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Category: Podcast

Best Hotels for Families in San Diego/Southern California (Hyatt’s Version)

In this episode we are sharing all of our favorite Hyatts we've visited in San Diego, Oceanside, and Newport Beach. We are such big fans of Hyatt because of their incredible point redemptions compared to other hotel chains. We book all of our Hyatt stays using Chase Ultimate Reward points transferred directly to Hyatt. Here are some of our favorite cards that earn Ultimate Rewards points:

Chase Ink Business Cards – we have all 4 of these cards

Chase Sapphire Preferred / Chase Sapphire Reserve

World of Hyatt Chase Business Card

From pool slides to breakfast buffets, and  fire pits to rooftop cinemas, each hotel offers unique experiences that promise to make your family vacation unforgettable. And we're not stopping there – we'll also share a peek into our wishlist of Hyatt hotels we're eager to explore next. So if you're dreaming of a trip to San Diego or Oceanside, or anywhere in between, tune in to discover why these Hyatt hotels should be at the top of your list!

In this episode we share our experiences at:

Hyatt Regency Newport Beach 

Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina 

Hyatt Regency  La Jolla at Aventine

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Hyatt House San Diego/Sorrento Mesa 

Hyatt House at Anaheim Convention Center 

The Seabird (and its neighbor the Mission Pacific too)

Travel Party of 5 Blog

Travel Hacking Q&A for Beginners – Will This Hurt my Credit Score? Plus Our Trip Planning Strategies!

In this episode, we dive into the questions we are most frequently asked about travel hacking.  Ever wondered why more people aren't doing this? Worried about your credit? We've got the answers.  

We cover questions like-
What to do if you get denied for a credit card? 
What if your credit score is too low?
Will this ruin my credit?
How far ahead do I need to plan trips to make this work?

Plus we explain our travel planning process and where we're at with upcoming trips (spoiler: we're already thinking about 2025, but it's ok if you're not!)

Credit Cards with Lounge Access: A Beginner’s Guide to Airport Lounges

In this episode we share the exact credit cards we use that offer the coveted benefit of airport lounge access for our entire family of 5. This podcast is perfect for beginners, as we aim to demystify the process, clarify the advantages, and provide actionable steps to leverage cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X, American Express Platinum, and more.

Throughout the episode, we'll break down the different lounge brands – Priority Pass, Capital One, Centurion and the new and upcoming Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounge. We hope to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions when selecting a credit card that aligns with your travel goals.

Our goal is to help you elevate your travel experiences, making airport lounges not just a distant dream but an accessible reality – AKA they aren't just for “fancy people.”  Cheers!

Our 2023 Travel Recap and 2024 Travel Goals

Happy New Year! Join us as we do a quick overview of all the trips we took in 2023, the places we visited, the cards we opened to get there and the points we earned over the course of a year. We also share our 2024 travel/status goals with lots of excitement for what's to come!

Exploring D.C. in 48 Hours: Kid-Friendly Adventures and Must-See Spots

Join us on an exciting family adventure through the nation's capital and beyond! In this podcast, we'll take you through the whirlwind journey of spending two action-packed days in Washington D.C. followed by two days in Harrisonburg, VA, with our kids.

In Washington D.C., we'll delve into the heart of American history, exploring iconic landmarks, monuments, and museums that cater to both kids and adults. Discover the city's rich heritage by touring the White House, where history comes alive in the halls of power. We'll guide you through family-friendly activities, ensuring you make the most of your time, from strolling along the National Mall to engaging exhibits at the Smithsonian museums.

Transitioning to Harrisonburg, VA, get ready for a change of pace with a vibrant college town atmosphere. Catch the contagious energy at James Madison University (JMU) by experiencing the thrill of a football game with the whole family. Dive into the local culture, savor delicious food, and explore the charm of this quaint town nestled in the Shenandoah Valley.

From the grandeur of national monuments to the spirited ambiance of college football, this podcast is your ultimate guide to crafting an unforgettable family trip blending history, education, and fun in Washington D.C. and Harrisonburg, VA.