Hilton and Hyatt Credit Card Strategy, Citi AAdvantage Executive Changes & Amex Green Strategy with Matthew Dong

Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes Matthew Dong to discuss building a smarter travel rewards strategy with credit cards, hotel programs, airline lounges, and upgrade opportunities.

Justin and Matthew compare Hilton and Hyatt strategy, including why Matthew is expanding beyond Hyatt and focusing more on Hilton for better resort options in places like Hawaii.

Matthew also explains his current Hilton Surpass Card strategy, including using referrals, buying groups, and planned spending to reach the $15,000 and $30,000 spending thresholds for Hilton free night certificates. He also discusses a possible future Hilton Surpass to Hilton Aspire upgrade to maximize resort credits, airline credits, and premium Hilton benefits.

Timestamps

00:00 Points And Miles Intro
00:32 Meet Matthew Dong
01:28 Where To Find Matthew
02:13 Getting Started In Rewards
05:02 Luxury Redemptions Highlights
06:55 Hyatt and Hilton Strategy
08:50 Hilton Surpass Spend Plan
09:29 Buying Groups
14:20 Hilton and Hyatt Certificates
16:55 Show Support And Announcements
19:03 Citi AAdvantage Executive Changes
26:39 Amex Green Card Case
33:57 Transfer Partners And Bilt
36:24 Advice For Leveling Up
39:04 Wrap Up And Outro

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