3 Reasons to Lust After the Ink Bold.

Posted by Noob Master on May 19, 2012 in business credit cards | Comments Off

Last month, Chase gaveth and taketh away. In their flurry of credit card updates, they changed some of the details of the Ink Bold. I’m here to tell you that the Ink Bold still packs a punch full of perks.

[check it: you don't have to have an incorporated business to apply for a business card]

The old sign-up bonus was 50,000 Ultimate Rewards Points after spending $5,000 in 3 months. Pretty sweet deal. Now the new sign-up bonus is 25,000 Ultimate Rewards Points on FIRST spend and another 25,000 when you spend $10,000 in 3 months. I love instant bonuses and being able to get 25,000 very valuable Ultimate Rewards points without spending anything is very nice. This is great for people who haven’t applied for the Ink Bold because of the old $5,000 spend requirent. Of course, the sucky part of the new bonus is not getting the other 25,000 UR points until you spend a whopping $10,000 in 3 months. If you have business with regular expenses, this won’t affect you and you should absolutely be getting the Ink Bold, but for others (like me) $10,000 in 3 months is something that needs to be worked out.

On to the 3 reasons why the Ink Bold is lust worthy.

1. Ways to Meet the $10,000 Spend | And Earn 5x Points

I have written before about buying gift cards to meet spend requirements. This is a great way to help ease the load of a spend requirement. But it gets even sweeter with the Ink Bold because you can earn 5x points per $1 on office supplies (I have written about this before too). “What does this have to do with anything?” a Noob may ask. Well, you can buy Visa gift cards at Office Depot in up to $500 increments and earn 5x points per $1. Daddy likey. Then you could use these Visa gift cards for your daily purchases and bills. There is a $4.95 fee for each card, but that is well worth the points you are earning.

I wouldn’t suggest buying $10,000 in Visa gift cards, but you could easily do $2,000 a month. That would net you an extra 30,000 Ultimate Rewards points and leave you with $4,000 left to meet in your minimum spend requirement.

(Remember, the Ink Bold is a charge card, so you must pay the balance in full at the end of every month, which you should already be doing.)

Even if you can’t meet the $10,000 spend requirement to get the extra 25k bonus, it’s still worth having in my opinion.  The 5x points for gift cards can net you some serious points, AND, if you shop online via the Ink Bold Ultimate Rewards shopping portal (yes it’s different than the Sapphire’s portal), you can get an EXTRA 10x points through Office Depot. That’s 15 points per $1. I’m getting dizzy.

2. 5x Office Supplies- Telecommunications | 2x on Gas

The Ink Bold also packs a 5X bonus for the following categories: wireless/phone services (excluding equipment such as phones and fax machines), and cable and satellite television and radio services. This is another way to earn even more Ultimate Rewards Points every month for services you are already paying for. Gimme Gimme more UR points. The Ink Bold delivers.

You also get 2x points per $1 for gas and hotels. I’ll take that every day of the week.

3. Business Cards Protect Your Personal Credit and Maximize your Miles

Business cards are great because they don’t count against your personal credit. What, what. Your personal credit will not get hit for a biz account opening or closing, credit limit, or account history. The only hit on your personal credit is from the initial inquiry, and this is usually only 2-5 points, which your credit should recover from with ease. That’s delightful. I can now use my credit limit for more personal rewards credit cards. That means more miles, which equals more free travel. I’m pinching myself. I do that often. Traveling for pennies just seems too good to be true sometimes.

I know many of you already have the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (if you don’t, you might want to think about that one. It’s a keeper.), so adding the Ink Bold makes perfect sense to maximize your Ultimate Rewards points. I focus a lot of my efforts on accumulating Ultimate Rewards points so I can transfer them to United for international travel, or I still have the flexibility to transfer them into Southwest, British Airways, or Hyatt. Those are my fav uses for UR points. Get you some Ultimate Rewards points. Life is better with them.

Wrapping this

I love my Ink Bold, and so does Jordan. Eh, she doesn’t really care either way, but she loves the free travel that the rewards miles from the Ink Bold gets us. If the $10,000 spend is too much for you, I would keep an open mind, since the Ink Bold still provides plenty of value. 5x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 is quite desirable. 25,000 Ultimate Rewards points on first spend isn’t too shabby either.

Here’s a post with some tips for applying for the Ink Bold

Apply Now: The New Ink Bold with Ultimate Rewards 

(Disclaimer: I do receive a referral for this card; only click through my link if you like me or somewhat enjoy my blog.)

— Noob Master

Quick and Easy. Enter to Win 100,000 SPG Points, But At Least Get 100.

Posted by Noob Master on May 18, 2012 in Uncategorized | 0 comments

You will get 100 free Starwood Gold Points for “liking” them on Facebook. Plus fill out a form (30 seconds) and be entered to win 100,000 SPG points. Someone has to win, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. There is no harm in trying though.

Link to free 100 SPG Points. 

— Noob Master

New Benefits with the Citi AA Business World MasterCard.

Posted by Noob Master on May 17, 2012 in American Airlines, business credit cards, Citi Bank, Credit Cards, Miles, Uncategorized | 0 comments

Last month, Citi rolled out some new bennies for its personal Citi AAdvantage cards. The new benefits came with the new Citi Platinum Select / AAdvantage Visa Signature Card but it was later confirmed that the same benefits would be rolled out to all other AAdvantage cards as well. Good Stuff. Now they are adding some new bennnies for business owners with the new Citi AAdvantage Business World MasterCard.

Here are the perks if you hold the Citi AAdvantage World Biz MasterCard:

• Earn More Miles From Select Purchases. Earn two AAdvantage miles for every $1 of purchases on American Airlines and on business purchases at certain office supply, telecommunications, and car rental merchants.

• Enjoy An AAdvantage Mileage Anniversary Bonus When You Renew Cardmembership. Receive a five percent AAdvantage mileage bonus based on eligible purchases made with the CitiBusiness/AAdvantage World MasterCard during the cardmembership year, provided cardmembership is renewed.

• Save Money While Traveling on American Airlines. First checked bag is free for the primary cardmember and up to four companions traveling on the same domestic reservation for travel booked and ticketed on or after May 14, 2012. For a business owner and four employees traveling together within the U.S. in the main cabin, this would save $250 roundtrip. In addition, the cardmember will receive 25 percent savings on in-flight purchases of food, beverages and headsets when purchases are made with a Citi / AAdvantage credit card.

• Save Time in the Airport. Priority boarding for the primary cardmember and up to four companions traveling on the same reservation for travel booked and ticketed on or after May 14, 2012.

• Earn an American Airlines Companion Certificate. Earn an American Airlines Companion Certificate for domestic main cabin travel each year in which $30,000 in eligible purchases are made on the CitiBusiness / AAdvantage World MasterCard and the card is renewed. Redeeming the certificate costs a $99 ticketing fee (plus $21.60 to $43.20 in government taxes and fees based on itinerary).

Noob Thoughts

I like the new 5% AAdvantage miles bonus on eligible purchases made on the card when you renew your card annually. Citi has always been good at waiving annual fees during retention calls, so you could get around paying the $99 annual fee for the second year. The 2x points per $1 for telecommunications, office supplies, and car rentals is nice, but that doesn’t compare to the 5x office supplie bonus you get with the Ink Bold. The free checked bag is nice to see, because I hate hate hate paying for bags. Priority boarding isn’t something that I use or care about, but many people do, so it’s nice to see for them.

Overall, there is nothing too sexy here, but it’s nice to see Citi and American upping the perks on their cards. Since I just applied for the Citi AAdvantage Business Amex (different version), I asked my connect at Citi and American Airlines if the new benefits would be accessible for all the AAdvantage Business cards like the new personal benefits. She came back with, “Yes, existing CitiBusiness / AAdvantage cardmembers qualify for the benefits. They just need to call Citi Customer Service and request to be upgraded to the new card.” So if you already hold a CitiBusiness AA card, you can upgrade to the new benefits, but it will take a phone call. A little annoying, since the personal benefits were rolled out automatically.

I recently applied (through an expired link) for the CitiBusiness AA card that has a 50,000 signup bonus for spending $3,ooo in 4 months, 2 Admiral Lounge passes, and $150 statement credit. The new card comes with better benefits and a lower minimum spend, but a lesser sign-up bonus and no lounge passes. I went with the sign-up bonus, but I don’t have a business that has a lot of expenses running through it. That’s where the 5% annual bonus could come in real handy. So, you could always try to sign up through the expired link for the larger sign-up bonus card, and then upgrade to the new card later (the annual fee for the expired link is $75, as opposed to $99 with the MC).

Either way, I suggest having a Citi AAdvantage Business card in your wallet. You weigh and decide which one best fits your needs.

CitiBusiness AAdvantage Visa – Disclaimer- this is an “expired” link, but if you get to a landing page, you should be awarded the offer you see.

CitiBusiness / AAdvantage World MasterCard - Disclaimer- I do receive a referral if you use my link.

I hope this helps and don’t hesitate to email me if you have any questions.

— Noob Master

Trip Report | San Francisco, Noob Style.

Posted by Noob Master on May 16, 2012 in Trip Reports, Uncategorized | 15 comments

I’m always grateful to get to go on vacations, no matter the destination or amount of time. I have been fortunate enough to travel to a few places and see a few things (some good, some not so good), and I always have a great time because I’m with close friends or family AND I get to re-charge the batteries. Winning. Plus, each time I learn something new about traveling and my own preferences, which is why I share it here on the Noob. Hopefully you guys benefit from my trip sharing. This time, it’s destination: San Francisco. Believe it or not, I had never been. Here goes…

The City

We decided to stop in San Fran for a a couple days before heading to the wine country to see what all the fuss was about. We had to fly there anyway, so it just made sense. But since it was our first time to visit and we were short on time, we were put in an awkward traveler position (meaning we felt obligated to do the touristy type of things). We couldn’t be in San Francisco and not visit the Golden Gate bridge, right?

We knew there were some classic must sees, but we also really wanted to experience more of the local scene. We had heard that Union Square was awesome and a go-to, so after a quick travel recoup, we went to check it out first thing. I have to say, it was cool, but overwhelming touristy. That’s fine, but we were just desiring a little something different. But in spite of the fanny packers and camera holders, there was a cool little park in the middle of Union Square that was a  great place for a nice break and a beverage.

San Francisco is also a micro climate and because it’s by the bay, it gets pretty chilly. This could be more noticeable to us Texans who are used to the blistering heat, but I would definitely recommend a hoody or jacket even in the summer. According to a local, it gets cooler there in the summer. I don’t get it. We were amazed at all the urban park areas where people were sun bathing. In Austin, no one lays out without a pool or body of water at least 5 yards away. It reminded me of Europe and specifically Pisa, where people were spread out all over the lawns laying out. Pretty cool.

Our favorite thing that we did was actually one of the most touristy things to do. I was shocked that I enjoyed myself so much, but we had a great time renting bikes and riding through San Francisco over the Golden Gate bridge and down to Sausalito. Yes, it was a crowded bike ride, but the scenery was breathtaking and the weather was awesome exercise weather. It also felt good to be active after eating like a king for breakfast (I tend to do that on vaca).

Seeing the Golden Gate bridge and Alcatraz was very very cool. It’s always surreal seeing a historic landmark for the first time. I had seen the bridge so many times on TV or in other people’s picture, but when you are staring up at it, that’s a cool moment. I got lost thinking about what it took to build it and how many people came to see it, and in those moments I try to remind myself just how lucky I am to be able to travel and see different parts of the country and world.  I’m happy to have been able to experience it with my wife, even if it was on cheap, hideous bikes that signaled loud and clear to everyone that we were tourists.

Overall, we had a good time in San Francisco although we didn’t spend a lot of time there. The public transportation is great for getting around, and there are some cool spots to hit up other than the touristy things we did. At least that’s what I keep being told. Next time we will have to venture out into other districts and experience more of the local scene.

The Flights

We went with Southwest Airlines and I was pleased with the service and experience as usual. When you fly Southwest, you board generally by your group number and that is based on when you checked in. Each flight, Jordan was somehow got in group A and I was in group B. I have a good wife, and each flight she was able to secure us exit row seating. That’s all I need when I fly domestically- leg room. For me, it’s not worth the miles or cash to fly business domestically unless the flight is over 4 hours. I’m perfectly content with exit row seating or economy plus on other airlines.

The Southwest staff was friendly and the planes were in good condition and looked well maintained. The only poor thing about Southwest is that there were no direct flights, so we had to connect in LAX. Boo. That’s also where we ate some piss poor mexican food without queso and we felt it the rest of the day.

We did almost get divorced trying to catch our plane out of San Francisco. We (me) like to try and time things out perfectly, but failed this time. I also took a wrong turn when trying to return the car. That definitely didn’t help. We  had one of those times where you’re freaking out waiting in security and then running through the airport trying to get to your gate. I was thinking the whole time, “we better make this flight or I will be hearing about this for a loooong time.” The front counter agent was calling our name for the last time as we were running up to gate. I tried to five high her on my way to boarding, but she wasn’t amused.

I was also able to catch up on my emails and work by paying $5 for internet on the plane. This was well worth it for me, because I live on my mac and it made the flight fly by. I ended up paying $1.50 per hr. for internet, and that’s value because I was way way behind on emails.

How Many Points?

These flights cost us 11,000 Rapid Rewards points each, or 22,000 total. I will take that. I had exhausted the Rapid Rewards points that I had earned from the sign-up bonus from my Southwest Visa and Jordan’s sign-up bonuses hadn’t hit yet, so I transferred 22,000 points out of my Ultimate Rewards account instantly. The points I have in my Ultimate Rewards account I earned from my Chase Sapphire and Ink Bold sign-up bonuses and daily spending. This was a good example of the flexibility of Ultimate Rewards points and I used them in a way that made sense for me.

The Stay – Intercontinental San Francisco

We stayed at the Intercontinental downtown for our stay and really enjoyed it there. The outside of the hotel is constructed on blue windows that are aesthetically pleasing and green for the environment. The hotel is LEED certified, which means it has passed numerous tests and checks to be compliant and seen as a leader environmentally through technology and operations. They are the 3rd largest building in the US to be LEED certified and the largest pre-existing building to achieve the honor. This is some impressive stuff and click here for more info.

The lobby was elegant and the common area was wide open and offered many different seating options. There was a bar that spilled over into the common area, which was perfect because you could get a drink from the bar and easily mosey on over to the oversized black leather sofa. This was a great stop to wind down or start the evening, whatever your choice.

Next to the bar was the Michelin star restaurant, Luce. It was posh and looked very inviting. We didn’t plan on eating in the restaurant because we wanted to get away from the hotel and explore the city. However, that first night we weren’t feeling the best, so we ordered room service from Luce. I must say, we had a feast and I liked it. The chocolate truffle cake that we had to end the meal was perfect. It was soft on the outside with a little crisp bottom layer that was killer. I have a terrible sweet tooth. This was a good choice and what I remember most from the meal. It was working well with the red wine I was drinking too.

When we checked in, I wasn’t expecting much respect or room upgrades even though I’m a Platinum member with Priority Club. Priority Club is the hotel program that the Intercontinental is in, but they have a different top level of status called “Royal Ambassador” which you have to pay for. I just received an email this week from PC trying to get me to buy Royal Ambassador status for $200. Too steep since I don’t stay at Intercontinentals that often. I have also heard of people buying Royal Ambassador perks on Ebay, but I haven’t checked into it. Anyway, I checked in and during the booking, I was making small talk with the person checking us in (always do that) and I asked if there were any upgrades available. To my surprise, she said, ” I see that you are a Platinum member with us and I want to thank you for being such a loyal customer.” I said, “You’re welcome. I love Priority Club hotels.” She then said she was looking into an upgrade for me. Sweeet. She ended up upgrading us to the next room level, which was sufficient for me.

There are only 22 rooms on each floor, so it’s really a pretty intimate atmosphere. Our room ended up being on the corner (yay for extra space). It was quite large for a non suite and the floor to ceiling windows were on two sides of the room, so the view from the room was pretty great. We could overlook the city and see the bay on the other side. I know if we had been a few floors higher, it would have been even better. The  design was professional modern (I don’t really know what I’m talking about). The desk, headboard, and dresser were slick, and there was a 42″ lcd flat screen, ipod docking station, keurig coffee maker, and climate controls that worked (pet peeve). The shower and bathroom were pretty standard.

There was an indoor heated pool (I’m guessing it never gets too hot for an outdoor pool) and hot tub that were kind of awkwardly placed. The gym looked great, but we never made it down for a work out. We were a little wiped after riding bikes for 15 miles and walking across town. There was also a cool outdoor patio area on the 6th floor next to the Club (PC Platinum couldn’t get me in there) that looked like a great place to kill time and overlook the city.

What it Cost

I spent 40,ooo Priority Club points a night on the Intercontinental. It’s not as it seems. PC points can be very easy to come by, and I received 80,000 for signing up for the credit card a year ago. It’s not the best value in the world (thanks PC for changing your reward chart), but I did get two free nights in San Francisco at a killer hotel that would’ve cost me $600. I would never pay that, but that’s the value I received (not including the upgraded room). Not my best redemption of points value wise, but the wife was happy.

Overall, we had a great stay at the Intercontinental in downtown San Francisco. It was nicely designed and the staff was accommodating. The location was stellar as it was only 2 blocks away from Market Street and public transportation. It was 4 blocks away from Union Square and 2.5 miles away from Fishermans Wharf.

Ending

I’m grateful to have been able to get away and stay 2 nights in San Francisco. I’m never sure if anyone cares about all these details, but this was my experience. I will be writing about my 3 day trip to Napa and my stay at the Avia Hyatt soon, so stay tuned!

— Noob Master

Priority Club 1,000 Bonus Points Per Night.

Posted by Noob Master on May 15, 2012 in Deals, Miles, Priority Club, Uncategorized | 3 comments

Here’s another summer promo for you coming from Priority Club.

You can now earn 1,000 points every night from June 1 to September 3, and you can earn up to 20,000 points. Now this is legit. And all you have to do is like Priority Club on Facebook and stay at one of their properties.

Priority Club properties include: Intercontinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Hotel Indigo, Candlewood Suites, and Staybridge suites.

You can also earn 200 bonus miles a stay instead of 1,000 Priority Club points up to 4,000 miles.

Here is the link to register for the Priority Club Promo by “liking” this offer on Facebook.

Here are more term and conditions:

Must be a Priority Club Rewards Facebook “Fan,” a Priority Club Rewards member, and must register member number in advance to participate in this promotion.
1,000 bonus points, 200 bonus miles, or 25 AIR MILES reward miles with participating airline partners will be awarded on every qualifying night at InterContinental, Crowne Plaza^®, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Express by Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites hotels worldwide between May 14, 2012 and September 3, 2012. Maximum bonus award is 20,000 bonus points, 4,000 bonus miles, or 500 bonus AIR MILES reward miles. Most business and leisure rates are qualifying.
You must be a miles collector with a preferred alliance to collect airline miles. See below for participating airlines. Frequency/partner credits may be issued in currencies other than miles. All airline program terms and conditions apply. For details on airline miles earning structure, click here. For details on points earning structure, click here. Only one room per member per night at participating hotels will be awarded the applicable bonus. No retroactive bonus points or miles will be awarded for nights prior to registration. Subject to standard Priority Club Rewards Membership Terms and Conditions.

— Noob Master

Reminder: Registration for 2 Club Carlson Promos Go Live Tonight at 12:00 am Central!

Posted by Noob Master on May 14, 2012 in Uncategorized | 0 comments

Registration goes live tonight at 12:01 am for the Radisson 50,000 Gold Points “Big Night Giveaway” promotion. Yes, you have to be one of the first 100,000 to register, and I know that sounds like a lot, but you never know. I will be up late (I usually am) to register. There is just too much at risk. Points are on the line.

Here is the link to register for the Radisson Big Night Giveaway 

The second promo is for Country Inn & Suites Promo. The bonus is for 44,000 Gold Points, but only the first 35,000 people to register will be eligible.

Here’s the link to register for the Country Inn Promo.

The final and third Club Carlson promo will go live on May 22nd and its bonus is for 44,000 Gold Points. But it’s for only the first 20,000 people that register.

ParkInnOnePlusOne.com

This is a great promo to join in on, especially if you have some upcoming hotel stays. You can net up to 138,000 Club Carlson Gold Points for three cheap hotel stays. Not bad. After registering for the promos- just complete a nights stay at a participating hotel and you will receive your bonus points in 6-8 weeks. Easy money.

Check out my full review of the Club Carlson Promos.

— Noob Master

My App-Party Results Are In…4 for 4!

Posted by Noob Master on May 14, 2012 in Alaska Airlines, Bank of America, Bump the Bonus, business credit cards, Chase Bank, Citi Bank, Credit Cards, Hyatt, Mileage Plus, Miles, Uncategorized, United Airlines | 2 comments

I’m elated (yes, elated) that I was a perfect 100% on my apps. This is big for me, because I finally got the card I could never get…the Citi AAdvantage Business card. Even though I have a business with an EIN and was even approved 90 days ago, I was still denied the card. Yeah, it’s a long story, but the short story is I’m winning.

The other limit I pushed was with Chase and personal cards. I signed up for two Chase personal cards on the same day (ooooohhhhh) and was approved for both via the reconsideration call…on the same day, one call each. I already held 4 Chase cards and didn’t have to close any of them.

Here are the full details on my latest App Party…

United MileagePlus Explorer – 40,000 + Bonus Bumped to 55,000

This card was perfect for me, because I already hold in my fat wallet the Sapphire Preferred and Ink Bold. Both of those cards can transfer their points into United, which is huge and allows me to really maximize my sign-up bonuses on three cards. It’s rare that you can get so many cards working together (just wait until I add the Freedom).

I use my Sapphire Preferred and Bold as my daily cards, so essentially I’m earning United MileagePlus miles everyday in bunches. When I’m ready to redeem my points for an international flight, I will be transferring them into United and flying a Star Alliance airline overseas. Star Alliance is a network of 25 airlines worldwide. If you have miles in one program, you can fly any airline in the network. The only question is, will I be flying first class or business? Decisions.

The United Explorer also came with some nice perks I will be using:

• Your first year is free–I love waived annual fees.
• Check your first bag for free
• Enjoy priority boarding privileges
• Visit the United Club with two passes every year–I love this PERK!
• Earn double miles on United purchases
• Your miles don’t expire

Bank of American Alaska Visa – 25,000 and free $99 companion certificate

Now this is a strange one. I’m still a little shocked that I applied for this one, but I did it as research. I wanted to see what credit report Bank of America pulled in my area and I was intrigued by the $99 companion pass certificate. I have started flying more and more and while I haven’t paid for a flight yet, I know that day is coming. Especially if I keep going to miles/points and travel conferences. I have been hearing for a couple years now that you can fly to Hawaii in first class for cheaper than 2 coach tickets with this companion pass, so that’s my plan. I’ll keep saving my miles for international travel.

I’m not really suggesting this card for everyone or anyone- just letting you know I applied for it, got it,  and how I will use it. Oh yeah, biggie…It’s churn able (meaning you apply for it- meet the spend- collect the bonus- cancel, and do it all over again). I will be applying for it on a yearly basis. It’s a long term play for this Noob.

Alaska Airlines card

Citi AA Business Card – 50,000 AAdvantage miles

Yes, Yes, and Yes! I finally got the Citi AA business card. Why am I so excited?  If you have been reading my blog for a while, you know that the only card I have ever been denied for is the Citi AA Business card. And I wasn’t even applying as a sole proprietor. The crazy part is that I was even approved last time after I hand wrote a letter to their executive office, but then they told me the deal had expired! I had applied before the expiration date, so it was ludacris.

But when I applied this time, I applied first for this card, because Citi loves the “too many recent inquiries” reason to deny you. I wasn’t taking my chances this time. I filled it out and crossed my fingers. I wasn’t instantly approved but I knew I had been accepted because they let me move to step 4 and 5 of the application process (that is to set up an online account sign-in and password, and settings).

Still, I wasn’t getting my hopes up based on past experiences. I decided to call the reconsideration number and see what the application status was. I have had some terrible calls with Citi reps, as they aren’t empowered to make any decisions or don’t have any desire to. Things where different when I called in this time. I was greeted by a friendly english speaking rep who was bright and willing to help. I think I got lucky and received an upper manager. She also had a dry sense of humor, which I loved. So the banter was good, but that means nothing if she couldn’t approve me. Yeah, I’m needy.

Unfortunately, she wasn’t able to approve me on the first go around. I don’t have a traditional brick and mortar LLC, so I was able to incorporate in the state of Delaware, where the fees are much lower. I was able to save over $300 by doing this, even though the business address is my home address in Texas. The rep was having a hard time locating my business because of this (just like all the other Citi reps, Chase never has.. just saying). Once I explained to her the whole incorporating in Delaware bit, she was all over it. The other Citi reps couldn’t figure it out, but she was able to in 5 minutes.

When she said that I had been approved for the card, I about freaked. I played it cool though. It’s a great day.

Apply Now for the Citi AA Business Card

Hyatt Visa – 2 free award night certificates (suites for me)

Since I was able to parlay my Platinum status into a 90 Diamond trial with Hyatt, I had no choice but to apply for the Hyatt card. The two free award nights are suites if you apply while you are a diamond member. I will be getting these two award nights on first spend and will receive an additional award night certificate annually for a category 1-4 property.

I love Hyatts and had a great time at the Hyatt in Napa last weekend. Since I frequent Hyatt properties, it made too much sense for me to get the Visa.

I was aggressive by going after two Chase personals on the same day. I applied for the United Explorer in the morning and called the reconsideration on my lunch break and got it approved. I then applied for the Hyatt Visa and called the reconsideration line on my way home from work and got it approved. Boom, I’m living large. Now I have 6 Chase cards and love each and every one of them in different ways. I also have a Chase checking account and my mortgage is with Chase. We have a good relationship.

APPLY: Hyatt Credit Card  

This was a fun app party for me. I was able to get two Chase personal cards and the elusive Citi AA Business card. I now know that Bank of America pulls Experian in my area. Boo. That’s what Chase and Citi pull as well.

I’m really excited about using my United miles for an upcoming Euro trip and my Hyatt award night in Paris or some other nice Euro city. My new AAdvantage miles will be stocked away until I can add more to them. 90 days anyone?

I hope this will add value to the next time you apply for rewards cards. Always make sure your credit is in good condition before doing any apps and don’t hesitate to run any questions by me. I’m always just an email away.

— Noob Master

Head’s UP: The British Airways 100k Visa is saying Bye Bye on June 7th.

Posted by Noob Master on May 12, 2012 in Avios, British Airways, Chase Bank, Credit Cards, Uncategorized | 0 comments

It’s been confirmed by the good folks at Chase that the 100,000 (50k on first spend) BA offer  is going away June 7. Waaaaah.

Apply Now: British Airways Visa Signature Card - I receive a referral if you use my link- thank you if you do.

If you are late to the party, the BA Visa is has an offer of 50,000 Avios points on first spend. I like earning miles without having to meet a minimum spend. Here are the card details:

• 50,000 Avios on FIRST spend. Plus 25,000 more Avios if you spend $10,000 in 12 months. Plus another 25,000 Avios if you spend an additional $10k in 12 months.
• Earn 1.25 Avios per $1 on all purchases and 2.5 Avios on every dollar spent on British Airways purchases
• Smart chip technology makes it ideal for traveling to Europe for purchases that require chip and pin
• 0% foreign transaction fee, also ideal for foreign travel
• If you spend $30k annually, you will get a companion ticket for use on British Airways metal only. Taxes still apply.
• Annual fee of $95 is not waived

I have written a couple posts on the British Airways Executive Club Program and best uses for Avios points. Check them out below:

1) British Airways Visa Card Introduction 

2) What can 50,000 Avios Miles Do For You?

3) S@#$^ Happens. British Airways Avios to the Rescue. 

4) British Airways Struts with Household Accounts

I will be writing a couple more on how to use Avios Points, so stay tuned. There is real value in Avios; you just need to know where to look.

Apply Now: British Airways Visa Signature Card | I do receive a referral if you use my link; only use my link if you have laughed at me or with me while reading the Noob.

— Noob Master

Noob-Minder: Last Day for Free Platinum Status with Hyatt.

Posted by Noob Master on May 11, 2012 in Hyatt, Miles, Uncategorized | 1 comment

I like free and I like Platinum.

Today is the last day to sign up for free Platinum status with Hyatt for 90 days. All you have to do to get the free status is have a Visa Signature card (the Sapphire Preferred) and sign up through this Visa Signature Registration Link. Of course you must be a Hyatt Gold Passport member. Sign up here for Hyatt Gold Passport.

There are two reasons why this is great:

1) Hyatt Platinum Status Perks:

• 2pm late checkout (subject to availability at resorts)
• Free internet access
• 15% bonus on points earned from Hyatt stays

The free internet is huge for me! I don’t understand why the nicer hotels don’t always have free internet anyway. It’s so frustrating to have to pay for in room internet or to run down to the common areas to check my email and work.

2) If you apply for the Hyatt Visa while a Platinum member, you will get two FREE suite upgrades.

If you sign up for the free Platinum status, you will have a 90 day window to apply for the Hyatt Visa to receive the additional 2 free suite upgrades (on paid stays) as well as the two free award night certificates that you earn on first spend.

I just used a free suite upgrade on my trip to Napa last weekend and it was awesome. It was well worth the $174 I paid for the basic room, especially because Jordan was thinking we were getting a basic room. Her reaction was priceless. I used points for my second night and they let me stay in the suite. I don’t believe they are supposed to, but they did. I will be writing an in depth review of our stay soon.

If you hold a Visa Signature card, it’s a no brainer to sign up for the free Platinum Status from Hyatt for 90 days. Get on it. Once you have the status, enjoy the free bennies that come along with it and I would think about applying for the Hyatt Visa if you need a hotel card. Check out my full review of the Hyatt Visa. I actually applied yesterday and got approved via the reconsideration phone call. More coming on my recent app party as well.

Apply for the Hyatt Visa Card

— Noob Master

The Radisson “Big Night” Giveaway is Baaaaack!

Posted by Noob Master on May 10, 2012 in Club Carlson, Radisson, Uncategorized | 6 comments

Yeah, I’m a day late in reporting this, but vaca time with the wife has to come first. It’s all about recharging the batteries. I’ll definitely be posting on our trip to San Francisco and Napa soon.

On to the promotion…This was one of the the best and easiest deals last year. Radisson ran a promo that awarded the first 50,000 people to register for the contest and stay at one of the properties 50,000 Club Carlson Gold Points. Nice. And they are bringing it back this year!

What is Club Carlson and these Gold Points you speak of?

Club Carlson is a fairly new hotel group that consists of: Radisson, Country Inns & Suites, Park Inn, Park Plaza, and Radisson Blu. 50,000 Club Carlson points can net you a few nights at a lower category hotel or one night at one of their category 6 hotels. Oh, the options. There is a new Radisson Blu in Chicago that has been calling my name.

Here are some of the deets on award nights:

• Free award nights starting at only 9,000 points at Carlson hotels, including Radisson, Carlson Rezidor, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson, Park Inn by Radisson, and Park Plaza. No blackout dates for award nights on standard rooms.
• Free Internet at Radisson® hotels worldwide and Carlson hotels in North America
• Points and Cash nights start at 5,000 Gold Points

First- you NEED to Enroll in Club Carlson

Obviously, you will need to register with Club Carlson first. You can join here at the Club Carlson website.  

Second- Register for the the Promotion.

You will need to be one of the first 100,000 people to register. This shouldn’t be a problem. Registration opens up May 15, 12:01. Register for the Radisson Big Night Giveaway Promotion. 

Third- Stay a night and Know the T&C’s.

Here are the details from the FlyerTalk thread. They aren’t the official terms, but this thread was spot on during last years promo and they were the first to leak the deal.

The key points are:

• This years promo qualifying stays are eligible at any RADISSON worldwide. I like worldwide.
• Guest must check IN and OUT between May 15-July 15.
• You have to present at the participating hotel at both the time of check-in and check out.
• If you don’t make the first 100,000 to register for the promo, you will be awarded 15,000 Bonus Gold Points on completion on your stay. Don’t be that person.
• You will still earn your normal points for your stay.
• Points will post in 6-8 weeks after you complete the qualifying stay.

What is the NOOB doing?

I just did a quick search and the cheapest rate I found in my town at a Radisson is $135.00.  50,000 Gold Points for $135 isn’t too bad. I’ll take that, especially since a night at the Radisson Blu is calling my name.

Tip: If there is a Grand Slam this year, there is a good chance Club Carlson will be a transfer partner, so keep 5k Gold Points in your account.

This is a great deal because it’s so easy and affordable. The value is off the chain, so if you have a Radisson in your area, take advantage of the promo.

But wait, there is MORE

Country Inn & Suites and Park Inn are running their own “Big Night Giveaway” Promotions! More Gold Points, More Gold Points. The bounty is 44,000 Gold Points instead of 50,00, but this will definitely help those who aren’t near a Radisson property.

Here are the links:

Country Inn & Suites

Park Inn

The terms and conditions look the same so far. You will have to register, and registration opens May 15 with the promo ending July 14.

Jeff over at Indulge The Wanderlust (who I met at FTU and follow on Twitter) did some digging around and has confirmed these three promotions are “combinable”! That means you can walk away with 138,000 Gold Points just for staying at three hotels!

I really like this promo and can’t wait to take advantage of it. I like building up my hotel points for trips to Europe. It’s easier to come by airline points, so I would hop on these hotel promotions. I recommend at least doing one, but this Noob is shooting for all three.

— Noob Master