Thailand Pt 1: Phuket on Points, Dinso Resort + Edit Credits & an Elephant Sanctuary!

Elephant Sanctuary – Half Day Program

If you're interested in the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which is the card that gave us the Edit credits we reference in this episode, here is our referral link: Chase Sapphire Reserve! 

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In this episode, we recap the start of our Thailand trip and the messy travel day that kicks it all off, from a forgotten CPAP to a carry-on mix-up that leaves Duane without his clothes. We also break down what we paid for flights and Phuket, how we stacked credits and offers, and what we’d actually recommend if you’re planning Thailand with kids.  

• Choosing cash over points after running the cents-per-point math and factoring in taxes and fees  
• Stacking Amex offers to cut the cost of long-haul flights for five  
• Positioning flights and using points for domestic legs to reach a cheaper gateway  
• Losing a CPAP on the plane and recovering it through airport lost and found  
• Accidentally taking the wrong carry-on and dealing with the fallout  
• Surviving a 17-hour economy flight with kids and what feels “worth it” next time  
• Clearing immigration in Singapore and prepping required entry forms  
• Booking an airport hotel at Changi and buying replacement clothes fast  
• Using Chase edit credits and hotel credits to book an IHG stay in Phuket  
• Honest review of Dinso Resort and Villas Phuket location pools breakfast and service  
• Using Grab for transportation in Thailand as a family of five  
• Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary and what to avoid in animal tourism   

If you have any questions, send them on Instagram @travelpartyof5