transferable points are at the apex of travel rewards, and why you should prioritize earning them over other types of points and miles.
1. Transferable points provide flexibility
Suppose you’re in the market for a new travel credit card and you’ve narrowed your decision to two choices: the first card earns points that can be redeemed with your favorite airline, while the second card earns points that can be redeemed not only with your favorite airline, but also with your favorite hotel chain. The cards are functionally identical otherwise. Which do you choose?
The second card is the obvious answer. The option to redeem with both airline and hotel partners makes the rewards you earn from it more useful, since they can meet a broader range of award travel needs. In short, the rewards earned by the second card are more valuable because they’re more flexible.
Transferable points programs expand on that premise by partnering with a variety of airline and hotel loyalty programs, giving you a diverse range of redemption options instead of just one.
Flexibility isn’t the only ingredient needed to add value, since making points transferable doesn’t necessarily mean transferring them is worthwhile. For example, you can transfer Hilton Honors points to more than two dozen airline partners, but in most cases the transfer ratio is a dismal 10:1 (i.e., 10,000 Hilton points becomes 1,000 airline miles).
That provides marginal value because it’s only useful in marginal situations, like if you urgently need a small number of miles to book a highly valuable award flight. While Hilton Honors points are technically “transferable,” their transferability doesn’t add much.
In contrast, the major transferable points programs generally offer neutral or favorable transfer ratios, as well as transfers that process quickly (or in many cases, instantly). That kind of flexibility adds more clear and consistent value.
2. Transferable points have greater upside
Suppose you’re booking a long weekend trip from Denver to San Francisco in the spring. You’ll be attending a wedding at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco and plan to pay out of pocket for your room there, but you have 60,000 United Airlines MileagePlus miles you can use to book your flight.
You want to arrive Thursday morning and return Sunday evening, so you search United’s website and find an itinerary that suits your needs for 32,200 miles and $11.20 in fees. You compare that with the cash price of $375.72 and calculate a redemption value of 1.13 cents per mile. That’s quite close to NerdWallet’s valuation of1.2 cents per mile, so you’re satisfied.
Now imagine that instead of United miles, you have a reserve of 60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Instead of being able to redeem them solely for United flights, you can transfer those points to 11 airlines and three hotels based on which one suits your needs and offers the best value.
For example, instead of booking with United, you could transfer points to Southwest Airlines and book a comparable (though not identical) itinerary for 27,577 points and $11.20 in fees, versus a cash price of $386.97.
Assuming you’re not bothered by the earlier outbound departure and you don’t have a strong preference for one airline, the ability to choose between them saves you about 4,600 points on your flight.
Alternatively, you could transfer points to Hyatt to book your stay at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco. The award cost is 17,000 points per night, totaling 51,000 points for your three-night visit.
Cash rates start at $323 per night, but the cheapest rates require advance purchase and are nonrefundable, while booking with points generally allows you to cancel with no penalty until two days before arrival.
A cash rate with a comparable cancellation policy totals $1,386.22 after taxes and fees, which yields a redemption value of over 2.7 cents per point (more than double what you’d get by redeeming for the United flights above).
This is just one example about a set itinerary, but it illustrates how the versatility of transferable points provides an upside when you’re not locked into specific travel providers.
Having more redemption options yields more opportunities to use points efficiently, which in turn raises the expected value of each redemption.
3. Transferable points have more favorable expiration policies
Many loyalty programs have expiration policies that can cause your rewards to vanish over time. While you’ll generally have 12 to 36 months to keep rewards active, some points and miles expire in as little as six months.
It’s easy to let rewards lapse and disappear in that timeframe if you’re not a frequent traveler and you don’t monitor your loyalty accounts vigilantly.
In contrast, transferable points generally don’t expire as long as your account remains open and in good standing. That means you won’t have to keep track of when you last logged activity in each loyalty program or take action to keep dormant rewards from expiring.
4. Transferable points offer lucrative transfer bonuses
Most transfers to airline and hotel partners are done at a 1:1 ratio, so transferring typically gets you the same number of rewards you put in.
For example, transferring 1,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points to United Airlines gets you 1,000 United miles, or transferring 1,000 Citi ThankYou Rewards points to Wyndham Hotels gets you 1,000 Wyndham points. While exchange rates vary depending on the loyalty program and credit card you’re using, a 1:1 transfer ratio is the industry standard.
However, transferable points programs offer occasional transfer bonuses that boost the exchange rate, commonly by 20%-50%. Instead of the usual 1:1, every 1,000 points you transfer with a bonus could get you 1,200 to 1,500 points with the partner program (or in some cases, more).
These higher exchange rates can save you points when a transfer bonus aligns with your travel plans, since booking the trip you want requires fewer transferable points than it would normally.
Transfer bonuses also create opportunities to top up your loyalty account balances by sending points to the programs you use most (even if you don’t have immediate plans to redeem them).
5. Transferable points reduce the risk of devaluation
Loyalty programs change over time, and while they sometimes add features, lower award prices or introduce new redemption options that make rewards more valuable, the opposite is more common.
Devaluations are a regular occurrence among airline and hotel programs and sometimes take place with no warning. When your points or miles are suddenly in decline, you have little recourse.
Transferable points programs aren’t immune from devaluations; they add, remove and modify features just like airline and hotel programs.
However, transferable points are insulated from devaluation by the sheer number of available redemption options — when a single airline or hotel program devalues, other transfer partners are unaffected, so transferable points retain the bulk of their worth.
In short, earning transferable points is the award travel equivalent of diversifying investments: By having a share of many loyalty programs, you’re less affected by a downturn in one of them.
6. Transferable points offer alternative redemption options
Transfers to airline and hotel partners tend to be the most valuable use of rewards, but transferable points programs feature a variety of other ways to redeem them.
One is to book flights, hotels or other travel directly through the program’s travel portal, especially with programs that offer added value for travel portal redemptions. For example, Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders get 1.5 cents per point when redeeming through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
NerdWallet Rating
Annual fee
$550
Some programs also offer added value when redeeming for cash equivalents like statement credits or gift cards. For example, the American Express Platinum Card for Schwab lets you redeem Membership Rewards points at 1.1 cents apiece for cash deposits to an eligible Charles Schwab account. Terms apply.
Even though cashing out yields a lower average return than transfers to travel partners, it’s nice to be given the option when you need it, as it’s one you generally don’t have with other points and miles programs.
Why you should be using transferable points
Among travel rewards, transferable points have the best chance to provide useful redemption options, yield a high return and retain their value over time.
That’s why they’re broadly prized above rewards from individual airline and hotel programs, and why earning them should be the focus of your award travel strategy.
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 2024, including those best for: