Travel
St. Regis Longboat Key review
I may be biased, but as a born-and-raised Floridian, I can confidently say the Sunshine State is one of the best places to vacation in the United States. The draw of Southwest Florida has always been undeniable: serene beaches, picturesque sunsets and tropical weather nearly all year-round, with less-crowded beaches than what you might see in other Florida vacation spots like Daytona or Miami.
And now, nestled along Florida’s pristine Gulf Coast, comes Marriott’s newest Florida resort, the St. Regis Longboat Key. With impeccable service and luxury accommodations, the property takes everything there is to love about a Florida vacation and elevates it.
While the price for a stay here can be quite steep, this hotel can certainly be more attainable if you’re willing to save up your Marriott Bonvoy points. Here’s what it’s like to stay at the St. Regis Longboat Key — and why it earned a spot on our list of the best new hotels in 2024.
Related: The best St. Regis hotels for the most luxurious hotel stays
What is the St. Regis Longboat Key?
Celebrated as the most significant development in the region in more than 50 years, the St. Regis Longboat Key was one of the most anticipated hotel openings in 2024. It also marks a major milestone for Marriott — its 9,000th property.
The resort features 168 rooms and suites, a 20,000-square-foot spa, a beachfront lazy river and a 350,000-gallon lagoon filled with 2,800 tropical fish — all spread across 18 acres of prime beachfront real estate.
The hotel’s design is rich with tributes to Florida’s natural elements and wildlife, as well as the legacy of circus magnate John Ringling and the Ringing Brothers, including contemporary nods like elegant rope-clad chandeliers and an oval-shaped ballroom that resembles a circus tent. Even the suites continue the long-held St. Regis tradition of being named to honor prominent women who have called the surrounding area home, including Mable Ringling and Lora Whitney.
True to St. Regis form, the hotel is equipped with an extensive array of top-notch amenities and its signature butler service.
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How to book the St. Regis Longboat Key
The St. Regis Longboat Key offers nine different room and suite types. Rates for superior rooms, which average around 470 square feet and have partial water views, start at roughly $930, or 102,000 Marriott points, per night during peak months. Deluxe and grand deluxe rooms, on the other hand, have ocean views and encompass around 545 square feet. Deluxe rooms start at roughly $1,014, or 124,000 Marriott points, and grand deluxe accommodations begin at $1,161 or 154,000 Marriott points.
Then there are the 26 oceanfront suites that range from one- to four-bedroom options, all boasting what I can confirm are absolutely breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico that you can enjoy from your private terrace. When checking various dates throughout the calendar, suite availability for point redemption can vary depending on the season, but expect them to have starting costs of around 400,000 Marriott points or $4,000 per night for a one-bedroom suite.
When booking the St. Regis Longboat Key, you’ll want to use one of the credit cards that earn the most points for Marriott stays, and one that offers automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status for value-added benefits. These include:
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Platinum Elite status; and 25 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Gold Elite status; and 15 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Gold Elite status; and 15 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Gold Elite status; and 15 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Silver Elite status; and 15 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
- Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card: Earn 3 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program; automatic Silver Elite status; and 5 elite night credits per year toward a higher tier.
The information for the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The location
As soon as we approached the St. Regis, it felt like we’d entered an exclusive island getaway; it is one of the few hotels you’ll find on Sarasota’s barrier islands. There were staff outside, ready to greet us by name (with warm towels and Champagne, might I add) as soon we pulled up to the valet. Once we passed through the oversized lobby doors, we were immediately welcomed by a sparkling mosaic St. Regis logo on the floor. When we looked up, our gaze went straight to the grandiose floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the Gulf of Mexico.
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If you’re traveling to the St. Regis by air, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is the nearest airport. Airport transfers are not available, but the resort is just a 20-minute drive away and costs around $30 to $50 via taxi or ride-hailing service.
For a wider selection of flights, you might prefer landing at Tampa International Airport (TPA). However, the drive will take about an hour and a half, and you can expect to pay around $200 for a taxi or ride-hailing service, so you may want to rent a car instead. Valet parking at the St. Regis is $55 daily, with electric car charging stations available.
Besides soaking up the sun at one of St. Regis’s multiple pools or its private beach, guests can take a short eight-minute drive to St. Armand’s Circle, a bustling outdoor shopping and dining district that is well on its way to recovery following Hurricane Helene.
The resort is also just a bridge away from downtown Sarasota. You can venture downtown for various dining and nightlife options in a laid-back, beachy atmosphere. I highly recommend visiting the nearby Ringling Museum, which provides an enriching cultural excursion, showcasing diverse art collections and beautifully manicured gardens. With its pink-walled exterior and Italian-style design, the museum looks like a literal palace from the Renaissance period — and is also the perfect place to capture an Instagram picture of your travels.
The museum has 21 galleries, so plan to spend a few hours wandering through the different exhibits. You’ll be glad you did.
Rooms at the St. Regis Longboat Key
After check-in, I was escorted by our butler, Jennifer, up to the third floor to our suite, which was furnished and designed with neutral hues, like grays and creams, as well as organic textures that felt cohesive with the resort’s contemporary coastal aesthetic.
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An oval marble dining table with a sweet welcome treat was waiting for me: a chocolate turtle placed in a pool float with a pink signature pattern designed just for the St. Regis Longboat Key.
Beyond that is a generously sized living area with a large flat-screen TV and ample seating. And like the rest of the resort, the room’s true standout feature has to be the floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the terrace, offering breathtaking ocean views.
Before entering the bedroom, you walk through the hallway closet with several amenities, including the St. Regis’s signature robes and slippers, a safe, an iron and even a specialty laundry bag just for your swimsuit. The staff also noticed my husband and I had glasses, so they added some St. Regis-branded glasses cleaner on one of our closet shelves later that day.
The bathroom was like a tranquil spa retreat in itself.
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On one side, a discreet wash closet housed the toilet, while the other held a rainfall shower equipped with a handheld shower wand. Adjacent to the dual-vanity sink on the left was a deep soaking tub that invited relaxation.
Great food and even better service
There is plenty to choose from when it comes to eateries and bars at the St. Regis Longboat Key. The resort’s seven dining venues are diverse and vibrant, with each one offering a unique culinary experience. From an indoor steakhouse with a hidden speakeasy to a rooftop Japanese-fusion lounge overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, each dining option offered its own unique experience, complete with curated decor, making it a memorable and can’t-miss part of the guest experience.
Riva
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Named after the Italian word for “shore,” Riva is the premier Italian restaurant on the property and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu combines imported Italian specialties and local ingredients, from olives and prosciutto to fresh burrata and daily catches, ensuring authentic flavors.
Our first meal here was at lunch, where we tried the whipped ricotta ($8) and lemony borlotti (cranberry bean) hummus ($8) appetizers, both served with freshly made focaccia.
We enjoyed our lunch so much the first day that we also chose to have both breakfast meals at Riva. I had the sfoglina breakfast ($24), which comes with two eggs any style, hash browns, choice of meat, roasted tomato and toast. I’m a creature of habit when it comes to my coffee, and I ordered an iced vanilla latte ($8) each morning, which was delicious each time. The next time we ate here, I craved something more indulgent, so I opted for the Riva waffle ($19), topped with Nutella, caramelized bananas and blueberries.
Aura
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For poolside or in-restaurant dining and tropical cocktails, Aura is the place to be. While we didn’t have time for an entire meal here, some of the favorites among staff are the beef barbacoa tacos ($24) and the grouper ($26) served with mojito tartar, marinated tomatoes, lettuce and fennel and apple salad.
However, we did enjoy the guacamole ($15) poolside, which was not too dense and not too creamy but packed with flavor. I also loved that it didn’t just come with tortilla chips but crispy plantains and cassava chips as well. I could have gone for several rounds of this!
CW Prime
The crown jewel of dining at the St. Regis, CW Prime, blew me away from the moment we arrived.
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Before dinner, we spent a little time in the small speakeasy known as the Spirit Room. Here, there’s a discreet button that reveals an exclusive cocktail unique to that venue. Think before you push, though, as the exclusive secret cocktail, the Caroline 400, runs $400 a glass. And no, that isn’t a typo.
After drinks, we were seated in the main dining room for what would be a meal to remember.
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We started with crispy potato pave ($22), which features warm, crispy layers of potato with truffle aioli, pickled pearl onions and fresh truffle. We also had the crispy, fresh CW Caesar ($21) that was easily big enough to split — it can be plated separately to make sharing easier.
Our amazing server, Topher, didn’t just go over the menu but explained the concepts behind different dishes and what makes them great. I wholeheartedly think that the storytelling made each dish taste even better.
For our entrees, steak dishes were the obvious choice, seeing that they are cooked on a Josper grill. We got the 14-ounce dry-aged prime strip loin ($85), and it was cooked to absolute perfection. Expectations were high, and it was juicy and full of flavor.
Then there was the CW Prime Burger ($50), which I can confidently say was one of the best burgers I have ever tasted. It was topped with wagyu beef bacon, tomato preserve, shallot jam and aged cheddar, all between a house-made cronut bun. I still think about that burger to this day.
Oshen
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I couldn’t decide what I loved more about this rooftop lounge: the views or the burst of flavor from each course. I especially liked the mixed seafood ceviche ($25) and selection of sushi ($24-$28 per roll). Thanks to simple preparations and fresh ingredients, each dish tasted ultrafresh and flavorful.
Here, you’ll also find a talented cast of mixologists who serve up some delicious fusion-inspired cocktails and zero-proof drinks all night long. While every single cocktail I tried impressed me, the Edo Old-Fashioned made with Mars Shinshu Iwai whisky, five-spice bitters and Okinawan brown sugar syrup ($23) was definitely my favorite.
The St. Regis Bar
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Located in the heart of the lobby is the St. Regis Bar, which itself is an art piece with a soft pink and gold hand-painted mural that stretches around the bar and cascades onto the ceiling. A glass of Moet & Chandon Champagne is $35, which gives guests just a taste (literally) of the luxury that’s to come.
Every night at sunset, the St. Regis Bar holds their evening ritual: a Champagne sabering. The tradition at St. Regis dates back to 1904 when John Jacob Astor IV inaugurated the New York City St. Regis by ceremoniously sabering a bottle of Champagne. Nowadays, this custom is celebrated nightly at St. Regis properties around the world, and Longboat Key is no different. And sometimes, they even let guests saber the bottle, including yours truly — with supervision, of course.
Monkey Bar
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The local favorite beachfront Monkey Bar, instrumental to the legacy of The Colony Hotel, where the St. Regis now stands, has been revitalized. Accessible to both St. Regis guests and locals through a beachside entrance, the bar offers a contemporary take on tiki cocktails while also providing an array of light snacks. Among them is the Murf and Surf Dog ($34), a tribute to The Colony’s Murf Klauber and the renowned Murf Dog. This updated version of the classic hot dog is decadently garnished with a luxury twist: generous chunks of lobster.
An array of pools, private cabanas and a winding river await
Located in the resort’s central courtyard is an area aptly named “The Pools.”
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The main Resort Pool is family-friendly, surrounded by luxury loungers and has a large jacuzzi with plenty of space for multiple people.
The adults-only Serenity Pool is further away and located a few steps away from Monkey Bar and Aura. It has a cascading waterfall and is a perfect retreat for those seeking a quieter escape.
You can also choose to spend the day at the resort’s private beach, where guests can use two luxury loungers included as part of your daily resort fee. The best part? You can still expect the same high level of service you would get at the pools.
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There’s also the property’s lazy river, or as the St. Regis prefers to call it, the winding river. I was able to grab one of the single inner tubes (double tubes are also available) branded with the resort’s signature print and float along.
Although it was not accessible during my stay, there is a cavern tucked beneath the waterfall of the winding river, where Champagne can be summoned with the press of a button.
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Private cabanas also dot the area, with reservation prices ranging from $250 to $550 daily. After browsing online, however, I found that during peak holiday times like Christmas week, prices can spike from $800 to $1,000 for the day.
When we arrived at the pools, our butler, Jennifer, escorted us to our cabana, nestled in the middle of the winding river on the turfed Mangrove Island. It offered comfortable seating that could easily fit up to eight people, a flat-screen TV, bottled water and plenty of towels. There was also a safe and a small refrigerator filled with sodas and nonalcoholic drinks. You also get a dedicated pool butler for the day, a first-of-its-kind offering for the St. Regis resort brand.
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A poolside menu for Aura was also in our cabana. It’s also just a few steps away from the pools if you prefer to sit inside the restaurant for lunch. We ordered the chips and guacamole, which was the perfect appetizer to enjoy while lounging in the Florida sun.
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Whether you opt for a lounge chair or rent a private cabana, getting top-notch service is as easy as pushing a button. Each chair has a small St.Regis-branded wood box with two buttons inside, one to call for food and beverage and the other for concierge services.
Relax at the St. Regis Spa
The St. Regis Spa spans an impressive 20,000 square feet, presenting guests with an experience that begins at their unique Celebration Bar. Upon approval, I was welcomed with a complimentary glass of Champagne, setting the tone for what would come.
The spa is a haven of tranquility, offering a broad spectrum of nature-inspired treatments with avant-garde skincare technology. The spa also has an exclusive partnership with La Mer and is one of the only two spas in the country to do so.
Prior to my treatment, I visited the hydrothermal area, which is available to anyone with a treatment booked, to loosen my muscles. It has plenty of amenities, including a Finnish sauna, a eucalyptus steam room that cleanses your senses, a shockingly delightful snow shower, vitality waters, cold plunges and sensorial showers.
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I was then brought back to the treatment room to receive a wonderful 60-minute relaxation massage ($235) followed by the Soothing by La Mer facial ($275). I got to pick from a selection of scents to enhance my massage experience, and my slippers were placed in a warmer, which was a pleasant and much-welcomed surprise.
For those inclined toward a more active form of relaxation, the state-of-the-art fitness center is outfitted with cutting-edge Technogym equipment, catering to all levels of fitness enthusiasts.
Swim with marine life in the private saltwater lagoon
One of the most unique experiences the St. Regis Longboat Key offers is its 350,000-gallon saltwater lagoon, home to almost 50 stingrays and more than 40 species of 2,800 tropical fish.
If you truly want to immerse yourself in the Florida wildlife, I highly recommend the Under the Water lagoon experience, where you can snorkel with tropical fish and feed the smaller stingrays (don’t worry — the stingrays’ barbs are removed).
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We had two expert guides for our hourlong lagoon experience. After signing a waiver and a brief orientation, they gave us wet vests and socks to protect our feet from the rocky bottom. We started with feeding and gently petting the small cownose stingrays. While I was a little nervous at first to do so, our guides made me feel much more comfortable.
Next, we put on our snorkeling gear and swam through the lagoon on the water’s surface. Our guides pointed out different fish and told us interesting facts along the way. Once we reached the other side, we could sit down in shallow water and gently pet the larger southern stingray species.
The lagoon experience costs $125 per person and is ideal for swimmers of all skill levels. However, you must be 8 and older to participate in the full snorkel experience: 8- to 13-year-olds must be with a guardian and 14- and 15-year-olds must have a guardian’s signature. Children under 8 cannot swim in the lagoon but can participate in the stingray portion of the snorkel experience.
Accessibility
Since this is a new build, I had high expectations for accessibility features. The resort only has valet parking, but there is plenty of room for transfers, and the entrance is completely accessible.
Public areas feature wide spaces, allowing unobstructed navigation and spacious elevators for easy entry and exit. The restaurants, spa and fitness center also all have accessible entrances that are either located directly on the first floor or easily accessible by ramp or elevator.
Since the pools are a central focus of the resort, I was pleased to see that each pool and the winding river are equipped with a pool lift transfer system.
Wheelchair-accessible guest rooms ensure plenty of space, with doorways wide enough to accommodate standard-size wheelchairs and furniture thoughtfully arranged to prevent unnecessary obstructions. These rooms feature roll-in showers with grab bars, adjustable showerheads and lowered fixtures and amenities like sinks and closet rods.
Checking out
Based on my experience, I felt like the St. Regis Longboat Key provided everything one could want from a Florida vacation, offering a balanced blend of entertainment and relaxation. The resort’s tailored amenities, like the world-class spa and adults-only serenity pool, offer privacy and tranquility, while the array of pools, the winding river and the saltwater lagoon ensure that guests of all ages find enjoyment and adventure. This splashy new property easily adds to the many reasons why Florida’s Gulf Coast barrier islands should be on your travel list.
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A visit to Universal Orlando to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is on most Potterheads’ travel wish lists.
Here, fans don wizarding robes (even in the Florida heat), wave interactive wands to work magic spells and pretend that they are following in the footsteps of Hermione, Ron and Harry. They can also enjoy some epic themed rides, fill their tummies with butterbeer and pub favorites, and wander the streets of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, immersing themselves within the magical world of “Harry Potter.”
Universal divides its Harry Potter attractions across two parks. You’ll find the land of Harry’s magical London in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, while Hogsmeade — where you’ll find the famous Hogwarts Castle, Hagrid’s hut and the Three Broomsticks pub — is set within Universal Islands of Adventure. The Hogwarts Express train ride will carry you between the two parks, but only if you’ve purchased a Park-to-Park ticket for the day.
If this sounds like your cup of frozen (or hot) butterbeer, know that even the best spells can’t zap away the long lines for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or help you choose between a one- or two-park ticket. However, TPG’s theme park experts can help you out with some magical tips for the perfect visit.
Here’s what you need to know about each of the Harry Potter-themed lands, your ticket options and our best advice to make the trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando a success.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley
How to get to Diagon Alley
Diagon Alley is located at Universal Studios Florida, so you’ll need a ticket to this park to visit. To get there, walk straight through Production Central and turn right when you reach the New York section of the park (in front of the Revenge of the Mummy attraction). Continue on until you see a replica of King’s Cross Station on your left.
Be careful not to overshoot and walk past the somewhat hidden entrance to Diagon Alley. There is no sign, but when you see an opening in a brick wall, you know you’ve found it.
Diagon Alley rides: Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Once you’ve entered Diagon Alley, walk straight to Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts indoor steel roller coaster ride. You can’t miss it; it’s the building with the fire-breathing dragon perched on the roof. It’s also the only ride found within Diagon Alley.
Tip: When you hear a low growl, that’s your signal that the Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon is about to spew some fire. The dragon does not perform on a schedule, but spend a reasonable amount of time in Diagon Alley and you will see its fireworks.
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There are free and paid lockers to the right of the line so you can stash your belongings before the ride.
Children must be 42 inches to ride; be sure your party meets that requirement so you don’t get to the head of the line only to be turned away. There is also a “child swap” room where parents can take turns alternating riding or waiting with kiddos not tall enough (or ready) to ride. Let the team member at the ride entrance know that you plan to use child swap and they will instruct you on the protocol.
There is also a test seat in front of the building where you can confirm whether or not the seating configuration will work for your body style.
Wait times can get long for this ride, but it does have an Express Pass line throughout most of the day. There’s also a lot to look at while in line since you’ll snake through the Gringotts Bank lobby and see a multitude of goblins at work. The four chandeliers that hang inside the bank’s lobby are made up of 62,000 individual crystals.
Related: TPG’s complete guide to Universal Orlando
What’s neat about Escape from Gringotts is the motion-based 3D projections that make you feel as if you’re interacting with characters like Bill Weasley and the goblin Blordak.
Diagon Alley shows and attractions: Ollivanders and Knockturn Alley
After exiting the Gringotts ride, you’re just across from Ollivanders Wand Shop, where you can get in line to see the show that depicts how a wand chooses its wizard. Note that there is an identical Ollivanders wand experience at Hogsmeade, so feel free to skip the experience here if you’d prefer to see the show there later in your visit.
During the show, one guest is picked from the audience, and the wizard in residence facilitates the wand choosing. The guest then has the option of purchasing the wand (or another of their choosing) at the wand shop next door.
If you weren’t lucky enough to be chosen for the show, you can pick out and purchase your own wand. Interactive wands currently cost a minimum of $65. You also can order an interactive wand in advance of your trip or pick one up in the hotel gift shop at most on-site hotels.
You will enhance your Wizarding World experience if you spring for an interactive wand that helps you make “magic” at many locations in both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. Look for brass medallions set into the pavement that mark the spots where you can cast spells and make magic. A map that plots each spot where you can cast spells is included with your wand purchase (including a few unmarked “secret wand spots”).
Wands are reusable and Ollivanders staff will happily “re-magic” your dying wand for free if it gets scratched or broken. That means you can bring back a wand from a previous Universal Studios visit or borrow one from a friend to save money.
Standard, non-interactive wands are also available if you are looking to save a little cash or your kids are too young to know the difference.
Other shows in Diagon Alley take place on an outdoor stage in the Carkitt Market area. Shows include “The Tales of Beedle the Bard” — complete with puppets — and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees (song and dance). Find a nearby bench or just sit or stand on the ground by the stage.
From the stage, walk toward the Gringotts ride and you’ll come upon the Gringotts Money Exchange. Go inside (it’s a store) and you can chat with the Gringotts goblin standing behind a teller’s desk. It’s a neat experience — especially for curious kids. You can also exchange muggle money for Gringotts bank notes that can be used to make purchases within Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, and at select locations elsewhere at Universal.
Another easy-to-miss attraction in Diagon Alley is Knockturn Alley. It’s dark, feels seedy and is so well hidden that you might miss it. There are two entrances — one next to the Leaky Cauldron and one next to the Fountain of Fair Fortune.
The enclosed space is dark and a cool break from the heat. It also has several fun spots where you can use your interactive wand to cast spells; don’t miss them. The shop here, Borgin and Burkes, oozes dark magic and is where you can purchase souvenirs paying homage to Death Eaters and the dark arts.
Diagon Alley restaurants: The Leaky Cauldron
One of Harry’s first stops in magical London is The Leaky Cauldron, and it can be one of yours, too. The Diagon Alley pub is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a refreshing butterbeer (regular, frozen or hot). Lines to get in can be long, but you can place orders on the Universal app to speed up service.
Breakfast is pricey, but where else can you dine among witches and wizards? Breakfast plates for adults all ring in at $18.99 and include a small beverage (yes, you can have butterbeer for breakfast). The kids breakfast plate is $13.49. You can choose options like an English-style “Traditional Breakfast” with scrambled eggs, sausage, black pudding, English bacon and baked beans or opt for the more American pancakes.
The lunch and dinner menu is full of pub favorites, such as fish ‘n’ chips ($17.99), bangers and mash ($16.99) or a beef, lamb and Guinness stew ($17.99). Kids entrees include things like mac ‘n’ cheese and fish ‘n’ chips for $8.29. Desserts — such as sticky toffee pudding and butterbeer potted cream — shouldn’t be missed.
Other Diagon Alley spots to get a refreshment include Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour, where you can try butterbeer-flavored soft-serve or sticky toffee pudding ice cream. You can also grab a drink at The Fountain of Fair Fortune or The Hopping Pot.
Shopping in Diagon Alley
Shopping options are plentiful in Diagon Alley. Along with the perfect souvenir, be alert for a few “magic moments.” Among them is a snake speaking Parseltongue in the window of the Magical Menagerie and a talking mirror in Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions. Be forewarned, she isn’t always complimentary of your wardrobe choices.
Related: Unlock more magic: 16 Universal Orlando secrets to know before your next trip
One word of caution: Harry Potter souvenirs are pretty expensive. You might want to set a budget with your kids before exploring the shops or explain to them why you won’t be purchasing certain items.
Shops in Diagon Alley include Borgin and Burkes for more sinister souvenirs, Ollivanders for wands, Quality Quidditch Supplies to support your favorite teams and Sugarplum’s Sweetshop for impulse buys of Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans.
Harry Potter attractions outside Diagon Alley
Once you’ve seen everything on Diagon Alley, leave this part of The Wizarding World through the opening in the brick wall. Directly across you’ll see the Knight Bus. Here you can meet the conductor and the shrunken head that hangs at the front of the bus. Kids and adults love interacting with these two. Sit by the fountain to listen in and be ready for a laugh.
Then, look across the way, and you’ll see a replica of a London street. Upon closer inspection, you’ll see 12 Grimmauld Place, the home of Sirius Black (Harry Potter’s godfather). He gifted the property to the Order of the Phoenix, which used it as a headquarters. Look up toward the second floor and you might catch a glimpse of Kreacher, the Black family house-elf, peering at you from the window.
When you’ve thoroughly explored Diagon Alley and the streets of Harry Potter’s London, it’s time to make your way to King’s Cross Station, where you’ll board the Hogwarts Express and ride the train to Hogsmeade. You can only ride the Hogwarts Express if you have a Park-to-Park ticket. If you’ve got one-day, one-park tickets, there is no way to experience this attraction, but there is a ticket desk in the train station where you can make a last-minute upgrade if you so choose.
The Hogwarts Express is both an immersive experience and actual transportation. Don’t miss the neat mirror trick in the queue that makes it look like folks are walking through a brick wall to access Platform 9 3/4. When you’re ready to board, eight passengers can fit in each train compartment. Greet your fellow Hogwarts schoolmates and then turn your attention to the windows, where you’ll watch as the train leaves London on the way to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Be prepared to see some Dementors on the four-minute trip to Hogsmeade. The show is slightly different on the return trip, so fans will want to ride it both ways.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade
How to get to Hogsmeade
You’ll find Hogsmeade inside the Islands of Adventure theme park. Here, you can visit both the town of Hogsmeade and Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This area has three rides, plus the Hogwarts Express.
To get there, take a right after passing through the Port of Entry and head toward Seuss Landing. Continue through Seuss Landing to The Lost Continent and on to Hogsmeade.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a popular thrill coaster, and the attraction does not accept the Universal Express skip-the-line pass. Wait times can be longer than an hour and sometimes up to two hours or more.
If you have your heart set on riding this thrill coaster, get in line as soon as you arrive in Hogsmeade; you should see team members directing you toward the start of the line before you even reach Hogsmeade from The Lost Continent. If you have early park access, you’ll want to make this ride your first stop as soon as the park opens. Have someone hold your spot in line while you put belongings in the lockers next to Hogsmeade Station and the ride entrance.
This is by far the fastest ride in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It reaches speeds up to 50 mph and includes both spikes into the air and fast drops. You need to be at least 48 inches tall to experience it. You’ll either ride Hagrid’s motorcycle or get in the sidecar. Either spot will make your heart pound, but I think the ride in the sidecar is a bit easier for anyone that might be nervous.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is the ride that takes you inside Hogwarts Castle. The queue itself is filled with interesting scenes from the books; consider skipping the Express Pass line to have time to take it all in. If you have kids who want to see the sights but not ride the ride, you can go through the line and then bail out before boarding the ride.
On this ride, you “ride a broomstick” in and around Hogwarts Castle. The attraction is a “robocoaster,” where a robotic arm holds your seat above a track and you pivot in a multitude of directions. It makes you feel as if you’re flying through the air and, if you are prone to motion sickness, might make you feel queasy.
In addition, if your waist is larger than 40 inches, you might not be able to ride. If you’re uncertain, test out the pair of seats in front of Hogwarts Castle at the entrance for this ride or another pair about halfway through the queue.
The ride is dark at times, with encounters with dangers like Aragog the spider in the Forbidden Forest, the Whomping Willow and a gang of Dementors. But you’ll also screech around the Quidditch field. You must be 48 inches or taller to ride Forbidden Journey. There are lockers to the left of the castle entrance to store your belongings.
Hogwarts Castle is also the key photo op in this land. You’ll find the best views from the bridge leaving Hogsmeade for Jurassic Park. This is where you can grab that quintessential photo of the castle
On select nights throughout the year, Universal shows “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle.” Light projections are beamed onto the castle walls, celebrating the four Hogwarts houses. It’s a great finale to your day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Flight of the Hippogriff
Flight of the Hippogriff, dubbed a “family-friendly coaster,” is across from Hogwarts Castle. Children have to be just 36 inches tall or taller to ride.
Related: 7 magical places every ‘Harry Potter’ fan should visit
This ride is super quick, and the twists, turns and drops might remind you of a slightly tamer Big Thunder Mountain Railroad from Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. The track is elevated so you get a nice view of Hogsmeade. The queue is neat, too, as you walk by Hagrid’s Hut and on to an open area where you’ll recognize the Care of Magical Creatures class site.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, you can easily give this ride a miss, but if you are visiting with young kids they will love it.
Hogwarts Express — Hogsmeade Station
When you’re ready to leave this part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, walk through the arch toward Hogsmeade Station and get in line for the Hogwarts Express.
The train will take you back to “London” at Universal Studios. The experience is a bit different in each direction, so be sure to hop on — even if you rode the train from London to Hogsmeade earlier in the day.
Shows and attractions at Hogsmeade
If you didn’t see the “wand picks a wizard” show at the Ollivanders location at Diagon Alley in Universal Studios, you can get in line to see it here. After the show, shop for a wand if you don’t already have one. Hogsmeade also has magical spots where you can cast spells with your interactive wand. (This is a great activity if you have early park access but don’t want to ride Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure; lines can get long at the spell-working spots.)
For more shows, head to the outdoor stage set between Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle. Here you can attend showings of the Frog Choir (songs by human and amphibian singers) and the Triwizard Spirit Rally (cheer on your favorite magical school). The stage is small but you can get a close-up spot if you arrive a few minutes before showtime.
Hogsmeade restaurants
If you’re hungry at Hogsmeade, you can sit down to a meal at the Three Broomsticks or grab a drink at the Hog’s Head bar next door (serving butterbeer, beer and spirits).
At Three Broomsticks, many families opt for The Great Feast, which includes a combination of rotisserie smoked chicken, spareribs, corn on the cob and roast potatoes and vegetables. (A platter for four is $74.99; additional servings are $19.99.)
You can also buy British favorites like fish ‘n’ chips, beef pasties and shepherd’s pie, plus soups and salads. Kids ages 9 and younger pick from fish ‘n’ chips, chicken fingers, chicken legs and mac ‘n’ cheese — each entree is $8.29 and served with grapes and applesauce.
Desserts include Butterbeer ice cream, apple pie and chocolate trifle ($5.49 to $6.99).
Nonalcoholic butterbeer (regular, hot or frozen) is $8.99. Draught beers on tap are Hog’s Head Brew, Daisyroot Ale, Dark Forest Ale and Dragon Scale ($13).
Three Broomsticks also serves breakfast daily until 10:30 a.m. with options similar to The Leaky Cauldron’s.
If you just want a Butterbeer to go, look for the red kiosks with giant wooden casks set up in the middle of the street. You can order regular and frozen Butterbeer to go.
Hogsmeade shops
You’ll find plenty of places to shop within Hogsmeade, including this area’s outpost of Ollivander’s. Many souvenirs repeat among stores, but each offers something unique.
Honeydukes is a sweet shop filled with confections like Exploding Bonbons, Cauldron Cakes, Fizzing Whizzbees, Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans and Chocolate Frogs.
You can mail postcards or letters from the Owl Post, complete with an official Hogsmeade postmark. You can also purchase all kinds of writing implements (think quills and seals) as well as owl-themed souvenirs.
If you didn’t ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, you would have missed Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods since the ride empties into this shop. This is a terrific shop if you’re looking for house crest banners, T-shirts, hats or scarves.
Get your Hogwarts uniforms and robes, Sneakoscopes, Quaffles and Golden Snitches at Dervish and Banges.
Buying the right ticket for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade is part of Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure while The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley can be found at Universal Studios. Splitting this land into two sections was a brilliant move on Universal’s part since it means you need to purchase the upgraded Park-to-Park admission ticket if you wish to see both parts of Harry’s world on the same day.
You can use single-day one-park tickets to visit each land separately, but there’s no way to use those tickets to board the Hogwarts Express. A one-park ticket is your cheapest option, but you will miss out on a key Harry Potter attraction. For the full Wizarding World experience, you really want to choose the Park-to-Park ticket.
When buying Universal tickets, look at all the combinations and prices to determine which is the best deal for your family. We explore all the options in our complete guide to Universal Orlando. You should also look for limited-time Universal Orlando deals that could save you money.
The right credit card and transferable points can help save you money or earn you points toward future free travel with your Universal Orlando booking.
If you’d like to purchase Universal tickets with points, you have the option to do so through the Chase Travel℠ portal, with Bilt Rewards Points or through Citi Travel.
Related: How to use points to save money at Universal Orlando
If you’re paying cash, you’ll want to use a credit card that gives you extra points or miles for your theme park purchases. However, data points from many travelers tell us that tickets bought at an on-site Universal hotel and charged to the hotel room have coded as “travel,” but tickets and VIP tours purchased directly from Universal have coded as “entertainment.”
If you know your charge will code as travel, you’ll do well to use any of the best credit cards for general travel purchases, but if you think your purchase will code as entertainment, you’ll want to use one of the best cards for entertainment spending.
Related: The best credit cards for Universal vacations
And, of course, you can use points and miles to cover your airfare or hotel stay if you’re coming from out of state to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
How to see more of The Wizarding World in less time
I won’t lie to you. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter gets very crowded.
Even at slower times of year, the attractions in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley will be jammed. If you want to see as much of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter as possible in the shortest amount of time, you need to be strategic.
First, you can use Universal’s Express Pass. This is a skip-the-line pass that works on most attractions at Universal’s two theme parks, with the exception of Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.
There are three ways to get an Express Pass. The easiest way is to book one of Universal’s on-site Premier hotels such as Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort. Your room rate comes with a free Express Pass Unlimited to use throughout your visit.
If you have a Premier-level Universal annual pass, you’re entitled to Express Pass access beginning at 4 p.m.
Otherwise, you can purchase Express Passes. The Universal Express This pass lets you skip the regular line one time per participating ride at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks. The Universal Express Unlimited pass lets you skip the regular lines at participating rides as many times as you want.
The best strategy to ensure you do as much as possible within the World of Harry Potter is to rush straight for Hagrid’s when the park first opens and then use your Express Pass for all the other attractions.
If you are staying at any of the on-site Universal hotels, you can get into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour earlier than general admission.
Which park opens early varies by day and sometimes both parks open early. Check the Universal Orlando website for the most up-to-date information.
No matter which park is opening early, plan to arrive at the front gates at least 45–60 minutes before the Early Park Admission opening time. It’s the only way to beat the crowds and make the most of your extra time.
Only certain attractions open during Early Park Admission, but this typically includes all of the Wizarding World attractions. The ones you will most likely want to knock out are Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Islands of Adventure and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts at Universal Studios Florida.
If you’re spending multiple days in the park, or have folks in your travel party who don’t like thrill rides, you can also use those early, less crowded hours to use your interactive wand at the designated spots without having to wait behind other budding wizards.
Related: How to get the most out of 1 day at Universal Orlando
A pricier way to skip the lines is to book a VIP tour. You can book a small-group or private VIP experience at Universal, which will package together walk-on ride access during the tour, Express Passes and complimentary meals at designated Universal restaurants. These tours will get you on rides like Hagrids that otherwise don’t have short-cut access.
Bottom line
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is an incredible place to visit for muggles and wizards alike.
The rides and attractions are fantastic. It’s fun to watch the daily performances that all relate to an aspect of Harry’s magical world, and you must raise a pint of butterbeer (or one of the beers specially brewed for The Wizarding World) in one of the themed establishments across the land, such as the Leaky Cauldron or Three Broomsticks.
To get the most out of your visit, splurge on Park-to-Park tickets and pair that with an Express Pass. Only then will you be able to get in early and (with a little magic) skip the worst of the lines. The added expense is worth it for a day or two of immersion into Harry Potter’s magical world.
Planning a trip to Universal Orlando? Start with these stories:
If Munich is on your must-visit list and you want to travel in style this summer, Lufthansa has some excellent business-class redemptions available right now on its biggest passenger jet. For the first time, the German airline is adding its Airbus A380 superjumbo jet, the world’s largest passenger plane, to regular service out of Denver International Airport (DEN).
The route from DEN to Munich International Airport (MUC) will run during the summer, from April 30 through the end of September. Right now, you can book business-class seats to the Bavarian capital from Denver and some other cities like Boston, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.
Big thanks to our friends at View from the Wing for first spotting this deal. The website noted that the size of the double-decker A380 jet — 78 business-class seats in the plane’s 2-2-2 configuration — provides many opportunities for award redemptions.
We found a lot of availability from Denver and Boston in May and June, starting from 88,000 miles each way, plus taxes and fees. If you’re flying out of LA or D.C., then July is your best bet to score business-class seats at the lowest redemption rate.
When searching for this deal, I used United Airlines’ website to find the available award flights. This is because I don’t have a lot of miles in my Lufthansa Miles & More account, and the site won’t let me search for award flights without the proper amount of miles.
Tip: If you plan to use miles you’ve accrued on United, go to United’s website and click the “30-day calendar” link to get the best idea of availability for the month you’re searching. Also, don’t forget to hit the “lowest” link under the “Business” tab to sort the results; this way, you will see the lowest redemptions at the top.
Deal basics
Airline: Lufthansa (Star Alliance)
Routes: From Boston, Denver, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., to Munich
How to book: Directly with the airline
Travel dates: April 30 to Sept. 30
Book by: As soon as possible
Sample flights
As we mentioned above, we found the best availability at the lowest redemption rates in the following months:
- May (from Denver)
- June (from Boston)
- July (from LA and D.C.)
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Here’s the United MileagePlus award calendar showing the availability for business-class redemptions out of Denver in May and early June. As you can see, you have lots of options.
Here’s a nonstop flight from DEN to MUC on May 7 available for 88,000 miles plus $5.60 in taxes and fees.
Here’s the entire itinerary that you can book for 176,000 miles and $130 in taxes and fees.
Related: United Airlines debuts largest-ever lounge at Denver International Airport
You can fly from Dulles International Airport (IAD) in the Washington, D.C., area to MUC in July for 88,000 miles nonstop.
As we said earlier, May is the sweet spot for finding business-class seats out of Boston to Germany. This mid-May flight from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to MUC is available for only 88,000 miles.
The return flight to Boston is available at the same redemption rate. The round-trip journey will cost 176,000 miles and $136 in taxes and fees.
Here’s the calendar view showing the availability for business-class seats out of Los Angeles in late June and early July. As you can see, you have lots of options for scoring a great redemption.
The one caveat for those looking to take advantage of this deal in Los Angeles is that all the lowest redemptions are for flights with a layover in Denver. Still, flying business class from the West Coast to Munich for 88,000 miles each way is too good to pass up.
Maximize your purchase
Don’t forget to use a credit card that earns bonus points on airfare purchases, such as:
Bottom line
These award flights are not just a great way to score a luxurious seat for a trip across the Atlantic; they’re also ideal for families looking to visit Munich and who have the miles to splurge on luxury seating for a summer vacation.
Related reading:
Plitvice Lakes have always been known for their extraordinary beauty, which changes with the change of seasons. The winter brings with itself a peaceful glow to the lakes, when the lakes are covered with a layer of ice and snow; and with the arrival of spring, the nature awakens. Regardless of whether you visit in the winter or spring, the Plitvice Lakes provide an unforgettable experience in a beautiful natural setting.
Winter silence
Winter brings a special charm to Plitvice Lakes National Park, and its waterfalls, forests, and lakes covered in snow are a sight that many don’t often witness. While most visitors come to the Park in the spring and summer, the winter brings a quieter, more intimate experience of this unique place. During the cold months, the waterfalls partially or completely freeze over, creating stunning scenes. The snowy landscape offers the visitors the opportunity to experience Plitvice Lakes in a completely new way. In this period of the year, there are no crowds, so visitors can enjoy nature in a special way: without distractions, with enough time to explore and admire every detail. A white blanket covers the trails and wooden bridges, and the forests take on an almost surreal appearance.
A walk through this landscape brings a sense of serenity and a deep connection with the nature. In addition to walking, a winter electric boat ride on the Kozjak Lake offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy and photograph unique scenes of enchanting nature. Winter is also a time when visitors need to be more careful. Trails can be slippery due to ice, and temperatures often drop below zero. Wearing appropriate clothing and footwear is extremely important to make your stay in the nature pleasant and safe. For those who want to escape from everyday obligations and stress, visiting Plitvice Lakes during the winter is an ideal choice. Here you can find not only natural beauty, but also inner peace. The winter silence which reigns here offers a special form of rest: the one that fills the mind and heart with tranquillity, bringing a sense of contentment and happiness. Whether you are a nature lover, a photographer, or you simply want to experience something special, Plitvice Lakes under a blanket of snow will provide you with an unforgettable experience that you will remember for a long time.
Mukinje Ski Resort
Did you know that Plitvice Lakes National Park has a ski resort? Since the 1980s, the Mukinje ski resort has become an essential destination for all those who want to enjoy winter joys, as well as the unique nature of this National Park. Located along the D429 state road, in the village of Mukinje, the ski resort is ideal for family fun and recreation in the fresh air. It is only 2.5 km from Entrance 2, the hotel complex of the National Park, or about 5 km from Entrance 1 and the popular restaurant Lička kuća, in the direction of the Adriatic coast. The ski resort offers everything you need for a winter vacation. With one ski lift which has the capacity of 400 skiers per hour, visitors can climb to a height of 700 meters above sea level, from which they descend down the tracks to the foot of the ski resort at 640 meters. The tracks are about 400 meters long, and their gentleness (average slope of 15%) makes the ski resort ideal for beginners, recreational skiers, and families with children. In addition to skiing, visitors can also enjoy snowboarding, as well as sledding down the slope.
For those who want to enjoy winter moments after the sunset, the ski resort also offers a special experience: night skiing under floodlights. Every Friday and Saturday, the tracks are illuminated, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for all skiers. For snow lovers who want to enjoy sledding, the ski resort offers rental of sleds, plates and shovels for descending the slope, making the ski resort also accessible to families with small children. The Mukinje ski resort is available depending on the natural conditions, and with favourable weather conditions, the ski lift is in operation, ensuring pleasant skiing. The ski resort also offers rental of ski equipment, so you don’t have to worry about it: everything you need is at your disposal. After enjoying themselves at the Mukinje ski resort, visitors have the opportunity to relax and enjoy the gastronomic offer at Pizzeria Vučnica. Located in the very heart of winter activities, the Pizzeria provides the perfect place to relax after an active day on the tracks. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend winter moments in nature, surrounded by mountain landscape.
A walk through the nature
During the winter period, when the National Park enters hibernation, touring the lake has a special charm compared to other seasons. Winter at Plitvice Lakes does not allow visitors to enjoy full tour programmes, but that is what makes them truly special: because even the little they manage to see leaves them breathless. For the safety of visitors, certain parts of the Park are temporarily closed. The Upper Lakes are closed first, and remain closed until spring when they are prepared for the arrival of visitors. During this period, a tour is possible through the canyon of the Lower Lakes, until the snow cover becomes high enough that the lakes can only be seen from above the canyon. A walk on top of the canyon offers you a view of snowy trails which no one has ever travelled before, while waterfalls and lakes create a different sound.
Everything in nature seems to be at rest, awaiting the arrival of spring, when with the first rays of sunshine, birds will chirp and the first spring flowers will bloom. With the arrival of spring, everything awakens, and the National Park’s programmes reopen, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of bright colours and fully experience the wondrous natural world that surrounds them. The Park offers a variety of tours tailored to different interests and levels of physical fitness: from shorter walks to full-day tour programmes. In the spring and summer, when nature reaches its full glory, a walk through the Park becomes a true pleasure for all nature lovers. Every step reveals a new wonder, and every view brings a sense of admiration for this unique natural world.
Everything you need to plan your trip in 2024
The arrival of spring and tour programmes
As spring approaches, Plitvice Lakes take on a new look, showered with colours. The lakes sparkle under the first morning sun, and their colour changes from turquoise green to blue as the day progresses. At the very entrance to the Park, you are greeted by the stunning Big Waterfall, whose power is impressive. As you walk along the Park’s paths to the sound of birds and the silence of the nature, you will experience the beauty of the Lower Lakes. After a pleasant walk through the canyon of the Lower Lakes, you will reach another attraction, which is an electric boat ride on the largest lake, Kozjak. This ride lasts a pleasant 20 minutes and provides an opportunity to rest with the beautiful scenery of a spring day. The adventure does not stop there. If you are a fan of long walks in nature, the tour then takes you to the Upper Lakes of the National Park.
They are truly special, and consist of 12 lakes and numerous waterfalls, large and small. The Upper Lakes have a cascading form, which means that the waterfalls spill over travertine barriers at every step. Such scenes are particularly impressive in spring, when water levels are high and the lakes shine in special colours. Pleasant spring temperatures and clean air further enrich the experience. The National Park offers various tour programmes, so you can enjoy the beauty of the Park for one, two, or even three days. At the very end, a panoramic vehicle provides a view of the forested landscape of the Park, with occasional rays of sunlight glimmering through the treetops: the perfect ending to your walk.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is truly special in every season. Winter tells its own fairytale, when lakes and waterfalls stand still for a moment in a serene environment, waiting for the first rays of spring sunshine. With the arrival of spring, everything awakens, and nature once again enchants people with its beauty. Whether you come in the silence of winter or the splendour of spring, each period is special in its own right. The only important thing to do is to coordinate your visit with the current weather conditions and let yourself enjoy the beauty of nature, which always offers something special here.
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It’s going to be an exciting year at Disneyland as the park prepares for its 70th anniversary celebration this spring. The celebration will see the Southern California theme park debut new entertainment offerings, including a new attraction with an audio-animatronic figure of Walt Disney.
For guests staying at one of Disneyland’s on-site hotels, the excitement doesn’t have to end when you exit the park gates and head back to your resort. All three hotels are undergoing exciting enhancements, including new concierge lounges, refreshed guest rooms, new themed suites and a new design for a fan-favorite restaurant.
Here’s what’s coming — and when you can experience these updates for yourself.
Disneyland Hotel
This summer, the Disneyland Hotel will open an all-new concierge lounge for guests staying in the property’s club-level rooms. The hotel’s current E-Ticket Lounge is now closed to make way for the new High Key Club.
Inspired by Disneyland’s early years, the High Key Club will feature a fun and colorful midcentury modern aesthetic, with opening-era park artifacts and a custom soundtrack of classic songs from the park. The new lounge, which is in the hotel’s Adventure Tower, will be nearly double the size of its predecessor.
In addition to being a comfortable place to gather or grab complimentary food and beverages, the High Key Club will be a prime viewing location for Disneyland’s nighttime spectaculars. Similar to other Disneyland club-level lounges, the High Key Club will broadcast music from the show to provide the full experience.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Rather than overhauling its concierge lounge, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is adding a second lounge where guests can enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages in a relaxing atmosphere. The new two-story, club-level space will stretch between the hotel’s fifth and sixth floors, overlooking the Great Hall lobby.
The giant sequoia — California’s state tree — will inspire the lounge’s design, in keeping with the hotel’s California craftsman style. The new lounge is scheduled to open in 2026, but guests can still enjoy the concierge lounge at The Veranda in the meantime.
Guests at the Grand Californian will also soon experience fully refreshed guest rooms featuring new decor, bedding and more. This includes standard rooms and the hotel’s Disney Vacation Club Villas.
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The new decor will remain in line with the current design, with bold new accent colors and artwork in each room commissioned from local plein air painters.
The hotel’s award-winning Napa Rose restaurant is also getting a new look. The new design is inspired by California’s history of winemaking; it will feature rich colors and textures alongside authentic details like flooring and columns made from French oak — a wood commonly used in wine barrel production. Newly expanded counters will let guests watch staff prepare food in the open kitchen; the outdoor area will also increase in size, with additional seating and two new fireplaces.
Napa Rose will temporarily close this spring and summer to implement these changes, reopening in the fall fully redone.
Pixar Place Hotel
Disneyland’s newest lodging, Pixar Place Hotel, will add two new, two-bedroom themed suites this summer.
One will be themed to Pixar Animation Studios’ “Coco,” with Oaxacan-style architecture, terra-cotta tiling, decor crafted by Mexican artisans, hand-painted art and handcrafted wooden furniture. When you enter the space and see the photos and mementos, you’ll feel like you just stepped into the Rivera family’s hacienda.
The second suite will be themed to “The Incredibles,” with a midcentury modern design and hidden details that will make you feel like a real-life superspy. Beginning with a hand scanner at the room’s entrance, guests can also uncover a spy phone, hidden messages, a secret door and more.
Bottom line
We recommend staying at Disneyland’s on-property hotels to maximize the Disney experience on your trip; you’ll be close to the parks and get perks that off-site guests miss out on. Throughout this year and into 2026, you’ll have even more reasons to stay at a Disneyland hotel, thanks to these exciting enhancements.
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Travel
Ryanair passenger fined £100 after ‘bag straps were slightly too big’ as staff ‘threatened to cancel holiday’
A father was left furious after Ryanair staff fined him £100 and “threatened to cancel his family’s holiday” over bag straps which were “slightly too big”.
John Butler, 50, was stopped at Dublin Airport last month while attempting to board a flight to Lanzarote with his family.
The sports therapist claims he was forced to pay £50 each for two carry-on bags after staff insisted the straps exceeded size limits, despite the bags fitting in the measuring device.
Staff confronted Butler and his family as they were among the last passengers to board their flight to the Canary Islands.
Staff are said to have threatened to cancel his family’s holiday
PA
“The next minute, I’m told ‘you step aside as well’,” Butler explained. “Myself, my wife, and two kids step aside and I’m still wondering what this is about.”
When asked to place the bags in the measuring device, Butler said: “It was clearly obvious that it was fine but she said it’s not fine. She said the handle was above it and just kept insisting.”
The situation escalated when staff reportedly threatened Butler’s daughter, telling her she “won’t go on your holidays if your father doesn’t pay”.
When Butler challenged the charge, he was told the gates were closed but could be reopened if he paid the fine.
MORE TRAVEL HELL:
Butler was told the gates were closed – but could be reopened if he paid the fine
PA
After reluctantly paying to avoid missing their 10-day holiday, Butler requested the staff member’s name, but she reportedly turned her name badge backwards to conceal her identity.
Butler claims this practice appears to target passengers at the end of the queue. “When we came back with the exact same bag and same contents, no one even asked us about our bags,” he said.
“On the plane, the air hostess and all agreed it was totally wrong,” Butler added. “It seems to be a common practice that if you’re the last few in the queue, you’re pulled aside.”
The father has submitted a formal complaint and is demanding both a refund and an apology from the airline.
Ryanair has denied targeting passengers at the end of the queue.
A spokesman for the airline said: “This passenger and his travelling companions booked a non-priority fare for this flight from Dublin to Lanzarote, which allowed them to carry a small personal bag onboard.”
“Two of these bags exceeded the permitted size and they were correctly charged a standard gate baggage fee (€60) to place their oversized bags in the hold.”
When traveling, there are few things as frustrating as finding out you have a lengthy flight delay — especially when you don’t know whether to wait it out at the airport or completely change your plans.
Whether there’s a minor delay or an unexpected rescheduling, tracking the aircraft scheduled to operate your route can provide much-needed clarity and allow you to make informed decisions. Such decisions may include changing or rearranging flights where necessary.
Here’s how to easily track your plane and use that information to navigate potential disruptions more effectively.
Why tracking your plane is useful
Every commercial plane follows a daily schedule, often operating several flights during any 24-hour period. If your flight is running late, it’s often because the aircraft assigned to your route was delayed earlier in the day — possibly due to weather, maintenance or other operational factors.
If you’re not a frequent traveler, you may think that tracking your plane will offer little use. After all, whether you know where it is or not, it will still be delayed, and you’ll still be stuck at the airport.
However, by tracking your inbound plane, you can better understand the reason for the delay and whether it’s likely to get any worse. From there, you can consider the best time to head to the airport (if you’re not already there), whether you should head to the lounge to load up on snacks, or whether you should shift to plan B travel arrangements.
Tracking your plane is especially useful if you’re flying with an airline that only operates a few flights from your departure airport and doesn’t have spare aircraft readily available. Knowing your plane’s location can help inform your next move.
However, if you want to arrive at the airport later than originally planned due to the delay, there are some caveats worth noting.
First, if you’re flying from a hub airport where an airline may have multiple spare planes available, your airline could opt to switch to a different aircraft entirely. In this scenario, you should still arrive at the airport promptly, even if you anticipate a long delay. It could end up being much shorter than you think.
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It’s also important to be aware that just because your inbound flight is running late and behind schedule, it doesn’t mean that it won’t necessarily depart on time. Sometimes aircraft operate on a quick turnaround schedule (especially if you’re flying with a budget carrier), which means you won’t want to dawdle once your plane does arrive.
How to track your inbound plane with FlightAware
One of the easiest ways to track your inbound plane is by using a website or tool such as FlightAware.
These services let you see the current location and status of the aircraft assigned to your route.
Here’s how to monitor your flight using FlightAware.
First, you’ll want to load FlightAware on your laptop or phone (or alternatively use its iOS or Android app).
From there, navigate to “Flight Tracking” and enter either your flight number or the departure and arrival cities of your flight.
On the next screen, you’ll need to look for your inbound aircraft. This should be clear from its flight number or its scheduled arrival and departure.
By clicking on your specific flight, the website will take you to a tracking page, which should also show a “Where is my plane now?” link. Click through here, and you’ll see an update on your aircraft’s current status.
You’ll be able to monitor your aircraft’s status by viewing its current route, estimated arrival at your departure airport, information regarding your scheduled departure, and any expected delays for takeoff or arrival at your final destination.
For example, if you track your flight from Heathrow Airport (LHR) to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and you can see that your aircraft is still en route to LHR, you at least know it will eventually arrive. You’ll also have a rough idea of how long you should expect to wait and whether you might need to extend that lounge visit.
On the other hand, if the tracking data shows that your plane hasn’t even left its previous destination yet, you can surmise that further delays are likely. It may even be worth considering chatting with your airline to get on a different flight.
Using airline apps to track your inbound flight
Most major airlines also offer their own flight-tracking features on their apps or websites.
As with FlightAware, these tools often let you view the status of the aircraft assigned to your flight.
You can usually find this information by looking for an option on the app or website called something like “flight status” or “incoming flights.”
Sometimes, the most detailed version of this feature is only available to passengers booked on the flight, so it’s worth ensuring you’re logged in to your account before trying to access it.
Once you’ve found your flight, most airline sites allow you to check additional details, such as expected arrival times.
Here are links to websites where you can check flight statuses for some of the major U.S. airlines:
In most cases, the site will ask you to input either your flight number or departure and arrival destinations, along with the departure date. Then, it will show you up-to-date information regarding the flight in question.
Bottom line
Tracking your inbound plane is a valuable skill to keep in your travel tool kit — especially during busy travel periods when delays are common. Apps like FlightAware and airline-specific tracking features provide insights that can help you better manage your travel plans.
While tracking isn’t a guarantee of on-time travel and won’t speed up your delayed aircraft, it can give you perspective and more confidence when navigating delays. At the very least, you’ll better understand the situation — and sometimes, that knowledge can be used to get ahead if you need to rearrange a flight.
United Airlines’ annual status match offer is back. The requirements are a little higher this year, but they’re still much easier to achieve than United’s standard criteria — making this an excellent opportunity to pursue Premier status.
If you hold elite status with another airline, here’s how to turn that into United Premier status in 2025 — and why you may want to (or not).
Related: What exactly is elite status in travel — and how can I get it?
United’s status match offer for 2025
Here are some airline loyalty programs eligible for United’s status match and which Premier level they match to.
| Loyalty program | Tier to match to Premier Silver | Tier to match to Premier Gold | Tier to match to Premier Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan | MVP | MVP Gold | MVP Gold 75K |
| American Airlines AAdvantage | Gold | Platinum | Platinum Pro |
| British Airways Executive Club | Bronze | Silver | Gold |
| Delta Air Lines SkyMiles | Medallion Silver | Medallion Gold | Medallion Platinum |
| JetBlue TrueBlue | Mosaic 1 | Mosaic 2 or 3 | Mosaic 4 |
| Qantas Frequent Flyer | Silver | Gold | Platinum or Platinum One |
| Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards | A-List | A-List Preferred | N/A |
According to United’s website, this is only a partial list. You may be eligible to apply if you hold another status.
To apply for a match, you must submit this form with your MileagePlus account number and email address, as well as a digital copy of your 2025 membership card for the frequent flyer program you are matching from.
If approved, you must take one “activating flight” operated by United or United Express within 90 days of approval to receive temporary elite status.
If you have flown on a United or United Express flight in the past 30 days from the day you registered for a status match, this may qualify as your activating flight. The flight must have already been posted to your MileagePlus account and have a date on or after Jan. 1, 2025. You must make this request at the time of your application for a previous flight to be considered.
If you do not complete an activating flight within 90 days of approval, you’ll become ineligible for the status match challenge. Further, you won’t be eligible to submit for another United status match in 2025. Be sure to time your application so that you’ll be able to complete the activating flight requirement.
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After you take your activating flight, your United status will be upgraded to Premier Silver, Premier Gold or Premier Platinum within five to seven business days. You will hold this status for 120 days.
To extend your shiny new Premier status for the rest of the 2025 program year, you must meet the following Premier qualifying flight and Premier qualifying point requirements within the 120-day qualification period.
| Status tier | Requirements to extend |
|---|---|
| Premier Silver | Fly 5 PQFs and earn 1,700 PQPs on flights operated by United or United Express |
| Premier Gold | Fly 10 PQFs and earn 3,400 PQPs on flights operated by United or United Express |
| Premier Platinum | Fly 15 PQFs and earn 5,000 PQPs on flights operated by United or United Express |
For this challenge, PQPs must be earned on United-operated flights. PQPs earned through other methods, such as credit card spending and partner flights, do not qualify.
How long will your status last? According to the United status match terms and conditions, “Earned 2025 Premier status is valid through January 2026. The MileagePlus status is valid through January 2027 for customers who earn Premier status through this offer on or after July 1, 2025.” So, to maximize the length of your United status, you may want to wait until July to request a match.
If you cannot complete the status match requirements within the challenge period, your matched MileagePlus Premier status will expire.
Note that you can’t elevate your status by meeting the above criteria; you can only extend the status to which you initially matched. You must meet United’s standard thresholds for Premier status to move to a higher tier.
For example, say you entered this status match with Southwest Rapid Rewards A-List status, which would match you to United Premier Silver. Even if you meet the Premier Gold criteria above (fly 10 PQFs and earn 3,400 PQPs) in the challenge period, you’ll remain Premier Silver for the remainder of the 2025 program year. However, you can move to Gold by meeting United’s published Premier Gold criteria.
Related: Last-minute strategies for earning United Premier elite status
Who is eligible for a United status match?
There are a couple of reasons a traveler may not qualify for United’s 2025 status match program:
- You are ineligible if you have participated in the MileagePlus status match program or received a Premier status exception in the last five years.
- You are also ineligible if you hold elite status because of a trial or temporary elite status in the other airline program.
Is United Premier status worth it?
United Premier status offers valuable perks, like free checked bags, bonus miles earned on flights, upgrades to Economy Plus and even lounge access on select flights at the higher tiers. If you plan to fly United in 2025, these perks could make a status match worthwhile, even if you don’t plan to extend your status past the 120-day challenge period.
However, you can snag some of these perks without Premier status if you have the right card in your wallet. For instance, the United℠ Explorer Card and United℠ Business Card offer a free checked bag for the primary cardholder and one traveling companion. Meanwhile, the United Club℠ Infinite Card provides United Club lounge access. Depending on which benefits are most important to you, you may be better off applying for a United credit card than pursuing a status match.
If you hold status with another airline, there are a few reasons you may consider switching to United Premier status. For instance, you may not be satisfied with the airline’s service or the elite perks you’re getting. Or maybe you’ve moved to a location where your current airline has a smaller presence.
If you’re thinking of changing loyalty, this 2025 status match challenge could be the perfect opportunity. It allows you to test-drive United Premier status for a short period and extend your status quickly.
However, remember that United typically lets you participate in a status match only once every five years. It may not be worth applying if you don’t think you’ll fly United enough this year to extend your status or take full advantage of its perks.
Related: Why this Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan change may sway me to leave American’s AAdvantage program
Bottom line
United’s 2025 status match is an excellent opportunity for travelers considering changing loyalty to MileagePlus Premier.
However, if United isn’t the best airline for you, plenty more status matches and challenges are available. And don’t forget to keep track of when your airline elite status expires to avoid missing out on valuable perks or future status matches.
American Airlines cannot catch a break from Boeing’s production woes.
The Fort Worth, Texas-based carrier will temporarily suspend three routes to Europe this summer and again push back the introduction of its new Flagship Suite business class as a result of the latest delivery delays plaguing the Boeing 787, an American spokesperson confirmed to TPG on Friday.
“As a result of ongoing Boeing 787 delivery delays, American is adjusting service on certain routes in summer 2025 to ensure we are able to reaccommodate customers on affected flights,” the spokesperson said. “We’ll be proactively reaching out to our impacted customers to offer alternate travel arrangements and remain committed to mitigating the impact of these Boeing delays while continuing to offer a comprehensive global network.”
Upgrades clearing less? Airlines say more passengers are just paying for those first-class seats
The three suspended transatlantic routes are:
- Miami International Airport (MIA) to Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) from May through July
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in June
- New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) in July
This is a well-trod path for American. Delays to 787 deliveries in late 2021 forced it to cut Edinburgh, Scotland; Hong Kong; and Shannon, Ireland, from its map the following year. Production challenges have continued to plague Boeing and forced additional cuts to long-haul flying at American in the years since.
American’s long-haul schedule is uniquely susceptible to Boeing delays compared to other airlines. During the coronavirus pandemic, American took advantage of the dramatic drop in international travel to accelerate plans to streamline its long-haul fleet and retired its Airbus A330 and Boeing 757 and 767 planes.
Now, the airline’s international expansion is limited by Boeing’s inability to hand over new 787s in a timely manner.
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American was scheduled to receive 10 787-9s this year, its latest fleet plan from October shows.
The latest delivery delays also mean the introduction of American’s new Flagship Suite business class is delayed again. CEO Robert Isom said Jan. 23 that the seats would begin flying this year but did not say when. The spokesperson would not specify when in 2025 the new product might debut.
Pro tips: 11 major mistakes people make with travel rewards credit cards
The Flagship Suite product is part of a larger overhaul of American’s premium offerings that also includes new premium economy seats. It will, however, mark the end of long-haul first class at American; the airline plans to remove Flagship First from its Boeing 777-300ER planes when they are refitted with the new Flagship Suite.
American’s first Airbus A321XLRs will also feature the Flagship Suite when deliveries begin later in 2025. These planes will initially fly on premium transcontinental flights between New York and both Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Even with the schedule reductions, American will continue to serve all its European destinations, including Edinburgh via a new service, this summer. It will fly to Frankfurt from Charlotte; Madrid from Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Miami and Philadelphia; and Paris from Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, New York and Philadelphia, schedules from aviation analytics firm Cirium show.
American will also offer fewer frequencies on certain other routes this summer, including between Philadelphia and Rome, and Dallas and London.
Related reading:
As Britons plan their culinary adventures for 2025, new data has revealed some unexpected destinations making waves in the UK’s food scene.
While London maintains its crown as the nation’s gastronomic capital, a surprising Welsh city has emerged as a formidable contender in the rankings.
Analysis by travel experts at LateRooms.com has uncovered that Wrexham, recently thrust into the spotlight by its Hollywood-owned football club, is now the country’s second-best foodie destination.
Culinary hotspots like Leeds, Edinburgh, and Manchester also made the list, being named as places Britons should venture to for an exciting food experience.
Edinburgh make the list
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London’s dominance in the culinary landscape is reflected as 26.3 per cent of restaurants there have achieved five-star status, according to the LateRooms.com analysis.
Leeds secured the third position with 20.99 per cent of its eateries receiving top marks, whilst traditional tourist destinations like Edinburgh ranked lower than expected.
The rankings show a notable shift away from traditionally celebrated culinary capitals, with seaside towns Blackpool and Scarborough both securing spots in the top seven.
The top 10 foodie destinations
London – 26.3%
Wrexham – 21.71%
Leeds – 20.99%
Blackpool – 19.1%
Brighton – 18.83%
Cardiff – 18.42%
Scarborough – 18.25%
Liverpool – 17.03%
Edinburgh – 16.34%
York – 15.18%
Wrexham’s rise in the culinary world mirrors its recent sporting fame, with the city developing a unique food identity that blends Welsh traditions with international influences. The city’s Portuguese community has particularly enriched its dining scene.
The experts said: “You’ll find traditional Welsh cuisine, as well as more continental flavours. Thanks to the city’s Portuguese community, you can find pastel de natas as easy as bara birth.”
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Those looking for restaurants should consider a London break
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Leeds came in third and also has a rich mix of cuisine. The experts continued: “Like London, Leeds has a diverse and multicultural community to thank for its vibrant food scene. You won’t be short of classic hearty Yorkshire meals, but the city’s street food scene is not to be missed.”
Brighton has carved out its own niche as a sustainable dining destination, with the pros stating: “Brighton is one of the UK’s best locations for high-end plant-based dining. Chefs in this foodie hub often focus on sustainability, with an emphasis on seasonal and local produce.”
Edinburgh, despite ranking ninth, has developed a sophisticated dining culture.
“Edinburgh has become a real high-end foodie destination of late, with a fine dining scene to rival any major city. The Scottish capital boasts a thriving café culture with photogenic patisseries,” the experts highlighted.
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
With so many fantastic travel rewards credit cards available, including some with large sign-up bonuses and phenomenal benefits, you might have difficulty choosing one (or a combination) that suits your needs. This can become even more overwhelming if you qualify for a small-business credit card, which opens the door to many additional options.
Two of the most valuable mid-tier cards from Chase include the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card, which have similar benefits — including earning Ultimate Rewards points and annual fees of $95.
While they make a pretty powerful team, you might only want or be eligible for one or the other — for instance, if you are not looking for a business card or are nearing your 5/24 limit with Chase. Today, we will look at how these cards stack up against each other and help you decide whether one or both deserve a place in your wallet.
Sapphire Preferred vs. Ink Business Preferred comparison
| Chase Sapphire Preferred | Chase Ink Business Preferred | |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $95 | $95 |
| Welcome bonus | Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. | Earn 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. |
| Earning | 5 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals purchased through Chase Travel℠
3 points per dollar on dining worldwide 2 points per dollar on all other travel 1 point per dollar on everything else |
3 points per dollar on up to $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone, social media & search engine advertising (each account anniversary year)
1 point per dollar on everything else |
| Trip cancellation/interruption | Up to $10,000 per person, $20,000 per trip | Up to $5,000 per person, $10,000 per trip |
| Trip delay | 12 hours, up to $500 per ticket | 12 hours, up to $500 per ticket |
| Lost & delayed luggage | 6 hours, up to $100 per day up to five days
Up to $3,000 for lost bags |
6 hours, up to $100 per day up to five days
Up to $3,000 for lost bags |
| Rental car coverage | Primary | Primary, business-related rentals |
| Purchase protection | Up to $500 per claim, $50,000 per account | Up to $10,000 per claim, $50,000 per account |
| Extended warranty | Additional one year for items with less than three years of warranty
Up to $10,000 per item, $50,000 per account |
Additional one year for items with less than three years of warranty
Up to $10,000 per item, $50,000 per account |
| Cellphone protection | None | $100 deductible, up to $1,000 per claim, maximum of three claims per 12-month period |
Sapphire Preferred vs. Ink Business Preferred welcome offer
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is currently offering a welcome offer of 60,000 Ultimate Rewards points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening. The Chase Ink Business Preferred currently offers 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
According to TPG’s January 2025 valuation, Ultimate Rewards points are worth 2.05 cents each, making these bonuses worth up to $1,230 and $1,845, respectively.
While the Ink Preferred cleans the table when it comes to bonus value, that $8,000 minimum spending requirement might be difficult for some businesses to hit, so you’ll want to consider your spending power when deciding which card to get.
Winner: Ink Business Preferred. Its welcome offer provides more value.
Related: 5 reasons to get the Ink Business Preferred
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Sapphire Preferred vs. Ink Business Preferred benefits
Both cards offer phenomenal travel protections that are quite similar, though the Sapphire Preferred is slightly more comprehensive.
Each card includes trip cancellation and interruption insurance. With the Ink Business Preferred, you’re covered for up to $5,000 per trip for nonrefundable travel expenses, up to $10,000 per trip. The Sapphire Preferred covers up to $10,000 per person or up to $20,000 per trip. Trip delay reimbursement for things like overnight lodging or meals kicks in at 12 hours with the Ink Business Preferred and the Chase Sapphire Preferred. Both cards also cover up to $500 per ticket in the event of a covered delay.
The baggage delay insurance is identical on both cards: up to $100 per day for up to five days when your bag is delayed or misdirected for more than six hours. Lost luggage insurance with both cards is up to $3,000 per passenger.
Both cards also offer primary rental car coverage, which is a fantastic benefit and alleviates the expense and hassle of dealing with an agency or your own insurance if things go wrong with a rental. However, the Ink Business Preferred’s benefits state that your rental must be for business purposes for this protection to kick in.
Both cards also provide purchase protection and extended warranty coverage as well. The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers purchase protection of up to $500 per claim with a $50,000 limit per year, and the Ink Business Preferred offers a slightly elevated coverage of $10,000 per claim with the same $50,000 maximum
In addition, both cards provide extended warranty coverage for eligible items by extending a manufacturer’s warranty by one additional year for items with less than three years of warranty. In case of a replacement or repair the cards each provide up to $10,000 per item with a $50,000 maximum per account.
Finally, the Ink Business Preferred provides cellphone protection when paying the monthly bill. The card covers up to $1,000 in case of repair or replacement with a $100 deductible.
Beyond travel protections, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers a statement credit each account anniversary of up to $50 on hotel stay purchases through Chase Travel℠. In addition, cardholders also receive 10% anniversary bonus points each year. The bonus is based on your total spend during the account anniversary year at a rate of 1 point for every $10 spent.
Finally, the Sapphire Preferred also provides at least one year of complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership (activate by Dec. 31, 2027) and up to $10 off a month on non-restaurant DoorDash orders.
Winner: Sapphire Preferred. Its benefits outclass those on the Ink Business Preferred.
Related: Why the Sapphire Preferred is the top travel rewards card year after year
Earning points with the Sapphire Preferred vs. Ink Business Preferred
The cards’ earning rates are very different. The Chase Sapphire Preferred earns 5 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals purchased through Chase Travel℠, plus 2 points per dollar on a broad range of travel purchases, including airline tickets and hotel stays and taxis, tolls and parking. The card also earns 3 points per dollar on dining worldwide and 1 point per dollar on everything else, all with no earning caps.
The Ink Business Preferred earns a solid 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent each account anniversary year on a combination of travel (the same broad category as with the Sapphire Preferred), shipping purchases, internet, cable and phone services, and advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines. It earns 1 point per dollar on everything else.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind here. First, if dining is one of your major expenses, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the way to go. However, if travel is your main outlay, the Ink Business Preferred’s 3-points-per-dollar bonus edges out the Sapphire Preferred’s 2-points-per-dollar rate in this category.
Another consideration is that if you are a business owner and spend a lot of money in the card’s other bonus categories, you might hit that $150,000 annual cap sooner than you think. Still, to make the Sapphire Preferred worth it over the Ink Business Preferred strictly in terms of travel, you’d have to spend $225,000 or more in travel purchases each year instead of $150,000 with the business card.
Winner: Tie. The categories differ significantly, and your preference will depend on your spending habits.
Redeeming points with the Sapphire Preferred vs. Ink Business Preferred
Both cards earn Ultimate Rewards points, some of the most valuable around.
You’ll get the highest value from your points by transferring them to one of Chase’s 14 airline and hotel loyalty partners.
Cardholders of either product can also redeem points directly for travel through the Chase travel portal to get 1.25 cents per point in value and have the option to redeem points for eligible categories through Pay Yourself Back.
Winner: Tie. You’ll get the same redemption options on either card.
Related: 6 of the best Ultimate Rewards sweet spots
Transferring points with the Sapphire Preferred vs. Ink Business Preferred
Ultimate Rewards can be transferred to 11 airline partners, including British Airways, Southwest and United, and three hotel programs: Marriott Bonvoy, World of Hyatt and IHG One Rewards.
These transfer partners can provide great value. For example, TPG managing editor Madison Blancaflor was able to snag a last-minute premium economy ticket from New York to Amsterdam using Flying Blue for just 20,500 Ultimate Rewards points using a transfer promotion.
Winner: Tie. You’ll get the same redemption options on either card.
Related: How I used a transfer bonus to get a lie-flat seat to London for just 21,000 points
Should I get the Sapphire Preferred or Ink Business Preferred?
You should consider whether you want to carry a personal credit card or one for business. If you prefer a personal credit card and can benefit from the Chase Sapphire Preferred‘s superior travel protections, not to mention its handy dining category bonus, it might be the better option for you.
Still, the Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred combination is a powerful match-up that could boost your travel rewards earnings into the stratosphere.
Bottom line
If you’re trying to decide between the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred, think about whether you want a business or personal card, which one’s category bonuses you will best be able to take advantage of, and which one’s travel protections are better suited to your needs.
The two products are among the best travel rewards credit cards currently available, and carrying both is a good way to boost your points earnings on an ongoing basis.
To learn more, read our full reviews of the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred.
Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred
Apply here: Ink Business Preferred
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