Upgrade Prices, RIP Alaska Miles & More Big Travel News You Need

Upgrade Prices, RIP Alaska Miles & More Big Travel News You Need

59:37 Aug 21, 2025
About this episode
News, news, and more breaking travel news. There’s been so many big stories in the travel world lately, Gunnar and Kyle blew up the normal show format and spent the episode going beyond the headlines, breaking down everything you need to know. There’s more on new pricing shenanigans from airlines and Uber, the ins and outs of Alaska’s new loyalty program, a big upgrade for Google Flights, and much much more. Watch us on YouTube!00:00 - A self-indulgent review of Gunnar’s favorite hotel in the world: Under Canvas in Glacier (now bookable with Hyatt points!)05:13 - PSA: Global entry interviews are easier to find than ever09:20 - Alaska/Hawaiian’s new award program and why we won’t call it by its name. Plus, the new Alaska/Hawaiian Atmos premium credit card and some new routes to Europe. 17:40 - A leak of what’s coming for the Amex Platinum Card in September20:50 - Chase-to-Emirates transfers have an expiration date23:10 - A new worst way to use Delta SkyMiles – insurance!25:10 - Google Flights adds a basic economy filter and unveils an interesting new AI function31:20 - The data couldn’t be clearer: Book the earliest flight of the day to avoid delays and cancellations35:40 - A word from our sponsor (us): Stay up on all the news with our free Daily Beat newsletter36:30 - One simple choice for your Uber ride will affect your price39:25 - The Amex Centurion Lounge in Dallas is getting a big expansion43:00 - Delta and other airlines are overcharging for upgrades48:00 - The Tulum bubble has burst
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