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

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

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

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

1. Earn outsized cash back on wellness purchases and more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Transportation: Including boat, motorcycle and snowmobile dealers. 

  • Discount stores: Including Walmart, Target and others.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who doesn’t want to be rewarded?

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

4. Receive an instant virtual card number

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

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

5. There’s no sign-up bonus

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

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

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

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

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

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

Hyatt Place Panama City Beach / Beachfront

Panama City Beach, Florida, USA

HYATT

Best for: Staying beachfront in Panama City Beach.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort

Orlando, Florida, USA

MICHAEL STAVARIDIS/HYATT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Downtown, San Diego, California, USA

MANCHESTER GRAND HYATT SAN DIEGO/ZACH BENSON/FACEBOOK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best hotels in San Diego

Thompson Chicago

Gold Coast, Chicago, Illinois, USA

THOMPSON CHICAGO/FACEBOOK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The 17 best Chicago hotels

Hyatt Regency Seattle

Seattle, Washington, USA

TAGGART COJAN SORENSEN/HYATT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MGM Grand

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

MGM GRAND/MGM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Andaz Mexico City Condesa

Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City, Mexico

HYATT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alila Fort Bishangarh

Bishangarh Village, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

HYATT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile

Paris, France

HYATT REGENCY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Park Hyatt Jakarta

Jakarta, Indonesia

HYATT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: The 23 best Hyatt hotels in the world

Hyatt Regency Tokyo

Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

HYATT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui

Kowloon, Hong Kong

HYATT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: What is World of Hyatt elite status worth?

Andaz Bali

Sanur, Bali, Indonesia

HYATT

Best for: A relaxing holiday that feels authentically Balinese.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: 5 easy ways to maximize Hyatt award redemptions

Source: thepointsguy.com

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After spending months working 60 or 70 hours per week, realizing that life is all too short, and preparing for our kids to come home, it’s time for a new financial paradigm of my own: I’m semi-retiring.

I had always been perplexed by those who, say, retired early to travel to exotic locations. I like working and don’t really like traveling, so my dreams involved some sort of fulfilling employment until I couldn’t work anymore. I’m the life of the party, I know.

But then two or three years ago, I read about a guy who took a year off from full-time employment and I thought, what if?

What if I (or my husband) could take a year or two off from full-time employment? Or work part-time for a few years? Or work six months out of the year? Is that possible and would we want to?

Maybe and probably.

So over the last 2.5 years, my husband and I crafted a plan to send at least one of us, if not both of us, into temporary, semi-retirement once our kids arrived. Ideally, we would be financially independent with no need for earning monthly income, but… yeah, we knew that wouldn’t happen. So what we needed was a job (or jobs) with very flexible and part-time hours, jobs that would allow us to help our kids transition to a new culture, and jobs that paid enough to keep the lights on.

The First Laps

Before you dive into semi-retirement, take care of the basics.

1. Decrease debt load. The more debt you have, the more money you will need to have in semi-retirement. By now, any non-mortgage debt is a distant memory. Our monthly mortgage payment is significant, so our semi-retirement income needed to be at least four times our housing costs.

2. Increase savings. Because you’re taking a break from full-time employment (and perhaps from IRA or 401(k) contributions), you need to be creative with retirement savings. On the other hand, if you get used to living on less, maybe you don’t need as much in full retirement. We’ve been contributing to Roth and traditional IRAs for over a decade. Plus, we have an emergency fund. If we didn’t have those things, decreasing our income would require more radical sacrifices.

3. Increase income. Before you semi-retire, earning more can help you decrease your debt and increase your savings. Earning more is not always possible for everyone, but this is the reason we are able to semi-retire.

The Middle of the Race

The next step is to calculate how much money you’ll really need in semi-retirement. Some expenses (like transportation costs and work clothes) will decrease. Others (utilities and health insurance) will increase. Once we knew how much money we needed, we started looking for the money to replace our full-time income.

We don’t have real estate and with very little investment income, we knew that money must come from part-time employment.

I first sought opportunities as a subject matter expert so I could maximize my income-earning potential. But I also wanted jobs that matched our new lifestyle goals: something that could be done mostly at home with very flexible hours. Fortunately, I found a side job that fit all those criteria.

While we still had some lifestyle inflation with our increased income, having a goal kept us mostly on track. As I mentioned, our goal was to stop full-time employment when our kids come home. (We are still waiting on paperwork approval. Hopefully soon!)

The Finish Line

As of today, we are making enough “semi-retirement” income to pay our bills, not counting our full-time incomes. It does mean that our 2014 income will be closer to our 2005 levels, but we are okay with that for a couple of years or more. We are confident that we can do this because we’re already living close to the semi-retirement income level.

Even though this means we’ll have to be very careful with our spending, we’re still excited. The best thing is this opportunity allows us more flexibility to spend time with our kids. We’ve missed out on too many years of their lives already. We should also have more time to do DIY projects on our little farm and start that business I have always wanted.

I’ll be honest with you, though. The last couple of years have been stressful in many ways. I’ve spent a lot of time with my laptop and not as much time with my husband — and I know it’s time that I can’t get back. Our lives felt out of balance, and there were times when I wondered if our goal was worth it.

And I had other questions, too. Did I want to quit my job? I have never had a job I loved more. Were we creating more stress by cutting our salaries… even though we would have more time to spend with our kids? What would an indefinite break do to my career? We would be leaving behind company-provided benefits like a retirement plan and health insurance. The real question? Are we crazy?

The Next Race

Maybe we are crazy, but if we don’t enjoy semi-retirement, we have options. I’m leaving my job on good terms, and it’s possible there may be a similar job opening there in a couple of years. Or, because I’m a specialist, I should be able to find a similar job at another institution if necessary.

Semi-retirement isn’t for everyone. But having your financial ducks in a row gives you options. Maybe you can cut your schedule to four days a week. Maybe you can take six months off to travel. Or take a job that pays less but you love more.

In the meantime, I’ll test the semi-retirement water for you.

Source: getrichslowly.org

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

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

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

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

The best and worst days to fly July Fourth weekend

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

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

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

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

Pre-holiday:

  1. Friday before.

  2. Thursday before.

  3. Monday before.

Post-holiday:

  1. Sunday after.

  2. Monday after.

  3. Thursday after.

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

Pre-holiday:

  1. Saturday before.

  2. Tuesday before.

  3. Sunday before.

Post-holiday:

  1. Saturday after.

  2. Friday after.

  3. Wednesday after.

The smarter, cheaper Fourth of July travel itinerary

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

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

Try these travel days instead:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to maximize your rewards

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

Source: nerdwallet.com

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A great neighborhood is more than just its location, location, location.

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The best places to live are convenient and appealing in a number of ways — some of which you might not typically think about.

Here’s our guide to six factors that add a particular wow factor to a locale, the qualities which can make a neighborhood a really great place to live.

Culture & entertainment
Where do you take your family and friends when they come to visit from out-of-town? Think about the places you both enjoy personally and also enjoy sharing to understand just how important culture and entertainment options are in a great neighborhood. Simply put, the best neighborhoods are places where there’s lots of stuff to do — like enjoy the coolest new restaurants, browse a museum, catch a play or concert, grab a beer, or go for a hike. The best, hippest neighborhoods offer a variety of options that make living there ever-interesting.

Social gathering spots
Great neighborhoods reflect the people living there, and that’s why social interaction is an important factor in the best communities. These places offer opportunities for neighbors to get to know each another in public spaces. These opportunities can be created by walkable sidewalks, benches on street corners, patio dining and other social spots where people can interact.

The Garden District in New Orleans is noted as a great neighborhood by the American Planning Association. The neighborhood's historical residences and beautiful live oak trees lend a stunning visual appeal.
The Garden District in New Orleans is noted as a great neighborhood by the American Planning Association. The neighborhood’s historical residences and beautiful live oak trees lend a stunning visual appeal.

Visual interest
According to the American Planning Association (APA), a non-profit organization dedicated to the growth of better communities, visual interest is an important factor in a great neighborhood. By APA standards, a great neighborhood is one that features interesting architecture and design, such as historically-preserved homes or sculptures made by local artists.

Great neighborhoods are comfortable and appealing. They feature intriguing storefronts, clean streets with good lighting, and flowers and trees that look inviting. The visual interest these qualities create is important because it beckons people to hang out in the neighborhood — and come back again and again.

Convenient amenities
You might have the most beautiful apartment home imaginable, but if it’s not situated near the amenities and services you prefer, you may soon feel that something’s missing. That’s why the Project for Public Spaces (PPS), a non-profit organization, considers the “Power of 10” one of the most important features in a great neighborhood. The Power of 10 refers to the ten most important places any resident needs in a neighborhood: places like a handy supermarket, walking park, or favorite spot to grab a snack. These are the most important, useful and fun places in a great neighborhood, according to you!

Accessibility
Great neighborhoods are also easy to get in and out of, serving residents and visitors with a network of organized streets and alternate methods of transportation. They’re walkable, bikeable or drivable places where it’s easy to get around.

Memorable character
All of these great neighborhood factors add up to memorable character: the essence of a place that makes it really stand out from the rest of the city’s surroundings. Memorable character is what fosters a sense of pride in a place. For the residents of that community, there will always be stories to tell of life lived there.

Photo credit: Shutterstock / Creativemarc, Natalia Bratslavsky

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Step into a realm of unparalleled vacation rental mastery, where insider secrets await to catapult your property to five-star excellence. In this Redfin article, we explore these closely guarded secrets that will elevate your guests’ experience during their stay at your vacation rental

Whether you’ve already established your venture on Airbnb and VRBO, or are beginning to enter the industry in unique destinations, like the beautiful shores of Virginia Beach or the charming community of Katy, Texas, our guide will equip you with distinct strategies to unlock your property’s true potential. Ready to transform your vacation rental into an enchanting sanctuary where guests revel in unforgettable moments and glowing reviews naturally follow?

Luxury Apartment With Private Pool

1. Become an informed and successful host in the travel and hospitality industry

Heather Bayer from Vacation Rental Formula states, “The moment you exchange your accommodation for money, you have entered the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry. It is not a passive business. Gain comprehensive knowledge through continuous learning: engage in networking, read industry-related materials, listen to informative podcasts, attend conferences, and enroll in relevant courses. Being the best-educated host on the block will be the key to your success.”

2. Set the stage for a memorable stay in the first 10 minutes

“The first 10 minutes of your guests’ stay is pivotal to their overall experience,” says Heather. “Ensure entry is easy, the temperature is right, it looks just like the photos, it smells fresh, the Wi-Fi code is prominently displayed, and there is a welcome message.” 

3. Leverage the pre-stay period by sharing your local knowledge and expertise

“Don’t leave your guests wandering in tumbleweed time,” says Heather. “This is the period between booking and the stay when travelers are eagerly anticipating their vacation, yet most hosts and managers ignore this opportunity to share their local knowledge and expertise. Share your best recommendations for restaurants, tours, activities, and events way before your guests arrive. They will be able to plan and make reservations and avoid the disappointment of finding the things they want to do are sold out.

Woman packing suitcase for summer trip, including face masks and travel-sized antibacterial hand gels

4. Make a direct booking website for your vacation rental

“Savvy owners and managers are creating content-rich websites that serve as a showcase for their location,” shares Heather. “They no longer rely on the big platforms to deliver their guests – instead, guests are being encouraged to book directly for the best value and experience.”

6. Control the guest experience by owning the entire rental stack

“In our experience, the key to maintaining a five-star rental property lies in a balanced blend of hospitality, high-quality amenities, and efficient communication. Our motto is ‘Strive not just to meet, but exceed guest expectations,’” says Murat Gocmen from MG Vacation Rentals.

“Owning the entire stack, from the cleaning company to the hot tub cleaning and snow plowing businesses, is a cornerstone of our vacation rental management strategy. It allows us to ensure an exceptional level of service and quality that’s consistent across all aspects of a guest’s experience. 

Our hot tub cleaning company makes sure that this popular amenity is always in top condition, while our snow plowing company ensures clear and safe access to the property regardless of the weather, and our in-house professional cleaning service is employed after each stay to ensure a thoroughly cleaned and comfortable experience for the next guest.

By controlling these critical services, we have the ability to directly address any potential issues swiftly, maintain high standards, and uphold our promise of a pristine environment for every guest.”

MG Vacation Rentals property in a mountainous area with a cabin like feel

In Courtesy of MG Vacation Rentals – North Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental Management Company

7. Address guest’s needs promptly

“Our most successful strategy for ensuring guest satisfaction and positive reviews has always been proactive communication,” insists Murat. “We believe in the power of listening to our guests’ needs and promptly addressing any concerns. This creates a trust-based relationship that often results in repeat bookings and glowing reviews.” 

8. Personalize your amenities

“We’ve found that offering personalized amenities, like local coffee or guidebooks for local attractions, adds a special touch that enhances the guest experience. These thoughtful extras show guests that we care about their stay and are invested in making it memorable,” recommends Murat.

9. Provide feedback-driven improvements

“The main focus of creating a five-star rental experience lies in continuous improvement based on valuable guest feedback. While meticulous upkeep and personalized service are crucial, understanding guests’ unspoken needs and consistently enhancing your property based on their input is key,” shares Lotus West Properties. 

“By prioritizing immaculate cleanliness and providing amenities that offer a true ‘home-away-from-home’ experience, you establish a strong foundation for guest satisfaction. Moreover, incorporating a personal touch, maintaining open communication, and actively implementing improvements based on feedback become the pillars of a rewarding and unforgettable rental experience for your guests.”

10. Deliver impeccable cleanliness

“As a frequent traveler and hospitality industry professional, I leverage specific elements to create a wow factor that ensures an exceptional experience for my guests. Anyone can provide basic accommodation, but to maintain a five-star experience, I always want to ensure immaculate cleanliness,” says  ResortCleaning. “Guests should have peace of mind that your rental is cleaned to the highest standards.”

Shot of a couple relaxing in the chairs at a balcony

11. Shift your focus from ratings to guest care and unique experiences

“My first advice is to stop pursuing five-star ratings. It makes you one-dimensional. Instead, make it clear that your top priority is to genuinely welcome and care for your guests,” insists founding member Alan Colley of Host2Host and co-owner of Summit Prairie. “Caring is the secret sauce of superior hosts. Do your honest best to ‘sell the sizzle’ that makes your place one where a guest feels comfortable and enthusiastic about telling others why they chose you.”

12. Build a top-notch management team for the unexpected

“In my opinion, to maintain a five-star rental managed by a property management team, it is essential to uphold the highest cleaning standards, incorporate pre-checks between cleaning crews and guest check-ins, hire experienced reservationists for top-notch guest communication, and ensure the amenities are delivered as advertised,” recommends Reservation Specialists. 

“Setting accurate expectations is critical. In case of unexpected circumstances, maintaining upbeat and positive communication is essential, along with providing alternative options if advertised amenities are unavailable.” 

13. Have a single, dedicated point of contact for guests that can streamline communication between all channels

“The key to maintaining a five-star rental property goes well beyond mere upkeep and starts with having a dedicated point of contact for seamless communication,” suggests Jim Lagan from Home Realty LLC. “From there, having a mindset for meticulous maintenance, an unwavering focus on cleanliness, and a commitment to providing swift resolutions is what creates an exceptional experience for every guest or resident.” 

14. Creating unforgettable stays goes beyond cleanliness with thoughtful details

“When it comes to running a five-star rental, it’s the details that make the difference. Immaculate cleanliness, combined with thoughtful touches like curated amenities, crafts an unforgettable guest experience,” explains Soda Stays. “It’s more than just maintaining high cleaning standards. It’s about putting your heart and soul into creating an environment where guests don’t just stay, they feel valued and appreciated. This unwavering dedication not only ensures an exceptional stay but also engraves an unforgettable experience.” 

Modern patio next to swimming pool

15. Manage your guest’s expectations

“I’ve managed everything from mansions in Malibu to cabins in the woods, but the best thing you can do for five-star ratings is manage guest expectations,” recommends Jeff Iloulian, CEO of HostGPO. “You should take great photos and your place should look like the photos. Is there anything guests should know about your place? Send them a message to let them know in advance. Share the amenities you provide in your listing so guests know what will be there for their stay.” 

16. Provide the guests with a guidebook and all essential information about their stay

“I’ve found that answering all guests’ questions before they even have a chance to ask them through the use of a digital guidebook such as Touchstay, is essential,” says Avery Carl from The Short Term Shop. “Many guests are traveling in the evening to an area they are unfamiliar with, and having a resource prior to arrival that provides them with all the necessary information, such as the nearest grocery store and the type of coffee maker in the rental, can really take the stress off of guests after a long day of travel.”

17. The importance of high-quality products in vacation rental properties

“High-quality and durable products are crucial in a vacation rental property as they enhance the guest experience and reduce operational hassles. By providing reliable appliances, comfortable and well-kept furniture, and durable fixtures, vacation rental owners can ensure guest satisfaction, receive positive reviews, and minimize the need for frequent repairs or replacements,” insists Minoan Experience. “This not only leads to repeat bookings but also contributes to the long-term success and profitability of the vacation rental property.”

18. Positively set the ground rules 

“One of the biggest keys to keeping any rental – as in not getting banned – is ensuring your guests behave respectfully in your community,” says Alexa Nota, Co-Founder and COO of Rent Responsibly. “Frame your house rules positively but clearly before guests arrive so they know what to expect. For example, for noise hours, you can say, ‘We love our neighbors and our neighborhood, so we kindly ask all guests to honor local quiet hours of 10 AM to 7 AM.’

Another tip is to offer an alternative. If you can’t accommodate many cars, for example, recommend a great parking area nearby so guests don’t park where it disrupts nearby homes.”

Personalized welcome note from a host given to a renter

19. Quick tips for managing your vacation rental listing 

Lifty Life provides a straightforward list of tips and tricks with managing rental vacation properties “to enhance the guest experience and satisfaction”:

  • Clear and accurate property descriptions: Provide detailed and accurate information about your vacation rental in your listings. Highlight the unique features, amenities, and any restrictions or limitations. Use high-quality photos that showcase the property’s best aspects.
  • Transparent communication: Be transparent about your rental policies, pricing, and any additional fees. Clear communication helps build trust and ensures guests have the necessary information before booking.
  • Thoughtful welcome pack: Create a welcome pack or basket that includes small but meaningful items such as bottled water, snacks, local maps, and guides. You can also leave a handwritten note to greet guests upon arrival. These small gestures make guests feel welcomed and appreciated.
  • Guest feedback and reviews: Encourage guests to leave feedback and reviews after their stay. Positive reviews can attract more guests, while constructive feedback helps you identify areas for improvement. Respond to reviews promptly and professionally, addressing any concerns or issues raised.
  • Flexibility and personalization: Whenever possible, try to accommodate special requests or preferences from your guests. This could include flexible check-in/check-out times, arranging transportation, or offering additional services like grocery shopping before their arrival. Personalized touches can leave a lasting impression.
  • 24/7 support: Provide a reliable point of contact for guests in case of emergencies or any issues that may arise during their stay. Make sure they have access to a phone number or email address they can use to reach you at any time.

20. Invest in your vacation rental

“The number one trick to keeping your property rated as a five-star rental is understanding that, as owners, we must be willing to invest each year in the upkeep and maintenance of our properties,” suggests Norman Block from Block & Associates Realty. “Everyone who buys a car knows and expects that they will spend money annually to maintain the vehicle and protect their investment in that car. Yet, when it comes to rental homes, I am always amazed that landlords are reluctant to do the same. 

Every property owner should expect to spend somewhere around a fourth to a half percent of the property value annually for repairs, fix-ups, and improvements. Real estate properties are most people’s biggest assets and these properties often carry our largest debts.”

family walking outdoors at beach house

Source: redfin.com

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The town of Newton, Massachusetts is working to comply with a new state law that requires the construction of new multifamily housing units in areas served by public transit, according to reporting from the Boston Globe.

The law, which went into effect in early February, requires 177 communities served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to eliminate barriers that could restrict the zoning and construction of multifamily housing units.

As of February, just seven of the 175 initial communities that were required to submit preliminary compliance plans had failed to do so by the initial deadline.

“This new law requires that an MBTA community shall have at least one zoning district of reasonable size in which multi-family housing is permitted as of right and meets other criteria set forth in the statute,” according to information posted by the state government.

Other criteria include a minimum density of at least 15 units per acre; that a development be located no more than one-half mile from a transportation hub (such as a commuter rail station, ferry terminal, subway station or ferry terminal); and that the units have no age restrictions and are suitable for families with children.

However, the debate in Newton could be more contentious than in other parts of the state, according to the Globe.

“Newton, one of the region’s wealthiest enclaves, has to zone for more new units under the state rezoning law, MBTA Communities, than almost any other community,” the article states. “Should the rezoning overcome fledgling resident opposition and pass by the end-of-year deadline, it could serve as a model for other communities and represent a major turning point in the city’s attitude toward multifamily housing.”

The median home price for a single-family home in the area is $1.6 million, according to data from Warren Group.

The debate is due in large part to the way Newton is currently zoned, which is primarily for single-family homes. Some apartments have been constructed in recent years, but the construction level has been low.

Between 2010 and 2020, roughly 1,100 new housing units were added in Newton, accounting for just over 3% of the area’s total housing stock. This has led Newton to have some of the highest housing prices in the state.

In addition to the price concerns, most multifamily construction has been concentrated in commercial areas in recent years.

The current proposal would add an estimated 10,000 new units, depending on parking requirements, which is well above the 8,330 units mandated by the new law. The new unit construction would also impact only 3% of Newton’s land and is not expected to impact existing single-family neighborhoods.

This is the latest step being taken at the state level to temper the housing supply shortages occurring nationwide. In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul is pushing the state’s government to override local zoning laws and mandate more housing construction in the state’s suburban counties.

In Washington state, Gov. Jay Inslee recently signed a series of bills designed to spur more affordable housing construction, including through the elimination of single-family zoning. Similar measures have been introduced in states like Florida and Minnesota, but have ultimately been reversed.

Source: housingwire.com

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The 5 Star Life Insurance Company has been in the business if providing their customers with quality life insurance coverage since 1996. The company is an enterprise of the Armed Forces Benefit Association (AFBA), and it is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia.

Its parent company, AFBA, was initially founded in 1947, with the assistance of Army General, Dwight D. Eisenhower. This company was established to help with easing the strain on military members, as well as their families, during times of war. At that time, members of the U.S. military were not allowed to buy life insurance that would pay out the death benefit proceeds if the member was killed in a war zone.

AFBA had its initial headquarters in the basement of the Pentagon building in Washington, DC, and for the next 70 years, the company served the Armed Forces during times of both war and peace. The motto of AFBA is, “Serving those who serve this great nation.”

The Armed Forces Benefit Association is still considered to be a growing company. This insurer provides supplemental and voluntary life insurance coverage to the work site/group markets. It also offers individual life insurance via the senior market.

5 Star Life Insurance Company Review

5 star life insurance company reviewBeing a related enterprise of AFBA, 5 Star Life Insurance Company has its main offices in Virginia (although it is considered to be domiciled in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Today, this company has approximately $41 billion of insurance in force, and it insures more than 800,000 lives.

Based on the 2016 Independent Comparative Report, the company is considered to be strong and stable financially, and it exceeds life insurance industry averages regarding its liquidity ratio, net premiums to capital, capital and surplus to liabilities, and percent of investment portfolio investment grade.

The 5 Star Life Insurance Company has a key focus on providing life insurance coverage. It does so via independent brokers and producers. This coverage can be customized to fit the needs of its policyholders.

Life Insurance Products Offered By 5 Star Life Insurance Company

The 5 Star Life Insurance Company has a focus on offering its products in two specific markets. These include offering term life insurance coverage to employer groups. This coverage can help with providing financial protection to employees’ families.

The company also has a key focus on providing simplified issue whole life insurance in the senior market. This coverage can help with covering the insured’s funeral and other final expenses.  It is also good for people who are in poor health or who may be looking for a smokers life insurance policy without the higher rates.

Work Site Insurance Coverage Offered Via 5 Star Life Insurance Company

The company offers a specific suite of coverage for the worksite market. These products offer competitive premium rates, and they are primarily geared toward small and mid-sized employers. All of these products are sold through an employer or an association.

The primary product that is offered is the Basic Life and AD&D (accidental death and dismemberment). Adding these products can help employees to enhance the group life insurance that they already have. It does so by offering additional benefits, along with coverage for a spouse and/or children.

Some of the highlights of these worksite basic life and AD&D include the fact that the coverage is guaranteed issue. This means that if at least ten employees apply, then an individual cannot be turned down for the coverage – even if he or she has an adverse health condition.

The coverage also offers an emergency death benefit payment. This means that up to $15,000 will be mailed out to the policy’s beneficiary within one business day of notification to help loved ones with immediate expenses.

This particular coverage is portable, meaning that even if the employee or member leaves the group, the coverage can continue – without the individual having to provide evidence of insurability (provided that the premium continues to be paid).

There are some nice advantages for employees or members who apply for this worksite/voluntary coverage.

Including the following:

  • There are dedicated case managers at 5 Star Life Insurance Company who will work with insureds and their beneficiaries. This can make the process of coverage and claims easier for people, as there is just one specific point of contact for all of their questions or concerns.
  • The billing is also easy when it comes to the payment of the premium. There are up to 15 different premium modes that are available, which include direct billing for ported policies.
  • For the employer or association that is offering this coverage, the company offers tailored reporting and billing reconciliation that can conveniently fit the employer’s needs.
  • Individuals are also allowed to enroll and to pay their premiums online.

Final Expense Life Insurance Products Offered By 5 Star Life Insurance Company

The company also offers final expense life insurance. These policies are geared towards paying for funeral and other final expenses – and the coverage can be extremely helpful for a person’s loved ones.

Today, the cost of a funeral can exceed $10,000 in some areas. This is especially the case when adding in items such as a burial plot, a headstone, flowers, transportation, and other related costs. In many cases, a person may also not have medical expenses that are not covered by his or her regular health insurance policy. So, a final expense life insurance policy can also help loved ones to pay off these bills.

The 5 Star Life Insurance Company offers several plans under the name of Silver Premier Choice. These are focused on insureds who are typically between the ages of 50 and 85 years old.

Some of the key highlights of these plans include:

  • Death benefit protection of between $5,000 and $25,000. The amount of the coverage on these plans is guaranteed never to go down – even in light of the insured’s increasing age and / or if they contract an adverse health issue.
  • The premiums on these plans are also quite affordable. The premium is also guaranteed never to increase, regardless of the insured’s age and / or health condition going forward.
  • As long as the premium is paid on these policies, the insurance company cannot cancel the coverage for any reason.
  • The Silver Premier Choice plans are whole life in nature. This means that they will not only provide death benefit coverage, but they will also build up cash value. The cash is allowed to grow on a tax-deferred basis. This means that there is no tax due on the gain that takes place inside of the policy unless or until the funds are withdrawn.
  • There is no medical examination required to qualify for these plans. In fact, many people who apply for this coverage can be approved directly over the phone. And, once they are approved, the coverage will begin on that day.
  • Coverage can last up to a person’s age 121.
  • As with the worksite life insurance plans, these policies also offer an emergency death benefit. This can help to provide funds quickly to loved ones when they need it for final expense and other related costs.

There are two final expense plans that are offered by 5 Star Life Insurance Company. These include the Preferred and the Graded. With the graded plan, the death benefit will not all be paid out at the time of the insured’s passing, if they have only owned the policy for a short time.

As an example, if the insured dies in Year 1, then 30% of the selected death benefit will be paid to the policy’s beneficiary. If the insured dies in Year 2, then 70% of the death benefit will be paid. Once they reach Year 3 – and any time after that – then 100% of the selected death benefit will be paid out when the insured passes away.

There are also several different riders that may be added to the life insurance products offered by 5 Start Life Insurance Company.

Including:

  • Terminal Illness Rider – This plan will pay out 30% (in most states) of the death benefit in a lump sum if the insured is diagnosed with a covered terminal illness and is given a limited life span of fewer than 12 months.
  • TI Air Rider – This is an automatic coverage increase rider that can be purchased for as low as an additional $1 per week by the policyholder.
  • Quality of Life Rider – This rider will accelerate a portion of the death benefit on a monthly basis – 3% or 4% – each month if the insured is faced with a chronic medical condition that requires continuous care. The insured can receive up to 75% of the death benefit in total.
  • Waiver of Premium Rider – If the insured is totally disabled due to sickness or accident, then after a six-month waiting period, the policy’s premiums will be waived.
  • Critical Illness Rider This rider will pay out 30% of the policy’s coverage in the event that the insured has a heart attack, life-threatening cancer, stroke or other specific diagnoses.

Source: goodfinancialcents.com