Latest news

How to Earn American AAdvantage Miles in Australia

There are countless ways to earn frequent flyer points within Australia through our local programs, Qantas and Virgin Velocity Frequent Flyer. Both programs offer a range of linked credit cards and dozens of local retailer partners. This makes the accrual of frequent flyer points relatively easy – even if you’re an infrequent flyer. But there … Continued

14 Nov 2015 American Airlines

Qantas Club Lounge Access Denied

One frustrated Qantas Club member feels their membership has been devalued after they were wrongfully refused entry to a Qantas lounge. But even more concerning is that this issue appears to be systematic. The member was flying on a partner airline but had booked the ticket as a Qantas codeshare. Under the published rules, the … Continued

12 Nov 2015 Qantas

First Class Apartments to the Caucasus

This week we’re treated to not one, but two rare travel insights. Our member RooFlyer recently experienced the delights of Etihad’s renowned First Class Apartments on the way to a destination that rarely comes to mind for Australian travellers: the Caucasus region of Eastern Europe, which is home to Azerbaijan and Georgia. Today starts a … Continued

11 Nov 2015 Flight Reviews

Perks and Pitfalls of Cruise Holidays

Our members are often jet setting across the globe by air. But air travel is not the only way to enjoy a holiday. Cruises have taken off on a wave of popularity as a more relaxing and luxurious holiday option. Cruises vary from short trips arriving and departing from the same port, to longer trips … Continued

10 Nov 2015 Cruises

Citibank Reverses Decision to Devalue Points

Following a resounding backlash from AFF members, Citibank has reversed its snap decision to slash the rate at which Citi Rewards points can be transferred to airline frequent flyer programs. Last week, Citibank provided no notice before increasing the number of the Citi Rewards points required for a transfer to Velocity Frequent Flyer and Singapore’s … Continued

9 Nov 2015 Citibank

Tips & Tricks to Earn More Flybuys Points

The recent major devaluation of the Woolworths Rewards program has left many former Woolies customers looking to Coles and its Flybuys loyalty program. While Woolworths has axed its partnership with Qantas, Flybuys recently began partnering with Etihad Airways. As Etihad miles can now be earned while shopping at Coles, Flybuys has become significantly more attractive … Continued

7 Nov 2015 Flybuys

Air NZ Catering Catastrophe

One member is appalled at being offered just $20 worth of Air New Zealand vouchers as compensation for an in-flight meal that left them “very ill”. The Business class passenger had requested a vegetarian meal. But by the time they discovered that the meal in fact contained chicken, it was already too late. The catering … Continued

5 Nov 2015 Air New Zealand

Cruising the Galapagos Islands

This week we’re treated to a fantastic trip report by our member Milboo, who recently travelled to South America. The incredible sights of the Galapagos Islands and Peru’s Machu Picchu awaited! A surprise upgrade on the Qantas flight to Santiago made for a great start to what looks to have been a fantastic trip! The … Continued

4 Nov 2015 Destinations

Fast-track to Virgin Velocity Status

Gold status with Virgin Australia’s Velocity program can be a valuable asset for frequent travellers. Benefits include complimentary lounge access, increased upgrade opportunities, bonus points and even the ability to change to an earlier flight for free. Virgin status can be earned by flying with Virgin Australia and its partner airlines. Often the path to … Continued

3 Nov 2015 Virgin Australia

Etihad launches A380 flights to Melbourne

Etihad Airways will begin flying its flagship Airbus A380 to Melbourne from June next year. The A380s, which already fly daily to Sydney, offer a more comfortable journey in all classes of travel. But First Class passengers can expect to be especially pampered. The A380 is equipped with “apartments” in First, as well as on-board … Continued

2 Nov 2015 Etihad Airways

Hilton Hotels: Upgrading 101

It’s always nice to get an upgrade. Upgrading flights to Business and First Class is often discussed on our forums. But hotel rooms can also be upgraded – sometimes for little or no cost! Hilton Hotels offers two different ways to upgrade. These methods can be used to upgrade at Hilton properties including Conrad, Waldorf … Continued

31 Oct 2015 Hilton Honors

Woolies Axes Qantas Points

Woolworths is ditching its long-standing partnership with Qantas Frequent Flyer. Instead of Qantas points at the checkout, the supermarket will now offer “Woolworths Dollars”. In the new program, only specially marked items earn “dollars”. The number of dollars up for grabs will vary from product to product, while many items will not earn anything at … Continued

29 Oct 2015 Woolworths Everyday Rewards