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Tom Kim and Trevor Mountcastle compare two very different cruise experiences, one on Norwegian in the Caribbean and one on Princess in Europe. The episode is useful if you care about cruise line differences, private islands, food quality, port logistics, and how loyalty status and onboard programs can change the experience.
We discuss why one trip was relaxing but disappointing on food, while the other delivered stronger dining, better port stops, and a more polished overall experience. Trevor also shares several practical travel notes from hotels, airports, lounges, and transfers along the way.
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 - Cruise update intro and why they have not talked cruises in a while
02:29 - Norwegian Getaway weekend itinerary out of Miami
03:49 - Club Suite booking and what the cabin actually included
05:04 - Relaxing family trip, but the food was a major problem
07:05 - Great Stirrup Key’s docked arrival versus tendering
08:25 - Why Great Stirrup Key exceeded expectations
10:02 - Island layout, pool area, bars, and food walk to the beach
12:27 - Main criticism of Norwegian food quality
13:27 - Great Stirrup Key expansion and the private island arms race
14:30 - Cruise pricing, early booking, and supply and demand
17:18 - Caribbean cruise competition across major ports
19:07 - European cruise setup: Lyon, EasyJet, and Athens
21:14 - EasyJet delay, airport breakfast, and free onboard purchases
24:41 - Grand Hyatt Athens and elite status value
27:57 - Transfer to Piraeus and boarding the Sun Princess
29:14 - Princess Sphere Class and why the line feels more premium
30:28 - Dining on Princess, including the Crown Grill
31:47 - Princess casino policy and how it differs from Norwegian
33:07 - Princess points, free drinks, and better comp opportunities
34:48 - Santorini excursion and the risk of tendering there
36:27 - Bar Montenegro and why Kotor is the more interesting stop
39:33 - Corfu, old town, and Prince Philip connection
41:41 - Messina, the clock tower show, and arancini
43:50 - Cannoli in Sicily and why fresh-to-order matters
46:09 - Sicily, Catania, and why the island deserves more time
48:30 - Barcelona departure, airport lounges, and Priority Pass meals
TravelStories Episode 83: Catching up With John Ryan
Sunday, August 23, 2026 • Duration 01:22:05
Note: Video of this episode can be found on Youtube and Spotify.
Summary
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of international travel, airline management, and unique travel experiences with John Ryan. Discover insights into Asia trips, airline operations, and travel tips that will inspire your next adventure. Follow along an extensive journey through China and Mongolia, sharing travel tips, airline insights, and cultural experiences. Our guest, an avid traveler and miles enthusiast, provides valuable advice for navigating Chinese cities, using local apps, and maximizing travel rewards.
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to John Ryan and Travel Background
00:10 John's Involvement with FTU and Travel Communities
41:19 Flight from Chengdu to Guangzhou and delays
42:25 Weather and airspace considerations in China
43:19 Main hubs of Chinese airlines and fleet details
44:01 City hopping in China: Guangzhou, Nanjing, and Qingdao
48:02 Staying at the Park Hyatt in Nanjing and hotel experiences
50:03 Traveling in Ulan Batar and city logistics
01:06:29 Highlights in Beijing: The Great Wall and historical sites
01:10:50 Cultural influences and local food in Mongolia
01:13:09 Flying on MIAT and airline fleet insights
01:17:18 Traveling between cities: flights and high-speed rail
01:20:15 How to connect with the guest and final thoughts
Reference:
Lunch at the 747 Cafe
TravelStories Episode 82: A Tale of Two Hotel Certs
Saturday, August 1, 2026 • Duration 59:58
Join Trevor and Tom as Tom shares his ‘forced adventures,’ hotel and restaurant experiences as he tries to avoid the dreaded expiration of hotel certificates, all while exploring Chicago and New York City. Discover how to turn last-minute travel plans into memorable adventures.
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to Travel Stories and Hotel Certs
02:03 Using Hotel Certificates Before They Expire
03:59 Trip to Chicago: Saint Regis and Lowe's Hotel
08:54 Exploring Chicago Neighborhoods and Hotel Views
15:04 Crossing Chicago's Lower and Upper Wacker
20:01 Travel Mishaps: Shoe Print and Suitcase Repair
25:16 NYC Hotel Stay at The Standard Highline
35:01 Dining Experiences in New York: French Restaurants and Bagels
45:03 Nightlife and Sports Events in NYC
55:00 Reflections on Travel and Hotel Loyalty
Reference:
The Standard Highline, New York - https://www.standardhotels.com/new-york
Lowe's Hotel, Chicago - https://www.theloweshotel.com
Saint Regis Chicago - https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/chist-the-st-regis-chicago/
Delmonico's, NYC - https://www.delmonicos.com
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Key Topics for Episode Discussion Post:
TravelStories Episode 81: A Long Overdue return to the Maldives
Friday, July 17, 2026 • Duration 02:01:16
Join us as Tom recounts his incredible journey to the Maldives, navigating multiple modes of travel, airport experiences, and the joys of luxury in this remote paradise. Discover tips, travel hacks, and the beauty of Maldives through detailed travel tales. Join us as we explore luxury travel experiences, points strategies, and airport lounge insights with Tom, a seasoned traveler to the Maldives. Discover how to maximize your miles, find value in hotel stays, and navigate airport amenities like a pro.
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 Journey to Middle Earth and Beyond
02:59 The Maldives Experience
06:10 Travel Logistics and Layovers
09:04 Exploring Boston's Airport Lounges
12:02 Flight Experiences and Aircraft Diversity
14:59 Dining and Lounge Access
18:06 Airline Fleet Insights
23:33 Lufthansa's Business Model and Fleet Decisions
25:47 Transatlantic Flight Experiences
30:09 Barcelona Layover Dilemmas
32:11 Entry-Exit System Challenges in Europe
39:04 Barcelona Airport Lounge Experience
43:06 Flying Qatar Airways Business Class
48:05 Travel Experiences and Upgrades
51:50 Arrival in the Maldives
54:02 Local Cuisine and Cultural Insights
01:00:11 Journey to Park Hyatt Hadaha
01:02:35 Accommodations at Park Hyatt
01:09:37 Snorkeling Adventures and Marine Life
01:11:14 Dining Experiences and Meal Plans
TravelStories Episode 80: A Family Trip to France
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 • Duration 01:23:09
Episode 80: Show Notes
Summary
In this episode, Trevor breaks down his summer getaway to France, diving into flight experiences, trip planning logistics, and what it's like navigating international journeys during the busiest time of year. He provides a comprehensive walkthrough of his time in Paris, Reims, and Disneyland Paris, offering valuable advice on securing reservations, managing the theme parks, and getting the most out of your budget. Listen in for actionable strategies designed to help you streamline your next European vacation and Disney adventure.
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 Introduction and Context Setting
01:06 Travel Planning and Last-Minute Adjustments
03:12 The Decision to Visit Disneyland Paris
05:58 Utilizing Airline Miles and Points
07:13 Flight Experience with Lufthansa
12:44 Arrival and First Impressions in Frankfurt
21:23 Navigating Frankfurt Airport and First Class Terminal
26:06 Navigating European Airports: Challenges and Tips
30:56 Experiencing France: Travel Insights and Recommendations
47:13 Disneyland Paris: Planning and Experiences
52:56 The Magic of Rope Dropping
56:20 Meeting Elsa and Anna: A Magical Encounter
58:19 Navigating Mechanical Issues at Disneyland
01:00:07 Food and Beverage Experiences at Disneyland Paris
01:01:56 The Future of Disneyland Paris: Expansions and New Attractions
01:04:20 Reflections on the Disneyland Experience
TravelStories Episode 79: Japan Travel with Joe Petrovic
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 • Duration 01:00:05
Episode 79: Show Notes
Note: Video of this is available on Youtube/Spotify
Summary
Join Trevor Mountcastle and Tom Kim as we welcome Joe Petrovic to talk Japan explore the intricacies of booking Japan Airlines award flights, navigating ANA and JAL websites, and maximizing travel rewards for international trips. Our guest, Joe Petrovic, shares expert tips on award availability, transfer strategies, and cultural insights for Japan travel.
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to Japan Travel with Joe Petrovic
01:25 Exploring ANA and JAL Booking Strategies
06:30 Understanding JAL Mileage Bank and Transfer Options
10:11 Experiences on Japan Airlines: Business and First Class
12:19 Domestic Flights and Unique Cabin Configurations
14:56 Traveling with Family: Cultural Interests and Experiences
15:40 Challenges in Award Availability and Fuel Surcharges
21:18 Connecting Itineraries and Alternative Routes
23:28 Cultural Integration in Japan Airlines Service
27:01 Luxury Offerings: Wine, Whiskey, and In-Flight Purchases
27:16 Exploring Japan's Travel Options
29:09 Osaka: A Gateway to Japan
34:09 Travel Tips for Japan
39:00 Currency and Payment Insights
42:17 Navigating Japan's Transportation System
49:39 Maximizing Travel Rewards
TravelStories Episode 78: Nostaliga of Airline Times Past
Monday, May 18, 2026 • Duration 01:13:19
Summary
Join Trevor Mountcastle and Tom Kim as they reminisce about the golden age of airlines, sharing personal travel stories, airline history, and insights into how service standards and loyalty programs have evolved over the years.
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 Nostalgia for Continental Airlines
04:21 Gordon Bethune's Impact on Continental
08:27 Memorable Travel Stories with Continental
12:10 Experiences of Upgrades and Amenities
16:00 Comparing Past and Present Airline Experiences
22:15 The In-Flight Experience: A Journey Through Airline Catering
27:44 Nostalgia in Air Travel: The Comfort of Cookies and Warm Nuts
32:21 The Evolution of Airline Culture: From First Class to Economy
38:55 The Changing Landscape of Air Travel: A Reflection on Experiences
43:50 Finding Value in Air Travel: Deals and Discounts in Today's Market
48:48 Exploring Accommodation Options in the Maldives
51:53 Maximizing Resort Time and Transfers
54:09 Flight Connections and Layover Strategies
56:48 Navigating Flight Cancellations and Rebooking
In this episode, we sit down with Ed Pizzarello to dive deep into the evolving landscape of loyalty programs, Freddie awards (don’t forget to go to vote.freddieawards.com to make sure your voice is heard!), and the latest shifts in Las Vegas. From maximizing your miles to uncovering affordable Sin City gems, we offer a comprehensive look at the travel industry. This is a wide ranging discussion that even includes navigating the streets of Hong Kong and Taipei, airline fleet innovations, and the inevitable tangents of gold that we love to take..
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to the Freddie Awards
01:47 The History and Importance of the Freddie Awards
04:04 Voter Dynamics and Brand Loyalty in the Freddie Awards
06:14 Regional Voting Trends and Airline Perceptions
08:31 The Value of Loyalty Programs Across Regions
09:57 The Legacy of Sir Freddie Laker
12:17 The Impact of Points and Miles on Travel
13:52 Redemption Ability and Airline Value Changes
15:55 The Evolution of Miles and Points Programs
18:03 The Shift in Airline Preferences
19:30 The Best Loyalty Credit Cards Today
21:39 Maximizing Value from Loyalty Programs
23:43 Expectations in Family Travel
TravelStories Episode 76: Tom Returns to the High Seas
Monday, April 6, 2026 • Duration 01:31:15
This Episode with video can be found on Youtube and Spotify.
Join Trevor Mountcastle and Tom Kim as they explore two contrasting cruises, delving into ship design, ports of call, dining experiences, and onboard entertainment. Discover insights into cruise ship architecture, port highlights like Grand Turk, and tips for maximizing onboard casino and dining value. Join us as we explore the latest in cruise ship amenities, ports of call, and insider tips for maximizing your cruise experience on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. From dining highlights to port adventures, discover how this ship sets a new standard in cruising luxury.
Key Points From This Episode:
00:00 Introduction
02:05 Exploring the Star Princess
10:01 Dining Experiences on the Star Princess
18:04 Entertainment and Casino Insights
25:56 Ports of Call: Grand Turk and Beyond
31:42 Exploring Grand Turk: Beaches and Local Cuisine
34:59 Reflections on Star Princess: A Relaxing Cruise Experience
35:45 Introduction to Icon of the Seas: A New Era of Cruising
36:46 Neighborhoods and Amenities: Icon's Unique Features
39:21 Entertainment Highlights: Aqua Shows and Ice Rinks
43:32 Dining Delights: Specialty Restaurants and Buffets
50:31 Main Dining Room Experience: Lobster Nights and Quality
53:50 Casino Adventures: Gambling on the Icon
57:37 Ports of Call: Costa Maya and Cozumel Insights
01:00:18 Exploring Honduras: Authentic Experiences vs. Cruise Ports
01:04:03 Cozumel Adventures: Snorkeling and Local Delights
TravelStories Episode 75: Catching Up With Nick Reyes of FrequentMiler
Monday, March 23, 2026 • Duration 01:37:03
Note: This episode can be viewed with video on Youtube/Spotify.
Summary
In this episode, Tom Kim and Trevor Mountcastle welcome back Nick from The Frequent Miler to discuss the latest strategies in the award travel world. Nick breaks down his family’s massive undertaking of the JetBlue 25-for-25 promotion, his nuanced take on the Hyatt award chart changes, and his favorite tools for finding the best flight redemptions, including a surprising hack for Southwest Airlines.
Key Points From This Episode:
0:00 – Introduction
Tom and Trevor welcome back Nick.
Brief catch-up on Nick’s recent travel adventures since his last appearance.
0:43 – The JetBlue 25-for-25 Family Challenge
How Nick completed the challenge for his entire family of four.
The logic behind securing 25 years of airline status for his young children.
Strategy: Using Amex Membership Rewards points and the Business Platinum 35% rebate to fund the flights.
Leveraging partner bookings like Etihad Guest for high-value JetBlue redemptions.
7:16 – Hyatt Award Chart Changes: To Panic or Not?
Nick’s take on the recent devaluation: Why Hyatt remains the strongest hotel currency despite the hit to top-tier redemptions.
The strategy of speculative bookings for "bucket list" properties like Park Hyatt Kyoto before price hikes.
Comparing the rising cash rates of luxury hotels to the increasing point requirements.
18:25 – Aeroplan and the Current State of Flight Awards
The pros and cons of Air Canada’s Aeroplan, including their massive partner network.
The frustration of dynamic pricing with partners like United.
Epcot Frozen Ever After Ride - https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/frozen-ever-after/
Disneyland Paris Instagram Accounts - https://www.instagram.com/search/?q=disneylandparis
Champagne Houses in Epernay - https://www.epernay.com/
Yelp Paris Food & Drink - https://www.yelp.com/search?cflt=food&find_loc=Paris
—----------------
Key Topics for Episode Discussion Post:
Tactics for Last-Minute Bookings and Trip Planning
Evaluating European Airline Services and Airport Lounges
Navigating Customs, Airport Procedures, and Flight Delays
Organizing a Family Trip to France: Planning and Logistics
Assessing Carrier Quality, Cabin Amenities, and Paris Recommendations
Disneyland Paris: Proven Guide for Planning and Park Advice
Touring Reims and the Historic Champagne Region
Value Maximization and Strategic Travel Booking Methods
Efficient Park Overviews and Ride Management Tactics
Keywords
Travel, France, Lufthansa First Class, Charles de Gaulle, Disneyland Paris, travel tips, airline experience, airport lounges, European travel, trip planning, Disneyland Paris, Paris trip, Reims, Champagne, Travel tips, Park planning, Travel hacks
50:59 Personal Travel Experiences and Insights
Resources
Japan Airlines (JAL) - https://www.jal.co.jp/en/
ANA (All Nippon Airways) - https://www.ana.co.jp/en/us/
JAL Mileage Bank - https://www.jal.co.jp/en/jmb/
Finair Miles (Finnair) - https://www.finnair.com/us-en/awards
24:14 Trends in the Freddie Awards and Loyalty Programs
28:22 The Evolution of Loyalty Programs
31:53 The K-Shaped Economy and Its Impact on Travel
37:43 Vegas Trends: The Changing Landscape
57:46 Reinventing Vegas: Affordability and Culinary Delights
58:43 Exploring Culinary Delights in Vegas
01:02:39 Reflections on Hong Kong's Changing Atmosphere
01:24:49 United Airlines Innovations and Fleet Improvements
01:27:50 Premium Economy Experience and Customer Comfort
01:31:18 Demand for Premium Seats and Catering Quality
01:38:17 Customer Loyalty and Airline Business Strategies
—----------------
Key Topics for Episode Discussion Post:
The History and Importance of the Freddie Awards
The Evolution of Airline and Hotel Loyalty Programs
Vegas Trends: The Changing Landscape, Affordability, and Hong Kong’s Shifting Atmosphere
Cultural Insights and Comparative Travel: Taipei vs. Hong Kong
United Airlines Innovations, Fleet Improvements, and the Passenger Experience
Airline Business Strategies: Loyalty Programs and Credit Card Value
Keywords: Pizza in Motion, Miles to Go Podcast, Freddie Awards, loyalty programs, Vegas trends, miles and points, Freddie Awards, airline loyalty, hotel programs, Vegas affordability, travel hacking, loyalty industry insights Travel, Airlines, Hong Kong, Taipei, Vegas, Airline Fleet, Loyalty Programs, Cultural Insights
01:08:23 Coco Cay: The Ultimate Private Island Experience
01:19:29 Managing a Large Group: The Cruise Director Role
01:30:44 Final Thoughts on Icon of the Seas: A Memorable Journey
—----------------
Key Topics for Episode Discussion Post:
Ship design and architecture of Star Princess and Icon of the Seas
Ports of call including Nassau, Grand Turk, and Amber Cove
Onboard dining experiences, specialty restaurants, and buffet insights Icon of the Seas amenities and dining options
Cruise ports: Costa Maya, Cozumel, Honduras, Coco Cay
Cruise planning and port excursions
Ship design and passenger distribution
Dining tips and onboard experiences
The difficulty of finding award space to Asia in the current travel climate.
23:14 – Advanced Award Searching & The "Condor Hack"
Using Alaska Airlines to book Condor with a stopover in Frankfurt en route to Bangkok.
Nick’s favorite tools: AwardTool, Seats.Aero, and the Points Path Chrome extension.
Autopilot: A new tool for automatically repricing paid flights for credits.
29:16 – Southwest Airlines Strategies & IT Glitches
The shift to assigned seating and the impact on Southwest's value proposition.
A bizarre IT glitch: Why Nick’s 8-year-old son could see award seats that Nick (a premium cardholder) could not.
The benefits of the Southwest Priority and Performance Business cards.
36:00 – Family Travel: World-Schooling & The Librea Tar Pits
Nick’s experience homeschooling his kids for a quarter while traveling to the Bahamas, Los Angeles, and French Polynesia.
The educational value of travel: From the aquariums in Atlantis to prehistoric history in LA.
41:40 – The Casino Status Match & Free Cruises
How Nick turned casino status matches into 14 free cruises.
Reviewing Margaritaville at Sea: Why it’s surprisingly great for families despite its budget reputation.
Pro Tip: Using the casino "cage" for organic spend/cash advances on cruises.
51:00 – Lifemiles & Flying Blue Subscriptions
Is the LifeMiles+ subscription worth $20/month? (Hint: The 10% discount and free cancellations might be).
The new Flying Blue subscription model and whether it’s worth it for promo awards.
Keywords
Hyatt award chart, travel hacking, JetBlue 25 for 25, Family travel, Aeroplan, Southwest Airlines
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