Latest news

Qantas Points Back at Woolworths

It’s only a few months since Woolworths revamped its Everyday Rewards loyalty scheme, replacing it with the “Woolworths Rewards” program. As part of the changes, Qantas points would no longer be earned at Woolworths. But following a resounding customer backlash, Woolworths recently announced that it will reinstate the ability to earn Qantas points at the … Continued

4 Jan 2016 Woolworths Everyday Rewards

Earning Points as a Business Owner

If you own a small business, chances are that you’re paying business expenses on a regular basis. By paying with a point-earning credit card, you could be earning frequent flyer points for these payments! One new member, a small business owner, requests advice on maximising their credit card point-earning potential. I’m a small business owner, … Continued

2 Jan 2016 Credit Cards

Free Qantas Travel Out Of Reach?

Are Qantas points a valuable currency, or is the point chase futile because free reward travel is out of reach? The high cost of frequent flyer rewards tickets, combined with excessive fuel surcharges have led some members to claim that Qantas points are in fact worth very little. Firstly, they argue that other programs including … Continued

17 Dec 2015 Qantas

The Intrigue of Sri Lanka

The many trip reports on AFF don’t just make for captivating reading. They also offer inspiration and ideas for your own travels! Plus, as they are written by other AFF members, there is always an opportunity to ask questions and seek recommendations. Our member albatross710 recently had the chance to visit Sri Lanka. While researching … Continued

16 Dec 2015 Destinations

Best Value CommBank Awards Redemptions

Commonwealth Bank Awards points can be used in one of two ways. They can either be redeemed directly through the CommBank Awards program, or you can transfer CommBank Awards points to an airline frequent flyer program. Direct redemption options include gift vouchers, cash back and merchandise, while Qantas Frequent Flyer and Virgin Australia Velocity are … Continued

15 Dec 2015 CommBank

Emirates and Malaysia Airlines Announce Partnership

A troubled Malaysia Airlines has announced a new partnership with Emirates. Under the new agreement, which comes into effect in 2016, Emirates Skywards and Malaysia Airlines Enrich members will enjoy reciprocal benefits when flying on either airline. This includes the ability to earn and redeem points for each airlines’ flights. Malaysia Airlines will also codeshare … Continued

14 Dec 2015 Emirates

Redeeming Qantas Points for Business Class to the USA

Redeeming points to fly in Business class can be a challenge at the best of times. Reward seats can be very difficult to find. But trying to find award availability on Qantas’ hugely popular flights to the USA can border on the impossible. One member is hoping to use points to fly two people to … Continued

12 Dec 2015 Qantas

Virgin’s Identity Crisis

One Platinum Virgin Australia flyer believes the airline is suffering from a serious case of “innovation deprivation”. This member is considering switching to Qantas as they feel constantly underwhelmed by Virgin’s inconsistent product. In 2011, Virgin Blue became Virgin Australia as part of a transition towards “full service” airline status. Despite much initial fanfare, this … Continued

10 Dec 2015 Virgin Australia

A 4-Way Domestic Airline Battle

The Australian domestic aviation landscape is dominated by four airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Tigerair. Qantas is widely regarded as the market leader, with Virgin Australia sharing the premium travel market. Meanwhile, low-cost airlines Jetstar and Tigerair compete for travellers on a budget. One AFF member recently travelled on all four domestic airlines – … Continued

9 Dec 2015 Flight Reviews

Best Sydney Airport Hotels

If you have an overnight stopover or early morning departure in Sydney, you may need to spend a night at an airport hotel. There are numerous hotels near both terminals at Sydney Airport, with each offering different prices and levels of service. One particular hotel is located very conveniently to the international terminal. Others are … Continued

8 Dec 2015 Hotel Loyalty Programs

It’s Back: Bonus Points on Qantas Vouchers

One of the best Qantas deals of the year is back! For the past five years, Qantas has offered bonus points at Christmas time on gift voucher purchases. Although this year’s deal is not as generous as last year’s, there are still 5 points for every dollar spent on flight vouchers up for grabs. This … Continued

7 Dec 2015 Qantas

Climbing the Airline Status Ladder

Many travelers are lured by the benefits of Gold and Platinum airline status. Complimentary lounge access, more upgrades, no queues and extra points make the status chase tempting. But is elite status really worthwhile? Or are there other ways to enjoy the same perks – even as an infrequent flyer – without the extra time, … Continued

3 Dec 2015 Airlines, Miles and Points