Top Travel Deals and Tips: Air France-KLM Rewards, Best Credit Cards, Expert Flyer Alerts, and Edinburgh Christmas Market Flights

Good day, travel enthusiasts! In today’s edition, we’re covering everything from top-notch travel deals to expert tips for flying in style. Discover how to nab unbeatable Air France-KLM Flying Blue Promo Rewards and master the art of airplane window shade etiquette. We also dive into the best entry-level travel credit cards to fuel your adventures and show you how to stay ahead with Expert Flyer’s aircraft change alerts. Plus, don't miss our special on festive flights to Edinburgh’s magical Christmas markets! Let’s get traveling!

✈️Take Off with August 2024’s Air France-KLM Flying Blue Promo Rewards

Ready for a love affair with the skies? August 2024's Air France-KLM Flying Blue Promo Rewards are here to sweep you off your feet with sizzling discounts up to 25% on select routes. Whether you're whispering sweet nothings over Parisian rooftops or exploring Amsterdam’s canals, these deals are hotter than a summer romance.

This month’s lineup includes both short/medium and long-haul flights, covering a spread from European cities to North American gems like Boston and Toronto. Economy deals start at just 15,000 miles, making it the perfect time to turn those travel dreams into reality. So pack your bags, book early, and let Flying Blue sprinkle some magic on your travels!

Flying Tips:

• Book Early: Seats are limited. Secure your spot now!

• Be Flexible: Adjust dates/routes for the best deals.

• Leverage Points: Keep an eye out for transfer bonuses to maximize your miles.

Ready to jet-set? Log into Air France or KLM, search for those orange-tagged deals, and let the adventure begin. And remember, love may be in the air, but so are the best travel deals of the season!

✈️Best Entry-Level Travel Credit Cards for 2024

Those who know me know that we love to travel…a lot and especially to Europe. People often ask how to travel as much as we do. The secret? Points and miles from loyalty programs, specifically credit cards. Here’s a quick guide to the best entry-level travel credit cards that can turn your wanderlust into reality.

Top 5 Entry-Level Travel Credit Cards

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred

   • Annual Fee: $95

   • Points Earning: 5X on travel through Chase, 3X on dining and groceries, 2X on other travel, 1X on everything else.

   • Transfer Partners: Includes Flying Blue (Air France/KLM), Aer Lingus, Air Canada, British Airways, Emirates, JetBlue, Iberia, Singapore Airlines, Southwest, United, Virgin Atlantic, IHG, Marriott, World of Hyatt.

   • Insurance Coverage: Primary rental car CDW, bag delay, lost luggage, travel accident, trip cancellation/interruption, trip delay.

   • Extra Perks: $50 hotel credit, 10% annual points boost.

2. Bilt Rewards

   • Annual Fee: $0

   • Points Earning: 3X on dining, 2X on travel, 1X on rent (up to 50,000 points/year), 1X on all other expenses.

   • Transfer Partners: Includes Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Alaska, Avianca, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Flying Blue, Hilton, Hyatt, Iberia, IHG, Marriott, Turkish Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, United.

   • Insurance Coverage: Primary rental car CDW, trip cancellation/interruption, trip delay.

   • Extra Perks: Monthly Rent Day promotions, Point.me partnership for award travel searches.

3. American Express Green Card

   • Annual Fee: $150

   • Points Earning: 3X on travel and transit, 3X on restaurants, 1X on everything else.

   • Transfer Partners: Includes Aer Lingus, Aeromexico, Air Canada, Air France/KLM, ANA, Avianca, British Airways, Delta, Emirates, Etihad, Hawaiian Airlines, Iberia, JetBlue, Qantas, Qatar, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Choice Privileges, Hilton, Marriott.

   • Insurance Coverage: Secondary rental car CDW, trip delay, lost baggage.

   • Extra Perks: $189 CLEAR membership credit, $100 LoungeBuddy credit.

4. Citi Strata Premier

   • Annual Fee: $95

   • Points Earning: 10X on CitiTravel.com bookings, 3X on supermarkets, restaurants, gas, air travel, hotels, travel agencies, 1X on everything else.

   • Transfer Partners: Includes Aeromexico, Cathay Pacific, Avianca, Accor, Emirates, Etihad, Eva Air, Flying Blue, JetBlue, Qantas, Qatar, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Choice Privileges, Wyndham.

   • Insurance Coverage: Trip delay, trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, secondary car rental coverage.

   • Extra Perks: $100 off a $500+ hotel stay booked with Citi Travel.

5. Capital One Venture Rewards

   • Annual Fee: $95

   • Points Earning: 5X on hotels & rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2X on all other purchases.

   • Transfer Partners: Includes Aeromexico, Air Canada, Accor, Cathay Pacific, Avianca, British Airways, Choice Privileges, Emirates, Etihad, EVA Air, Finnair, Flying Blue, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, TAP, Turkish Airlines, Virgin Red, Wyndham.

   • Insurance Coverage: Secondary rental car CDW, lost luggage, travel accident.

   • Extra Perks: Two lounge visits per year, Hertz Five-Star status, Global Entry/TSA Precheck fee reimbursement.

The Verdict

Choosing the right card depends on your priorities. The Chase Sapphire Preferred stands out for its well-rounded benefits, making it a top pick for travelers. If you pay rent, Bilt Rewards offers excellent value with no annual fee and a solid list of transfer partners. Each card has its strengths, so pick the one that aligns best with your travel goals. But I would recommend the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

✈️Mastering Award Bookings: Expert Flyer Aircraft Change Alerts

Ever booked a flight with dreams of savoring that perfect in-flight experience, only to find out your aircraft changed last minute? Expert Flyer’s aircraft change alert feature is here to save the day. Whether it’s the coveted Qatar Qsuite or simply a better seat, staying informed about equipment swaps can make a world of difference.

What is Expert Flyer?

Expert Flyer is a powerful tool providing flight information, award availability, and alerts. Its aircraft change alert feature notifies you when there’s a swap, allowing you to pivot and secure the best flying experience.

Setting Up Aircraft Change Alerts:

1. Create Alert: Log in to Expert Flyer, navigate to Alerts, and select “Create New Aircraft Alert.”

2. Input Flight Details: Enter your departing and arriving airports, date, airline, and flight number.

3. Await Alerts: Receive email notifications if your aircraft changes.

Why It Matters

An equipment swap can downgrade your travel experience, especially with airlines like Qatar, known for such changes. Alerts help you react swiftly, potentially switching to a more suitable flight.

Our Thoughts

Expert Flyer’s alert system is a game-changer for frequent flyers aiming for the best travel experience. It’s a small investment for peace of mind and the possibility of flying in style. We use this to track availability of business class seats and the potential to upgrade (when not flying business).

✈️ Who Controls the Window Shade? A Guide to Airplane Etiquette

In the age-old debate of airplane window shade control, the window seat occupant reigns supreme. But before you bask in your aviator privileges, remember the golden rule: be considerate. If the sun's rays are turning your neighbor into a squinting vampire, maybe dim that brilliance. Similarly, if someone asks nicely to lower the shade, consider their request.

Go with the Flow

On long-haul flights, communal courtesy reigns. If everyone’s shades are down for a collective nap, perhaps follow suit. The glare of your lone open shade can disrupt others' sleep or movie time.

Crew Interventions

Flight attendants often encourage or directly manage shade positions to maintain a restful cabin environment. While this can be frustrating on daytime flights, the aim is harmony.

Etiquette Tips

1. Respect Others: Adjust the shade if it's causing discomfort.

2. Follow the Cabin Vibe: If everyone’s shades are down, join in.

3. Defer to the Crew: Their guidelines aim to benefit all passengers.

Bottom line: If you snag the window seat, enjoy the view but practice considerate shading. Balance your avgeek enthusiasm with a dash of empathy, ensuring a pleasant flight for everyone.

✈️Get Festive at Edinburgh's Christmas Markets 🎅🎄

Fly to Edinburgh, Scotland During Their Famous Christmas Markets from $348 Round Trip!

Edinburgh's Christmas Magic Awaits!

Edinburgh isn’t just about its majestic castle, the Royal Mile, or Arthur’s Seat. From mid-November to early January, the city transforms into a festive wonderland with its renowned Christmas Markets. Picture twinkling lights, cozy stalls, and the scent of mulled wine in the air.

While summer flights to Edinburgh often soar past $900, we've found fantastic round-trip deals starting at just $348! Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a group adventure, or a solo escape, these markets are a must-see.

Highlights

• Great for Couples

• Great for Groups

• Great for Solo Travel

• Top Location

Departure Cities

• New York City: $389

• Boston: $353

• Washington, DC: $348

• Miami: $458

• Chicago: $634

• Dallas: $634

• Los Angeles: $691

• Houston: $664

Explore the festive charm of Edinburgh and maybe even enjoy an extended layover in Iceland to explore Reykjavik. Check out these dates and departure cities, and grab your ticket to holiday magic!

🔗 Stay Connected - Don't forget to follow at @pointsplanensimple for daily doses of travel inspiration!

✨ Safe Travels & Happy Landings! Thank you for flying with us on this newsletter journey. Until next time, keep your passports ready and your adventures grand!