Latest news

Virgin Customer Confusion

After a disappointing flight, one member recently contacted Virgin Australia to inquire about a lack of food or drinks on board. But the follow-up “customer service” was so abysmal, it left them feeling even more disappointed with the airline than they had been before complaining! Our member was initially disappointed not to receive a meal … Continued

1 Sep 2016 Virgin Australia

20th Anniversary Celebrations in the Sky

What better way to celebrate a milestone anniversary than by jetting off overseas in Business class? As if the occasion couldn’t have been more special, it also happened to be the first long-haul Business class flight for our member clipped_wings. The flight chosen to mark the occasion was Sydney-Los Angeles, and our member was lucky enough … Continued

31 Aug 2016 Flight Reviews

Skipping the First Flight on a Booking

There could be any number of reasons not to take the first flight of a multi-sector booking. For example, one member recently discovered that it was cheaper to book a ticket from Perth to Singapore via Melbourne, than a direct Melbourne-Singapore flight. Being based in Melbourne, the member is considering purchasing the ticket from Perth … Continued

29 Aug 2016 Planning & Booking

Woolworths Revamps Rewards Program

Woolworths has announced long-awaited changes to its unpopular loyalty program. Woolworths customers will once again be able to earn Qantas points at the checkout, and points will now be earned on all purchases – not just specially-marked promotional items. From Wednesday 31 August, one Woolworths Point will be earned for every dollar spent at Woolworths, … Continued

27 Aug 2016 Woolworths Everyday Rewards

Qantas Cancellation Catastrophe

One member is bitterly disappointed after Qantas cancelled their booking without notifying them. Adding insult to injury, the airline even charged a cancellation fee. This member had redeemed their hard-earned Qantas points for a flight to Tanzania on oneworld partner Qatar Airways. The points were debited from the member’s frequent flyer account and the additional … Continued

25 Aug 2016 Qantas

China Southern Put to the Test

Our member mushez recently sampled China Southern Airlines on a quick trip to China. Four China Southern flights were taken in total as our member flew from Brisbane to Shanghai and back, with a stopover in Guangzhou in both directions. So, would the airline meet expectations? Concerned about the quality of the catering, our member stocked … Continued

24 Aug 2016 Flight Reviews

Air Asia and Scoot Launch Cheap Flights to Europe

Low-cost airlines Air Asia X and Scoot have both announced new flights to Europe, and tickets from Australia to Europe are now on sale for as little as $369! From 30 October 2016, Air Asia X will commence flights from Kuala Lumpur to Barcelona using an Airbus A330. The flights will operate via Istanbul, and … Continued

22 Aug 2016 Other Airlines

Avoid High Taxes on Reward Flights

When redeeming frequent flyer points, high taxes can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of a “free” flight. These taxes typically need to be paid with real money, in addition to the points required. Many airlines also impose their own “carrier charges”, sometimes disguised as fuel surcharges. Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Emirates and British Airways … Continued

20 Aug 2016 Airlines, Miles and Points

Virgin Slashes Frequent Flyer Perks

Our members are outraged by Virgin’s plans to remove key frequent flyer benefits from next month. Gold & Platinum flyers will no longer receive perks including Fly Ahead, complimentary seat selection or bonus points when flying on Virgin’s cheapest Economy tickets. Even when flying on more expensive tickets, Virgin’s most loyal flyers may soon be forced … Continued

18 Aug 2016 Virgin Australia

Enjoying an Eastern European Summer

What better way to escape the Australian winter than by heading north? The Australian winter coincides with summer in Europe, and our member ozmatt has made somewhat of a habit of visiting during this popular travel period. Each Euro-summer I head to Europe for as long as I think I can get away with it … Continued

17 Aug 2016 Destinations

Inspiration for a Long Weekend Getaway

One member is planning to use points for a long weekend overseas, and is seeking some destination inspiration. Based in Sydney, this member would like to leave Australia on a Friday and return in time to return to work on Monday morning. I’m looking for some inspiration for a weekend getaway. My thoughts are call in sick on … Continued

15 Aug 2016 Destinations

How to Get the Best Exchange Rate on Foreign Currency

When travelling overseas, you’ll need to obtain foreign currency. This week our members reveal the best ways to get a great rate and save money in the process! If you prefer to change cash in Australia, it’s best to avoid the major banks. Instead, smaller outlets that specialise in foreign exchange can often give you … Continued

13 Aug 2016 Travel Money