Travel
United Airlines details 6 big inflight entertainment updates, including all-new Control Tower map
United Airlines has some big and exciting upgrades coming to the inflight entertainment experience.
The Chicago-based carrier is adding more screens, introducing new entertainment features, innovating with faster internet connectivity and so much more.
While the airline has a long list of updates coming to its inflight entertainment experience, United just “hasn’t made a lot of noise about it recently,” Dominic Green, United’s director of inflight entertainment, told TPG during an exclusive interview. (Perhaps Green was referring to Delta Air Lines’ splashy keynote during the Consumer Electronics Show at the Sphere in Las Vegas earlier this month, where the airline debuted some largely iterative upgrades to the inflight entertainment experience.)
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For Green’s team, the focus has been to test, iterate and improve, without commanding headlines.
That said, there’s lots to get excited about, especially for aviation enthusiasts. Here’s everything you need to know about United’s inflight entertainment upgrades.
600 aircraft and counting
It starts with the availability of inflight screens; more and more United aircraft now feature personal TVs than ever before.
In 2021, the airline unveiled its United Next brand strategy that includes a new signature interior across its mainline fleet. Part of that updated look is the addition of entertainment screens equipped with Bluetooth connectivity.
Green said that the airline recently introduced its 600th aircraft equipped with seatback screens, and “we’ll probably hit a thousand aircraft over the next couple of years that have seatback screens at every seat,” he added.
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In addition to the screens themselves, over 300 aircraft feature Bluetooth connectivity at every seat, making it possible to pair wireless headphones, including AirPods, with the entertainment systems. This makes United the undisputed U.S. leader when it comes to Bluetooth functionality, as Delta just announced at CES that it would bring this tech to more planes in the coming years. (Right now, only first-class seats on Delta’s Airbus A321neo feature Bluetooth.)
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Furthermore, United’s new screens are all 4K resolution, Green said, making them some of the highest definition in the U.S. airline industry. (Delta also announced this month that 4K screens would debut in the coming years but stopped short of sharing a rollout schedule.)
All told, United’s seatback technology is already some of the best in the business, and it will only get better in the years to come.
Introducing Control Tower view
I’m a frequent United flyer, so imagine my surprise last week when I stumbled upon a new inflight map feature: Control Tower view.
This view allows you to pull up a map of the airfield that’s overlaid with all the aircraft around you. Clicking on each little plane brings up its call sign and operating airline. Going forward, the pilot won’t need to tell you that you’re No. 25 for departure — you’ll be able to see that clearly on your inflight monitor.
Control Tower view is a new feature that United is testing, Green said. It’s enabled in partnership with the FlightPath3D product that United licenses from a company called Betria Interactive.
“We thought it’d be really cool that customers could see where they are on the airfield. We already have pretty good quality zoom-level maps, like down to kind of street-level view, and we said, well, it’d be great to have that airfield terminal level where you could actually see where you’re at. Cool for aviation geeks, watching the little planes move around, but also I think it’s really helpful for customers,” Green added.
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The Control Tower view is powered by the flight deck’s navigation systems and a live feed of planes from FlightAware.
Green expects this feature to be a hit with flyers, especially since the moving map is the most watched piece of content on United planes, he told TPG. There’s no timeline on when Control Tower view might expand to other planes, but if you’re flying United soon, take a look at the moving map and see if you have the option to enable it.
Channel 9 is here to stay
Back when music was the only type of entertainment United offered, the airline had an innovation for aviation enthusiasts. It would allow flyers to listen to the air traffic control radio chatter between the pilots and the controllers.
This was always available on Channel 9, and when United started adding on-demand entertainment, it kept the Channel 9 feed around. (You’ll find it under the “Audio” tab on the screens.)
That said, in recent years, United’s aviation enthusiast customers have complained that Channel 9 hasn’t been working. According to Green, the functionality is still very much available — it’s just that more and more pilots are choosing not to enable the feed.
“Pilots can turn it off if they don’t want people to hear whatever chatter is going on,” Green explained. All hope isn’t lost, though. “We know it’s a cool feature,” Green added. “We have it enabled as much as we can.”
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Software updates keep things fresh
Just like your iPhone gets a new major software update each year, United is planning a regular cycle of software updates to keep the seatback entertainment screens bug-free and up to date.
“We launched new UX [user experience] just over a year ago … and we’ve already done three software updates since we launched that a year ago,” Green said.
United rarely announces these smaller software updates, but be on the lookout for new features and updates in the coming months. You never know what you might find, Green teased.
Starlink impacts inflight entertainment
United announced last year that it would bring Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service to its entire fleet. This is a multiyear journey that’s just getting started — the first plane to get Starlink will be flying in the spring — but Green’s team is already studying what the new faster Wi-Fi can do for the seatback screen experience.
Green wasn’t ready to share the details just yet, but he did allude to the fact that travelers will see more timely updates and live content on the entertainment screens.
Of course, travelers will still be able to use their own devices to consume content, but United wants to tap into the faster, more reliable internet to offer a living room-like experience in the seatback entertainment systems.
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Extended displays aren’t coming soon
As more travelers bring their own tablets and laptops on board, I’ve always wondered why airlines don’t offer a screencasting feature on the entertainment screens. After all, it’s a lot easier to get work done with some additional screen real estate.
Turns out, United can already technically enable screencasting today, Green said, but a major issue will likely mean that flyers will never see this functionality.
“We’ve had a lot of pushback from our corporate partners that say they don’t necessarily want their staff using publicly available screens,” Green said.
It’s not that United would have access to any data; it’s that they don’t want nosy passengers snooping in on their neighbors.
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A passenger claiming to be a United Nations diplomat was forcibly removed from a Ryanair flight in Lanzarote after refusing to show his boarding pass.
The man was dragged off the aircraft by police on Friday night following a heated confrontation with airline staff and officials.
The incident caused a 40-minute delay to the Lanzarote to Galicia service on January 17 after the passenger refused to cooperate with crew members.
The incident began when the passenger demanded to be moved to a front-row seat on the aircraft.
A passenger claiming to be a United Nations diplomat was forcibly removed from a Ryanair flight in Lanzarote
PA
When cabin crew asked to see his boarding pass, the man refused, claiming his diplomatic status meant he was not required to show it.
A witness reported the passenger claimed his friend was holding his ticket, but provided no evidence to support this assertion.
After multiple attempts to negotiate with the passenger, the captain called the Guardia Civil to remove him from the aircraft.
Four officials had to wrestle with the enraged man, who continued to shout and resist removal.
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Fellow passengers watched as the man argued with police and flight attendants before being physically hauled out of the cabin.
The pilot informed passengers that the flight was ready for its scheduled departure but was being delayed by an uncooperative individual.
Despite repeated attempts to resolve the situation, the self-proclaimed diplomat remained defiant, refusing to comply with crew requests.
The standoff continued until authorities were called to intervene, marking a significant disruption to the evening service.
The pilot informed passengers that the flight was ready for its scheduled departure but was being delayed by an uncooperative individual
Aeropuerto de Lanzarote
Ryanair issued a statement confirming police assistance was called “after a passenger became disruptive on board”.
The airline emphasised its “strict zero tolerance policy towards passenger misconduct” and commitment to ensuring passengers and crew “travel in a safe and respectful environment”.
The carrier added it would “continue to take decisive action to combat unruly passenger behaviour” for the benefit of other travellers.
The flight eventually departed and landed safely at Rosalía de Castro airport in Santiago de Compostela at approximately 11.45pm.
If you’re searching for the perfect family vacation spot, look toward the western skies of Scottsdale, Arizona.
Tens of thousands of acres of sandy Sonoran Desert and year-round warm weather lend themselves to all manner of outdoor pursuits. There’s also no shortage of indoor fun when you need a break from the city’s 330 sunny days each year.
When you combine Scottsdale’s bounty of indoor and outdoor activities with the vibrant arts scene and upscale resorts, you have a desert paradise sure to please everyone in the family.
Here’s what you need to know to plan the perfect trip.
Getting to Scottsdale
Though Scottsdale does have its own small airport, the closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). PHX is only about a 15-minute drive to downtown Scottsdale, making the airport a convenient option for travelers coming to the area.
The airport’s rental car center is accessible via the PHX Sky Train, which runs 24 hours a day and departs the airport every three to five minutes. I highly recommend renting a car so you can explore some of the surrounding area during your visit. Scottsdale is just over two hours from both Sedona and Flagstaff, and it’s less than four hours from the Grand Canyon.
Scottsdale Airport (SCF) is north of downtown, and it caters to private and public jet charter services like JSX, Jet Aviation, Atlantic Aviation and Signature Flight Support.
Exploring the great outdoors
Scottsdale has more opportunities to hike, bike, boat, balloon and otherwise traverse the desert terrain than a cactus has prickly spines. Here are just a few ways you can see Scottsdale’s sights from a variety of vantage points:
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
All the wide open terrain makes Scottsdale home to hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails. The bulk of those — 225 miles’ worth, to be exact — lie within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. With so many trails to choose from, there’s sure to be a trail with a difficulty level appropriate for your family.
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If you have very young children or are just starting out with hiking, I recommend the Kovach Family Nature Trail at the Lost Dog Wash Trailhead. This 1/2-mile trail is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, and it has fun educational signage to teach you and your kids all about the desert.
If you want to step it up a notch (pun intended), try the Gateway Loop at the Gateway Trailhead. You can hike all or part of this 4.5-mile loop, which offers an up-close look at several cacti varieties and beautiful views of the McDowell Mountains.
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The Thumb. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY
As you come off the trail, head to nearby The Thumb to refuel. At this combination gas station, car wash, gift shop and restaurant, you can sample barbecue so tasty that it landed itself on an episode of Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Or, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with a homemade cinnamon roll or fruit-filled hand pie.
Desert Botanical Garden
As you stroll the sunny paths of the Desert Botanical Garden, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with the flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert. During our visit, we saw butterflies, lizards, hummingbirds, bees and quail, along with notable landmarks like a 30-foot-tall Saguaro cactus, a butterfly garden and a nature playground for kids.
Be sure to pick up a free Cactus Keepers guidebook at the ticket office. Kids can use the guide to learn more about the Desert Botanical Garden and to help spot various plants and wildlife during their visit.
The Desert Botanical Garden hosts special events throughout the year that may coincide with your visit. Check their website for an up-to-date calendar of tours, story times, live concerts and more.
Historic Old Town Scottsdale
The streets of Historic Old Town Scottsdale are lined with shops that sell everything from Western wear to Native American art and jewelry to grow-your-own cactus kits, the latter of which is thriving on my kitchen windowsill.
Whether you’re on the hunt for unique souvenirs or just window shopping, it’s worth budgeting a few hours of vacation time to walk the streets of Historic Old Town. There are plenty of restaurants if you work up an appetite from all that walking. We stopped in for brunch at Beginner’s Luck, where I cooled off with a sorbet mimosa, and the kids found themselves facing down thick-sliced French toast bigger than their whole head. (If you prefer your brunch with a live DJ and BYO bloody mary bar, you should also check out Hash Kitchen on the weekends.)
We walked a bit more to make room for dessert because no visit to Old Town is complete without a scoop of ice cream from the Sugar Bowl. This perfectly pink Scottsdale staple has been open since 1958 and operates an authentic 1950s soda fountain counter to this day.
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Sugar Bowl in Old Town Scottsdale. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY
McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a must-visit spot for families visiting Scottsdale. Not only can you go for a ride on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad (a 5:12 reproduction of a Colorado narrow gauge railroad) and a vintage carousel, but you can also play in a kid-size Wild West town, learn about the history of trains and see dozens of model train exhibits.
There is no fee to enter the park and visit the playgrounds, museum and model railroad building. You can purchase tickets to ride the train and carousel or an all-day wristband at the entrance.
Hot air balloon rides
If you want to see Scottsdale’s beautiful landscape from a sky-high viewpoint, try a hot air balloon ride. You’ll have to be the judge of whether or not your kids are ready to soar hundreds of feet above the city. But, if they can brave it, you’ll be treated to unparalleled panoramic views of the desert.
Several hot air balloon companies service the Scottsdale area, and most offer sunrise and sunset rides in addition to daytime ones. Rainbow Ryders also offers tethered hot air balloon rides for those who want to test the experience before going up, up and away.
Indoor pursuits
More often than not, Scottsdale’s warm weather is conducive to being outdoors, but there’s no getting around the fact that it can get hot — so hot, in fact, that you may need to find some air-conditioned fun. Luckily, there’s no shortage of cool indoor activities in Scottsdale. Here are a few I’d recommend:
Butterfly Wonderland
Butterfly Wonderland is a tropical paradise right in the heart of Scottsdale. The large conservatory is home to more than 60 species of butterflies who flutter freely all around (and will happily take a seat on your shoulder). Butterfly Wonderland provides free paper guides for kids, so they can track which species they spot during their visit.
We spent the majority of the time in the conservatory coaxing butterflies to land on us. We also watched a touching 3D film about butterfly migration, spotted several other rainforest critters and observed butterflies in various states of metamorphosis.
Butterfly Wonderland is open 365 days a year and offers scheduled activities, including koi feedings, stingray and shark feedings, beekeeper presentations and more.
OdySea Aquarium
I’ve visited a lot of aquariums, but the OdySea Aquarium had one exhibit I’d never seen before: Right outside of the bathroom was a sign declaring it a winner of the America’s Best Restroom contest. I had to see what that was all about, so I headed inside. When I looked where the mirror above the sink would be, I was met with toothy sharks rather than my own reflection.
That was enough to get me hook, line and sinker, but it only got better from there. OdySea also has the world’s only rotating aquarium experience and hundreds of aquatic critters from the rivers and oceans of the world. We saw tiny jellyfish, giant sharks, and adorable penguins and otters.
Most of these exhibits are included in your ticket cost, but there are a few add-on experiences you may want to consider. You can don a special SeaTrek helmet to walk underwater with the animals, or purchase a separate penguin or sloth encounter.
Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions, OdySea and Butterfly Wonderland are all on the Arizona Boardwalk, so it’s convenient to visit multiple attractions in one day. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Museum of Illusions, but I think we laughed more here than at any other stop on our vacation.
Every exhibit in the museum is interactive, and the placards clearly instruct visitors how to successfully execute each illusion for picture-perfect memories. Even so, helpful staff members wandered around to ensure everyone knew how to make each illusion work properly.
Wonderspaces
In keeping with the interactive theme, Wonderspaces is a modern museum with a rotating collection of immersive, interactive installations at the Scottsdale Fashion Square mall. I was surprised at how the exhibits held my kids’ attention — something typically only reserved for their iPads or Lego sets.
We all had fun adding colorful lines of tape to a collaborative installation called “Rules” and recording silly clips on a digitally controlled kinetic screen installation called “Silver.”
What shocked me was how quiet and contemplative they became when we explored some of the more immersive installations.
The installation “Parastella” featured a series of mesmerizing laser projections on the ceiling of a room filled with beanbags, where you could comfortably relax and take it all in. Another stand-out audiovisual installation, “Volumen,” played a sequence of evolving and rotating images that were truly captivating.
Wonderspaces sells premium admission that allows you to come at any time, but it also has timed tickets for a discounted price. There’s also a bar with an impressive cocktail list, but we visited a bit too early for me to drink in anything but the artwork.
Mavrix bowling
You can’t go wrong with a little friendly competition among family. Mavrix is more than just your typical bowling alley. This entertainment complex has 22 bowling lanes, a huge arcade, a laser tag arena, dozens of televisions (so you don’t have to choose between the big game and bowling) and a restaurant.
During our visit, we ate dinner and bowled. We went with a couple of sampler platters to make it easy for everyone to grab a bite between frames.
Where to stay
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
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Sonoran Splash Pool at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUY
If you look up “luxury resort” in the encyclopedia, you’ll probably find a reference to the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. This 65-acre resort has 750 guest rooms, five award-winning restaurants, six pools, a full-service spa and salon, a kids club and more.
In addition to standard rooms and suites, you can stay in the exclusive Privado Villas section for more spacious, private accommodations. The villas also provide extras like a private lobby with complimentary snacks and drinks, complimentary valet parking, chauffeur service, a private pool and complimentary access to the spa’s fitness and relaxation facilities.
Room rates at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess start at around $420 per night for standard rooms and $950 per night for the Privado Villas.
The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa
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The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. MARY KATE HEARNY/THE POINTS GUY
The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa is home to one of TPG’s favorite hotel pools, and a good pool is a nonnegotiable when you visit Scottsdale. The Adventure Park pool has a 900-foot winding lazy river ride, a 110-foot waterslide and a splash pad for kids with zero-depth entry. (Don’t worry, there’s an adults-only pool, too.)
The Westin Kierland also has a golf course and several dining outlets, and many guest rooms have a view of either the pool, mountains or the golf course.
Room rates at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa start at around $263 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town
If you’re in search of a budget-friendly option, try the Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town. This 177-room boutique property has a rooftop pool with views of Camelback Mountain, a fitness center and an on-site restaurant.
This hotel’s guest rooms sleep up to four guests, but suites that sleep up to five guests are also available for larger families.
Rates at the Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town start at around $178 or 55,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Bottom line
With its sweeping desert vistas dotted by towering cacti and rugged mountains, Scottsdale is one of the country’s most picturesque destinations. Thanks to its plethora of kid-friendly activities, it’s also one of the best vacation spots for families.
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Traveling in Bali is fantastic. The island is rich in culture, and the diversity of nature is immense. Stroll through the green rice fields, swim in waterfalls in the jungle, sip cocktails at cozy beach clubs, or wander through an authentic market. You can do it all in Bali! The island isn’t very large, so you never have to travel far to your next destination. It’s a very easy travel destination, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you hop on the plane. So read these 15 practical tips and handy facts for your trip to Bali!
#1 How to Skip the Long Line at Bali Airport
Staying in Bali for less than 30 days? You’ll receive a visa on arrival when you arrive at the airport. Want to stay longer in Indonesia? Then you are required to apply for a visa in advance. However, it’s worth applying for your visa on arrival ahead of time as well. There is usually a very long line at the counter where you can arrange your visa on arrival. It’s best to take care of this before you leave via the official website. Here, you can apply for different visas, including for when you want to stay in Indonesia for more than 30 days. For a 30-day visa on arrival, choose B1. You can then skip the long line at the airport and quickly proceed to the baggage claim. After you’ve collected your luggage, you’ll need to fill out a Customs Declaration Form. It’s also handy to fill out this form in advance so you can go through it quickly. You can do this three days before departure via this website. You will receive a QR code that you need to have scanned, so make sure to keep it safe.
#2 You Need to Pay a Tourist Tax to Enter Bali
Since 2024, everyone entering Bali must pay a tourist tax. This applies whether you’re arriving by flight or boat from another Indonesian island. The tourist tax is used to improve infrastructure in Bali and to preserve its culture and nature. Although you can pay the tax on-site, just like with your visa, it’s also recommended to arrange this in advance through the official website of the Balinese government. After payment, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code. Keep this safe, as you’ll need to show it, allowing you to proceed without delay. The QR code is valid for 30 days or until you leave Indonesia. You don’t need to pay a new tourist tax if you take a trip to another Indonesian island.
#3 You Need an Exit Ticket
When you check in for your flight to Bali, they will almost always ask for an exit ticket for Indonesia at the airport. You’ll also need to upload this when you apply for your visa in advance. This should be a return flight to the another country with a departure date within 30 days of your arrival. An exit ticket is required to prove that you will leave Indonesia within 30 days. You can only stay in Indonesia for a maximum of 30 days with a visa on arrival. So make sure you have this; otherwise, you’ll have to book an exit flight ticket while checking in.
#4 How Transportation Works in Bali
Public transportation in Bali is very limited, so private transport is the easiest way to travel between destinations. You don’t need to arrange this before your trip to Bali, as you can easily order a taxi on-site through the Grab app. Grab is the Asian version of Uber and works especially well in the southern part of Bali. There are also many motorcycle taxis around, which you can order through the Gojek app. These motorcycle taxis are cheaper, ideal for solo travelers, and can maneuver more easily through traffic. If you find yourself in a location where Grab or Gojek is not available, you can easily arrange a driver through your accommodation or 12Go.com.
At the destinations, you can rent a scooter for shorter distances. Some experience with riding a scooter is helpful because the busy traffic in Bali can be quite chaotic. Be aware that scooters in Bali are officially considered motorcycles. These scooters have much more power than the scooters we’re familiar with. You technically need a motorcycle license for this, but you can still rent one with your Class B driver’s license. However, there is a risk involved, as you won’t be insured. If you damage the scooter or have an accident, the costs will be yours. Nonetheless, many travelers ride scooters, but you should consider whether you want to take that risk.
Tip: You can purchase an eSim for Indonesia before your trip to Bali. This digital SIM card is activated online, allowing you to use mobile internet in Indonesia without needing to arrange anything locally. It makes ordering a taxi much easier.
#5 Unique Stays Are Inexpensive in Bali
In Bali, you’ll find an incredible number of picture-perfect accommodations where you can enjoy luxury for relatively little money. Some accommodations are located right in the rice fields, others offer stunning views of a volcano, or are nestled in the jungle. During our travels, we’ve always searched for the most beautiful and unique accommodations in Bali. In our overview of the most beautiful hotels in Bali, we share all our tips for the best spots! 
#6 Skip Attractions and Tours with Animals
As in many places in Southeast Asia, animals are also used for the entertainment of tourists in Bali. What many tourists still don’t know is that there is a lot of suffering behind this. Animals are harshly trained to pose for photos, perform tricks, or allow people to sit on their backs. Animals like orangutans should be swinging through the trees in the jungle, but instead, they spend all day posing for photos taken by humans. Dolphins should be swimming freely in the ocean with their families, but instead, they are confined in a small pool and only brought out to perform tricks for the audience. Even washing elephants is not as innocent as it seems. Elephants are abused, for example, by having a nail driven hard into their skin. They must remain calm so that people can wash them. This is done secretly, without tourists seeing it.
Always avoid attractions with wild animals where you come into direct contact with them. If you can cuddle, ride, wash, touch, or otherwise get close to a wild animal, there is suffering behind it.
#7 Be Cautious with ATM Withdrawals in Bali
There are a few things you need to know before withdrawing cash from an ATM. The machine will first give you your cash and then return your card. Since in the most countries you usually get your card back before the money, it’s easy to forget this and walk away before the machine returns your card. Always shield your PIN well. We have heard of people getting skimmed in Bali. Since the skimmers hang a small camera above the keypad, they have no chance if you shield your PIN properly. 
#8 Learn a Few Words of Indonesian
Balinese people really appreciate it when you take an interest in their culture and language. They will be very grateful if you greet or thank them in Indonesian. Here are some basic phrases to practice:
Good morning (6 AM to 10 AM): Selamat pagi
Good day (10 AM to 3 PM): Selamat siang
Good afternoon (3 PM to 6 PM): Selamat sore
Good evening (6 PM to 6 AM): Selamat malam
Thank you: Terima kasih
Likewise: Sama sama (response to thank you)
#9 Arrange an Airport Pick-Up in Advance for Bali
The flight to Bali is a long journey. When you finally arrive in Bali, there are dozens of taxi drivers eager to take you to your hotel. These taxi drivers often charge outrageous prices, and after your flight, you probably won’t want to jump into a negotiation right away. Therefore, arrange an airport pick-up in advance to start your Bali trip off stress-free. This will save you money and hassle. Someone will be waiting for you with a sign, and you can get in right away to head to your hotel. You can book your pick-up here.
#10 Balinese People Are Incredibly Friendly and Respectful
We have visited quite a few countries, but we find Balinese people to be the friendliest and most respectful individuals we have encountered so far. Almost everything here is done with a smile and in a friendly manner. Balinese people are unlikely to say no, refuse something, or get angry. It’s a very gentle and polite culture, and it’s important to keep this in mind during your vacation in Bali. Always remain friendly and polite, even if you disagree with something. Negotiating a price is also best done with a smile; it’s often the most effective way.
#11 These Are the Tastiest Dishes from Indonesian Cuisine
Indonesian cuisine is one of the most delicious in the world. The food is incredibly diverse and made with generous amounts of spices. “Warung” is a collective term for local restaurants. Here, you can often enjoy delicious Indonesian food at very low prices. Be sure to try the following dishes:
- Nasi goreng – You probably know this world-famous dish. Nasi goreng, which means fried rice, is often seen as Indonesia’s national dish. There are many variations, but it’s usually served with chicken, crackers, and a fried egg.
- Gado-gado – Gado literally means mix. This traditional Javanese dish is a mix of vegetables, tempeh or tofu, steamed potatoes, boiled eggs, lontong rice, and peanut sauce.
- Rendang – Rendang is often made from beef that is slowly stewed in coconut milk and spices.
- Soto – Soto means soup and is one of the most well-known dishes in Indonesia. There are many different types of soto, but soto ayam (with chicken) is the most beloved.
Tip: If you truly want to get to know Indonesian cuisine, join the Food Tour in Old Denpasar. Old Denpasar is the old part of the capital where you can best experience the authentic flavors of Bali. Treat your taste buds to snacks from the best stalls and small warungs in the local market. Make sure you’re hungry, as the food tour includes more than 15 different snacks and drinks while learning all about the ingredients and culinary culture of Bali. It’s a fun and surprising tour that you should schedule at the beginning of your trip. Not suitable for vegetarians.
#12 You’re Not Alone in Bali
Bali is an incredibly popular vacation destination, attracting millions of tourists to the island each year. Especially in southern Bali, you should expect it to be busy. The traffic can sometimes be dramatic. The roads are far too narrow for the number of cars and scooters on them, often resulting in traffic jams. Nevertheless, Bali has managed to retain its charm, and there are still many beautiful places to discover. Ubud is a good example of this. The center is busy and hectic, but just outside, you’ll find yourself among green rice fields. A bit further away is Sidemen, a small village nestled among rice fields where you can still experience authentic Balinese life. You can also seek tranquility in Munduk. This tiny village in the north is surrounded by mountains, rice fields, and coffee plantations. In the area, you can find some of the most beautiful waterfalls and temples in Bali.
#13 Waking Up for Sunrise Is Worth It
Now that you’ve read that you’re not alone in Bali, you can imagine that some attractions can be crowded during the day. To avoid this crowding, it’s best to wake up early and head out during or just after sunrise. This way, you’ll have the most beautiful places in Bali to yourself, beat the heat, and can relax on the beach, at a beach club, or by the pool in the afternoon. Another reason to rise early is that everything looks more beautiful during sunrise due to the warm morning light. 
#14 Bali Is Easy to Combine with Other Southeast Asian Destinations
Bali combines well with other exciting destinations in Southeast Asia. A great option is Singapore. This ultra-modern city offers a totally different experience than Bali, making it fun to combine the two. When flying to Bali with KLM, you can make a free stopover. Here you’ll find our ideal 3-day itinerary for Singapore.
#15 These Are the Best Destinations in Bali
Bali has an incredible number of beautiful destinations, but also some less desirable spots. For example, we think it’s a shame to stay in Kuta or Seminyak. These are very crowded beach resorts with overstuffed beaches and little charm. We have been to Bali multiple times and have visited many destinations one or more times. Based on these experiences, we’ve created the ultimate itinerary for Bali and surrounding islands. We’ve written a separate article about each destination on the itinerary, detailing what to do, tips for good restaurants, and nice places to stay. This way, you can easily plan your trip to Bali!
The post Traveling in Bali: 15 Things You Need to Know appeared first on TRAVELREBELS.
EasyJet’s chief executive has thrown his support behind Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s Heathrow Airport expansion plans.
Speaking to reporters, Kenton Jarvis welcomed what he called “decisive action by the Government to grow the economy”.
He said the expansion would provide a “unique opportunity” for easyJet to operate from Heathrow at scale, promising lower fares for UK consumers who currently “just have the option of flag carriers”.
“We’ve always said that aviation, the industry, is an enabler of economic growth,” Jarvis said.
The boss of Easyjet has thrown his support behind the plans
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The budget airline boss highlighted how Heathrow would complement easyJet’s existing network of major European airports, including Schiphol, Charles de Gaulle, Orly, and Geneva.
Reeves is expected to formally announce her support for the controversial third runway project in a speech on growth next week. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Rachel Reeves insisted economic growth must be the Government’s top priority.
“When we say that growth is the number one mission of this Government, we mean it, and that means it trumps other things,” the Chancellor told a Bloomberg event.
She criticised previous approaches to development, saying: “The answer can’t always be no…This was the problem with the last Government – that there was always somebody that said ‘Oh yes, of course we want to grow the economy but we don’t like that investment, we don’t like that wind farm, we don’t like those pylons, we don’t like that airport.”
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London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan
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The Chancellor is expected to support expansion plans not only for Heathrow but also for Gatwick and Luton airports. The plans face fierce opposition from environmental campaigners and senior Labour figures.
London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, who won re-election in 2024 on a platform opposing airport expansion, maintains his “long-standing opposition” due to concerns over air quality and London’s net-zero targets.
Eight Cabinet members, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, have previously opposed Heathrow’s expansion. Alethea Warrington, head of aviation at climate charity Possible, called the expansion plans “a catastrophic misstep for a Government which claims to be a climate leader.”
Friends of the Earth’s Jenny Bates warned the decision would be “hugely irresponsible in the midst of a climate emergency”.
Green Party MP Sian Berry has questioned the plans
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Green Party MP Sian Berry questioned who would benefit from the expansion, noting that “frequent flying is the preserve of the super-rich”.
The Brighton Pavilion MP said: “The aviation lobby is loud and well-funded, but the Government should instead be listening to scientists and its own Climate Change Committee, which has already urged a halt to overall airport expansion. The previous Labour Government’s poor record on airport expansion doesn’t have to continue.”
The £14billion Heathrow expansion project would add 260,000 flights annually to the airport’s capacity. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander faces key deadlines on airport expansion decisions in the coming months.
She must rule on Gatwick’s plans to use its emergency northern runway by February 27. A decision on Luton Airport’s bid to increase its passenger numbers cap is due by April 3.
Heathrow Airport said it was “looking at potential options to deliver a third runway” while meeting “strict tests on carbon, noise and air quality”.
The airport currently handles 83.9 million passengers annually and argues it is operating at full capacity.
Typically, when credit cards undergo changes, those changes come with a higher annual fee.
However, that’s not the case for the American Express® Green Card. While the card has experienced multiple updates in recent years, its reasonable $150 annual fee has remained the same.
But what do you get for that $150? Let’s break down the card’s benefits to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your wallet.
The information for the Amex Green 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.
Welcome offer
Currently, new Amex Green applicants can earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first six months of cardmembership.
TPG’s January 2025 valuations peg Membership Rewards points at 2 cents each, making this bonus worth $800.
You have a wide range of options when you’re ready to redeem your Membership Rewards points, including cashing out your points (not the best value) or redeeming with hotel and airline partners (can provide incredible value, depending on the partner).
Excellent uses of Membership Rewards points include domestic flights on Delta Air Lines, flights to South America with LATAM and flights to Japan on Virgin Atlantic for redemptions with ANA.
Related: The ultimate guide to Amex Membership Rewards
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Clear Plus statement credit
Clear is a security program that can help you speed through airport and sporting event security checkpoints by using biometrics to prove your identity.
Membership costs $199 per year, which you can get reimbursed for in full by paying for your Clear Plus membership with your Amex Green card (subject to auto-renewal).
There’s no prior enrollment required with Amex to use this benefit, but you will need to register with Clear Plus and complete your enrollment to use Clear security lanes at a growing number of venues and airports. Terms apply.
Even better, select Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus cobranded credit card holders can get a Clear Plus membership at a reduced price of $159. Since your annual benefit maximum on the Amex Green is $199, that’s enough to cover this reduced price and some of the cost of adding a loved one.
If you don’t already have a Clear Plus membership, this perk alone will more than make up the $150 annual fee cost.
Related: Why your family may want to get Clear Plus before your next flight
Earning rates
One of the best features of the Amex Green may be its earning structure.
Cardmembers earn 3 points per dollar on dining at restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery services in the U.S.), 3 points per dollar on transit (including trains, buses, ferries and subways), 3 points per dollar on travel and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.
With broad travel and transit categories, this is one of the best cards for travel purchases and dining expenses. Since TPG’s January 2025 valuations peg Amex Membership Rewards points at 2 cents apiece, this is an effective 6% return on spending for your travel, commuting and dining expenses.
While the Amex Green earns less at restaurants than the 4 points per dollar (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar) provided by the American Express® Gold Card and doesn’t offer bonus points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, 1 point per dollar thereafter) as the Amex Gold does, the Amex Green provides much better earning rates for commuting and travel.
Related: Card showdown: Amex Gold vs. Amex Green
Additional benefits
Cardmembers also have access to Amex Offers, which can provide rebates or bonus points on your upcoming purchases through targeted promotions.
The card also comes with built-in shopping and travel protections that can provide both peace of mind and security during mishaps at home and abroad. Terms apply.
Related: Everything you need to know about credit card merchant offers
Bottom line
As cardmember benefits have improved on the Amex Green in the past few years, the annual fee has remained steady at a moderate $150. If you can use the Clear Plus benefit, you can easily offset the annual fee.
However, you might not use these perks if you already have another credit card that reimburses your Clear Plus membership. The question at that point would be whether the earning structure on the Amex Green provides enough extra Membership Rewards points each year to make keeping the card worthwhile.
Learn more: American Express Green
Related: Who should (and who shouldn’t) get the Amex Green card?
Lounge access is not just for the rich and famous — it’s for anyone who wants to make their airport travel experience more luxurious and less stressful.
Many top rewards credit cards offer access to the worldwide Priority Pass. Although you may already have a Priority Pass card in your wallet or on your phone, it’s sometimes unclear what that means and what’s included in your membership.
It’s also worth noting that Priority Pass membership isn’t automatic; if you have a credit card that offers membership, you still need to enroll to activate your membership benefits.
Let’s take a closer look at the different levels of Priority Pass membership as well as which cards offer the benefit and how to get the most out of your access.
What is Priority Pass?
Priority Pass is a network of airport lounges, minisuites and even airport restaurants. The company currently boasts 1,700 eligible locations in over 600 cities in 148 countries. For example, you may see a Plaza Premium Lounge that is accessible via your Priority Pass membership.
Although those numbers are impressive, many lounges are outside the U.S.
So, while the network is large, there’s no guarantee you’ll have access to a lounge on every trip you take. However, there’s a good chance Priority Pass can help you on many of your trips.
Priority Pass lounges are at more than 40 U.S. airports, and some have multiple lounges, including:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
- Charleston International Airport (CHS)
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
- Dulles International Airport (IAD)
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Related: The 9 best Priority Pass lounges in the US
When traveling internationally, you may find lounges in small to midsize airports such as Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Costa Rica, and Entebbe International Airport (EBB) in Entebbe, Uganda. There’s even a lounge with a pool in the Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ).
The facilities in the Priority Pass network vary by owner and location. Some lounges, like The Club ATL in Atlanta, are independent facilities, while others are affiliated with airlines. The Lufthansa Business Lounge in Detroit and the Air France Lounge in Boston are examples of this.
As is always the case, it’s worth doing a little bit of research before you plan to visit a Priority Pass lounge, because their quality can vary quite dramatically. Some, like the Vienna Lounge at Vienna International Airport (VIE), are in a class of their own (think priceless artworks and high-end food); others, such as the Bellini VIP Lounge at Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA) in Sicily, are almost laughable in how bad they are.
Related: Inside Priority Pass’ most highly rated lounge
If you are traveling with guests and children, you’ll also want to check the rules of your desired lounge location and your Priority Pass membership to find out if there will be an additional charge or a guest limit.
Priority Pass restaurants and Minute Suites
Priority Pass also has a partnership with some airport restaurants, lounges with beds (Minute Suites) and more. This allows members to enjoy perks at locations that don’t have a traditional lounge or gives them the chance to eat at a restaurant rather than an airport lounge for a change.
Note: American Express removed the restaurant benefit from its Priority Pass memberships some time ago, and Capital One removed this benefit at the start of 2023 for personal Venture X cardholders.
Similarly, the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card* offers eight Priority Pass visits per year, but these cannot be used for Priority Pass restaurants, according to a spokesperson for U.S. Bank.
The credit cards offering Priority Pass memberships that still include nonlounge visits, such as at spas and restaurants, include:
*The information for these cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
There are currently more than 30 Priority Pass-participating airport restaurants within the U.S., and more are available internationally. Some examples include:
The amount of the Priority Pass restaurant credit varies, but it averages $28 per person. Some restaurants also cap the number of guests.
At bars and restaurants, gratuity is not included, so be sure to tip on the bill amount before the credit is applied. Many locations do not allow you to take items to go, so it might not be the best option if you are in a rush.
Priority Pass also has some less conventional airport options. For example, the PGA MSP Lounge at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) offers free access to a putting green, along with golf lessons and a golf simulator for a fee. This lounge also offers a $15 credit you can apply toward food, drinks or a golf experience. Remember that this location has the same limitations as other nonlounge visits mentioned above.
Finally, Priority Pass provides access to Minute Suites in Atlanta, Charlotte, Salt Lake City, Dallas-Fort Worth and Philadelphia. The first hour is included with your Priority Pass membership, and you can rent additional hours at a discounted rate of $34.
On the other side of the world, sleep pods are available at Dubai International Airport (DXB) for two to three hours, depending on the time of day.
Related: The 10 best Priority Pass lounges around the world
What is the difference between Priority Pass and Priority Pass Select?
There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the terms “Priority Pass” and “Priority Pass Select,” so we want to clear the air.
Priority Pass is the name of the company that offers memberships to lounges in its network. You can purchase Priority Pass memberships directly on the site, with annual fees starting at $99. Here’s a breakdown of the membership options:
- Standard membership: $99 per year; includes visits for $35 each for the member and any guests.
- Standard Plus membership: $329 per year; includes 10 free visits, with subsequent visits for $35 each (the same price as all guest visits).
- Prestige membership: $469 per year. All visits are included for the member, though guests are charged $35 per visit.
If you’re considering one of the above Priority Pass membership packages, Standard is best for occasional travelers. Standard Plus is best suited to frequent travelers who would visit airport lounges several times per year. The Prestige membership is for those frequent flyers who would make good use of unlimited lounge visits due to how often they travel.
Many U.S. credit cards offer Priority Pass access benefits called Priority Pass Select. Some are for just one person, while others include guests, depending on the card.
In either case, Priority Pass and Priority Pass Select members can pay for additional guests beyond what is included with their membership.
Related: Is a Priority Pass lounge membership actually worth it?
Credit cards that offer Priority Pass Select memberships
These are multiple credit cards through which you can get a Priority Pass Select membership.
These include not only premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required) but also hotel credit cards like the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card (enrollment required) and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which even includes two guests.
Other cards that offer Priority Pass benefits include:
*The information for these cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Note that the number of visits included and guest policies with each card can vary and will generally require that you enroll for the perk.
Check out this guide for more information on the best credit cards to access Priority Pass lounges.
How to use Priority Pass benefits
Even if you have a card with a Priority Pass Select membership, you usually can’t just present your credit card at a participating lounge, restaurant or Minute Suite and receive complimentary access.
First, you must enroll in the program using a link associated with your credit card account. Find the link under “Benefits” when you log in to your account.
Related: How to enroll in Priority Pass with eligible credit cards
Because it can take a week or two to receive your membership card in the mail, it’s best to enroll as soon as you receive your credit card if you’re interested in this benefit.
In the meantime, you can download the Priority Pass app, which includes a digital membership card that you can use to access most, but not all, facilities.
Make sure to know if guests are permitted as part of your benefit — and how many — ahead of your visit; the reception team at the lounge won’t always know your specific guest privileges.
Because you’re never asked to present your credit card at the lounge, you might not know you’re charged until you see your statement.
The lounge might be full
Your best-laid lounge plans may not work out. Nowadays, many travelers have lounge access, and the lounges sometimes reach capacity. Some lounges are available to Priority Pass members during select hours only. Check the Priority Pass website before your next trip for available locations and their hours. Don’t be shocked if some lounges are temporarily at capacity during peak times and deny access to Priority Pass members.
Bottom line
Several cards offer Priority Pass Select membership as a benefit. This program can improve your travel experience with goodies like free food and drinks, as well as a comfortable place to relax or get some work done.
Check specific details of your membership, because the guest policies vary from card to card.
Related reading:
American Airlines is once again adding a small city to its route map.
This time, the Fort Worth-based carrier will commence its first-ever service to Columbus, Mississippi, on May 5, as first seen in Cirium schedules and later confirmed by an airline spokesperson.
American will operate once-daily flights from its megahub at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to Golden Triangle Regional Airport (GTR) using the CRJ-700 regional jet. American Eagle subsidiary SkyWest Airlines will fly the route with this 65-seat plane that accommodates nine first-class passengers, 12 Main Cabin Extra seats and 44 standard economy seats.
TPG’s picks: The most exciting new airline routes for 2025
GTR isn’t exactly an airport code that most travelers will be familiar with, but the airport’s catchment area includes the Golden Triangle region of Mississippi. Specifically, it consists of the Mississippi cities of Columbus, West Point and Starkville — the latter is the home of Mississippi State University.
Regardless of what the area is called, Delta Air Lines has had a monopoly on it for decades, connecting GTR to its Atlanta megahub with up-to-four-times-daily flights, Cirium schedules show. (Delta had a brief stint flying from Columbus to its then-Memphis hub from May 2009 to September 2011, according to Cirium.)
Atlanta is just a 241-mile hop from Columbus, so the airline can offer well-timed connections for those looking to travel beyond the Georgia capital.
For its part, American has been busy in recent months adding small- and medium-size cities to its route map that haven’t historically been on its radar. This new service is part of the airline’s expansion strategy to capture and funnel as much connecting traffic as possible across some of its busiest hubs, including Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), DFW and Miami International Airport (MIA).
Value check: Are airline credit cards worth it anymore?
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Some examples of these new destinations include Carlsbad, California; Provo, Utah; and South Caicos, Turks and Caicos.
In a statement confirming the move, an airline spokesperson shared: “American Airlines will start offering nonstop flights from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to Golden Triangle Regional Airport starting May 5, operated by SkyWest. Customers will be able to connect on American’s expansive network to more than 230 destinations from DFW.”
These additions contrast with the pandemic-era cuts at the start of the decade, which saw the Big Three U.S. airlines collectively drop 75 domestic cities from their networks, according to data compiled by aviation consulting firm Ailevon Pacific. American has exited 18 U.S. markets since the pandemic began, the data shows.
Now that the pandemic is in the rearview mirror, the airlines are once again going back into some of these smaller cities.
Of course, the real winners are the locals who will now enjoy increased access to hundreds of destinations — hopefully for cheaper than before when there was just one airline in town.
Related reading:
If you’re thinking about applying for the Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees) — formerly known as the CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard® — but are uncertain whether your credit score qualifies you for approval, we can help with that.
Let’s look at the different factors you should consider before deciding on whether or not you should apply for this small-business rewards credit card.
What credit score do you need to get the Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard?
Although the Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard is a small-business credit card, your personal credit score will be considered during the application process. Some issuers also check your business credit score during the application process, if your business has a credit history.
Citi doesn’t publish specific credit scores that are needed to be approved for the Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard. After all, your credit score is just one of many factors that Citi will take into account when deciding whether to approve your application. But you’ll generally need a good credit score of at least 730* to be approved for a rewards credit card.
It is, however, possible to get approved with a lower score depending on your specific application details.
*The Points Guy credit ranges are derived from FICO® Score 8, which is one of many different types of credit scores. If you apply for a credit card, the lender may use a different credit score when considering your application for credit.
Who should get the Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard?
The Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard is a decent card if you want extra perks when flying American Airlines.
As a cardholder, you’ll get the first checked bag free on American Airlines domestic itineraries for you and up to four companions traveling on the same reservation. The $99 annual fee is waived the first year, but in subsequent years it’s easy to justify this fee if you check at least three bags a year.
The card is currently offering a solid bonus of 65,000 American Airlines AAdvantage miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first four months of account opening. Based on TPG’s January 2025 valuations, the welcome bonus is worth $1,073.
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You earn 2 AAdvantage miles on eligible American Airlines purchases, as well as spending with telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and gas stations. All other purchases earn 1 mile per dollar spent.
How many card accounts can I have open?
Citi doesn’t seem to limit the overall number of credit cards you can have open. The issuer does, however, seem to have a maximum credit line that may extend across all of your Citi cards, though. So, if you have at least one other small-business credit card with Citi and aren’t approved for a new card, you may want to call Citi’s reconsideration line to see if shifting some credit from one of your current small-business cards will allow you to open the new card.
Related: How many credit cards should I have?
Who is eligible for a sign-up bonus?
The card application notes that “American Airlines AAdvantage bonus miles are not available if you have received a new account bonus for a Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard account in the past 48 months.” So, if you’ve received a sign-up bonus for this card in the last four years, you won’t be eligible to earn another bonus at this time.
Related: Earning another AAdvantage card sign-up bonus: What you need to know
Do I need a business to get a business credit card?
Yes, you do need a business to get a business credit card, but many types of small businesses can be eligible, including some work that you may not have previously considered. For example, selling items online, providing music lessons, tutoring children, freelance jobs or managing a rental property can all make you eligible for a business credit card.
You don’t have to have a registered business to apply for a business credit card. You can select “sole proprietor” as the type of business when filling out the application, enter your name as the business name and enter your Social Security number as your tax ID number.
Related: Best business credit cards
How to check your credit score
There are many ways to check your consumer credit score for free. For example, many credit cards let you check your FICO score for no charge. It’s a good idea to track your score’s progress over time, especially if you’re looking to improve your credit score.
You can also check your business credit score, but you’ll usually need to pay to see your actual score or a full credit report.
It’s important to realize that you don’t just have one credit score. Instead, there are different calculation methods and credit reporting agencies. Your business and personal credit scores will vary based on the calculation method and credit reporting agency that is used.
Related: 9 reasons to get a business credit card
Factors that affect your credit score
Once you know your credit score range, you may wonder what factors affect your credit score. Let’s focus on your personal credit score since we know that Citi will consider this score for all applicants of the Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard.
There are a few formulas for calculating your credit score, but none of the exact calculations are public. Nonetheless, FICO is relatively transparent about the different factors they assess and how much weight each is given:
- Payment history (35%): Whether you’ve paid past credit accounts on time.
- Amounts owed (30%): The relative size of your current debt and the ratio of your current debt to your available credit.
- Length of credit history (15%): How long your credit accounts have been established (including the age of your oldest account, the age of your newest account and the average age of all your accounts), how long certain credit accounts have been established and how long it has been since you used certain accounts.
- New credit (10%): How many new accounts you have opened recently.
- Credit mix (10%): How many different types of credit accounts you have, such credit cards, retail accounts, installment loans, finance company accounts and mortgage loans.
What to do if you get rejected
If your application is rejected, you’ll get a letter in the mail that states why Citi turned you down. Depending on the reasons, you may want to use this information to improve your credit score before applying again. Or, if you believe you can provide additional information that might lead to approval of your application, you can call Citi’s reconsideration line to make your case.
If you call the reconsideration line, be prepared to answer questions about your business and present a compelling argument for why Citi should approve your application.
Related: How bad is it to get denied for a credit card?
How long to wait before applying again
It’s best to avoid applying again until you’ve addressed the reasons Citi gave for rejecting you. But, if you want to apply again or apply for a different card from this issuer, the consensus about applying for Citi credit cards is that you can only apply for one card (personal or business) every eight days, no more than two cards in a 65-day window and no more than one business card in a 90-day window.
How much are American Airlines AAdvantage miles worth?
According to TPG’s January 2025 valuations, American Airlines miles are worth 1.65 cents each, making the current sign-up bonus for the Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard worth $1,073. If you use your miles wisely, you can redeem your AA miles for far greater value.
Credit card writer Danyal Ahmed has redeemed his miles for as much as 6.5 cents a piece when booking Qatar Airways business class for 70,000 miles.
Related: How (and why) to calculate award redemption values
Bottom line
If you’re an American Airlines loyalist and a business owner, the Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard is a good choice as you earn bonus miles in business-specific categories and on travel with American Airlines.
Elite like benefits such as priority boarding and free checked bags are enough to help offset the $99 annual fee. If your credit score is at least 730 and your credit profile is good overall, this card and its current welcome offer could be a great value add for your business.
Apply here: Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard
Moving abroad can be a challenging and scary decision for the majority of people but hearing from expats who have had a positive experience from embarking on a move can be reassuring.
Expats, Emmanuel and Marina, who spoke on the YouTube channel SUNPIRE, lived in the UK for 15 years before moving to Greece in 2018. They have now shared their experience of moving to another country.
They explained that despite some of the challenges of moving abroad, the people of Greece have been incredibly welcoming and kind to them.
“The people from Greece are different. Their heart is open and they are really approachable and joyful,” the pair said.
The expats said their experience has been wonderful in Greece
GETTY
Marina said: “I like how they take care of children and how they love children. Wherever you go, their attitude towards children is so warm, so loving and so genuine.
“Family is very important to them and the community in general and this is what I think we are missing from the UK.”
The couple admitted they had been thinking of moving abroad for a long time before making the decision to move to Greece as they did not want to grow old in the UK.
“We wanted to be somewhere else and have a different lifestyle. After our trip to Greece, I had the most amazing experience, I was in love first-hand,” explained Marina.
The main challenge the pair had was the logistics of moving abroad. They admitted they did plenty of research online and realised that putting their dream into reality would be trickier than initially anticipated.
Emmanuel said: “The logistics is probably the biggest challenge because we have so much stuff. If we were to empty the house, we would have to put it in storage which is going to be extra costs.
“So you need to worry about renting or selling your house, paying for storage every month. Logistically, it is a problem. You can try to ship everything here in one go but then you need the space here as well.”
The pair recommend doing as much research as possible before moving abroad as there are several hurdles to get over people do not even anticipate.
The expats said they fell in love with Greece even before moving there
GETTY
Another aspect that won the duo over was the incredible weather in Greece, with the sun blazing for almost all the summer.
They said: “When we came back from Greece for work and saw the weather and the sky in Luton, we opened the door of the plane and thought, let’s close it and go back!”
Last year, the weather in Greece saw the warmest summer on record with an average daily temperature of around 30C, sometimes reaching the high 30C or even above 40C.
Expats in Portugal have also recently shared their experience of moving abroad.
They were blown away by the kindness of the people abroad who would not want anything in return for their generosity.
The Platinum Card® from American Express offers travelers a slew of incredible perks, ranging from statement credits to status upgrades to lounge benefits. This results in one of the best collections of membership perks of any card out there for its undoubtedly high $695 annual fee (see rates and fees).
One of the main benefits for cardmember comes in the form of an annual up-to-$200 statement per calendar year on prepaid nights at hotels that are part of American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay to use the credit.
You need to book your stays at the included properties through Amex Travel and pay with your Amex Platinum card. You might even end up spending a night for half off (and, in some cases, close to nothing at all) once the statement credit comes through.
From Bali to Miami, there are many noteworthy hotels with availability between $150 and $550 per night in the American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection portfolios.
Note that room costs may change at any time and can vary depending on the time of year you’ll be staying, so make sure to check your chosen dates through Amex Travel.
Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits
It’s especially appealing to book through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts thanks to all the standard perks that get added onto reservations for Amex Platinum or Centurion cardmembers, including the following (regardless of the length of your stay):
- Room upgrade upon arrival, when available at check-in (properties may exclude some room types, and some may only give you a room with a better view)
- Experience credit valued at $100, usually consisting of a property, dining or spa credit
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two people
- Guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout
- Noon check-in, when available
- Complimentary Wi-Fi*
*When a property includes Wi-Fi in a mandatory resort fee, you’ll receive a daily credit equal to the property’s standard Wi-Fi cost.
The information for the Centurion cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
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Perks through The Hotel Collection
The Hotel Collection properties are much shorter:
- Upgrades based on availability at check-in
- Experience credit valued at $100, usually consisting of a property, dining or spa credit
- 12 p.m. check-in, when available
- Late checkout, when available
Note that you must book a minimum two-night stay through The Hotel Collection, but Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings can be for a single night.
Hotels to book with your Amex Platinum credit
While there are many hotels you can book in the Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection portfolios, some provide significant discounts and cost next to nothing once you tack on the annual Amex Platinum hotel statement credit. You might even end up ahead once you add in the $100 experience or property credits that come with all of the below stays.
Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui
Overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort in Koh Samui, puts explorations on one of Thailand’s most storied islands at your doorstep.
With average rates of $370 per night, your statement and experience credits can nearly cover a night’s stay. When you’re not strolling the white sand beach fronting the property, dipping in the infinity pool or indulging in yet another Thai massage, visit nearby attractions like the Samui Elephant Sanctuary, the Buddhist temple complex of Wat Phra Yai on a small offshore island or famous Chaweng Beach, just a short taxi ride north.
TPG tip: Use your experience credit to enjoy a spread of spicy, savory southern Thai cuisine at the resort’s great restaurant, Panali.
Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco
Heady times await in the vertiginous city of Cusco, Peru, perched in the Andes at over 11,000 feet. Stay in the heart of the city’s historic center, right across from the Temple of the Sun, at Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco, where TPG has found average room rates for around $433 per night.
The hotel occupies a mansion that’s roughly 500 years old and is loaded with hand-carved furnishings, Latin American artwork (including pre-Inca pieces) and antiques.
These create a real sense of place alongside the creature comforts you crave in a luxury stay. Rooms are painted rich reds and ochres and decorated with ceramics and tiles, adding to the richness of the hotel’s ambience.
TPG tip: Use your experience credit to enjoy a thermal circuit or a hydromassage in the on-site spa.
Related: The top Kimpton Hotels across the world, according to IHG Diamond members
PGA National Resort
Spend some time in the South Florida sun playing golf or just relaxing poolside when you check into PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, where you can take your pick of six championship golf courses for play.
Rooms average around $500 but can often be found for far less, particularly midweek.
The resort’s spa offers unique ocean-inspired treatments like seafoam body wraps. You’re spoiled for pools to lounge by here, too, with three in the mix.
TPG tip: Use your experience credit for dinner at the retro-inspired Birdie’s Diner.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
At this popular Las Vegas hotel and casino in The Hotel Collection, average room rates hover around $400 per night.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas’s pool scene is a favorite along the Las Vegas Strip, with a “Pool District” that includes three different experiences, among them the adults-only Marquee Nightclub and Dayclub.
TPG tip: Use your experience credit at the desert-inspired Sahra Spa during your stay.
Related: Jackpot! Best hotels in Vegas for a Sin City getaway
The Ritz-Carlton, Bali
One of the most spectacular properties on an island full of them, TPG recently found rates in the Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts collection for around the $300 mark for junior suites at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, where cliffside villas with private pools overlook the ocean in Nusa Dua. It’s a splurge, to be sure, but there are so many things to love at this resort.
If you do just one thing on-site, soak in the spa’s five hydrotherapy stations within a tropical greenhouse setting.
TPG tip: Use your experience credit at the hotel’s clifftop Indonesian restaurant and spa.
Related: Stay at these amazing Ritz-Carltons around the world
Casa de Campo Resort & Villas
The Dominican Republic makes for one of the more accessible Caribbean getaways. And if you’re into golfing, you can leave the Punta Cana crowds behind with a stay at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, an Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts property along the island’s south coast, home to three award-winning courses.
Note that renovations recently began on the golf courses; they will be inaccessible through the end of 2025 (subject to change).
We found nights for under $570 in superior casitas. The three Pete Dye-designed golf courses make Casa de Campo a runaway favorite with the golf crowd, and there is also an equestrian center and an on-site marina where you can head out on deep-sea fishing excursions.
TPG tip: You can receive a complimentary personal golf cart for cruising the resort’s vast and rolling grounds.
Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla
With rates consistently around or below the $200 mark (TPG recently found a room for just $149 per night), this urban hotel overlooking Nichupte Lagoon in Cancun, Mexico, may not be on the beach but still offers lots of great amenities.
Part of The Hotel Collection, the Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla has a rooftop pool and is directly connected to the nightlife and restaurants of La Isla Entertainment Village.
TPG tip: Use your $100 experience credit at Wander Rooftop for cocktails or dinner while enjoying views of Cancun.
Hotel William Gray
Also in The Hotel Collection, the Hotel William Gray in Montreal shows rates around the $355 mark and makes for an elegant stay right near the Place Jacques-Cartier and the Old Port of Montreal.
The rooftop bar, Terrasse William Gray, has fab views of the St. Lawrence River and heaters that switch on when the temperatures drop.
TPG tip: Use your experience credit to access Spa William Gray facilities, which require an additional fee. Facilities include a hot and cold thermal experience with a Himalayan salt room, Finnish sauna, experiential showers, cold room, herbal sauna and seasonal outdoor pool.
Bottom line
The Amex Platinum offers a wide range of benefits, and the annual up to $200 statement credit per calendar year toward American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection is one of the easiest ways for cardmembers to recoup money.
In addition to the statement credit, the hotel booking’s inclusion of an upgrade, breakfast and property credit brings down the cost of your stay while enjoying a luxury property.
To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Platinum.
Apply here: Amex Platinum
For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum card, click here.
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