I love credit cards so much! v4.0 - 2021 (see first page for add'l details)

[punkin]

Well I had fun this morning, or not. I've got about $13k in credit card balances to pay this month (OUCH). Part of that is the VCG I have laying around, so today's fun was getting rid of those.

I started off to FD. I chose one that was close to some other ones. I had $300 in VGC from Staples (from awhile back) and $800 in Dine Everywhere VGC from OD/OM. I went into FD did $100 (on a Staples VGC). Then thought, oh I'll do another $400 ($200 Staples VGC/ $200 OD/OM). Well the card I swiped first was the DE card and it was declined. I was so flustered I didn't even THINK to do the other Staples card for $200. So I drove away and headed back towards home, to hit a WM to try the DE cards. I was able to do $400 in DE cards at WM, so I figured I'd go past the other FD on my way home. This is the one that is ALWAYS at it's max loads when I get there, but it was early, so I was hopeful. I get there and it's closed! UGH. So I headed to another WM to do the other $400 in DE cards. And then thought, you know, I'll try the Staples VGC in a checkout lane or at electronics. No one was at Electronics, so I grabbed the 2 items I needed and headed to a checkout lane. The poor girl there could NOT get the transaction to run. She went and asked someone came back and tried, still didn't work. Then a person came over and tried, and they decided it was her terminal. So the lady took me to another lane. I tried for $99 and it worked!!! So I was able to "clear" $999 of the $1100 I needed to do today. I'll call it a win for now. And it seems I can go back to $99 loads on the Staples VGC, if I can ever find those again. Though after all the fun it's been lately, I think I'm only buying them when I know I'm going to be around a lot of easy load places, LOL.



Barclay is a nightmare at times. It took 7 attempts to get my Biz AA card finally approved. I have both, but I think I'm going to close the personal one this year and maybe try to churn it. DP's on FT seem mixed on whether you can churn the card and how long you have to wait. I waiver back and forth on which card I want to keep vs close and maybe churn. I feel like since the Biz was so much harder to keep, that's the one I want to keep. I go back and forth, LOL. But I love having AA miles for trips to NC, so I am always looking to add to them!

Right...I have a lot of use for AA miles. I'm going to double check my spreadsheet when DH's card was closed. If it's over a year, I think I'll risk it.

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Right...I have a lot of use for AA miles. I'm going to double check my spreadsheet when DH's card was closed. If it's over a year, I think I'll risk it.

I opened my Barclay's AA biz card on August 24, 2019 and closed on October 23, 2020. I am no so patiently waiting to re-apply. I always love to have some AA miles available!

 

[punkin]

I opened my Barclay's AA biz card on August 24, 2019 and closed on October 23, 2020. I am no so patiently waiting to re-apply. I always love to have some AA miles available!

Are you waiting for a year since closing? Any real reason or just seems like a good time?

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

I have been wanting to visit Lake Louise and specifically the Chateau Lake Louise (CLL) for a few years. Since I haven't traveled too far from home in such a long time, I finally decided to book a solo trip. I know that I want the Fairmont Gold Lakeview room, so I went ahead and booked using 234,000 URs (approx. value $.014/UR).

I am adding a night in Calgary before returning home and will use a Marriott 35K FNC, most likely at the all suites Sheraton Eau Claire, which gets very high ratings on FT.

Flights are (of course) on Air Canada, this time using a combination of Aeroplan points (33K) and eUpgrades (8). The eUpgrades allowed me to book an economy class ticket and get immediately upgraded to business class (dh gifts me status every year as one of his perks; the status comes with 30 eUpGrades).

Weather should be cool during the day and much cooler at night, which is what I prefer. Hopefully the crowds won't be too bad and the fall foliage will be in full splendor. The CLL has a number of guided hikes which I plan on signing up for, as well as the shuttle to Moraine Lake (I plan on booking the sunrise shuttle). Arrival day I'll most likely have afternoon tea at the CLL.

OOP costs will be hiking excursions (I don't plan on hiking solo in the mountains), private transportation to and from Calgary airport to the CLL and lunch and dinner (which hopefully will be somewhat offset by canapes in the concierge lounge), plus some swag from the shop at the CLL and whatever shopping I do in Banff.

If I don't cancel, I am scheduled to depart on September 26th (6 nights total). I am excited for my first plane trip since February, 2020 and to spend some time in the great outdoors!

 

[CyndiLouWho]

I would not recommend any Barclays card. If you google their customer service, you'll see they are a 1 star card. I had one of their AA cards that was pitched on an AA flight. I cancelled it when I was not refunded for a hotel I'd paid for in Barcelona in May of 2020. The hotel (and Barcelona in general) was physically closed due to Covid 19. But, they wouldn't refund me. My sad tale continues even though my card is closed (and maybe because my card is closed). I actually paid off the 2020 EBTA with my Barclays card to meet the spend needed for the AA points. Two years later, and several cancelled cruises, I finally gave up the cruise and requested a refund. And it's going to the canceled Barclays. And no one can find the money, and there is no customer service and I've been waiting over a week for a "supervisor" to call me back.
Oh, and I want to add, that we were doing the EBTA with our very good friends who booked the same hotel for the came days in Barcelona on a Citi card. They were refunded due to the hotel being physically closed.

I would call Barclay's cards the sock drawer type. After the bonus I don't put much spend on them, but they are good for bonus and maybe free bags. For big purchase I would be sure to use a card with reliable travel coverage and/or buy travel insurance. I'm sorry you're having such trouble.

 

[elgerber]

Sure, can't get the dining credits for September from Amex for any of my 3 cards (anyone else get theirs yet?), but had no trouble getting my $200 statement credit for my Delta upgrade, the same day I met the MSR and the 50k bonus miles the very next day!!

Now, if Chase would just hurry up and approve or axe p2's CIC app (they are killing me) that would be great. I am without an MSR and I have things to pay for.

 

[GlamMistress]

Thinking about luggage... does anyone have a Louis Vuitton Keepall B 50 or 55 used as a main suitcase for air travel? I'm thinking about investing in one as I believe it may be a good investment piece for me and DH to use for trips. I am a fan of LV purses. I feel like I could get a decent amount of items inside a Keepall and actually have an easier time in the airport than with my large, hardside Samsonite.

--

Also, shoulder update: I am still in physical therapy. The past week I graduated to pushing a weighted sled like a football player. In another week, I get new Xrays and will hopefully be told that my break is fully fused and then I can lift weights again. I still can't lift my arm straight above my head, but it is coming along (slowly).

 

[Judique]

I have been wanting to visit Lake Louise and specifically the Chateau Lake Louise (CLL) for a few years. Since I haven't traveled too far from home in such a long time, I finally decided to book a solo trip. I know that I want the Fairmont Gold Lakeview room, so I went ahead and booked using 234,000 URs (approx. value $.014/UR).

I am adding a night in Calgary before returning home and will use a Marriott 35K FNC, most likely at the all suites Sheraton Eau Claire, which gets very high ratings on FT.

Flights are (of course) on Air Canada, this time using a combination of Aeroplan points (33K) and eUpgrades (8). The eUpgrades allowed me to book an economy class ticket and get immediately upgraded to business class (dh gifts me status every year as one of his perks; the status comes with 30 eUpGrades).

Weather should be cool during the day and much cooler at night, which is what I prefer. Hopefully the crowds won't be too bad and the fall foliage will be in full splendor. The CLL has a number of guided hikes which I plan on signing up for, as well as the shuttle to Moraine Lake (I plan on booking the sunrise shuttle). Arrival day I'll most likely have afternoon tea at the CLL.

OOP costs will be hiking excursions (I don't plan on hiking solo in the mountains), private transportation to and from Calgary airport to the CLL and lunch and dinner (which hopefully will be somewhat offset by canapes in the concierge lounge), plus some swag from the shop at the CLL and whatever shopping I do in Banff.

If I don't cancel, I am scheduled to depart on September 26th (6 nights total). I am excited for my first plane trip since February, 2020 and to spend some time in the great outdoors!

Can't wait for pictures and a trip report! Sounds amazing!

 

[ski_mom]

Curious if anyone has been on lately, or is booked for a cruise soon? If you've been on one since cruising began again, I'd love to know your experience! We are booked for January, and I'm getting a little concerned about it now with everything going on.

The rate is unfortunately non-refundable, although it's my understanding that if you test positive you will get credit to use for another cruise. Also, I have a 10% Carnival offer on my CSP, so I was thinking to pay off the rest of the cruise a month early to get $50 back.

We have a cruise booked leaving Oct 30th and one leaving Feb 26th. I'm sure it will be different, but we are looking forward to them! DH and I have both been vaccinated (I think it's a requirement with Carnival for adults), but I will be a little nervous until we get the negative test back. Worse case if we test positive, we can move our money to a future cruise, but I hate the last minute aspect of it.

We went on the Carnival Mardi Gras on August 7th. They started the Masking indoors on that cruise but the testing before did not start until the week after. We were a little concerned with all the procedures but everything was great. We had to wear masks getting on and off the ship and indoors when going into dining or in elevators or around crowds. It was not bad at all. Then of course you had to follow the procedures of whatever ports you were at. We did mostly beach days so once we got where we were going - masks were off. I see they now have some Rapid In Home Testing you can do and it is like $70 for 2 tests. There are certain ones that you can use and are listed, but this makes it a lot easier.

Since we have been back (and spent some time in the casino) have been getting casino offers every day. Latest one yesterday is for cruises through end of December. Inside Cabins from $25 per person. Trying to see if I can get that to work out and hopefully booking another one. Any particular questions, let me know.

We haven't decided if we're doing the proctored at home tests or if we'll try to use CVS /Walgreens or something like that.

Curious about the casino offers. How much did you play - was it mostly table games, slots, or does it matter? DH and I are very casual gamblers, but have never really gambled on cruise ships for some reason. Maybe we need try a bit and see if we get any offers.

 

[chattadisser]

I have been wanting to visit Lake Louise and specifically the Chateau Lake Louise (CLL) for a few years. Since I haven't traveled too far from home in such a long time, I finally decided to book a solo trip. I know that I want the Fairmont Gold Lakeview room, so I went ahead and booked using 234,000 URs (approx. value $.014/UR).

I am adding a night in Calgary before returning home and will use a Marriott 35K FNC, most likely at the all suites Sheraton Eau Claire, which gets very high ratings on FT.

Flights are (of course) on Air Canada, this time using a combination of Aeroplan points (33K) and eUpgrades (8). The eUpgrades allowed me to book an economy class ticket and get immediately upgraded to business class (dh gifts me status every year as one of his perks; the status comes with 30 eUpGrades).

Weather should be cool during the day and much cooler at night, which is what I prefer. Hopefully the crowds won't be too bad and the fall foliage will be in full splendor. The CLL has a number of guided hikes which I plan on signing up for, as well as the shuttle to Moraine Lake (I plan on booking the sunrise shuttle). Arrival day I'll most likely have afternoon tea at the CLL.

OOP costs will be hiking excursions (I don't plan on hiking solo in the mountains), private transportation to and from Calgary airport to the CLL and lunch and dinner (which hopefully will be somewhat offset by canapes in the concierge lounge), plus some swag from the shop at the CLL and whatever shopping I do in Banff.

If I don't cancel, I am scheduled to depart on September 26th (6 nights total). I am excited for my first plane trip since February, 2020 and to spend some time in the great outdoors!

Please report back. I have wanted to do this trip and stay at CLL for so long!! It might end up being a solo trip for me too.

 

[Crazed4DisneyinSC]

We have a cruise booked leaving Oct 30th and one leaving Feb 26th. I'm sure it will be different, but we are looking forward to them! DH and I have both been vaccinated (I think it's a requirement with Carnival for adults), but I will be a little nervous until we get the negative test back. Worse case if we test positive, we can move our money to a future cruise, but I hate the last minute aspect of it.

Yes I believe it is a requirement to be vaccinated with carnival unless you apply for a medical exemption. I also hate the last minute aspect too of the testing. And we’re cruising with other family members, so our entire party will hopefully test negative. I told DH we need to be super vigilant the two weeks leading up to the cruise to make sure that test comes back negative!!

If you get tested at Walgreens, isn’t it free? Or only if you have symptoms? Do you have to pay for testing when it’s for vacation purposes?

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Thinking about luggage... does anyone have a Louis Vuitton Keepall B 50 or 55 used as a main suitcase for air travel? I'm thinking about investing in one as I believe it may be a good investment piece for me and DH to use for trips. I am a fan of LV purses. I feel like I could get a decent amount of items inside a Keepall and actually have an easier time in the airport than with my large, hardside Samsonite.

--

Also, shoulder update: I am still in physical therapy. The past week I graduated to pushing a weighted sled like a football player. In another week, I get new Xrays and will hopefully be told that my break is fully fused and then I can lift weights again. I still can't lift my arm straight above my head, but it is coming along (slowly).

I do not have a LV Keepall suitcase, but having had a brand new Tumi suitcase stolen from the Atlanta airport several years ago, I would discourage you from purchasing high-end luggage as it seems to be targeted by thieves. Just my $0.02 -- I know what it's like to really, really want something and if you feel that you'd get a lot of mileage and joy out of it, then maybe consider it.

Congrats on your progress. Sports injuries are the absolute worst, but it sounds like you are almost there!

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Are you waiting for a year since closing? Any real reason or just seems like a good time?

Yes. Very mixed DPs I could find seemed to suggest that I'd have better luck getting the card if I wait to apply until 1 year after I closed the card. I'm not in a rush, so I will wait it out.

 

[punkin]

I'm very hesitant about the Barclay's card. I looked at my spreadsheet and DH actually never had the business card. However, he's also eligible for the citi AA business card. That might be something. He's currently 3/24, with one card dropping off end of October, so a personal card is on the table too. Decisions decisions.

 

[ten6mom]

Hope all are doing well on this rather sober day.

Does anyone have any suggestions for me on how to use 200K Virgin Atlantic miles, within the US (is that even possible)? I think we have given up on the idea of going to Japan with them but I'd prefer to use them rather than lose them completely.

The Virgin website says they partner with Delta, which is fine (I know nothing about Delta but I'm not picky) but I don't know whether I can use that if both starting and ending points are within the US. Anyone know?

 

[punkin]

Hope all are doing well on this rather sober day.

Does anyone have any suggestions for me on how to use 200K Virgin Atlantic miles, within the US (is that even possible)? I think we have given up on the idea of going to Japan with them but I'd prefer to use them rather than lose them completely.

The Virgin website says they partner with Delta, which is fine (I know nothing about Delta but I'm not picky) but I don't know whether I can use that if both starting and ending points are within the US. Anyone know?

I don't think using them on delta domestically would be a problem at all.

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

I'm very hesitant about the Barclay's card. I looked at my spreadsheet and DH actually never had the business card. However, he's also eligible for the citi AA business card. That might be something. He's currently 3/24, with one card dropping off end of October, so a personal card is on the table too. Decisions decisions.

Given the choice between Citi and Barclays I'd go with Citi. I would apply (for the Citi AA biz), but I am locked out by their 48 month language. Once that 48 months is up (in April, 2023), I will be applying again. Or you could, you know, do both . I did and I will again.

 

[Alexle2007]

Once I request to move points and they do it, that link is established between those 2 accounts and I don't need to SM again to move more. Is that not the case for you?

Unfortunately not. I have now SM’d a dozen times. So annoying. I want them there instantly!

 

[GlamMistress]

I do not have a LV Keepall suitcase, but having had a brand new Tumi suitcase stolen from the Atlanta airport several years ago, I would discourage you from purchasing high-end luggage as it seems to be targeted by thieves. Just my $0.02 -- I know what it's like to really, really want something and if you feel that you'd get a lot of mileage and joy out of it, then maybe consider it.

Congrats on your progress. Sports injuries are the absolute worst, but it sounds like you are almost there!

CRAP! I'm sorry you had your bag stolen! Thanks for the feedback. Definitely something to consider for sure.

 

[AmyAnne]

You might be able to pull up the 150k for $2000 spend offer on the Surpass, though I'm not sure if it's available via support. There's an additional 50k for total $10k spend. That's a nice offer if you plan to do the $15k spend for an FNC. I got the card for DH hoping to eventually get an upgrade bonus offer to the Aspire. Though I'm not sure how likely that is if he holds an Aspire. Might have to downgrade it eventually.

The Marriott Biz has a 100k offer that comes and goes. Current offer is 75k plus $150 statement credit. So depends if you prefer 25k or $125. They had the 100k with the $125 at one point too, though I don't know how likely that is to come back.

Amex is very lenient when it comes to business cards. The Hilton business card is the same offer as the Surpass, same fee, but won't add to 5/24. The Delta offers aren't elevated right now, so I would wait until they are before considering those products.

Thanks for these replies. My initial thought is that I would not do the $15k spend for the FNC, but only because my thought is that a single FNC is not worth the extra spend--if I'm going to spend $15k, I might take advantage of an "upgrade" offer of 150,000 points for adding another biz plat. Although that really might be tempting the pop-up gods--apply for a new card and two days later close the very same (old) card.

But maybe 180-200k Hilton points plus a FNC is not a bad return on $15k in spending.

Also, I have already had the Hilton biz card, otherwise that would be an excellent suggestion.