Month: June 2022

As the world returns to travel at breakneck speeds, airports, airlines and government agencies are struggling to keep up with unprecedented demand.

Let’s look at the best techniques for handling any type Flight delay or cancellation This affects your travel, which is also known as “IRROPS” (irregular operation) in the language of aircraft.

The best practice is Knows how to find solutions quickly When you are in the situation, and after the truth you are getting compensation for any loss.

The former allows you to take the initiative for yourself instead of waiting for the airlines to take care of things for you and it can even be a secret opportunity. Improvement Better air travel, routing or getting time to travel.

Meanwhile, the latter confirms that you are fully suffering for any loss, especially in the face of an airline industry that is not always willing to own its own mistakes.

Before your trip: Strategies for forecasting delays

The best way to deal with delays and cancellations is if you can actively avoid them first, or take steps in advance to make your life easier if they do occur.

Credit card insurance

Start with the expected strategies Choosing the right credit card On which you make your booking. Most premium travel credit cards will provide a pretty strong travel insurance coverage on any flight booked directly using the card, which includes benefits such as compensation for flight delays and trip interruption insurance.

However, if you book a flight over the point, you’ll want to understand which credit cards offer rewards travel insurance, as there are several subtleties between major credit cards when it comes to starting coverage.

For example, the powerful Amex Platinum insurance package will not apply to your flight booked at Airplane Point, even if you charge taxes and fees on the card. For this booking, you’ll need to use TD or CIBC Aeroplan-branded cards, or World Elite cards from BMO or National Bank, which cover prize tickets booked using any type of point currency.

Once your flight is booked using the correct credit card, you will now have the peace of mind that you can claim some insurance if the delay or cancellation affects your travel plans.

Monitor your booking

The next step is Monitor your itinerary in days and hours until your flight, Be aware of any potential obstacles that you may see early on.

For example, in the case of a wide range of issues affecting a particular airport or region (consider catastrophic weather or widespread civil disobedience), airlines often issue Travel waiver Which allows passengers to change their plan at no cost. Planning alternatives during this time allows you to avoid a major headache later in your travel time.

Meanwhile, during flight times, you can check the airline’s app or search your flight number on Google, where any delays or cancellations are often posted a few hours in advance.

The sooner you find a delay or cancellation and make alternative arrangements, the better – You’ll be reluctant to arrive at the airport to find your travel plans in isolation, with the rest of the crowd having no choice but to jump at the ticketing desk.

Your travel time: Strategies for finding alternatives

So, your flight plan has been hit with a delay or a cancellation. What now?

In the event of a cancellation or significant delay, the airline will often book you an alternative flight, which may depart that day or the next day. Sometimes they will put you on an alternative route through a different airport or on a flight operated by one of its airline partners, or both.

Either way, if you’re happy with this alternative arrangement, you really don’t need to do anything other than double check your reservation to verify your new flight details.

However, if you are in any way dissatisfied with this alternative plan, or if you feel You can do better (Which is very likely!), Then it’s time to take matters into your own hands.

Research your desired new itinerary

In case of delay or cancellation, the airline may force you to re-book your destination Leverage Any Seats available Any Flight To do this within its interline partner network.

They may not be active I want To do this, since re-booking at partner airlines can be more complicated than re-booking in their own metal, you’ll get there.

This is a situation where a fee of US $ 100 / year on ExpertFlyer can be paid for itself. There are two main features that you will find particularly helpful in dealing with an airline booking confusion.

First, ExpertFlyer allows you to find out which airlines have an interline agreement with the airline you are traveling with. – Any such partnership means that the airline is able to re-book you to its interline partner in case of delay or cancellation.

Note that interline partnerships typically extend beyond the three major airline alliances – It is very common for Star Alliance Airlines to enter into interline deals with several OneWorld and SkyTeam airlines.

Use Interline agreement Tab, under Travel information Search function in the sidebar, and find the airline you’re traveling with. If an airline shows an e-ticket under the Interline Agreement heading, you can ask them to re-book one of their flights.

Now that you know which partner airlines you can use, you’ll also need to find out which seats and flights are available in your chosen category before heading to the affected airline to re-book. After all, there is no point in asking for a specific flight if all the seats are already occupied by paying the passengers.

For this, use Flight availability Search function to search the specific flight in question. If you travel in business class, you will usually see “J”, “C”, “D”, or “P” fare codes, where if you travel in economy you will see “Y” rent bucket or something after that.

If the number of open seats matches the number of passengers in your group, you know that you can ask to re-book that flight. So for example, if you travel as a couple in business class, you are looking for a flight that has at least “J2”, “C2”, etc.

Use delays or cancellations to get a better itinerary

In this situation do not be afraid to gain your knowledge about the airline route. If you have booked LOT Polish Airlines for a trip from Toronto to Warsaw, for example, you can request LOT to re-book a combination of Air Canada flights to Zurich, then a Swiss flight to Warsaw, allowing availability.

Remember, in case of “IRROPS” or irregular activities, there is no change fee, fuel surcharge or anything like that. This is a potential opportunity to change your itinerary, if desired.

You can ask for a direct flight if you are booked with a connection, possibly to get you to your destination. Or you can choose your airline or try a new one to get a good business class product, without paying any change fee.

If treated with the right mindset, delay or cancellation can really be a wonderful blessing in the guise of an intelligent traveler.

Ask the airline to change your ticket

Once you have found your preferred alternative routing, it is time to go to the airline to state your wishes.

Be smart about it: if you see a lot of crowds at the airline ticketing desk, don’t waste your time there – give the airline a call instead. If hold times are unbearable, try to reach out on social media, as teams monitoring those platforms may be able to speed up the process.

If you have lounge access, go to the concierge desk in the airline’s lounge, as agents there can usually handle ticketing as well. And if you have any kind of elite status with the airline (even if it’s low-level status), throw your weight around and politely insist that you should prioritize the rest of the push.

No matter where the conversation is, it is important to contact the airline representative Calm and cooperative attitude. Pear-shaped travel plans can certainly evoke strong emotions in people, but letting go of those emotions will get you nowhere.

Instead, your focus should be on working together with the agent to find a solution, and you should emphasize the fact that you have already found an alternative solution that will work best for you and you simply want the agent’s help in implementation. It is

After your trip: Tactics for seeking compensation

You should also be familiar with the various ways to seek compensation for losses due to delays or cancellations. There are various legal and commercial channels through which you can do this, so let’s give a quick overview of each here.

EU261 for flights from Europe / Europe

The European Union’s EC261, commonly referred to as EU261, is the most well-known example of a legal ruling requiring airlines to compensate passengers for flight delays due to reasons within airlines’ control.

If you fly in Europe on an airline, in Europe on an EU-based airline, or outside Europe on an airline, You are entitled to up to 600 per person as compensation, Depending on the distance of your scheduled flight.

There are several other terms and exceptions governing EC261, which you can see on the EU website.

Keep in mind that airlines do not always cooperate in paying this compensation, and some airlines will even lie to you and blame factors beyond their control for delays when they should actually be paid. Threaten to take legal action if necessary, but do not hesitate until you receive the compensation you deserve.

Canadian Air Passenger Protection Regulations

Canada has introduced its own Air Passenger Protection Regulation, effective December 15, 2019. The big difference between EC261 and APPR is that Canadian regulations require that compensation be paid only when the cause of the delay is under the control of the airline. And not related to security.

Guess what? So each airline can blame their delays for mechanical issues related to safety, or for crew schedule issues that they claim as a knock-on effect from the COVID-19 epidemic beyond their control.

In addition to legal means, you can also specify specific airline charges, which outline some of the key provisions that airlines must pay in the event of a controllable delay.

Examples may include food vouchers and overnight stays and if these provisions are not handed over you can present to the airline staff including tariffs.

Note that if it is late, all of the above will not apply due to some uncontrolled cause like bad weather. And in this situation why you should also have travel insurance, it comes as an advantage in your credit card or you bought it separately.

As we discussed above, if you are sure that your credit card provides insurance at the time of booking, you can go with any peace of mind regarding any delay or cancellation that you must pay for any meal, taxi or overnight stay. Book in case of delay or cancellation, even if the airline is not obliged to do so.

Finally, if you ever need any help in the process of seeking compensation, the Air Passenger Rights (Canada) Facebook group is an excellent resource. Gaber Lukakus, the founder, is doing an excellent job protecting the rights of his fellow Canadian travelers, so I would recommend posting to the group for advice if you need it.

Conclusion

Flight delays and cancellations are likely to occur sooner or later during your trip, and the best way to deal with them is to fully equip yourself with how to pre-empt, deal with and “make sure you’re fully compensated for irregular operations.” “When they happen.

By learning and implementing the strategies in this article, you can hopefully come out with less headaches and more enjoyable travel than your next flight being delayed or canceled. – And maybe a nice piece of cash in your bank account!

Check out your Amex offer section and you’ll see a brand new offer খরচ 30 refund if you spend $ 60 for groceries three times – Eligible American Express Card for an easy 17% discount on your grocery order.

Spend $ 60, up to 3 times, get $ 30

The offer is valid for seven participating grocery retailers in Canada: Farm Boy, Foodland, Freshco, Longos, Safeway, Sobes and Thrifty Foods. Significantly, it is not eligible for save-on-foods or metro locations or with any grocery delivery service.

Any purchases made from these retailers will be counted for this offer and after three such purchases, you will receive a one-time statement credit of $ 30. The offer is valid until August 31, 2022.

The offer structure is really a bit weird, because you have to effectively spend $ 180 to get a 30 refund (in three increments of $ 60) – the equivalent of one 16.67% Discount On buying your groceries.

The offer is limited to the first 80,000 cards registered, so be sure to take action and click “Add to Card” as soon as possible to secure your space.

Note that the offer specifies that only the “participating” positions of the above-mentioned retailers are eligible. After clicking the “View participating locations” link, you’ll be shown a list of participating grocers with their address.

Comparing this to the “Our Shops” list of each grocery chain, it seems like a complete list of all the locations across the country, but just click on the link and quickly check the location you are going to. Eligible

Of the seven different eligible outlets, this Amex offer provides better coverage of Canadian grocery chains that American Express accepts. In the end, for most Canadians it should take an easy advantage, it fits as well as $ 30 in your pocket.

The terms of the offer specify that the credits will be applied to your account “within 90 days of 31/08/2022”. However, in practice, you should see them within a few business days of competing with your purchase.

Are gift cards counted?

Some readers may be familiar with the fact that places like Sobes and Farm Boy don’t just sell groceries; Also, they sell gift cards that can be used for other stores or retailers in Canada.

Specifies the terms of this offer:

“Any purchase that is not made directly with a qualified merchant is excluded. Gift Cards, Oil, Gas, Fuel, Safety Planning, Service Planning, Insurance Planning, Financial Services, Technology Services, Postal Services, Lottery Services, Flower Services, Cash & Carrying, Convenience Stores, Wine, Wine, & Alcohol Shopping, Wine, Alcohol, or grocery purchases at the counter or location, charity and medical or pharmacy services are also excluded. “

In practice, however, purchasing a 60 gift card should work alongside a regular grocery order, since the charge looks like a grocery store in any way.

Then again, most offer recipients probably have to buy groceries anyway, I think it’s easiest to shop for just three separate $ 60 + groceries without having to worry about gift cards in the summer.

Free groceries end at $ 150 +?

The previous iterations of American Express’s “Free Groceries” offers in the summer of 2020 and 2021 brought মু 150, $ 200, or $ 250 in completely free groceries on premium travel credit cards.

By comparison, it’s significantly less generous: not only was the amount of dollars higher before, but it was also a one-for-one statement credit, where you get the full amount credited.

Now that most aspects of life have returned to “normal”, regression in the construction of Amex offers is also in full swing.

I imagine American Express has decided that travel credit card users don’t need to encourage their cards to have statement credit on things other than travel, so grocery incentives have been reduced from $ 150 + to free groceries by 17% accordingly. $ 180 + discount on purchases.

I want to be proven wrong, but I think this is the end of an era where premium American Express cardholders can expect to get $ 150, $ 200, etc. back in their pockets at once.

Scotiabank American Express cardholders can also register

As usual, this Amex offer is scalable via Scotiabank American Express Primary and Supplementary Cards.

A manual registration option is available on the Scotiabank American Express Card, the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card, and the Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card. Registration can be done through this link.

Unlike Amex-issued Amex cards, you can register as many Scotiabank-issued Amex primary or supplementary cards as you wish for this Amex offer, so this card is a great way to multiply your $ 30 statement credit if you create a large roster.

Conclusion

While we’ve seen over the last few years generous less than $ 150 + in free groceries, it’s great to see Amex offers back for groceries for another round.

If you have an American Express card that the Amex offer is starting to come in, you can earn $ 30 credit by spending $ 60 three times on participating grocery chains for an effective 17% discount on $ 180 groceries this summer. Be sure to register the Amex card as much as you can and enter a grocery store August 31, 2022.

Scotiabank is the latest Canadian credit card issuer to offer a spectacular welcome bonus on the trio of their American Express Travel credit cards in 2022.

Scotiabank Gold American Express Card: 40,000 views + points + first year free

Scotiabank Gold is offering American Express cards Up to 40,000 points For new applicants, split as follows:

• Make money 20,000 views + points The first three months cost $ 1,000
• An earning Additional 20,000 Sin + Points The first year cost $ 7,500
• To get First year annual fee waiver (Usually 120)

Scotiabank usually has very achievable cost requirements and this offer is no exception: only $ 1,000 for most of the bonus.

And if you spend a lot on the bonus sections of the card, I would say it is appropriate to go to the second spending threshold. The Scotia Gold earns Amex 5 points per dollar spent for groceries, With a boost Empire grocery stores cost 6 points per dollar.

For the উপযুক্ত 7,500 spent on eligible merchants, you’ll earn up to 45,000 points per day in addition to the full 40,000 points with the signup offer!

That will bring your grand total 75,000 views + points, Or worth 850. This is incredible for a card that does not offer outsize redemption, only fixed-value points.

If you spend in other categories, you may earn a little less, but the rewards can still be plentiful. The total income rate is as follows:

• Cost 6 dollars per scene + points Empire Grocery Store
• Cost 5 views + points per dollar Other grocery stores, dining (including restaurants, bars, cafes and catering), and entertainment tickets
• Cost 3 dollars per scene + points In gas, transit and streaming services
• 1 scene + points cost per dollar On top of everything else

As before, the card has no foreign transaction fees – always a nice touch on a lifestyle card marketed to travelers. And although the card is not issued by American Express (instead it runs on the Amex payment network), it is still eligible for Amex offers for cardholders, a timely benefit because the shop is back for a small summer.

This offer is Available until October 31, 2022So you have plenty of time to decide if you are interested, or where this card will fit into your big-picture strategy.

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card: Maximum 60,000 SIN + points

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card is Offering an All-Time High Welcome Bonus Up to 60,000 sin + points For new applicants, split as follows:

• Make money 50,000 views + points The first three months cost 3,000
• An earning Additional 10,000 views + points The first 14 months cost 10,000

The annual fee for the card is $ 399 for the primary cardholder.

The Scotia Platinum Amex has traditionally not been very attractive, especially compared to American Express’s own premium travel credit card.

However, a welcome bonus of up to 60,000 Scene + Points makes it worthwhile to apply despite the $ 399 advance annual fee, as you will unlock $ 200 + worth in the first year. There is also a priority pass membership with 10 lounge visits.

As part of the recent changes to the Scotiabank Amex card, Scotia Platinum Amex will no longer charge foreign transaction fees, in that sense it will be higher than Amex’s own Platinum cards.

In the meantime, earnings rates on this card are more simplified than the Gold version:

• 4 scenes + points Cost per dollar Gas stations, grocery stores, dining and entertainment
• 1 scene + points cost per dollar In all other purchases

This offer is similar to Scotia Gold Amex Available until October 31, 2022, So until then you have to take this card for $ 200 + price and another slot for your Amex offers.

Scotiabank American Express Card: Up to 10,000 Sin + Points

Scotiabank American Express Card is offering an all-time high welcome bonus Up to 10,000 sin + points For new applicants, the distribution is as follows:

• Make money 5,000 views + points The first three months cost $ 750
• An earning Additional 5,000 Sine + Points The first year cost $ 5,000

This is Scotiabank’s no-fee Amex product, so its lower welcome bonuses are consistent with an ongoing annual fee of $ 0. The second part of 5,000 sin + points to spend $ 5,000 reasonably offers a rather weak price, amounting to just 1% more than the cost.

However, there is still a very compelling reason to get this card: Easy access to Amex offers via no-fee primary and supplementary cards.

Amex-issued Amex cards cannot be manually registered for Amex offers outside of targeted cards, Scotiabank-issued Amex cards To be able to. The Scotia Amex card can basically be used as a “farm” to register for things like িয় 250 off Marriott shopping with $ 50 off, স্ম 25 off statement credit through Shop Small, and so on.

In terms of earnings, Scotiabank American Express Card offers a uniform earnings rate 1 scene + points cost per dollar In all purchases – the equivalent of a flat 1% return.

As such, using this card for your day-to-day expenses is only recommended for people who are creating new credit files or sticking to a tight budget in terms of annual fees.

If you do not currently have this card and would like to receive it for the benefit of its Amex offer, be sure to apply first October 31, 2022 To capture advanced welcome bonuses while you do this.

Conclusion

Scotiabank has increased the advancement of their American Express products, retrieving a highly competitive welcome offer on the Scotiabank Gold American Express card, raising the Scotiabank Platinum American Express card and the Scotiabank American Express card to an all-time high.

Three welcome offers will expire October 31, 2022, So now is a good time to start with Scotiabank, if you haven’t already, for the flexibility of Scene + points, the strong grocery income rate at Scotia Gold Amex, or the scalability of additional Amex offers by manually registering.

BMO Rewards has made a favorable permanent change to its program: you no longer have to redeem points through the BMO Travel portal; Instead, you can book any trip using your BMO Rewards credit card and apply points at an optimal ratio of 0.67 cents per point (cpp).

Permanently redeem BMO rewards at 0.67cpp

BMO is one of the banks whose reward program we have criticized in the past, especially for its unpopular move to reduce the travel redemption rate from 0.71cpp to 0.67cpp..

To add insult to injury, this results in the ideal redemption rate 150 BMO reward points for 1 The price was exclusively available on the BMO Prize travel portal, which can often be quite boogie.

Earlier this year, if you wanted to redeem BMO rewards for any other type of purchase not made on their web portal, you would have to openly accept the patent rate. 200 BMO reward points = $ 1. This is an inspirational 0.5cpp amount.

Now, BMO has at least acknowledged that they need to experiment with the rigidity of redemption models and offer consumers a little more punch for point redemption.

That’s why, you can redeem your BMO reward points All travel shopping anywhere The standard rate mentioned above is 150 points per $ 1, or 0.67cpp.

Unless your BMO rewards credit card purchase codes as flight, hotel, car rental, cruise, bus, train or any other type of travel, you can go when it’s time to burn your BMO reward points.

To redeem, just sign in to bmorewards.com, select the “Pay with points” tab, and use as many points as you want to offset your eligible purchase.

Why would I pay using my BMO reward points?

This permanent change is ideal, as it not only allows you to redeem your points the way you want, but also allows you to avoid the bank’s in-house travel agency (if and when it reopens). Oh, did I not mention that there is trouble in Paradise?

At the moment BMO Rewards’ own internal travel portal is not working at all and the issuer has not indicated any timeline for when it can reopen. Therefore, this option to redeem on your own way to travel is the only way to get the most value out of the BMO rewards program.

In general, flying on an itinerary booked with an inbound travel agency like BMO can prevent you from getting rewards like Airplane Point or Alaska Miles. Hotel bookings will similarly prevent you from earning sweet prizes, such as the World of Hyatt Point or the Marriott Forest Fear Elite.

Similarly, you will not be able to avail the benefits like suite upgrade or free breakfast which you can earn as an elite member of the hotel. In addition, you can’t use eUpgrades to use “Latitude Attitude” and instantly convert your cheap economy seat to a Business Class One.

This new option to redeem travel “as you go” offers a much more competitive experience: you can book any trip directly with the provider, entitle you to all the points, nights and benefits offered by your chosen loyalty program, and then offset the charge Use BMO reward points.

Effectively, BMO Rewards is now the currency of Canada’s more flexible travel rewards, along with HSBC Rewards and Scotiabank’s Scene +. Now if only the remaining 5 big banks could catch – I’m looking at you, CIBC Aventura and TD Rewards.

The best BMO credit card to win a BMO award

The most basic BMO rewards product, aptly named BMO Rewards Mastercard, has a welcome bonus of less than 10,000 points, equivalent to $ 67 per trip. It’s just even a megabus ticket.

At the other end of the spectrum is the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege. This card has a hefty $ 499 annual fee, but it offers a $ 200 annual credit to offset costs, as well as a welcome bonus. 50,000 BMO reward points After spending $ 6,000 in the first three months of holding the card. It also has six Dragonpass lounge passes.

These points will cost $ 365 towards the onward journey. Therefore, after paying a high annual fee, your profit will be only $ 66, and some lounge visits.

However, I think it’s BMO’s middle-of-the-road card that offers the best value under the current promotion.

Although BMO Ascend World Elite MasterCard is second in comparison, it still offers a decent sign-up bonus. 30,000 points After spending $ 3,000 in the first three months, as well as a $ 150 annual fee waiver.

বিনামূল্যে 200 on free travel is not insignificant, and the card comes with four complimentary DragonPass Lounge visits per year.

On the other hand, you have the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite, which in my opinion is the clear winner. Its $ 120 annual fee is waived in the first year, and you’ll immediately receive a lifestyle credit of $ 50 per calendar year.

In addition, its a welcome bonus 30,000 BMO reward points After spending $ 3,000 in the first three months, BMO Ascend equals it with World Elite MasterCard, And It earns 5x points on food, drink and groceries.

Conclusion

When it comes to the Bank of Montreal, I often have mixed feelings. The constant devaluation of their signature products leaves a bad taste in the mouths of consumers, and I have felt in recent years that the company does not keep pace with their competitors at all.

As a result, it’s nice to see this financial institution make an active choice by trying to refresh their broken in-house BMO rewards program by finally being able to redeem points against any trip at the best price of 0.67cpp.

Nevertheless, if the BMO is to be a serious competitor, it is an initial step in rebuilding the customer’s goodwill and competitive advantage. Due to the recent pattern of devaluation, it is almost certainly better to redeem quickly without trying to hide BMO rewards.

Until next time, do not use in-house online travel agency.

Air Tahiti Nui 7 now available for redemption with Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan This, combined with the airline’s upcoming launch of a new route from Seattle, unlocks some exciting release opportunities.

Seattle is easily accessible to many Canadians, including the main airports in western Canada, as well as direct flights from Toronto and Montreal. Thus, this new route provides more convenient access for Canadians on their way to a dream vacation in Tahiti in the near future.

Meanwhile, the Alaska Mileage Plan has been expanding its partnership extensively in the recent past, and it’s great to see the addition of a remote partner airline, making it easier to access a remote, highly sought-after vacation destination. Unlike other recent additions, redemption costs are much more mandatory.

Let’s take a look at the details.

Alaska Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui Partnership

Note that as of April 1, 2022, Air Tahiti Nui and Alaska Airlines have entered into a formal partnership. This means that it is now possible to earn and redeem Alaska miles for travel on Air Tahiti Nui, and vice versa through Air Tahiti Nui’s Club Tiare Frequent Flyer Loyalty Program.

Bora Bora, located in Tahiti, is a destination at the top of many bucket lists, made much more accessible by Alaska Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui Link Up.

Air Tahiti Nui’s new Seattle route

A new route between Seattle and Puppet has added more interest to the Alaska Airlines and Air Tahiti Nui partnership.

From October 4, 2022, Air Tahiti will start service twice a week between Nui Papi and Seattle. The flight will last about nine and a half hours on both sides, and is scheduled to operate on the following schedule:

• TN52 Papeete (PPT) to Seattle (SEA), departs at 10 pm and arrives at 10:25 am the next day
• TN51 Seattle (SEA) to Papeete (PPT), departs at 12:40 pm and arrives at 7:30 pm

Flights will leave Papeete on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and flights will leave Seattle on Wednesdays and Sundays.

The route will be operated by a Boeing 787-9 aircraft with 30 lie-flat business class seats, 32 premium economy seats and 232 economy seats. The business class cabin is in a 2-2-2 formation across five rows.

With the exception of Seattle, Air Tahiti Nui’s only North American destination is Los Angeles, which is served daily.

Reaching this part of the world can be difficult, so it’s great to see another option very easily accessible by Canadians. There are direct flights from Seattle to Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and Montreal with Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, or WestJet at various points throughout the year.

Book Air Tahiti Nui with Alaska Mileage Plan

To make it even better, the route, as well as all other routes served by Air Tahiti Bui, can now be booked using Alaska Miles.

Alaska Airlines has loaded Air Tahiti Nui in search of its rewards, and has also released rewards charts for flights to its various destinations.

Air Tahiti Nui’s network is fairly limited compared to most airlines. From its hub in Tahiti, the airline flies to Auckland, Tokyo, Seattle, Los Angeles and Paris (as the fifth-independence flight from Los Angeles).

Despite Air Tahiti Nui’s limited network, it’s exciting to watch Too Reasonable price for rewards on the airline. Since joining OneWorld, Alaska Airlines has added multiple redemption partners at a lower price than the standard award; Fortunately, this is not the case with Air Tahiti Nui.

From North America to the South Pacific (including Tahiti, Australia, New Zealand and other islands in the region), business class prize bookings begin 60,000 miles, When the flight starts in premium economy 45,000 miles. Flying out prices in the economy 30,000 miles.

The cost for the fifth Independence flight from Los Angeles to Paris is the same:

If you want to travel a long way from North America to Japan via the South Pacific Ocean, you can pay double to go directly to Tahiti. Keep in mind that it would be a better deal for Japan Airlines or Cathay to unload Alaska miles from Pacific North America to Asia.

The price of flying from Tahiti to Asia is out 35,000 miles In economics, 50,000 miles In the premium economy, and 70,000 miles In business class. In this case, it would be better to use the American AAdvantage Mile, which charges only 40,000 miles for the same ride in business class.

Meanwhile, Air Tahiti Noi flies from Tahiti to Europe at the same cost as flights from North America to Asia.

The best sweet spot is flying between North America and the South Pacific Ocean, which offers an excellent opportunity to reach one of the world’s hardest-to-reach at a prize redemption.

For example, the price of a flight from North America to Auckland via Puppet 40,000 miles In economy class, 60,000 miles In the premium economy, and 80,000 miles In business class.

Compared to other recent partners, such as Iberia and Royal Air Maroc, these prices are much more reasonable. Indeed, given the remote, ambitious location, it can present an excellent value.

In addition, you can add one Stopover in Tahiti at no extra cost, Which is a significant advantage for using the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan.

If you’re able to find space (which can be a bit tricky), it’s a very compelling option to combine two ambitious trips into one.

Is Booking Air Tahiti Nui a good deal with Alaska Airlines?

The first thing to consider is that accessing points in Tahiti can be challenging. There are only a handful of airlines that fly to Papu’s, and an even smaller proportion of them are available for release.

Air France has a fifth-independence flight from Los Angeles to Papi, which can be booked for 64,000 Flying Blue Miles, the equivalent of 85,333 American Express membership prize points.

Flying 60,000 miles from Los Angeles or Seattle to Papua is a relatively good deal, with caution that Alaska miles are relatively more difficult for Canadians.

It is also possible to book Air Tahiti Nui with American Airlines AAdvantage Miles. Cost of one way flight in business class 80,000A Advantage miles.

For Canadians, AAdvantage miles are not easy either. In addition to doubling US credit cards, AAdvantage is a transfer partner from RBC Avion at a sub-optimal ratio of 10: 7. Again, the mileage plan of Alaska Airlines is the winner for booking Air Tahiti Nui.

Moreover, in sin-Auckland flight opens a mandatory way to enter New Zealand.

Finding a business class award space in New Zealand at a reasonable cost can be really difficult.

By using Airplane Points, you’ll either be at the mercy of dynamic pricing on Air Canada flights (unless you find a place at the bottom of the dynamic spectrum or e-upgrade space), or you’ll have to take longer via the Middle East, Asia and / or Australia. Even then, the cost price would be 105,000 airplane points.

Having said that, airplane points are comparatively much easier than Alaska miles in Canada, so that’s another thing to keep in mind.

Finally, there is a respectable mention of the fifth-independence flight from Los Angeles to Paris. Having another option to get an exciting-competitive seat across the Atlantic is always a boon, and although this flight will not be a game changer for everyone, it presents a difficult option in the absence of other flights.

With OneWorld, British Airways has the most rewarding places, but the worst carrier-imposed surcharges. Air Tahiti Nui’s flight from Los Angeles to Paris offers a solid alternative, priced at 60,000 Alaska miles and very little US $ 19 in taxes and fees.

On a westward day trip, having a premium economy available without business class space can be an excellent fallback option.

Of course, instead you can book Japan Airlines First Class or Cathay Pacific First Class and get significantly higher prices from Alaska Airlines’ mileage plans, but Air Tahiti Nui still offers good prices for transatlantic trips.

Conclusion

Air Tahiti has announced a new direct flight between Nui Puppet and Seattle, starting October 4, 2022. The route is the airline’s second North American destination, quite easily accessible by Canadians.

In addition, Alaska Airlines’ mileage plan has now added Air Tahiti Nui as a redemption partner. Redemption rates offer great value when accessing the South Pacific, New Zealand, and even France from North America, so this is another way to consider when redeeming your hard-earned Alaska miles for some ambitious travel.

The ever-popular American Express Shop Small Promotion is back in another round, proving very popular in the first few rounds between 2018 and 2021.

From June 29 to August 24, 2022, American Express cardholders can register their card and then earn $ 5 statement credit by spending $ 10 with participating shop Small Merchant, up to five times the total on each eligible card. Up to $ 25 in statement credit.

Register for shop small

This round of American Express Shop Small Promotions is available to participate in designated physical small businesses in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa and Calgary, as well as online small businesses across the country.

That way, even if you live outside of one of these major cities, you can take advantage of Shop Small promotions by shopping online at a qualified retailer near you.

To register with Shop Small, go to your Amex offers section in your online dashboard, and you’ll see the offer available for registration. The Shop Small offer has been spotted on a wide range of Amex cards including Platinum Cards, Business Platinum Cards, Cobalt Cards and more.

Once you are registered, you can take advantage of the “Spend $ 10, Get $ 5” offer from any participating Shop Small retailer in Canada, with a total statement credit of up to 25.

(The 5 $ $ 5 structure is less generous than the previous year, when we had 10 $ $ 5 statement credit, up to a total of $ 50. I imagine the argument here is that small businesses may not be Required As much as they supported in the summer of 2020 and 2021 in 2022.)

There is a limit of 100,000 registrations, so it’s worth clicking “Add to Card” as soon as possible to make sure you qualify for it before the offer expires.

Consistent with the new registration cap, as in previous years, the Shop Small offer will appear on only one Amex product per cardholder instead of each Amex card you hold.

This is a disappointing development for those of us who have made the most of Shop Small offers across 10+ cards over the years, although there is a solution through Scotiabank-issued Amex cards if you want to fully support your local small businesses.

How it works

As before, you can use Amex store small map Filter “Shop Small” to find participating retailers.

You will find a list of participating locations in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa and Calgary, all marked with the Shop Small logo.

You can also browse a list of in-store small retailers, including stores and online locations. There are several registered charities on this list, so if you have extra credit by the end of the summer, you might consider donating এই 10 to these charities and benefiting from both a $ 5 statement credit and a tax receipt.

The promotion is intended to reward you for shopping at 10 different bars at five times Different Shop small retailers. To that end, the terms say:

To be eligible for the $ 5 (CAD) Statement Credit, an eligible purchase of at least $ 10 (CAD) per transaction, after tax, must be charged to your registered card at up to 5 different participating locations in Canada during the offer period and subsequently posted to your account. At least $ 10 (CAD) in a single transaction is an eligible purchase that is made directly to a different participating business or a different location of the same participating business with a $ 5 (CAD) statement credit, up to a total of 5 statement credits. Or a maximum of $ 25 (CAD) per statement credit on each registered card during the offer period. One or more purchases made directly in the same business location or in the same online business will only be eligible to receive a $ 5 (CAD) statement credit.

Therefore, to get the full 25 on statement credits you will probably need to shop with five different shop small merchants.

However, if you or your family members have multiple American Express cards and have registered them, you can always split a large transaction into multiple একাধিক 10 payments on a separate card, thus triggering one in five $ 5 credits for each card used.

If you put extra pressure on your cashier or waiter during the process of splitting a large bill, be sure to give a generous tip (probably using another American Express card from your pack)!

Scotiabank Amex cardholders can also register

Like many previous Amex offers, Shop Small promotions are also available for Scotiabank American Express cardholders to register through this link.

The manual registration option is available for primary and supplementary cardholders of Scotiabank American Express Card, Scotiabank Gold American Express Card and Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card.

Unlike Amex-issued Amex cards, you can register as many Scotiabank-issued Amex primary or supplementary cards as you like for Shop Small, so it’s an ideal way to multiply your Shop Small earnings and truly maximize the offer. There are piles of these cards sitting around.

Conclusion

American Express Shop Small is back for 2022, supporting small businesses on one of your American Express products as well as allowing you to earn up to $ 25 statement credit for all your ScotiaBank-issued Amex cards.

This promotion has certainly been less generous than the previous year, when Shop Small offered a statement credit of up to $ 50 (or more in some cases) and it was also possible to register all your Amex cards under the Amex offer dashboard.

Still, it’s a chance to earn a $ 25 refund when you drink coffee and ice cream, and you can scale these earnings with other cardholders in your family or through a strong portfolio of Scotia Amex cards. Go ahead and register all the Amex cards you can get your hands on – and then get the cost!

I stayed Marriott Downtown at the CF Eaton Center in Toronto Time to return home with family at Big Smoke in Easter in April 2022.

It’s always a treat to meet a loved one, and I’ve found the arrangements to stay here satisfactory, though quality-problems. Still, the rooms were comfortable, even if the exterior of the hotel was plagued by the same brutal architecture that merged most of the city center.

Marriott Downtown at Toronto CF Eaton Center – Booking

For my three nights stay, I booked using a combination of Marriott Free Night Awards and Marriott Forest Fear Points.

Fortunately, I made my stay before the advent of dynamic pricing. I booked my first two nights using the Free Night Awards, and the next night at a fixed cost 35,000 points.

This property tends to cost between হার 375 in cash ratesBetween -450 in peak season and $ 230-300 in low season. Meanwhile, The cost of the forest fear point will be around Rs 35,000– 40,000 points in most calendar years, though that could change when the Marriott Forest Fear becomes fully operational in 2023.

Although I didn’t necessarily get the spectacular value from my Free Night Awards and Forest Fear points, especially when compared to our points valuation, I’m happy to avoid paying cash for this trip over the weekend.

Marriott Downtown – Location at Toronto CF Eaton Center

Located on Jamjamat Bay Street in downtown Toronto, Marriott Downtown at the CF Eaton Center in Toronto lives up to its name. It is right next to the famous shopping mall, which surprisingly bears the name of Cadillac Fairview (CF) Eaton Center.

This proximity provides access to both New and Old City Halls as well as the iconic Nathan Phillips Square down the street.

The great advantage of this location is that the Eaton Center is just above the Toronto Transit Commission’s (TTC) Dandas subway station. You won’t be further away than a subway ride from an attractive restaurant, a show at the Mirvish Theater, or a shopping destination suitable for purses of any size.

I personally chose this hotel because I am the product of a divided family, and my parents live in different parts of downtown Toronto.

Since I wanted to make time to visit both halves of my ancestors, it was understandable to choose a hotel located at equal distances from both by any means of transportation: Uber, walking, and always uncertain TTC.

Marriott Downtown – Check-in at CF Eaton Center, Toronto

The hotel entrance I think is typical of mid-range Marriott: brightly lit, well staffed and crowded with guests arriving and departing.

The check-in process was smooth and fast, which was a pleasant surprise considering I visited a long weekend. I had been in this position before on Labor Day weekend, and the workers were positively condemned.

On this occasion, however, I was thanked for my loyalty as a Titanium Elite member, and at the same time my welcome convenience options were presented with a complimentary breakfast or point. After choosing breakfast, I was also informed about my access to the M Club, as well as being told that I had been upgraded to a one-bedroom King Suite on the 7th floor.

It was good that I didn’t have to work for “suit-talk” or otherwise my elite advantage.

There was also a seating area, where I often saw families waiting for their valet-parked cars, or later in the evening, who had gathered for their nights in town. I sat down and quickly collected drinks from the bar.

After check-in, I made my way to the elevator and to my room.

I later realized that there weren’t enough lifts. They were often full, or forced to stop on each floor, and sometimes had lineups or waits. Another pair of complementary elevators currently running four would be best.

Marriott Downtown at Toronto CF Eaton Center – One-Bedroom King Suite

I climbed into room 720, which was found next to the elevator on the 7th floor. The hallways themselves are a bit messy, a gray-on-gray color scheme that wasn’t as warm as the lobby wood panels.

The room was much larger than I expected, beautiful in a space-limited city like Toronto. The entrance hallway and common area alone seem to be enough for a suite-sized room.

The couch and coffee table themselves were quite spacious and the decor could not be called absolutely new, it was at least modern. Even better, it was in great repair and I didn’t notice any tired or beaten furniture.

The couches were also comfortable, and more than enough as a resting stop for a visiting friend.

There was also a large closet at the entrance, so their business clients could store a professional wardrobe. Inside was a bathrobe, which I refused to take with me.

The bedroom was also spacious and comfortable and came with more seating options in the form of an extra desk and extra table. Seriously, some parts of me wonder why this room type needs so much space to sit.

That being said, the bed was a plush king with ultra-soft linen. Dressers came with plenty of power outlets, always important in this electronic device-addicted era.

After wandering around for a while and seeing how spacious the room was, I realized that my suite had the dual function of being an accessibility-based room for people with disabilities. It’s nice to know that Marriott is making sure that they have premium room options for all their customers

The bathroom was similarly spacious and was full of accessibility-positive features in both the bathroom and the toilet.

As a “premium” hotel in the Marriott portfolio, I was somewhat surprised to see that the bathroom kits were delivered in squart bottles instead of travel-friendly individual units.

For me, it wasn’t really a deal-breaker, but certainly indicates the post-Covid cost-cutting that the industry has become accustomed to.

Marriott Downtown – M Club at CF Eaton Center, Toronto

The M Club The lounge at this hotel is small, and I mean Tiny.

It’s located downstairs right next to the main restaurant, and it’s very easy to miss if you don’t know it’s there. It had some lazy business hours, only open until 8am–On weekdays it is 8pm, completely closed on Saturdays and open from 10am on Sundays–6 pm

Inside, I was similarly a bit overwhelmed, and even though the hotel was close to capacity, the M Club was dead when I nodded.

There was a traditional spread of snacks and chips, which was at least admirable. Any alcohol, such as North American custom, had an additional charge.

Conversely, non-alcoholic beverages, including San Pellegrino’s commonly-expensive individual bottles, were entirely commendable.

There was also a series of plush seating areas with stuffed chairs or hardwood tables, but the whole lounge still felt a bit sterile. Also, and it’s a small nitpick, the carpet from the rest of the hotel decor seems to be about 15 years old.

Marriott Downtown at Toronto CF Eaton Center – Breakfast

Hotel restaurants, Trios Bistro, M was located just across the club, and was similarly sufficient for nutritional purposes.

I don’t think anyone would choose food there as a first choice, within walking distance of Toronto’s plethora of high-quality culinary options, or when compared to choices covered via Uber Eats or similar platforms.

Although I went to my admired Titanium Elite breakfast buffet here, and I must say that it hit the spot, especially after an evening of heartfelt carousing.

The buffet had all the classics you would expect – Sausage, eggs, bacon, hash browns and toast. There were even a handful of fresh pastries that morning, though I didn’t indulge.

The options were delicious, and the coffee was hot, so I thought I got decent prices from the elite breakfast. However, the usual rate for the buffet was around $ 32 plus 13% HST and gratuity, and I guess it was much higher due to the simplicity of the rent.

For that price, either order According to the diet The menu, which looked recognizably delicious, or the hooves at the local brunch joint.

Marriott Downtown at Toronto CF Eaton Center – Other facilities

In addition to the breakfast and buffet, the hotel has a decently beautiful fitness center on the second-highest floor, which I would have stopped off the previous evening.

Finally, the hotel has a small, one-desk business center on the ground floor, but at the rate they charge, I can advise you to simply ask the front desk to print your light.

The staff at the front desk was nice to accommodate my requests and did not charge me a penny for paper, ink or effort.

Conclusion

I’ll be back in downtown Marriott at the CF Eaton Center in Toronto because of its location, which isn’t really second. Above all, it arranged for a comfortable stay and had a friendly and professional staff who welcomed guests with elite dignity.

However, I can’t say that this hotel made me “feel good”. Although the Marriott Eaton Center was quite a comfortable experience, it is somewhat old and its price surpasses its usefulness as a decent full-service hotel.

In fact, unlike other limited-service Marriott properties available in Toronto for a charge of $ 250 or less, given the choice in price at this location, which can reach up to $ 400, I think I’ll hang my hat next time.

Food and drink are an integral part of many cultures around the world, and one of the greatest pleasures of travel is to experience things that are unique to each country.

When the cocktail hour arrives, don’t reach for your old standby – choose the signature cocktail of the country you’re going to to experience something new, and you’ll probably find a new favorite to enjoy going forward.

Here are 23 different cocktails to order when you are out of town, relaxing in your hotel bar or waiting for your flight in the airport lounge.

1. My So – California, USA

Mai is therefore a cocktail that gives Hawaiian vibes. This is why it surprises many that it originated all over the place in Oakland, California.

Vic was a bartender in the 1950s making this tasty-sweet tropical libation. “Out of this world” is said to be Tahitian after making it for two friends from Tahiti who announced it this way, the name stuck.

Although in the original version 17-year-old J. With Ray and Nephew rum and orgyate, lime, orange curacao and plain syrup, you’ll see some bartenders and their own twists to shake up this classic cocktail concoction.

2. Sajerak – New Orleans, USA

Let the cocktail-flavored journey around the world take you to New Orleans. In 2008, Sajerak was called a signature drink even though it was from the 19th century.

In the 1830s, a man named Antoine Amadey Peachwood ran an apothecary where he served toddy to his customers using a secret family recipe of cognac and beetroot.

Gaining much popularity, Sazerac bought the rights to its bitterness at a bar called Coffee House and replaced cognac for Sazerac rye whiskey. This is a great to order for old fashion lovers, a dry yet punchy taste that will make your trip even smoother.

3. Bloody Mary – New York City, USA

Before you leave the state, stop for a little brunch in NYC, something you shouldn’t miss. Bloody Mary was born for branching, although it was first made in 1934.

A French bartender working at St. Regis New York’s famous King Cole Bar is worried that calling it “Bloody Mary” will deter guests. Calling it the “Red Snapper,” he saw it as something to keep the elite happy while they were there.

4. Pina Colada – Puerto Rico

If you like Pina Coladas, you have to go to Puerto Rico. This drink has been an icon since 1954.

This coconut-cream and rum-based delight was created by a bartender named Ramon “Monchito” Marro in the Carib Hilton of San Juan. It just screams “tropical vacation” in every refreshing sip.

5. Mojito – Cuba

With the exception of cigars, people always think of Mojito when it comes to Cuba. Ironically though, it is said that Sir Francis Drake, commander of the English navy, was sent there to conquer the Spanish colonies in the late 1500s, and he was responsible.

This compound seems to have been used to prevent scurvy and to relieve nausea, although today, it is used to soothe nerves after a busy work week.

This drink is made with cane sugar, fresh mint and plenty of rum, which will definitely give the beach enough freshness.

6. Kaiperinha – Brazil

With Capirinha, the origins are often the subject of great controversy. But why waste time arguing if you can taste the famous Brazilian drink?

It contains a spirit mixed with sugar and lime which is similar to rum known as chachaka.

It’s a little lime and a little grassy, ​​and a stunning way to supplement all this juicy meat if you find yourself in a Brazilian steakhouse.

7. Ram Punch – Jamaica

Punch began in the 17th century when sailors wanted an alternative drink to beer. These British sailors brought the drink back and then on further voyages it was introduced to the Caribbean.

Not surprisingly, it was a hit, which is why you’ll get Ram Punch across this island. However, Jamaica is the place where you feel the best, a perfect sip to enjoy with that quiet and friendly environment.

8. Guaro Tire – Costa Rica

Costa Ricans are proud of their consciousness, both in race and in liberation.

The country’s signature spirit is called Guaro, and Guaro Talk is a simple mix of two shots, as well as a mixture of bitter lime and sugar on plenty of ice. This is definitely the ideal way for you to explore this tropical paradise as well as cool down.

9. Paloma – Mexico

Yes, margaritas are a staple as far as Mexican cocktails go. But if you want to drink like the locals when you go to Mexico, choose Paloma.

It also contains tequila although it has a different blend with grape juice, agave and lime juice. Often, margarita can taste a little more sweet and it tends to quench your thirst while giving you a more authentic taste of this country.

10. Pisco Talk – Peru

The Chilean and Peruvian debate over Pisco Talk has been a drama for ages. A permanent war since the 1900s, you can probably order one in Chile as well because both countries claim it as a national cocktail.

However, in Peru, it has become a major thing among the locals. When visiting, try this drink that is made with egg white, pisco, sugar and lime, making an earthy but fresh cocktail that is perfect for hot days.

11. Dark N ‘Stormy – Bermuda

Some say the drink from Bermuda got its name from a sailor who compared the color to the way dark storm clouds hovered over the island.

It’s interesting, Bermuda usually has pleasant weather, making it an ideal place to book for your next trip. While you’re there, have a dark and chilly drink made with black seal rum, ginger beer and lime.

12. Pim’s Cup – London, England

Many think New Orleans is where the Pim’s Cup was first created. It was originally invented in London in the 1940s, although New Orleans certainly made it popular.

James Pim, who owned an oyster bar in London, made this cocktail with pim, mint, lemonade and chopped fruit.

13. Barraquito – Tenerife, Canary Islands

Start your day in the Canary Islands with Barraquito. This layered coffee concoction contains Licor 43, coffee and condensed milk.

You can find it everywhere across the Canary Islands, it is believed that Tenerife is the place where this spectacular alcoholic coffee was made.

14. Sangria – Spain

Perhaps Spain took its influence from the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations who were known to mix wine with sugar and spices.

Although when we think of Sangria, we think of Spain because it was the answer to the water that was unsafe to drink, and what the answer!

This drink is made with red wine, brandy, fruit and spices. Versions made with white wine are also called White sangria And called bubble style cava sangriaWhich features the precious kava, the sparkling wine of Spain.

15. Aperol Spritz – Italy

This light and airy cocktail is ideal for sipping while watching from the coast of Italy. Aperol spritz is a summer drink to enjoy while visiting a significant coastal area of ​​Italy, a drink that has survived since 1919.

Made with prosecco, Aperol, soda, and a slice of fresh orange, it is sure to become a new favorite of yours too.

16. Black Russian – Belgium

Everyone knows all about white Russian, although black Russian was first created. A bartender named Gustav Tops created this at the Hotel Metropol in Brussels.

This 1949 cocktail is made with Russian vodka and kahlu. White Russian later added cream to give it a hint of that signature.

17. Kir Royale – France

Of course, you don’t want to miss all those French wines. But a good cocktail is important when traveling through France.

Based on Kierkegaard, which was a drink made by a French priest of the same name who was once mayor of Dijon, featuring real white wine and black currant liqueur. However, Kir Royal uses champagne instead of white wine, making it even more fabulous.

18. Medicine – Kenya

Kenya’s signature cocktails, dawa, are perfect for hot weather so close to the equator.

It contains vodka with sugar and lime juice, which may not seem like a big deal without an original addition – to finish it it has a large stick dipped in fresh honey, making it something you must try.

19. Chapman – Nigeria

The national cocktail of Nigeria is called Chapman. Although it is usually served without alcohol, it can easily add rum or vodka to the mixture.

It has a beautiful color and a bright fruit flavor Black Currant Friendly, Fanta, Spite, Bitter, Lemon, Lime and Cucumber. Some compare it to the Sangria of Spain with a unique fruit and festive twist.

20. Siam Sunrise – Thailand

Try not to sunbathe too much before you visit all those temples and historical landmarks. They make a great refresher after completing your sights for the day.

It has a dash of vodka, coconut liqueur, soda water, sugar, lime, lemongrass, ginger and pepper for a drink that embodies all these Thai flavors.

21. Macha Hai – Japan

If you get tired while in Japan, ask for a match. This herbal drink is made with shochu, an alcoholic beverage distilled from rice, with macha tea and soda water.

And since the match is a healthy ingredient, you have to balance the aspect of your celebration with responsibility.

22. Singapore Sling – Singapore

The iconic Singapore Sling was first made in 1915 at the Long Bar of the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. It is beautiful and pink, but even men will drink it with the most masculine pleasure.

Made with gin, cherry liqueur and pineapple juice, there’s nothing like tasting it in the real bar – or perhaps in Singapore suites, where it’s a staple on the drink list.

23. Pavlova – Australia

The truth is that Australians love their beer, Pavlova is a gorgeous cocktail given to Brisbane bartender Rini Kato, who made this creamy, sour drink with Belved’s vodka and apricot brandy.

If you’re looking for a sweet finish while you’re down in the land, pavlova it.

Conclusion

In any bar in the world, you will usually find major items like beer, wine and all kinds of spirits. But from the Cupirinhas in Brazil to the Fruity Spritz in Italy, there is always something more special about sipping a drink that is true to your surroundings.

The next time you order a drink during your trip, make it a point to try the national drink wherever you are going and see if you find yourself a new love for each happy hour.

Crypto.com has just announced a massive reduction in reward rates on Crypto Earn. The new rates are effective immediately.

This comes hot on the heels of a significant overhaul of Crypto.com Visa cards, where they have reduced the reward rate on credit card spending and imposed a monthly cap on the prize earned.

For the baptized, Crypto income A product that earns rewards for term deposits (similar to interest) in multiple digital currencies, including stablecoins pegged to Fiat. It has become more valuable than their prepaid cards. While this change will not affect you if you only use Crypto.com’s Visa card, it is noticeable as part of the larger picture of the change in the financial landscape.

Revised rates for selection Stablecoins

Effective immediately, Crypto Earn has reduced the new deposit earnings rate for many popular stablecoins: TGBP, TAUD, TCAD, TUSD, and USDP.

Going forward, these stablecoins have had the highest rates Decreased to 3% annually.

My graduate Huge Decreased from just a few months ago, when the 3-month TCAD deposit for Royal Indigo / Z Green members had an annual rate of 12%. This was followed by a decline of 8%, a rather calm change that was overshadowed by changes in card rewards and CRO stacking.

(I will only focus on 3-month deposit rates, the longest-term and highest rates available.)

Instead of different rates for each card level, the new rates are based on your 6-month locked CRO share price with a simplified structure. If your lockup value is US $ 400 or less (equivalent to the purchase price of Ruby Steel) you will earn 2% on stablecoin deposits, or if your lockup value is US $ 4,000 or more (equivalent to Royal Indigo / Jade) green purchase price).

However, Crypto Earn has complicated interest rates by throttling rewards in a larger balance:

• Tier 1: At your first US $ 3,000 cryptocurrency (across all digital currencies), you will earn the full rate (3% for stablecoin)
• Tier 2: On your next US $ 27,000 Crypto Earn, you will earn 0.5x of the Tier 1 rate (1.5% on stablecoins)
• Tier 3: Earn over US $ 30,000 on any other asset in Crypto, you will earn 0.3x of Tier 2 rate or 0.15x of Tier 1 rate (0.45% in stablecoins).

If you ask me, these layers based on your balance is a huge discouragement from using Crypto Earn. When they were first introduced, the Tier 1 quota stood at US $ 30,000, exceeding 0.5x.

Now, however, the same rate reduction starts at 10% of that balance size, a dramatically lower level that anyone using the platform would easily cross. Anyone who deposits US $ 30,000 in CryptoArne Stablecoin, you will earn one Annual effective rate of 1.65% On the total balance.

Existing deposits will continue to earn at the old rate until they expire. In addition, Crypto.com Private Members (IC White / Frosted Rose Gold and Obsidian Tier) will continue to earn an additional 2% on the Crypto Earn balance in any size and in any currency (excluding CRO) provided in the CRO.

For other cryptocurrency tokens, including Bitcoin and Etherium, Crypto Earn will continue to pay the same interest rate on your stacked balance. These vary by currency, with some altcoins still in double digits.

In the meantime, many Flash-in-the-Pan Altcoins have been delisted from CryptoEarn for new deposits, and active flexible-term deposits will be returned to your wallet tomorrow.

Greater economic impact

This rapid sequence of spontaneous changes comes in the wake of industry-wide crypto sales in the wake of the global economic downturn.

Usually, when inflation is high, the government To raise To encourage savings on interest rate borrowing and to tighten money supply. But Crypto.com is Reduce Rate them instead.

Remember that Crypto.com does not act like a central bank – they act like a profit-oriented corporation, which they are. They have no control over the tokenmix (i.e. money supply) of any currency they support (except their own proprietary CRO). Instead, these custodial assets represent liability for the company, including the balances and rewards that must be paid to their customers.

At the peak of economic uncertainty, it is not surprising to see defense agencies. Even crypto is not immune, as the industry has become embroiled in traditional financial markets and investment practices during the recent bull race.

It’s a profound reminder that cryptocurrency has an exciting place in our future, it works fundamentally differently from our long-term financial instruments and institutions – for better or for worse.

Therefore, I would like to see these shockwaves as signs of broader market power beyond crypto. I don’t see it as a complaint of blockchain technology; Rather, it is a verification of the fact that financial opportunities in space are not always aligned with its technological fundamentals.

Will I continue to use Crypto.com?

I still see Crypto.com in a turbulent place among the more stable, enduring major players, with an appetite for legitimacy and mass-market acceptance. Although I think there is wisdom in diversifying across different platforms, I would say that the risk of an opponent going under or exiting Crypto.com scamming is lower than that of its competitors.

In addition, TrueCAD (TCAD) is a supporter of TrustToken and its sibling token supporter, one of the more reliable stablecoin issuers. As they fully parallel their stable coins, Fiat eliminates the risk of TCAD depreciation from the Canadian dollar – in contrast to the disruptive Tether token, whose algorithms have inflated its supply beyond sustainability, causing it to depreciate against the US dollar over time.

However, as Crypto.com’s rewards decrease and traditional banking institutions increase their rates, you actually Get higher guaranteed rates with Fiat, Even in the most conservative investment vehicles. For example, EQ Bank is offering a savings account rate of 1.65% with a flexible withdrawal, which is equivalent to an effective rate of US $ 30,000 in cryptocurrency over a 3-month period. They offer a 1-year GIC at an annual rate of 4%, which is a wise option if you don’t need immediate liquidity.

For a crypto platform and the risks associated with crypto assets, however thin, it is not the most valuable for a razor-thin financial advantage.

Although my use and interest in cryptocurrency will continue, it is from a long-term technical point of view. Now is not the time to confuse with the strategy of increasing fiat-pegged wealth – a reality that is determined entirely by numbers.

Conclusion

Crypto.com has squandered the rewards offered as interest on Crypto Earn deposits. The changes are serious enough to inspire me to look for other ways to increase my wealth and to refocus on other reasons I became interested in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.

The last time Crypto.com reduced their rewards, they were partly behind some changes due to widespread outrage in the community. I don’t expect this to happen this time, though, as these particular changes seem to be representative of the first and foremost systemic economic factors.

I’m not sure if the changes are being made without any prior warning, the continuation of continued devaluation, or the high rate of dishonest marketing that has been strongly throttle before it becomes valuable. Still, I am optimistic about the future of Crypto.com, despite the clear indication that their products will not be profitable for me as a consumer in the upcoming bear market.

During my mileage run in early April, I got a few hours off in Montreal. I decided to stop by Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Relax and work in domestic terminals.

I’ve been to this lounge several times before, and knew exactly what to expect. Here is an overview of my experience.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Montreal (Domestic) – Access

Arriving from Halifax on a morning flight, I took a short walk from the gate of my arrival to the Maple Leaf Lounge.

If you start the flight to Montreal, turn right after passing through security and you’ll find the lounge shortly after Tim Hortons’ lineup.

The lounge is located on a floor above the main exit floor, between Gates 1 and 3 in the domestic terminal.

This lounge is open daily from 4:15 a.m. to 9 p.m. Depending on the time of day during your visit, you will either see the lounge jam packed or people’s life completely deprived.

After going through the sliding door, there is a staircase on the left or an elevator on the right to take you to the lounge. The exterior of the elevator was arranged in an advertisement for the American Express Airplane Reserve Card.

There are a few plants at the top of the stairs at the entrance to the lounge and a model plane. The check-in desk has clocks displaying time in major Canadian cities, as is typical for the Maple Leaf Lounge, as well as a flight information screen.

I have access to this lounge in several ways:

A friendly agent at the check-in desk greeted me and asked me to scan my boarding pass. I have met him several times in this lounge, and he has always seemed welcoming, polite and very helpful in any of my questions.

The light turned green and the machine beeped, allowing me to enter the lounge. I entered the lounge to have coffee and found a quiet place to sit for a while.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Montreal (Domestic) – Seats

This lounge is larger than the Maple Leaf Lounge in Halifax that I visited before my previous flight. A sign on the wall indicates a maximum of 225 people.

This lounge has two main seating areas, as well as a small seating area and a separate work area.

Upon entering, a stained glass wall separates the main hallway from a seating area.

Behind the glass walls is a cluster of seats arranged in pairs, where there are options for pairs or groups of four. Along the wall, you’ll find lounge chairs that are ideal for pairs or singles, although if it’s busy, you’ll face the person next to you directly.

In the middle of this seating area is a high-top table with power outlet and USB port. This is where I spent most of my time, doing some work and sipping coffee.

The most popular seats are set in two groups of windows. These seats have a tarmac view, which is always a treat.

At the very end of this seating area is another set of lounge chairs with a round table in the middle. Next to these seats is a counter with an automatic Lavaza coffee machine and a television.

Moving away from this seating area, you will come to an area with lots of drinks, which then leads to the main dining area and another seating area. A separate alcove attached to the drinking area, where the business center is located.

Inside the business center, there are several split work desks, a high-top table and a printing station.

Between the beverage area and the food area are some small, round tables with bright red chairs. Again, the seats near the window are preferred, as there is a lot of foot traffic on the side of the others.

As you walk through it, there are a few small two-top dining tables in the main dining area window. Again, there’s a lot of foot traffic around here, so it might be better to find a quiet seat if you’re able.

Another large seating area just behind the dining area. Here, you’ll find a cluster of lounge chairs in two sets that include a table, a set of four chairs with a telescope by the window to do a planespot, and a row upon row in front of a large television.

Overall, the lounge has ample seats for dining, work, rest or socializing.

Although the lounge can get really busy, I personally didn’t feel like I was fighting for space. If it is available, and if the sun does not shine directly on its side window, I prefer to sit at the tip of the telescope.

The restrooms are located in a hallway next to the check-in desk. Inside, you’ll find standard Molton Brown products found in all Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge. Considering the size of the lounge, the restrooms are relatively small.

There is no shower in this lounge.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Montreal (Domestic) – Dining

The main buffet is located by the window near the secondary seating area. The area behind the buffet has been cordoned off for staff only.

Here, you’ll find cold grab-and-go items like fruit, pastries and ready meals as well as some fruit juices.

There is a fridge behind the main buffet area with lots of soft drinks and canned beer, which is probably why the area is surrounded. During my visit, especially the thirsty lounge guest Stancian filled his pockets with ducks under the couch lights, which I thought was a pretty bold move.

To the left of the main buffet is a large, empty table. Behind it are two coffee machines, a pickled tea and a glass of beer when alcohol is served after 11am.

Hot food was available during my stay, but only through it Table Each table in the service lounge has a QR code, which brings up a menu from which you can order hot food items. The breakfast menu during my stay was as follows:

On my flight to Montreal, I had an omnivorous parcel omelette, and since I would be served breakfast on my flight to Vancouver, I chose to order a meal in the lounge. Donuts didn’t look tempting though.

I thoroughly look forward to returning to the hot food buffet at Maple Leaf Lounge, whenever it can.

Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge Montreal (Native) – Bar

In the drinking area you will find most alcohol options. Alcohol service begins at 11 a.m., when plugs are removed from beer taps and liquor bottles are placed in dispensers.

In earlier times, alcohol was self-serving, but as we have seen in other Maple Leaf lounges, the staff at the lounge are still taking orders for wine and hard liqueur. I think wine and hard alcohol are ideal alternatives, hard alcohol is probably best used in mixed drinks and cannot be enjoyed on its own.

To the left of the hard alcohol is a soft drink machine and a juice dispenser. On the right is a refrigerator with lots of soft drinks and bottled water.

The draft beer dispenser is in direct contrast to this area. Given a very modest selection of Guinness, Molson Canadian, and Corset Light.

I could not enjoy the drink in this position, as the sun was still rising during my visit. I would like to see some fine beer options available, perhaps showing off some of the best beers available in Montreal and Quebec, in this regard.

Conclusion

The Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge in Montreal is a standard, totally awesome lounge. The lounge has many seating options for its large number of guests and includes basic food and drink options.

There is definitely room for growth in terms of available food and drink options, and the lounge is likely to have a refreshment sometime in the near future. I would rather stay here than wait at the gate or pay neatly for the airport’s medium food and drink options.