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April 7, 2023​​​​​​​

We Interrupt This Newsletter...

As many of you know, TravelZork Travel books many luxury programs such as the extremely exclusive Marriott Luxury Stars Program.

One of the advantages of booking with TravelZork Travel is that we try our best to enhance your arrival experience and also provide complimentary customized welcome amenities.

Even though this reservation was confirmed less than 24 hours prior to arrival (today), the Ritz really shines, including their focus on Ritz (Marriott Luxury Stars) kids, mini bathrobes and all. The child is also a huge aviation enthusiast, so how could they resist the aviation themed decorations.

Be sure to contact us for exclusive amenities and VIP coordination for your next couples, family, "just need to get away" trip. 

and now... back to the newsletter... 

One of the fun games that frequent flyers like to play is bragging about how many miles they have. They're just itching to burn those miles in one blow on an international flight in first class. Actually use the miles for anything else? Nope.

Fun game? Sure. Smart game? Not so much. There is one key rule to loyalty points that you must know: Do not hoard your points. They don't earn interest. In fact, they devalue every year. The rule of thumb used to be 5% per year, but that's accelerating. One of the ways that airlines financed themselves through COVID was by selling miles to their bank travel partners, who can't distribute them fast enough.

Inflation doesn't matter, since if the number of miles in circulation goes up, the airlines (particularly offensive offenders) will simply charge more miles per ticket. Combine that fact with improved revenue management systems and loyalty providers have become quite adept and determining the maximum number of points that they can charge.

Companies aren't loyal to you. They're not giving points to make you happy. A few weeks ago, I understood why people were upset when Hyatt jacked up redemption rates, since Hyatt is known as one of the “better” companies. But it happens everywhere, and every time a program says that it is “enhancing” its program, be prepared for the next devaluation.

Can You Beat the System? 

Sadly, the answer is probably not. If you have miles with an airline, or points with a hotel program, they control the redemption rate, and thus, the value of an award.

Your best bet is a simple one: If you earn miles through a credit card, don't pay for items with an airline or hotel-specific card (e.g., a Delta Amex, Chase Hyatt, etc.). Instead, use a general card from a bank that offers proprietary points that can be converted into any of a number of programs.

For example, find a Chase card that offers “Chase Ultimate Rewards” points, or an American Express card that offers “Membership Rewards.” If you want to use your points to travel, you will have a choice of a dozen or so providers to transfer your points to.

In the “for what it's worth” category, I've found Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards to offer the best value.

So what else is new?

More Goodies in the World of Travel


Looking for great perks with all of your luxury travel? Visit us at TravelZork Travel and learn the benefits of booking with us.

Cheers, Michael and Michael and the team at TravelZork and TravelZork Travel​​​​​​​

*just a bit of insight on our newsletter process. Much of the newsletter for 2023 will be written by Michael Friedman though, some commentary and editing is by Michael Trager who is usually the "voice" of TravelZork on social media. 

Travel Deals—Great Prices for Luxury Travel

TravelZork Travel is a boutique, full-service agency that offers you both VIP service and additional perks at luxury properties around the world, generally for the same price as you'd pay at an online agent (but without the long wait times on the phone).

Amenities usually include goodies like complimentary breakfast, a resort credit and potential upgrades, as well as early check-in and late check-out.

Note: While the pricing is generally the same as you'd find elsewhere, this is not a discounter service. The added value comes with the perks and the high levels of service.


Stay tuned for the next newsletter issue with more tips, tricks, gambling, and travel deals. Our aim is to release a new newsletter every Friday. (or, every other Friday if we are on the beach or in a casino property!)


TravelZork Travel can now help with booking hotel stays in Vegas with PERKS!

CHECK OUT our booking request form.

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Have a great week, and please never hesitate to share your "casino moments" or "travel moments"with the TravelZork team. 


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One of TravelZork's favorite cards, Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Find out more about this card and its perks!

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