Save Big With Companion Pass, Ridiculous Resort Fees, the End of the Jumbo Jet and More
Each Saturday, we round up news stories that you may have missed from the week before, including several that already appeared on The Points Guy, and some more that we haven’t covered yet. If you’re an avid TPG reader, scroll down for the new stuff. Here’s the top miles, points and travel news you may have missed this week:
In Two Weeks, The Southwest Companion Pass Has Saved Me $1,264
The Southwest Companion Pass is certainly one of the most lucrative travel perks in existence. One TPG contributor put it to the test and ended up saving well over $1,000 in just two week's time.
Obamas Continue Vacation on Richard Branson's Private Island
After spending some time golfing in Palm Springs, the Obamas continued their post-White House vacation with a stop at Necker Island — Sir Richard Branson's private island oasis in the Caribbean.
Mandatory Resort Fees Are Really Getting Out of Control
Resort fees are entirely too common in the hotel industry. They include a mix of amenities that would usually be an extra charge and some that wouldn't. What makes them even worse is when they're charged at a property that isn't even a true resort such as the new Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach in Honolulu.
Vegas Casinos Could Start Clamping Down on Free Drinks
One of the hallmarks of a Las Vegas casino is getting a free drink while you gamble — even if you're just playing the slots. Some casinos, however, have taken steps to cut back on free drinks for gamblers who don't meet a minimum amount of spend while in the casino.
Are the 747 and A380 Jets on Their Way to the Graveyard?
Boeing's 747 and Airbus' A380 superjumbo jet are among the most iconic planes ever built — but are they not long for this world? With dwindling orders and an industry-wide move to smaller, more efficient aircraft, it seems that these jumbos don't have much time left.
Paying Taxes With Your Credit Card in 2017
Paying your taxes with the right credit card can be an excellent strategy to help you earn points and miles to put towards a dream vacation.
In Other News...
British Airways Makes Positive Changes on Flights to China
British Airways has been in the news a lot lately, and for all the wrong reasons. However, the airline is breaking its current trend of making cuts in service to improve amenities on its flights to China and Hong Kong. Business class and premium economy passengers will receive slippers on all flights, Twining's green tea will be available to all passengers, menus will be bilingual and passengers will have the option of chopsticks or cutlery for all meals.
Japan Now Offering Trusted Traveler Program
Good news for those enrolled in Global Entry — Japan has added a Trusted Traveler Program available for foreign visitors. If you enroll in the program, you'll be able to visit an automated kiosk upon arrival in Japan to expedite entry into the country.
Eligible Users Can Use Pretax Dollars for Lyft Line Rides
Lyft Line (similar to UberPool) users in New York, Boston, Seattle and Miami can use pretax dollars to put towards Lyft Line rides (up to $225). To qualify, employers must be enrolled in Zenefits, Benefits Resource, WageWorks, Edenred or Navia.
