I’m kicking myself this morning for not booking a trip to the Chicago Seminars after seeing all the Tweets and build-up from attendees this week.
If you’re unfamiliar, the annual event brings together the brightest minds in the travel hacking community to discuss all things miles and points. From introductory lectures to advanced credit card strategies, it’s an event not to miss if you want to maximize the value of frequent flier, hotel and other travel loyalty programs.
Chicago Seminars
And even though I consider myself rather advanced in most areas, I certainly learned a new thing or two the last time I attended. Plus, some of the best lectures aren’t even on the schedule – they’re the ones you have with like-minded enthusiasts that you meet and share experiences with while attending the event.
So… I’ll have to settle with monitoring my Twitter feed this weekend and live vicariously through those of you attending. Next year, I’ll be there!
Milepoint Premium Membership Returns
Speaking of maximizing the value out of travel programs, be sure to check out the return of Milepoint’s Premium Membership option. For a low-ball price of $49.95, you’ll get:
- Hilton HHonors Gold elite status through February 2015
- 1,000 United Airlines MileagePlus miles
- National Car Rental Executive Status
- 10% discount off Hyatt Hotel gift card purchases
- Free upgrade to AwardWallet Plus
- 20% discount on ExpertFlyer Premium Service
- Free online subscription to InsideFlyer and 50% off the print edition
- And a heck of a lot more
I wouldn’t blog about this if I didn’t believe in its value, and I certainly get nothing for doing so. The benefits speak for themselves. Plus, 10% of your purchase price goes to supporting charities-of-choice, including ASPCA, Habitat for Humanity, The Wounded Warrior Project, and so many more.
Last year, Premium Membership sold out in three days, so be sure to sign-up quickly if you’re interested.
And with that, I’m now returning to my Twitter feed to jealously watch everyone arrive in Chicago today.
– Follow Darren Booth on Twitter, @FrequentlyFlyin, for more airline, hotel and travel industry news, reviews and opinions.
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Totally bummed I’m missing Chicago Seminars as well!!! 🙁
@Jeff: Exactly. 🙁
Thanks for the headsup for MilePoint membership ! I only have 10 stays so far this year for Hilton, and definately don’t have another 10 stays between now and end of December to requalify for gold, not to mention it is half the price to get the Hilton Citi Reserve card, this is a much better deal !
What was the offer last year btw ?
@ORDnHKG: This year’s offer is much improved (and $10 cheaper I think). Sorry I don’t have last year’s handy at the moment.