Best Budget Travel Accessories | Value Products & Inexpensive Essentials For Your Next Trip

HOSTED BY: https://onebagtravel.club

TODAY'S VIDEO

We take a look at some of the best budget travel accessories, value products, and inexpensive essentials you need for your next trip. View Our Full Budget Packing List: https://packhacker.com/packing-list/budget/

0:00 - Intro
1:23 - Quechua Packable Backpack https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/quechua/ultra-compact-packable-backpack/
2:14 - Quechua Travel Waist Pack https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/quechua/ultra-compact-travel-waist-pack/
3:14 - Casio F-91W Digital Watch https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/casio/casio-f-91w-digital-watch/
4:08 - Panasonic ErgoFit Earbuds https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/panasonic/ergofit-earbuds/
4:43 - Amazon Fire 7 Tablet https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/amazon/fire-7-tablet/
5:46 - Nite Ize QuikStand https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/nite-ize/quikstand-mobile-device-stand/
6:45 - AmazonBasics Travel Passport Wallet https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/amazonbasics/rfid-travel-passport-wallet/
7:50 - IKEA KNALLBAGE Accessory Bags https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/ikea/knallbage-accessory-bags/
8:22 - Ziploc Quart Sized Bag https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/ziploc/quart-sized-bag/
8:41 - Muji Portable Hairbrush https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/muji/portable-hairbrush/
8:55 - Muji Folding Travel Comb https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/muji/folding-travel-comb/
9:06 - Muji Earplugs With Case https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/muji/earplugs-with-case/
9:27 - Muji Portable Sewing Set https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/muji/portable-sewing-set/
9:46 - Muji S-Shape Travel Hook https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/muji/s-shape-travel-hook/

We’ve tried and tested every single item on this list across different countries and continents. Some for a few years. And we’re confident we’ve found the best of the budget gear. Now, to be clear, the following items aren’t exactly innovative. They probably won’t be durable enough to pass along to your grandchildren either—although we’ve been pleasantly surprised with a few of them.

If you can afford it, we suggest mixing and matching budget gear with a few investment pieces. That way, you won’t have to worry about all of your gear breaking on you at once—in a foreign country no less—and can slowly build a collection of durable gear you’ll be able to travel with for years to come.

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Women’s Digital Nomad Packing List: https://youtu.be/khX2ZlsDMes
AmazonBasics Slim Travel Backpack Weekender Review: https://youtu.be/RX-nCzBDQ5M
The Ultimate Digital Nomad Packing List: https://youtu.be/mGvHt4blPDc
10 Minimalist Packing Tips For Your Next Trip: https://youtu.be/HhaJBpNr5zs
View more travel gear reviews on our website: https://packhacker.com/travel-gear/

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By: Pack Hacker
Title: Best Budget Travel Accessories | Value Products & Inexpensive Essentials For Your Next Trip
Sourced From: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1LeOhJht80

Long Distance Longboarding: Getting Started With Travel Skating

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

Long Distance Longboarding: Getting Started With Travel Skating

Longboarding is a fantastic sport equivalent to skateboarding, but longer and more extensive. Long-distance longboarding is more fun and easier to pick up. If you’re disciplined enough, you can do long-distance longboarding with ease. Longboarding can be your speedy transportation than walking or jogging. By following great tips, you can start long distance longboarding.

By adding fun fitness to your life, you can use a longboard for a long-distance journey. Before going for long-distance longboarding, you should be technically skilled as well as physical fitness is required to travel. 

You’ll need a lot of practice, skills, preparation, and a good quality longboard. A longboard can provide you with environmental flexibility in your daily activities. Just commit sure that you pick the best longboard. Here we’ve gathered all the important tips and tricks to start your long-distance longboarding expedition.

What Is Long Distance Longboarding?

The term “long-distance longboarding” refers to riding over a long distance for commutes or for travel. This type of longboarding needs some discipline, a bit of skill as well as good body conditioning. 

Some longboarders take this as a sport, cover thousands of miles, and travel cities, states, and countries. Long-distance longboarding is far different from skating, typical cruising. It requires a good physical balance and skills too.

Long-Distance Longboarding Challenges

Before you try long-distance longboarding, you should know a few tricks. Try to find a longboard that will match your needs correctly. There are so many styles of longboard you’ll get on the market. A good longboard under $100 can give extra potential while riding long distances. 

Here, we’ve described some basic tricks that will help you while commuting long-distance longboarding-

Physically Challenging

Commuting long-distance longboarding can be exhausting due to the skating alone or if the road is rough. If you’re among those people who do not have enough stamina to do this type of physically challenging activity, think twice before starting. 

If you want to improve your physical stamina before beginning your journey, do some training or exercises. These will prepare your body to do this longboard with proper discipline. Also, you can take vitamins as well as other supplements to improve your health conditions. If this is your first time doing anything, consult your physician before beginning.

It Involves More Challenges, Skills, and Moves

As we said before, long-distance longboarding is far different from typical commuting that people do on a regular basis. This type of longboarding requires more pumping and pushing.

Long-Distance Longboarding Gear

If you’re serious about long-distance longboarding, you should learn about its gears. When performing different techniques, you should know the proper setup. 

Long-Distance Longboard Deck and Shape

Choose a deck as low as the ground; thus, your kicking foot will touch the ground with ease. It’ll reflex your knee less together and you can squat on the other leg.  

When you’re doing LDP, the best deck will be the dropped deck for you. Be attentive while riding this type of deck as they are such a low deck it can touch the ground while riding over bumps. They can also get scratched too. 

Another attention of a longboard is flex; when you choose a stiffer deck, it’ll give you enough stability and control. On the other hand, this will provide suspension and will help you to absorb bumps and vibrations from the road. This will provide a comfortable LDP ride for you. 

If you’re a serious rider to do LDP, then the formula 1 bracket setup is for you. Despite that, regular maple or composite decks will be more accessible and cost-effective than bracket setups.  This can be the best choice for all the LDPers.

Long-Distance Longboard Trucks

Most Long-distance longboarders are comfortable using Randal trucks which are also known as pushing trucks. Many riders want to run narrower trucks; because of this, the wheels stick out less. Some riders select regular 180 mm trucks. For better-pushing 50º trucks, the front together with the tear will work better.

Wheels

Your wheel size plays a significant role while riding a longboard, so choose wheels with a durometer between 78a to 85a. If you’re going to do long-distance commuting, bigger longboard wheels will be better for you. The ideal size for wheels is 75 mm to 85 mm, but as your wheels get bigger, you get more roll speed and momentum. 

Expect to Ride for Hours

Take your time to prepare prior to starting your ride. Some riders plan to ride from one city to another, so you have to ride for a couple of hours. Many riders ride more than a half-day sometimes.

Workout and Transportation in One

Commuting a longboard will help you go for the place as well as it can be a good workout for you. This can be strength training along with a cardio workout for you.

ccessible to Newbies

Almost everyone can learn push racing with some simple steps. This learning period for longboarding is concise. And that’s why an amateur can learn these skills quickly.

Long-Distance Longboarding Techniques

Here are some techniques we’ve gathered together that you should try during long-distance longboarding-

Long-Distance Pushing

The considerable range of weight you have to put on your front leg. The weight you give to your front leg will affect the smoothness and stability of your ride. The height of your board will impact how much inclination you have to do and how your knees should bend on your ride.

Pushing Pattern

In long-distance longboarding, you have to know different kinds of pushing to alternate them in your ride.

Normal Pushing

This is the most regular stance in which you use your back foot to push. 

Mongo Pushing

Place your back foot on the deck and use your front foot to push. This is almost the usual pushing.

Switch Pushing

Here you should be in the opposite stance in switch pushing. Push with your front foot towards the back while placing your back foot forward.

Skogging

This technique is named after the combination of skating and jogging. In this, you can alternatively use both feet to cover the distances, which are the same as jogging.

Long-Distance Pumping

You set your body in motion on the longboard when you turn on a place without touching the floor. Thus, you transfer your body weight to the front and back. This technique is like forming your body in S-shape while riding. Your body motions will cause the weight to shift from side to side.

Stopping 

The last thing about riding on the longboard, knows how to stop it. It’s essential to know foot breaking, dragging your foot to the floor to shed speed. Sliding or even speed checks are a critical way to control your speed. You require enough space to throw a slider.

Commuting Tips 

If you’re a seasoned longboard, then you can cover up to 50 miles in a day. When you decide to do commuting on the road, best to prefer bike paths and back roads which have lower traffic. You can even select sidewalks with fewer cracks and holes. Before crossing the streets, make sure you look around before riding off.

Wrapping Up

Long-distance longboarding is popular among people nowadays. If you have enough willingness to maintain discipline, you’ll not regret joining a longboarding lifestyle. Doing long-distance longboarding can be helpful for your mental and physical endurance. 

Maintaining all the basic things before going out for longboarding any time is required. Pack a small bag and bring out your longboard. Start your journey with your friends or Google Maps. We’d appreciate your feedback if you encounter any issues in the comment section.

The post Long Distance Longboarding: Getting Started With Travel Skating appeared first on Travel Experta - Travel, Lifestyle, Freedom.

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By: Marina 'Travel Experta'
Title: Long Distance Longboarding: Getting Started With Travel Skating
Sourced From: travelexperta.com/long-distance-longboarding/
Published Date: Wed, 28 Sep 2022 17:23:20 +0000

I have the Chase Sapphire Preferred. What card should I get next?

HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL

If you’ve spent any time around TPG, you know that the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of our most beloved cards. We often recommend it as a great travel rewards card for beginners and travel rewards veterans alike for its solid earning potential, excellent point redemption options and relatively low annual fee.

We love the card so much, in fact, that it made multiple appearances on our list of cards TPG staffers can’t live without.

If (for some reason) you haven’t gotten it yet, make that your next move.

Official application link: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

But if you’ve already listened to us and gotten the Chase Sapphire Preferred, your next card decision might seem more daunting. If you ask a few of us which card you should get next, you’re likely to hear some different answers. It can feel like choosing your next card is really complicated when, in reality, there are just a lot of really good options of cards you can get to take you to the next phase of your points and miles journey.

Today we’re going to break down the three major schools of thought on which card you should get to pair with your trusty Chase Sapphire Preferred.

In This Post

Three approaches

Your options really fall into three categories. You’ll want to get one of these:

A card that earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points.A card that earns points or miles for your favorite Chase transfer partner.A card that earns a different set of transferable points.

There’s no single right answer that applies to everyone, so you’ll want to consider your own situation to identify which makes the most sense.

Related: The power of the Chase Trifecta

Option 1: A card to earn additional Ultimate Rewards points

This is a great choice if you love the options you have to redeem and transfer the Chase Ultimate Rewards points from your Sapphire Preferred. With one of the Chase Freedom cards, you can maximize your spending categories to earn even more of these points from your everyday spending.

On their own, the Chase Freedom Unlimited and Chase Freedom Flex are marketed as cash-back cards. If you also have the Chase Sapphire Preferred, though, you’ll be able to combine your Chase Ultimate Rewards points and transfer them to the full range of Chase transfer partners.

Chase Freedom Unlimited

WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY

Annual fee: $0.

Sign-up bonus: Earn an extra 1.5% on all purchases up to $20,000 spent in your first year.

Rewards rate: Earn 5% on travel booked through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 3% on dining and drugstores, and an unlimited 1.5% on all other purchases.

Why this card pairs well: This card is excellent to pair with your Chase Sapphire Preferred because it earns 1.5% (or points per dollar spent) on all purchases, which is 50% more than the Chase Sapphire Preferred (1 point per dollar spent on purchases outside of its bonus categories).

Even with my own more advanced card portfolio, this is a card I reach for often. It allows me to earn a decent return on purchases that don’t fall under most bonus categories, such as auto repairs and specialty items. With a current bonus of earning an additional 1.5% back on all purchases (up to $20,000 spent) in your first year, it’s a no-brainer for most Chase Sapphire Preferred cardholders.

Related: Chase Freedom Unlimited: A great card for beginners and pros alike

Official application link: Chase Freedom Unlimited

Chase Freedom Flex

Annual fee: $0.

Sign-up bonus: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Rewards rate: 5% (or 5 points per dollar) cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. You’ll also get 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining, and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Why this card pairs well: With this card, you’ll get 5 points per dollar on qualifying purchases in merchant categories and at specific retailers that change each quarter. For example, during the fourth quarter of 2022 (Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2022), the bonus applies to Walmart and PayPal purchases — perfect timing for your upcoming holiday purchases. This card gives you a great way to earn more Chase Ultimate Rewards points on different spending categories.

Related: Chase’s newest cash-back option — Chase Freedom Flex card review

Official application link: Chase Freedom Flex℠

If you find yourself ready to juggle a few cards but want to keep earning Chase Ultimate Rewards points, you can use all three cards (Sapphire Preferred, Freedom Unlimited and Freedom Flex) to maximize your points earning potential on all your purchases. Just be sure to time your applications carefully to maximize the chances of being approved.

Option 2: A card to earn additional points with a Chase transfer partner

If you find yourself consistently transferring your Chase Ultimate Rewards to a specific transfer partner, like United MileagePlus or World of Hyatt, you can get a cobranded card to maximize your points.

United Quest Card

JOHN GRIBBEN/THE POINTS GUY

Annual fee: $250.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Rewards rate: Earn 3 miles per dollar spent on United Airlines purchases (immediately after earning the $125 United purchase credit) and 2 miles per dollar on all other travel, including airfare, trains, local transit, cruise lines, hotels, car rentals, taxicabs, resorts, ride-sharing services and tolls. You’ll also earn 2 miles per dollar on dining and select streaming services and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.

Why this card pairs well: Since United is one of the most valuable Chase travel partners, this card will greatly improve the value you receive when you transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to United. For example, when you have a United Quest card, your miles will go much further due to the additional award availability offered to all United cardholders.

You’ll also receive a free first and second checked bag for yourself and a companion, priority boarding and access to Premier upgrades on award tickets. Other benefits include two 5,000-mile anniversary award flight credits, 25% back on United inflight purchases and up to a $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit. A $125 annual United purchase credit will take the sting out of this card’s $250 annual fee.

If you fly United regularly, the combination of the United Quest card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers a valuable amount of flexibility.

Related: 4 reasons to get the new United Quest Card

Official application link: United Quest Card

World of Hyatt Credit Card

Annual fee: $95.

Sign-up bonus: Earn up to 60,000 bonus points, including 30,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening and another 30,000 points by earning 2 points per dollar on purchases that normally earn just 1 point per dollar in your account’s first six months (on up to $15,000 spent).

Rewards rate: Earn 4 points per dollar spent at Hyatt properties; 2 points per dollar at restaurants and on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit and commuting as well as fitness club and gym memberships; and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Why this card pairs well: The World of Hyatt program is easily the most valuable hotel transfer partner offered by Ultimate Rewards, so you’ll want to enjoy as many perks as possible when redeeming your rewards for stays at Hyatt. You’ll receive Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open, as well as five qualifying night credits toward your next tier status every year. Plus, you can earn two additional qualifying night credits every time you spend $5,000 on your card, making it much easier to reach the next tier of elite status even if you’re not on the road constantly.

Another popular benefit on the card is the annual free night you receive after your cardmember anniversary (valid at any Category 1–4 Hyatt hotel or resort), as well as an additional free night at any Category 1–4 Hyatt hotel or resort if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year.

Related: The most award-friendly hotel program: Everything you need to know about World of Hyatt

Official application link: World of Hyatt Credit Card

Option 3: A card that diversifies your rewards

This is the one that opens the door to other options.

If you feel comfortable using your Chase Ultimate Rewards and want to unlock even more possibilities, you’ll want to open a card that will build you another set of transferable points. Here are some great choices:

merican Express® Gold Card

JOHN GRIBBEN/THE POINTS GUY

Annual fee: $250. (See rates & fees)

Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 within six months of account opening. However, be sure to check the CardMatch Tool to see if you’re targeted for an even higher welcome offer (subject to change at any time).

Rewards rate: Earn 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants and 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar). Earn 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or on Amex Travel and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Why this card pairs well: The Sapphire Preferred doesn’t offer a grocery bonus, so this is an excellent card to use at U.S. supermarkets.

Most importantly, you diversify your rewards by having access to American Express Membership Rewards which includes unique transfer partners that Chase doesn’t have, such as Hilton Honors, Delta Air Lines, ANA, Hawaiian Airlines and Qantas. Other benefits include up to $120 in annual dining credits and up to $120 each year in Uber Cash that you can use toward Uber Eats purchases or Uber rides in the U.S.

Related: American Express Gold card review

Official application link: American Express® Gold Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture card is packed with features and a solid welcome bonus. ERIC HELGAS/THE POINTS GUY

Annual fee: $95.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Rewards rate: Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases with no limits.

Why this card pairs well: The Sapphire Preferred has incredible transfer partners, but they can’t account for all travel purchases. However, the miles you earn from your Capital One Venture can be redeemed for statement credits toward nearly any travel purchase.

Capital One also offers you the ability to transfer your miles to a lengthy list of airline and hotel programs, which have little overlap with Chase’s partners. Valuable additions include Wyndham Rewards, Turkish Airlines, Qantas and Choice Privileges. However, you also have access to some shared transfer partners like British Airways and Avianca LifeMiles, so pairing the Venture with the Sapphire Preferred could accelerate your potential earnings with these programs.

This card also offers you up to $100 in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit.

Related: Capital One Venture Rewards credit card review

Official application link: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Citi Premier® Card

JOHN GRIBBEN/THE POINTS GUY

Annual fee: $95.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 80,000 bonus ThankYou points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first three months of account opening.

Rewards rate: Earn 3 ThankYou points per dollar spent at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel and hotels, and 1 ThankYou point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Why this card pairs well: The Citi ThankYou Rewards program offers several transfer partners that Chase doesn’t, such as Qatar, Etihad and Turkish. It also offers valuable bonus earning rates at supermarkets and gas stations, which the Sapphire Preferred doesn’t. This card also comes with a hotel savings benefit worth $100 off of a $500 single hotel stay (excluding taxes and fees), once each calendar year. However, that stay must be booked through Citi’s travel portal, limiting its utility to some extent.

Related: Sizable rewards, manageable annual fee: Citi Premier credit card review

Official application link: Citi Premier® Card

Bottom line

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is excellent on its own, but it’s even better when paired with other cards. Whether you want to focus on earning more Chase Ultimate Rewards points, build out your stash of points or miles with one of Chase’s transfer partners or diversify into another set of transferable points, you have great options available to you.

Remember, there is no wrong choice when choosing your next card. Regardless of which one you choose, you’ll build on the knowledge you’ve obtained through the Chase Sapphire Preferred and take another step toward paying for your next trip with points and miles.

Related: Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred should still be the first rewards card in your wallet

Additional reporting by Jason Steele.

For rates and fees of the Amex Gold Card please click here

By: Emily Thompson
Title: I have the Chase Sapphire Preferred. What card should I get next?
Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/news/best-card-to-pair-with-the-chase-sapphire-preferred/
Published Date: Thu, 29 Sep 2022 13:30:14 +0000

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Minimalist Travel Update 🎒 One Bag Travel with the OSPREY PORTER 30 ✈️

HOSTED BY: https://onebagtravel.club

TODAY'S VIDEO

★ Perfect Travel Shirts: My audience now gets a 10% discount from UNBOUND MERINO when you use the discount code: VANLIFE at website https://shrsl.com/3j0ru
→ Osprey 30L Porter Backpack: https://amzn.to/2GMNl2b
→ Sea to Summit Compression Sack: https://amzn.to/2IfCzzW

In today's travel vlog, you get to come pack with me and see whats in my bag! I give you my minimalist travel update and talk about how I one bag travel with the Osprey Porter 30! There are many bags marketed as a minimalist travel bag out there but many aren't really designed for the full-time travel lifestyle. Even though the Osprey Porter 30 isn't marketed as a minimalist carry on only travel bag - it's definitely my main travel hack for traveling with one bag!

I have to admit, I am a little obsessed with minimalist packing. I'm always searching for travel tips, packing hacks, and minimalist packing tips on YouTube and Google. When I was researching carry on only travel, I kept coming across the Osprey Porter 30. I finally took the plunge and settled on that bag for my minimalist travel bag.
I haven't regretted it at all!

My next favorite from my packing tips - is a compression sack! I've got the Sea to Summit compression sack and it's what makes one bag travel possible for me. All my clothes fit into this one compression sack!

I hope you enjoyed learning how I pack! Please subscribe for more travel content! See you next week!
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★ Perfect Travel Shirts:
→My audience now gets a 10% discount from UNBOUND MERINO when you use the discount code: VANLIFE at website https://shrsl.com/3j0ru

★ Gear I Use:
→ Camera: https://amzn.to/2VO550N
→ Action Camera: https://amzn.to/2ApYwIk
→ Mic: https://amzn.to/2oXCZAU

★ Minimalist Travel Pack I Travel With:
→ Osprey 30L Porter Backpack: https://amzn.to/2GMNl2b
→ Sea to Summit Compression Sack: https://amzn.to/2IfCzzW
_________

★ Remote Year: Travel like I do and save $200: https://remoteyear.com/lp/imagine?utm_source=referral&referral_source=nation&referral_detail=a0e1Q00000SzOsdQAF
_________

★ Music:
All music sourced from Artlist: https://artlist.io/Kevin-281451 (if you use this affiliate link, we both get 2 months free)
_________

★ My blog: https://www.30andawakeup.com
★ I blog for The Budget Minded Traveler: www.thebudgetmindedtraveler.com

#minimalisttravel #onebagtravel #ospreyporter

Thanks

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By: 30 And A Wake Up
Title: Minimalist Travel Update 🎒 One Bag Travel with the OSPREY PORTER 30 ✈️
Sourced From: www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yDjvsqvm7k

Most Incredible NBA Arenas For Sports Fans To Visit

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

Most Incredible NBA Arenas For Sports Fans To Visit

After struggling with empty arenas due to the pandemic, the National Basketball Association is finally back with the best back to normal for the 2021-2022 season. After all, what makes sports great is its enthusiastic fans filling up the arenas. 

If sports weren’t watched and supported by people, associations such as the NBA would just vanish, and athletes wouldn’t be the superstars they are.

The NBA arenas are the perfect place for fans to gather and enjoy their favorite teams performing. And what makes NBA arenas more special is the fact that fans can watch their favorite players from a very close distance.

Like almost everything else on the planet, NBA arenas were shut down during the coronavirus pandemic making the fans readapt to a virtual gathering in order to enjoy their favorite games. However, after two years of being closed, NBA arenas are once again opened to the public.

The food, beverages, and merchandise are back. So is the excitement of being in such a joyful environment, leaving aside searching for a parking lot, though. So if any person is looking for the best fan experience, here are the most incredible NBA arenas for sports fans to visit whenever they get the chance.

10. Moda Center – Portland Trail Blazers

Formerly known as the Rose Garden, this beautiful building was opened in 1995. It offers one of the most charming spaces to watch a game.

With basketball as the principal sport of the town, this arena provides a great experience when it comes to enjoying some b-ball.

9. Golden 1 Center – Sacramento Kings

The Sacramento Kings are not very favored in the NBA odds for the next season, but there are still a lot of reasons to head to the capital of California and watch them play. And one of the main reasons is their classy arena.

If a fan is looking for a more affordable option to enjoy an NBA game and have style at the same time, Golden 1 Center is the perfect place for it. Besides, the Golden 1 Center is number one when it comes to environmental security since it minimizes harmful issues such as heavy car emissions and carbon gasses. So this arena is a win-win when it comes to sports and environmental sustainability.

8. Amway Center – Orlando Magic

With its doors opened in 2005, the Orlando Magic can brag about having one of the cleanest facilities in the NBA. It is comfortable, and it is never overly loud or crowded. The best part? The neighborhood surrounding it is always a sightseeing goal after the game.

7. Vivint Smart Home Arena – Utah Jazz

Even though the Utah Jazz fans are very passionate about their team’s performance, and are actually ranked as one of the worst behaved supporters in the NBA, this is still one of the best arenas for neutral fans to visit.

Although game tickets aren’t particularly expensive, the merchandise inside is pretty cheap. So are food and beverages.

6. United Center – Chicago Bulls

Located on the west side of Chicago, the United Center is an indoor arena home to the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks of the NHL. It has received its name in honor of its corporate sponsor United Airlines. It has a capacity of 21,000 enthusiastic fans to go enjoy the NBA matches, making it one of the top places to go watch a game.

5. Wells Fargo Center – Philadelphia 76ers

The classic Wells Fargo arena has been around since 1996. And even though Philadelphia Eagles might be the town’s priority, the Philadelphia 76ers don’t let that ruin their passion and support for their team, who make the arena an amazing place to go visit. Fans claim the snacks are overpriced, though.

4. Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse – Cleveland Cavaliers

The Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse arena has been around since 1994. It offers a considerable capacity crowd of approximately 19,000 people.

And the best part is that not only are seating costs very low, but parking is just amazingly cheap.

3. FTX Arena – Miami Heat

As long as Jimmy Butler is in the arena, the Miami Heat doesn’t really have to worry about its ticket prices. People will pay whatever it costs in order to go cheer for their favorite athlete.

It is true that inside the FTX arena, fans are probably going to be run by other celebrities just sitting courtside. The FTX arena has an excellent court view alongside the social amenities it offers. It often hosts concerts as well.

2. Scotiabank Arena – Toronto Raptors

One of the best experiences fans can get in the NBA arena is definitely at the Scotiabank Arena, also known as the Air Canada Center. Its aesthetic appeal really invites fans to select it as one of the best arenas in the Association. After all, the NBA originated in Toronto.

1. Madison Square Garden – New York Knicks

It is true that watching a Knicks game wouldn’t be the cheaper option of all. Nevertheless, it is truly one of the best experiences when it comes to basketball. After all, Madison Square Garden is considered the mecca of basketball. Being there is just a memory a true fan will never forget.

The post Most Incredible NBA Arenas For Sports Fans To Visit appeared first on Travel Experta - Travel, Lifestyle, Freedom.

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By: Marina 'Travel Experta'
Title: Most Incredible NBA Arenas For Sports Fans To Visit
Sourced From: travelexperta.com/most-incredible-nba-arenas-for-sports-fans-to-visit/
Published Date: Wed, 28 Sep 2022 15:23:11 +0000

What credit score do you need to get the Capital One Venture Rewards card?

HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL

At TPG, we devote a significant amount of time to talking about how credit scores work, how you can improve yours and how you can keep it in shape.

We know that scores in the mid-700s and above will likely be enough to get you approved for most cards, but having a lower score doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get those cards.

There isn’t a magic number that guarantees approval for a specific card, but we can analyze public data points to help you gauge your odds.

We’ve previously uncovered the unpublished (and perhaps unofficial) credit score requirements for cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and the Citi® Double Cash Card. Today, we’ll turn our attention to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

In This Post

Overview of the Capital One Venture Card

The Capital One Venture card is one of the best rewards credit cards on the market and is especially attractive for those just starting out in the world of points and miles.

It comes with a 75,000-mile welcome bonus (worth $1,388 based on TPG valuations and not provided by the issuer) after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. The card also offers 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases, and you’ll pay no foreign transaction fees when using the card outside the U.S. It even includes an application-fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years, a relative rarity for a card with a reasonable $95 annual fee.

Once you’ve earned the sign-up bonus, you can redeem your miles for a fixed value on travel purchases or transfer them to an airline or hotel partner to potentially get even more value.

Read more: Tips and tricks to get maximum value from your Capital One miles

What credit score do you need to get the Capital One Venture Rewards card?

Reports suggest that you’ll need a score of at least 700 to get approved for the Capital One Venture card, though people with lower scores have been approved.

According to data from LendingTree, the average score to get approved for the card is 738. The typical low score is 664. These scores are considered “good” to “very good” and are comparable to the score you need to get the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

However, Capital One’s own application page indicates that “excellent” credit is required, which it defines as follows:

“I’ve never declared bankruptcy or defaulted on a loan; I haven’t been more than 60 days late on any credit card, medical bill, or loan in the last year; I’ve had a loan or credit card for 3 years or more with a credit limit above $5,000.”

If you’re worried about being rejected, Capital One has a pre-qualification tool on its website that allows you to see if you have a good chance of being approved before you fill out an application.

How to check your credit score

You should never shell out cash to check your credit score.

Most credit cards come with a free FICO score calculator. This makes it easy to see where your score is on the scale from good to bad and keep up to date on how you’re doing in terms of each of the categories listed below.

In addition, you can also easily open free accounts on third-party sites to keep track of your credit information. In fact, Capital One has its own platform for doing so: CreditWise. It’s free for anyone to join and can help you identify any information on your score that isn’t accurate or appears to be fraudulent. Sites like CreditWise also provide regular, automatic updates when your score changes, as well as alerts any time a new inquiry is added to your credit report.

Other approval factors

In addition to a good score, you should be aware of Capital One’s additional credit card application restrictions.

First, the issuer limits you to having two Capital One personal credit cards at a time. So, if you already have the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card, for instance, Capital One will automatically reject your application for the Capital One Venture card.

However, this rule typically doesn’t count Capital One cobranded cards and small-business cards like the Capital One Spark Miles for Business.

You’ll also only be approved for one Capital One-issued card every six months.

New credit is also an important factor in the case of Capital One. Although there’s no official policy on this, Capital One has rejected many people with excellent credit scores simply because they have too many recent inquiries on their credit reports.

So, if you’re the type of person who likes to apply for credit cards in batches of two or three at a time, you should prioritize your application for the Capital One Venture card to minimize the number of recent inquiries on your report.

ORLI FRIEDMAN/THE POINTS GUY

Finally, Capital One might be hesitant to approve you for a new line of credit if you have any delinquencies or bankruptcies showing on your credit report, even if your score is otherwise near-perfect. It’s important to remember that your credit profile is more than just a number, it’s a collection of information given to the issuer to analyze your creditworthiness.

The information for the Capital One Savor has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: How to check your credit score for free

What to do if you get rejected

Do not give up if your application for the card gets denied. If you receive a rejection letter, the first thing you should do is look at the reasons given for your rejection. By law, card issuers are required to send you a written or electronic communication explaining what factors prevented you from being approved.

Next, call Capital One’s application services line at 800-625-7866 (unlike some issuers, Capital One doesn’t have a dedicated reconsideration line). Tell the person on the phone that you recently applied for the Capital One Venture card and “I was surprised to see that my application was rejected and I would like to speak to someone about getting that decision reconsidered.” From there, it’s up to you to build a case and convince the agent on the phone why you deserve the credit card.

If you were rejected because your credit history is too short, for example, you can point to your stellar record of on-time payments. If you were rejected for missed payments, you can explain that those were a long time ago and your record since then has been perfect.

There’s no guarantee that this strategy will work, but there are many reports of rejections being reversed on reconsideration, so it can’t hurt to try. Just know that Capital One will not reconsider your application until you’ve formally received a letter on the status of your application — so don’t call right away simply because you weren’t automatically approved.

Bottom line

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card comes with a great welcome bonus and valuable perks, but before you apply, you need to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of the application process and think about whether your credit score is high enough to get approved.

It’s important to have a good score, but there are also other factors and rules specific to Capital One that you need to be aware of, such as not having more than two personal cards with the issuer.

Official application link: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Further reading:

Capital One Venture Rewards card hubWhat credit score do you need to get the Chase Sapphire Preferred card?What credit score do you need to get the Southwest Premier Credit Card?What is a good credit score?5 lesser-known things that affect your credit scoreNew to the points and miles game? Check out our beginner’s guide for everything you need to know to get started!

By: Benji Stawski
Title: What credit score do you need to get the Capital One Venture Rewards card?
Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/guide/credit-score-capital-one-venture-rewards/
Published Date: Wed, 28 Sep 2022 18:00:49 +0000

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EDC Travel Bag - Travel Gear Part 1

HOSTED BY: https://onebagtravel.club

TODAY'S VIDEO

EDC Travel Bag - Travel Gear Part 1

My EDC Travel Bag goes with me as my carry on item on the plane and holds all of my electronics and camera. I show what's in the pack and why I carry the items that I do.

Watch the next video in the series - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efkzZ0RRE0g

Music Courtesy of the lovely Heidi - https://soundcloud.com/heidifinnberg

**Suscribe to this Channel** http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=luapmargni

**For More Detailed Gear reviews and loads more Hiking and Travel Posts head over to**
http://pieonthetrail.com

Connect With Me
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pieonthetrail/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pieonthetrail

Below are links to some of my favourite pieces of gear, by clicking through and purchasing something from Amazon you help support the work I do with pieonthetrail and it costs you nothing extra. Cheers

Travel Gear I use:

Skross Travel Adapter - https://amzn.to/2SFEyAB
Neewer Padded Lens Case - https://amzn.to/2VwWwqK
The best ear plugs for sleeping - https://amzn.to/2RxGDkK
Platypus Water Bottle - https://amzn.to/2GW4lTC
Sony A7Rii - http://amzn.to/2ss3VNt
Sony 24mm -105mm F4 - https://amzn.to/2CTM8BY
Sony 55mm F1.8 - http://amzn.to/2nVitk8
GoPro Hero 6 - http://amzn.to/2EEoQlu
Sony RX100 V - http://amzn.to/2G90Q6W
Rode VideoMicro Microphone - http://amzn.to/2BpMYWR
Sandisk Extreme 32GB Memory Cards - http://amzn.to/2H9Bqre
Tenba BYOB 9 Camera Case - http://amzn.to/2EEWKGL

My Recommended Hiking Gear:

Thermarest Neoair Xlite Sleeping Pad -http://amzn.to/2ErTjUo
Exped Air Pillow - http://amzn.to/2H9jHAp
Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt - https://enlightenedequipment.com/revelation/
Big Agnes Orno UL Sleeping Bag - https://www.bigagnes.com/Orno-0
Gossamer Gear "The One” Tent - https://www.gossamergear.com/products/the-one
MSR Mini Groundhog Stakes - http://amzn.to/2HbyIBM
Gossamer Gear Silverback 50 Liter Backpack - https://www.gossamergear.com/collections/backpacks
ULA Ohm 2.0 Backpack - https://www.ula-equipment.com/product/ohm-2-0/
Osprey Ultralight Pack Liner - http://amzn.to/2G8Gxqj
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pod Ditty Bag - https://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/small-pod.html
MSR Pocket Rocket 2 Stove - http://amzn.to/2Ez2CkV
TOAKS Titanium Long Handled Spoon - http://amzn.to/2HcNXdG
Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles - http://amzn.to/2sqtmyV
Sawyer Original Water Filter - http://amzn.to/2HaM8hp
Aquamira Water Treatment - http://amzn.to/2CgAlKo
Sawyer Stay Put Sunscreen - http://amzn.to/2Haglgd
Granite Gear Hiker Wallet - http://amzn.to/2EnzwFV
Vargo Titanium Poop Trowel - https://www.vargooutdoors.com/dig-dig-tool.html
Counter Assault Bear Spray - http://amzn.to/2HbBcjA
Camp Corsa Ice Axe - http://amzn.to/2EqGmdq
Liteflex Umbrella for sun and rain - http://amzn.to/2Ci4edq
Kahtoola Mirco Spikes - http://amzn.to/2sqe65r

Electronics I love for Hiking or Travel:

Anker Powercore 1000mAh External Battery Pack - http://amzn.to/2Eqhd2M
Anker 4 USB port Wall Charger - http://amzn.to/2ss587t
Kindle Paperwhite - http://amzn.to/2sqveb9
Coast FL75R Rechargeable Headlamp - http://amzn.to/2HbLiRe

My Hiking Clothing:

Railiriders Bones Flats Shirt - https://www.railriders.com/men-bone-flats-shirt-p-993.html?cPath=104_111
Railriders Too Tough Trunks - https://www.railriders.com/men-too-tough-trunks-p-1094.html?cPath=104_112
Altra Lone Peak Running Shoes - http://amzn.to/2ECwjRO
Dirty Girl Gaiters - https://dirtygirlgaiters.com
Bedrock Sandals "Classics" - https://bedrocksandals.com/products/classic
Darn Tough 1/4 Length Hiking Socks - http://amzn.to/2ElNojG
Under Armour Men's Original Series 6” Boxer-jock - http://amzn.to/2ElOaNC
Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 Rain Gear - http://amzn.to/2EFlrTD
Smart Wool Long Underwear Top - http://amzn.to/2Emg63T
Smart Wool Long Underwear Bottoms - http://amzn.to/2EEY3oW
RAB Xenon X Hoodie Puffy Jacket - http://amzn.to/2ECv19y
Black Rock Gear Down Beanie - https://www.blackrockgear.com
Prana Zion Hiking Pants - http://amzn.to/2EnpFzK
Merino Wool Buff - http://amzn.to/2HcHeAq
Defeet Dura Gloves - http://amzn.to/2Bs0b1h
Extremities Goretex Rain Mitts - http://amzn.to/2sqx5wD


#edcbag #travelbag #tombihn #tombihnsynapse #edcbackpack #backpacking #tombihnsynapse25 #tombihnsynapse19 #getoutside #sonya7 #travel #keepitwild #wildernessculture

Thank You

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By: pieonthetrail
Title: EDC Travel Bag - Travel Gear Part 1
Sourced From: www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbNM7hahjxk

Rafting, canyoning & ziplining in Costa Rica | Fun family adventure in 4K

HOSTED BY: https://1airtravel.com

TODAY'S VIDEO

Join me on some fun adventure tours in Costa Rica's La Fortuna region: white water rafting, canyoning, and ziplining!
The beautiful intro soundtracks in this video can be found on Artlist.
Artlist: (two free months when you buy an annual plan)

Subscribe to my YouTube channel if you like my videos (one million followers so far). Each Saturday, I upload a new video about my travels around the world.

5 Travel Goals You Must Put In Your Bucket List for 2023

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

5 Travel Goals You Must Put In Your Bucket List for 2023

Although the worst of the pandemic seems to be over, new variants and fresh waves continue to be around. Evidently, you cannot let your guard down in the new normal because the virus is still here. But you need not stay cooped indoors if you are a travel buff. Just pick your holiday bucket list wisely, and you are good to go. There are ways to be safe as you follow travel goals for 2023. Here is a list of travel goals that deserve a place on your bucket list this 2023.

Travel Goals For This 2023

Plan a road trip

If you haven’t taken a road trip during the pandemic, you should do it this year. Besides being the safest way to travel in the new normal, road trips set you free. You need not worry about booking flights or planning itineraries. Just hit the road when you want to and drive to a place you wish to explore. But make sure you check the status of the virus at the destination before embarking.

Explore local destinations

This goal makes sense in the era of travel restrictions for international trips. You will probably not want to get into the hassle of quarantine and testing by traveling overseas. Exploring local destinations nearby is a great idea, whether you want to drive or fly.  As long as you are vaccinated, you can plan domestic travel to the destination of your choice without worries.

Try a wellness vacation

As stress is rampant, mixing wellness with travel is a great idea. So you must surely have a wellness vacation on your bucket list in 2022. Check the best spas and wellness resorts around. You can even try a 420-friendly trip to experience the de-stressing benefits of cannabis. Just check a local pipe shop and make sure you are discreet with your gear as you pack. You can try KING’s Pipe as it has a broad collection of portable gear. Choose a legal state and cannabis-friendly accommodation, and you are all set.

Don’t miss an outdoor sojourn

An outdoor trip is another goal worth trying, and there couldn’t be a better time for it than now. Outdoor trips are therapeutic as they give fresh air and mental relaxation. Not to mention, they are far safer than crowded beaches and jam-packed hotels. Pack your camping gear or rent a recreational vehicle, and have a vacation in the middle of nowhere. Alternatively, you can book a place at an adventure camp.

Taste solo travel

Nothing matches the thrill and joy of solo travel, so make sure it is in your travel goals this New Year. It lets you enjoy the pleasure of your own company and do what you like. This travel trend got bigger during the pandemic as it is practical from the virus-safety perspective. Plan wisely and pick a solo travel-friendly destination according to your preference and budget. 

Travel buffs need to think beyond crowded resorts and exotic destinations this year. Follow this bucket list, and have the best experiences in 2022. 

The post 5 Travel Goals You Must Put In Your Bucket List for 2023 appeared first on Travel Experta - Travel, Lifestyle, Freedom.

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By: Marina 'Travel Experta'
Title: 5 Travel Goals You Must Put In Your Bucket List for 2023
Sourced From: travelexperta.com/travel-goals/
Published Date: Sun, 25 Sep 2022 17:00:09 +0000

What Marriott Choice Benefits should you choose in 2022?

HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL

Marriott Bonvoy elite status offers some impressive benefits to frequent travelers. But the perks get particularly compelling once you accrue 50 elite nights in a calendar year to reach Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status.

One of those perks is the ability to choose an annual Choice Benefit. If you reach 75 elite nights in a calendar year, you’ll be able to select a second annual Choice Benefit.

But which Choice Benefit should you choose? Let’s take a look at each option and which one may offer the best value.

In This Post

Overview of Marriott Bonvoy annual Choice Benefits

You could use various annual Choice Benefits at the Westin Langkawi. KATIE GENTER/THE POINTS GUY

To select your annual Choice Benefit(s), visit this page on Marriott’s website. You’ll need to sign in to your Marriott Bonvoy account before choosing your benefit. However, note that you can’t change your selection once you make it, so pick wisely.

Related: Battle of the hotels: Why Marriott is the best

How to accrue Marriott Bonvoy elite nights

Award nights and elite night credits from credit cards can allow you to earn higher status and annual Choice Benefits with relatively few paid nights. SCOTT MAYEROWITZ/THE POINTS GUY

Earning 50 or 75 elite nights in a calendar year may sound daunting. However, Marriott provides multiple avenues to reach these thresholds outside of completing actual nights at participating Marriott properties. For starters, award nights count as elite nights. You can also earn up to 40 elite night credits by holding select Marriott Bonvoy credit cards.

Specifically, you can earn 15 elite night credits each year by having a personal Marriott card and another 15 elite night credits by holding a Marriott business card. Recently, however, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card started offering 25 nights.

So, suppose you have a personal Marriott card like the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card and a business Marriott card like the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card. In that case, you’ll get 30 elite night credits each year through these cards alone. Meanwhile, you’d have 40 nights if you paired the Bonvoy Business card with the Bonvoy Brilliant.

Related: Does it make sense to hold multiple Marriott Bonvoy credit cards?

Platinum Elite (50 nights)

As noted above, you’ll unlock your first annual Choice Benefit when you qualify for Platinum Elite status. Your options for the 50-night annual Choice Benefit are:

Five elite night credits.Five Suite Night Awards.40% off a mattress.$100 charity donation.Gift of Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status for a family member, friend or colleague.

Most of these benefits are pretty tough to value. So, let’s take a closer look at each option. I’ll start with the options that are unlikely to make sense for most elite members.

Gift Marriott Silver Elite status

Giving status to someone else might initially sound like a good option, but Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status isn’t worth much. In fact, TPG only values Silver Elite status at $45 — and it’s worth $0 if the person you gift it to doesn’t end up using it. After all, the primary perks of Silver Elite status are a 10% points bonus on paid stays and priority late checkout.

So, if you know someone who wants elite status with Marriott Bonvoy, you may instead want to encourage them to apply for a card. This is because cardholders of the following cards get automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status:

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card ($250 annual fee, see rates and fees): Gold Elite status.Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card ($125 annual fee, see rates and fees): Gold Elite status.Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card ($95 annual fee): Silver Elite status.Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card (no annual fee): Silver Elite status.The Platinum Card® from American Express ($695 annual fee, see rates and fees): Gold Elite status, including for Platinum Card authorized users. Enrollment is required.The Business Platinum Card® from American Express ($695, see rates and fees): Gold Elite status. Enrollment is required.Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card ($650 annual fee, see rates and fees): Platinum Elite status.

Related: Which Marriott Bonvoy credit card is right for you?

$100 charity donation

You can select a $100 charity donation to a choice of three charities as your annual Choice Benefit:

UNICEF.World Wildlife Fund.Arne M. Sorenson Hospitality Fund.

The $100 charity donation is a nice touch and could be the right decision if you can’t use any other annual Choice Benefit options. However, I’d prefer to earn points and miles on a charitable donation to a charity of my choice and maintain my ability to select one of the other benefits.

Related: How you can donate your points and miles to charity

40% off a mattress

Westin Heavenly Bed. SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY

If you love the bed at a particular Marriott brand, you can buy a new one for your home. And, if you’re going to buy a Marriott mattress for your house, you should select the annual Choice Benefit that provides 40% off a Marriott-brand mattress.

Although this annual Choice Benefit can be a great value, relatively few people are in the market for a specific hotel bed. As such, this option doesn’t apply to many travelers.

Related: How to make your home feel like a 5-star hotel

5 elite night credits

One option that can make sense for some travelers is five elite night credits. In particular, the elite night credits can come in handy if you find yourself just a few nights short of leveling up to Titanium Elite status this year.

However, it might be worth waiting until the end of the year to select your Choice Benefit. If a work trip or last-minute personal trip comes up, you might close the gap toward Titanium Elite. Just note that you must select your Choice Benefit by Jan. 8, 2023.

Related: The case for burning 80,000 points to earn Marriott Titanium status

5 Suite Night Awards

Your Suite Night Award might get you a massive suite, such as this 1,400-square-foot ocean suite at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. ETHAN STEINBERG/THE POINTS GUY

Each Suite Night Award is valid for a one-night, confirmable upgrade to select suites and premium rooms designated by each property. So, you’d need six Suite Night Award certificates to request an upgrade for a six-night reservation.

Many members save these upgrades for stays at luxury Marriott Bonvoy properties. But it also may be worth trying to identify properties that make higher-category suites available for upgrades. However, not all Marriott hotels offer Suite Night Award upgrades and some may restrict availability. So, if you have a particular property in mind when selecting this annual Choice Benefit, check whether the property participates before making your selection.

Remember that these awards expire Dec. 31 in the year following the one in which you earned them. So, if you reached 50 nights in 2022 and chose five Suite Night Awards as your Choice Benefit, they’ll expire Dec. 31, 2023.

Related: How and when to use Marriott upgrade certificates

Titanium Elite (75 nights)

After you reach 75 elite nights, you’ll earn Marriott Titanium Elite status and get a second annual Choice Benefit. The choices for the 75-night annual Choice Benefit are as follows:

Five elite night credits.Five Suite Night Awards.Free night award worth up to 40,000 points.40% off a mattress.$100 charity donation.Gift of Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status for a family member, friend or colleague.

As you can see, the choices here are relatively similar to the choices available after hitting the 50-night threshold. I’ll skip over the charitable donation, Suite Night Awards and 40% mattress discount since I’ve already discussed these options in the previous section. Likewise, I won’t further discuss gifting elite status, since it’s relatively easy to obtain Gold Elite status via credit cards as previously discussed.

However, let’s take a closer look at the other two options.

5 elite night credits

Earlier in this article, I considered how some travelers might select the five elite night credits as the 50-night annual Choice Benefit to reach Titanium elite status. However, it could also make sense for Titanium Elite members to choose it in order to earn Ambassador Elite status. After all, Ambassador Elite status typically requires 100 elite nights and $20,000 in annual Marriott spending to qualify.

However,  this option will only make sense if you’ll end 2022 with 95-99 elite nights and at least $20,000 in annual qualifying spending with Marriott. Unfortunately, there is no way to get around the spending requirement, making this worthwhile only for high-spenders who are short on elite nights.

Again, you may want to wait until the end of the year to select your Choice Benefit if you fall into this camp.

Related: Why I’m earning more Marriott Bonvoy points during the pandemic

Free night award worth up to 40,000 points

The final option, unique to the 75-night annual Choice Benefit, is one free night award worth up to 40,000 points.

This free night award is slightly more valuable than the 35,000-point free night award certificates associated with many of the Marriott Bonvoy cards.

Based on TPG’s valuations, 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points are worth $336. So, this is undoubtedly a valuable option. However, if you already have lots of Marriott Bonvoy points and outstanding free night awards to cover your future travels, you may want to choose another benefit.

Finally, this award will expire Dec. 31, 2023.

Related: Maximizing redemptions with the Marriott Bonvoy program

Which annual Choice Benefit should you choose?

You could use the free award night at the beautiful Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay. JT GENTER/THE POINTS GUY

If you expect to travel a lot in 2023, it will likely make sense to choose the free night award or Suite Night Awards.

Both options can provide significant value. But, if you can use the Suite Night Awards before they expire and get considerable value from these upgrades, this is likely the more valuable option.

However, if you are only five or fewer elite nights shy of qualifying for Ambassador Elite or Titanium Elite status, the five elite night credits may be a great choice. Likewise, if you plan to buy a Marriott-brand mattress, the 40% off discount is likely your best bet.

You may wonder what my husband and I selected for our annual Choice Benefits. After all, in 2021 we both earned Titanium Elite status. We both picked five Suite Night Awards for our 50-night threshold benefits and each selected free night awards for our 75-night threshold benefits.

We haven’t mastered how to maximize Suite Night Awards yet — and there’s a lot of variability across Marriott’s properties — so we decided the free night certificates would provide more value.

Related: How to avoid my big Marriott Choice Benefit mistake

Bottom line

Marriott’s annual Choice Benefits are a great way to reward elite members. There are ample options to choose from at both the 50-night and 75-night thresholds. But the options aren’t created equally, so it’s worth considering which benefit will be most valuable for you.

Additional reporting by Andrew Kunesh, Ethan Steinberg and Nick Ewen.

For the rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy, click here. For the rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex, click here. For the rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here. For the rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum, click here. For the rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex, click here.

By: Katie Genter
Title: What Marriott Choice Benefits should you choose in 2022?
Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/guide/marriott-choice-benefits/
Published Date: Tue, 27 Sep 2022 18:00:49 +0000

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Best One Bag Travel Backpacks: 3 Bags In 3 Minutes!

HOSTED BY: https://onebagtravel.club

TODAY'S VIDEO

Where to start with what can be a complicated bag search.

Subscribe! ► http://bit.ly/2CtNsMb
Aer Travel Pack 2 Review: https://youtu.be/wdpiUCnOdvM
Aer Travel Pack 2: http://bit.ly/2HWL4RJ
GR2 Full Review: https://youtu.be/McimsE-l1jM
GR2 40 Liter vs. 34L: https://youtu.be/7UdzOYHhUUE
GORUCK GR2: http://goruck.go2cloud.org/SH2na
Tortuga Setout: https://amzn.to/36J8O5u
Thule Subterra 34L: https://amzn.to/2IaKjDL
McKinnon Camera Pack 35L: https://amzn.to/39XIgNE
The North Face Recon Review: https://youtu.be/SEBe54P36AI
SwissGear 1900 Review: https://youtu.be/Rb4QZ7_0i3s

What I Travel With ► http://bit.ly/2iE7zu4
foXnoMad Merch ► http://bit.ly/2UAHe2G
Podcast ► https://bit.ly/foxnomad_podcast

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The Best Cities to Enjoy Tapas in Spain

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

The Best Cities to Enjoy Tapas in Spain

The best holiday destinations for foodies

Flamenco, paella, beaches… These are only a couple of things that Spain is well-known for around the globe. Every year, thousands of travelers visit the country to discover its rich culture and traditions. But among those traditions, one stands out above the others: the tapa. Going out for tapas (ir de tapeo as it’s called in Spain) is an essential part of Spanish culture. In the afternoon and evening, the local bars will fill up with people socializing, catching up with friends and making new ones, all over delicious, bite-sized dishes and a beer or glass of wine. And the Spanish are not the only ones loving tapas: this unique concept has conquered the entire world, with tapas restaurants opening on every corner!

To celebrate this wonderful Spanish tradition, Spain-Holiday, the portal for holiday rentals in Spain, has ranked the best Spanish cities where you can have tapas. The final ranking was made using the number of tapas bars per city, the average rating of each bar and the Google search volume for tapas in every city. Are you ready to discover the best cities to have tapas? Let’s go!

The study has revealed that:

Seville is the best city to have tapas in Spain!With 5 cities in the top 10, Andalusia is the best region in Spain for tapasSeville | Score: 10/10

The capital of Andalusia offers plenty to see and do for everyone. Modern, cosmopolitan and welcoming, but also traditional at the same time, visitors of Seville are able to discover incredible architecture, beautiful parks, museums and galleries, but most importantly… the very best of Spanish gastronomy! The city has become a foodie’s paradise, where you can enjoy traditional and avant-garde tapas in one of the 215 tapas bars and restaurants all over the city. Made with products of the best quality, Seville’s tapas are a must-try during your visit. Order a delicious gazpacho, cazón en adobo (marinated and fried school shark) or a montadito de pringá (sandwich with Andalusian meat spread), all tapas that were invented in Andalusia and are the most typical of this region. Go on a tapas tour in Seville and treat your tastebuds!

Our recommended tapas bars:

Espacio Eslava (4825 reviews, 4.7 stars): Calle Eslava 3Bodega Palo Santo (1336 reviews, 4.6 stars): Plaza de la Gavidia 5Ovejas Negras Tapas (2982 reviews, 4.5 stars): Calle Hernando Colón 8Granada | Score: 9.22/10

Granada is the place to be in Spain for tapas. This Andalusian city is famous all over the country for its tapas culture, and in most bars you will receive a free tapa with your drink. Thanks to the more than 150 bars and restaurants that specialize in tapas, Granada seduces its visitors with delicious food of the best quality. Granada’s tapas are made with local food products such as meat from the nearby Sierra Nevada, fresh fish caught on the Costa Tropical and vegetables cultivated in the fields of Granada. Try some traditional tapas of the city like jamón asado (oven-roasted ham), croquetas (croquettes, usually filled with ham or fish) or carne en salsa (slow-cooked beef in tomato sauce), and enjoy a tapas break with views of the Alhambra and the incredible architecture of Granada. You’ll never want to leave!

Our recommended tapas bars:

Taberna La Tana (1648 reviews, 4.6 stars): Placeta del Agua 3Ávila Tapas II (2644 reviews, 4.6 stars): Calle San Isidro 11Mesón Rincón De Rodri (1931 reviews, 4.6 stars): Calle Músico Vicente Zarzo 3Santiago de Compostela | Score: 8,06/10

In the green north of Spain we find Santiago de Compostela, the city that marks the end point of the pilgrim route Camino de Santiago. Every year hundreds of pilgrims make the trip to Santiago de Compostela, with the goal of reaching the steps of the Saint James cathedral at the centre of the city. Once the tired travelers reach the city, they are of course seduced by Santiago de Compostela’s excellent gastronomy. The region is known for its seafood and fine meat products like dried sausages. Its closeness to the Atlantic Ocean and the lush green fields surrounding the city have created a paradise for foodies! All of this results in delicious tapas that will make you relish every bite. Pair your tapas with a bottle of local Albariño wine, and you will feel in gastronomic heaven!

Our recommended tapas bars:

Mesón 42 (2203 reviews, 4.5 stars): Rúa do Franco 42Moha (1759 reviews, 4.4 stars): Praza de Santo Agostiño 7El Papatorio (2289 reviews, 4.4 stars): Rúa do Franco 20Cádiz | Score: 7.91/10

On the Costa de la Luz we find Cadiz, a city with amazing beaches and more than 3000 years’ worth of history. It attracts not only history buffs and beach lovers: anyone who likes good food will love Cadiz! Because it is a coastal town, most of Cadiz’s cuisine consists mainly of fresh fish and seafood. Some foods that you must try during a stay in the city are cuttlefish and red tuna, both caught off the coast of Cadiz. The rich and varied seafood of Cadiz is also clear to see in the tapas of the city! The tortillitas de camarones (shrimp fritters) and caballa con piriñaca (mackerel accompanied by finely chopped, raw vegetables) are two traditional tapas from Cadiz that incorporate locally caught fish, but there are plenty more dishes to choose from, all prepared with local fish and produce. Visit Cadiz and fall in love with this city, its lively streets, white beaches and delicious tapas!

Our recommended tapas bars:

Bar La Tabernita (1206 reviews, 4.7 stars): Calle Virgen de la Palma 32La Candela (1393 reviews, 4.6 stars): Calle Feduchy 3Bar Nono (1090 reviews, 4.6 stars): Calle Valverde 13Málaga | Score: 7,46/10

Located between the sea and the mountains, the capital city of the Costa del Sol has kept its traditional Mediterranean flair even after becoming a world-class holiday destination. This coastal city with cosmopolitan vibes has many terraces where you can relax, enjoy the sun and try fantastic tapas… with a nice glass of wine or a beer of course! Malaga’s gastronomy is the perfect example of the Mediterranean diet: high-quality products, healthy ingredients, a lot of variety and most importantly, a fair price. Among the traditional tapas of Malaga are the pescaito frito (different types of fried fish), ensalada malagueña (potato salad with cod or tuna, olives, hard-boiled eggs and oranges) and ajoblanco (cold almond soup). Combine them with a nice glass of sweet local wine called moscatel, and enjoy a night out in Malaga!

Our recommended tapas bars:

Casa Lola (5999 reviews, 4.5 stars): Calle Granada 46Uvedoble Taberna (2076 reviews, 4.5 stars): Calle Alcazabilla 1El Mesón de Cervantes (1530 reviews, 4.5 stars): Calle Álamos 11Salamanca | Score: 6,90/10

Salamanca might not be a famous holiday destination abroad, but among the Spanish it is known as one of the cities with the most charm in the country. With its beautiful architecture and amazing location on the banks of the Tormes river, it attracts many visitors from all over Spain wanting to explore the city. But Salamanca is also famous for its culinary excellence! The Salamancan gastronomy is incredibly varied, and the locally grown vegetables have received the Denominación de Origen certificate, signaling that they are of the highest quality. Apart from its vegetables, Salamanca also produces excellent meat products like the famous Spanish ham and chorizo. All of these products are used by the local tapas bars to prepare delicious tapas at very fair prices.

Our recommended tapas bars:

Cuzco Bodega – Salamanca (1486 reviews, 4.6 stars): Calle Juan del Rey 5Bambú Tapas y Brasas (4022 reviews, 4.4 stars): Calle del Prior 6Taberna de Dionisos (1465 reviews, 4.4 stars): Calle Íscar Peyra 16Toledo | Score: 6,78/10

Toledo is one of the most magical cities in Spain. A visit to this city is a unique experience because of Its medieval streets and architecture that take you back in time. Besides the impressive architecture, there is another thing in the city that will leave you speechless: its gastronomy! Toledo’s cuisine has very strong medieval roots, which means that you will be able to try dishes that have been prepared and eaten by the locals for hundreds of years. Typical tapas of Toledo are the repollo del Ludeña (a savory spread made of leftover crab meat), pulpo a la brasa (grilled octopus) and the bomba del Trébol (a fried potato with meat filling and served with aioli and tomato sauce). Let yourself be seduced by Toledo’s magical tapas!

Our recommended tapas bars:

Taberna Embrujo (1751 review, 4.5 stars): Calle Santa Leocadia 6El Trébol (5630 reviews, 4.3 stars): Calle de Santa Fe 1Tabernita Tapas Bar (1032 reviews, 4.4 stars): Calle de Santa Fe 14Almería | Score: 6,56/10

The city of Almeria attracts many tourists thanks to its warm climate all year round, with warm summers and mild winters. The city is located in the heart of Almeria province, also known as “the greenhouse of Spain” because it is the country’s center of agriculture. This is translated to the local cuisine, which incorporates much local produce in its dishes! The traditional local recipes are often very simple, and give the spotlight to the high-quality ingredients that are used. Apart from fruits and vegetables, the recipes incorporate fresh fish and seafood, given that the city lies on the Mediterranean coast. There’s nothing better than enjoying tapas made with freshly caught fish on a terrace with sea views! Local tapas include huevas en vinagreta (hake roe with finely chopped tomatoes and bell peppers), several types of grilled fish and patatas a lo pobre (potatoes fried on low heat with onions and green peppers). Almeria’s tapas will leave you wishing for more!

Our recommended tapas bars:

Tortillería La Mala (1059 reviews, 4.5 stars): Calle Martínez Almagro 6Taberna el Andaluz (2674 reviews, 4.4 stars): Calle Felipe II 80Taberna Entrevinos (1346 reviews, 4.4 stars): Calle Francisco García Góngora 11A Coruña | Score: 5,92/10

A Coruña is the Spanish mecca for every foodie! Its privileged location means that the city has access to fresh fish thanks to the Atlantic Ocean, and to beautiful cuts of meat because of lush fields surrounding the cities. Many local products like cheese and beef have even been awarded a certificate of excellence for their high quality. And when these products are combined, the result is a typical, mouth-watering tapa from A Coruña! In any tapas bar of the city you can enjoy tapas of the best quality, together with a glass of wine, a beer and the best atmosphere you can wish for! So what are you waiting for? Come and try the cheeses, the empanadas and the lacón (shoulder ham) of A Coruña!

Our recommended tapas bars:

Mesón El Serrano (1670 reviews, 4.5 stars): Rúa Galera 42A Taberna de Cunqueiro (3425 reviews, 4.4 stars): Rúa Estrella 22Taberna da Galera (1011 reviews, 4.5 stars): Rúa Galera 32Pontevedra | Score: 5,81/10

We close the ranking with Pontevedra, the third Galician city in the top 10. Pontevedra is quite unknown and doesn’t receive many tourists, and yet this small city is definitely worth a visit! With an elegant air, beautiful architecture and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great city trip destination in the north of Spain. The historic city center is full of tiny and traditional bars, where you can enjoy the delicious Galician cuisine thanks to the local tapas. Pontevedra’s tapas put seafood in the spotlight: enjoy delicious fresh oysters, or try a typical empanada filled with cockles, the local speciality. The city is also known for the locally caught lamprey eels, a true delicacy! Visit this unassuming city and discover its unique tapas.

Our recommended tapas bars:

Casa Fidel O’Pulpeiro (2103 reviews, 4.5 stars): Rúa San Nicolás 7Casa Román (1042 reviews, 4.4 stars): Avenida Augusto García Sánchez 12Sidrería Montañes (1487 reviews, 4.2 stars): Gonzalez Zúñiga 6

The post The Best Cities to Enjoy Tapas in Spain appeared first on Travel Experta - Travel, Lifestyle, Freedom.

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By: Marina 'Travel Experta'
Title: The Best Cities to Enjoy Tapas in Spain
Sourced From: travelexperta.com/the-best-cities-to-enjoy-tapas-in-spain/
Published Date: Mon, 19 Sep 2022 16:53:38 +0000

Bilt cardholders: Earn double points on non-rent spending one day each month

HOSTED BY: 1 AIR TRAVEL

Editor’s note: TPG founder Brian Kelly is a Bilt advisor and investor. The information for the Bilt card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

If you carry the Bilt Mastercard, there’s a good chance it comes out of your wallet at the start of each month when you pay rent. There’s more reason now to keep it handy when the first day of the month rolls around.

Beginning in October, Bilt rewards is launching a new promotion it’s calling “Bilt Rent Day,” which will take place on — you guessed it — the first of each month. As part of Bilt Rent Day, cardholders of the Bilt Mastercard will earn double points on all their non-rent spending that day.

While we often talk here at TPG about making sure you use the best credit card for the purchase you’re making, it’s not too often the date of the month figures into the decision equation.

Put a reminder on your phone, or otherwise mark your calendar, though, because this could be a great way to earn extra points at the start of each month.

Bilt rewards refresher

Most Bilt Mastercard members probably closely associate the card with paying rent. After all, a primary benefit of the program is that you can use the Bilt card to pay and earn points on rent payments, as long as your rental property is part of the Bilt Rewards Alliance. Bilt card members can earn one point per dollar spent on rent (capped at 50,000 points annually).

It’s a great option for renters, considering those monthly payments are likely the biggest monthly payments made; someone with a $1,700 monthly rent would pay $20,400 annually — thus earning 20,400 points — which can be transferred to a variety of loyalty programs at a rate of 1 point per dollar, including the American Airlines AAdvantage program.

There’s reason to use your Bilt Mastercard on other purchases too, though: cardholders also earn 3 points per dollar on dining purchases, 2 points per dollar on travel and 1 point per dollar on other non-rent spending.

BILT

Bilt Rent Day bonus categories

Those non-rent spending categories are where Bilt Rent Day comes into play.

On the first of each month, cardholders will earn double their normal accrual rates on non-rent spending. That means cardholders will accrue 6 points per dollar on dining, 4 points per dollar on travel, and 2 points per dollar on other non-rent spending categories. This certainly makes for some accelerated earning potential.

Sure, you can capitalize on a $100 meal out by earning 600 points instead of the usual 300 points. But when it comes to travel, if you can wait until the first of the month to make your purchase, you could really accelerate your earnings.

For instance, if you waited until the first of the month, on Bilt Rent Day, to book, say, a $350 flight for yourself and a traveling companion and $600 for a hotel, you’d earn 5,200 Bilt rewards points. That would get you a good portion of the way to a low-level redemption on American Airlines if you were to transfer your points to the AAdvantage program.

Bottom line

Bilt is already a great way to earn points on rent, which is one of the biggest payments most people have each month. As part of the company’s new “rent day” promotion, though, cardholders of the Bilt Mastercard could earn big on non-rent purchases, too, making the first of the month a great time to book travel or go out to eat if you carry the card.

Featured photo by Hemera Technologies/Ablestock.com/Getty Images.

By: Sean Cudahy
Title: Bilt cardholders: Earn double points on non-rent spending one day each month
Sourced From: thepointsguy.com/news/bilt-rent-day/
Published Date: Mon, 26 Sep 2022 12:00:44 +0000

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