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| A full circle travel moment |
| by Brian Kelly |
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Hello from the Cayman Islands!
I decided to take a last-minute trip with my boys, back to the place where my points journey started 30 years ago, when I booked my first award trip for my parents and siblings — we had the best time ever. It’s come full circle now as I am here at the gorgeous Palm Heights Resort on Grand Cayman with my own kids.
I booked this getaway last-minute with my Bilt Palladium Card (see rates and fees), but more on that in a minute.
It got me thinking about how a last-minute trip to the Caribbean is easier than a trip to Europe with kids, especially if you are looking for beaches. European beaches can be rocky or have steep paths and cliffs. The Caribbean is much more accessible, and even with summer being hurricane season, weather forecasts can see that a few days out, so booking last-minute can be key here.
My Euro summer hot take: go to the Caribbean instead
The prices are a downright steal for luxury hotels — I’m obsessed with this boutique hotel — it’s very chic, amazing food, plus a great spa and fitness center. Even if there’s a little afternoon rain, I just head to the spa. Prices are a third of peak-season rates, and it’s less crowded. My TL;DR is that off-peak travel can be fabulous, and something I think more people need to consider.
Now, about how I used my Bilt Points … Full disclosure: I’m a Bilt advisor and investor. I was able to book my flights to Grand Cayman on Cayman Airways using my Palladium Card at a 1.25-cent-per-point value in Bilt Travel, which is a better value than paying with points on the Chase or Amex Travel portals. There are also no other programs that transfer to or allow redemptions on Cayman Airways since they aren’t an alliance partner.
I’m also earning thousands of Bilt Points each month from spending on the Palladium Card (and by using some savvy tricks to earn points via other ways).
In my mind, the welcome offer on the Palladium is a no-brainer. You’ll earn 50,000 bonus points, Bilt Gold status after $4,000 in spending in three months and receive $300 in Bilt Cash upon approval. The bonus points alone are worth at least $1,000 to me.
The benefits don’t stop there — I’m earning 2 points per dollar spent on everyday purchases, up to $400 in annual Bilt Travel hotel credit (up to $200 semiannually), and an extra $200 in annual Bilt Cash (up to $100 in Bilt Cash earned rolls over to the next year).
Here’s how I’m maximizing the card to earn big:
- I opted for the housing-only earning option so I can earn up to 1.25 points per dollar spent on my housing expenses instead of just 1 point. The TPG Bilt Calculator can help you figure out the best option for you.
- I have two mortgages to pay, which can add up. Now, you can pay any rent or a mortgage through the platform (think: rent for your kids at college, parents, etc.) — it’s game-changing.
- I earn in categories that don’t fit on other cards: I use this card to pay my accountant, to buy clothing and toys for my kids, and for pretty much anything.
- Be sure to bookmark our story on Rent Day, which is updated each month with new offers — it’s my favorite day to maximize my earnings.
If you’re new to Bilt or just want to earn more rewards, check out our guide and then compare the Bilt 2.0 cards side by side.
Highest-ever airline card offer
ICYMI: Before I close out this weekend’s newsletter, I wanted to share some American Airlines news. Not only are they stepping up their game inflight with the new Flagship product, but their premium cobrand card just got a fresh look, a few new benefits, and its highest-ever offer of 125,000 AAdvantage miles.
This is also the only card that offers unlimited Admirals Club access with up to two guests. Now that American has changed the Admirals Club membership tiers, this card is the least expensive way to access the lounges.
Check it out: Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Legend Mastercard®
For a limited time, earn 125,000 bonus miles after spending $15,000 on purchases in the first five months from account opening.
Have a great weekend,
BK
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| Photo Credit: JONNO RATTMAN FOR THE POINTS GUY. |
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