Miles Away

It's here — the final episode of Season 1 of our travel-themed podcast, Miles Away! To close out, we take you on a journey all around the world, as we share some highlights from the first year. Hear from professional travelers as they detail destinations from French Polynesia to Cape Town, and everywhere in between. And, please subscribe and stay tuned for much more to come — Season 2 will be here before you know it! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We're heading down to the booming capital city of Austin, TX — one of the world's best places to enjoy BBQ, live music and the great outdoors. TPG's resident Austin local Katherine Fan joins to give listeners a taste of her favorite Texas hotspot. Visitors may know Austin as a leading party destination, but the city's also growing as a global tech, food and culture hub, making it a must-see for countless tourists and business travelers alike. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today is a full-fledged airline battle with JT Genter (American Airlines), Scott Mayerowitz (Delta), Zach Honig (United) and Benet Wilson (Southwest). These TPGers debate the inflight product — things like the seats, fleet, catering and service — airports and lounges, frequent-flyer perks and more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Lori Zaino, senior writer at TPG and Madrid resident, explains why you shouldn't miss out on visiting one of Western Europe's more affordable capitals, and shares her tips for using points and miles to book a a luxury adventure on the cheap. You'll also learn about what makes the city so alluring, which food markets to visit and tastier alternatives to sangria. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Giveaway Alert! This week, we're giving you a chance to win the luxury adventure of a lifetime, and the only way to win is to listen to this episode — two round-trip business-class tickets from the US to Turkey and three nights at the Four Seasons in Istanbul! Plus, TPG's Zach Honig and Nick Ellis discuss what makes a visit to Turkey so special, including must-visit sites, such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We head to the South Pacific to conquer a top item on many an aviation geek's bucket list: United's special Island Hopper flight, connecting the islands between Honolulu and Guam. TPG globe-trotting duo, JT and Katie Genter, share their tips for booking, making the most of each leg and enjoying some stops in paradise along the way. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

TPG UK's director of content Nicky Kelvin details flight and hotel options and debunks those age-old rumors of sub-par British cuisine — Indian food reigns supreme, while global news editor Emily McNutt chats about life as a London expat and permanent tourist having recently relocated from New York City. Learn which neighborhoods to visit and how best to get around. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

If you've been thinking about getting to know America better with a road trip, we've got you covered. Travel expert Lee Abbamonte shares his tips on how to conquer the four corners of the United States. He provides a route suggestion, expenses you should factor in, and how to stay entertained when you have hundreds of miles of road ahead of you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The general manager of TripSavvy, Molly Fergus shares some tips around planning an early Autumn visit to Oktoberfest in Munich. Get the lowdown on the history of the event and where best to fly into and stay. Molly and Zach have got your survival guide for an unforgettable time in the city's famed beer halls and tents. Pro Tip — reserve your seat ahead of time. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Brian Biros, TPG's resident backpacker, closes out his Miles Away Takeover. This time, TPG's senior travel features reporter Katherine Fan joins him in conversation about tips for solo female travelers. Katherine shares advice on how to stay safe, making friends along the way, and what men can do to support their fellow sisters on the road. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

TPG's resident backpacker, Brian Biros, takes over "Miles Away" on this week's episode. We asked our listeners to call in and, boy, did they deliver! This time, Biros answers questions on expert packing tips, making the most of a small budget and maximizing points just for economy. And find out what you can do if you end up with a coveted million JetBlue TrueBlue Points.Show Notes:Ranger Roll Packing TechniqueHow to Survive a Long-Haul Flight in Economy See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

We're exploring TPG's hometown today. Our team breaks down all of NYC: You'll learn about the neighborhoods, hear about a handful of the most iconic — and points-friendly — hotels, Paul McCartney's favorite pizza spot and our own restaurant recommendations. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

MSNBC weekend anchor Kendis Gibson joins us for an episode all about Cape Town, South Africa. Gibson explains why this city is perfect for your first trip to South Africa, breaks down the neighborhoods and shares where to find the most delicious food. Stay tuned till the end for flight and hotel options. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Miles Away heads to the Bay Area for this episode. Brendan Dorsey, TPG's associate news editor, breaks down San Francisco; He shares where to stay and how to plan your days. You'll also find out what makes this city suitable for all kinds of travelers. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Whether you’re looking to zone out on a relaxing beach vacation or take a more adventurous route, look no further than Croatia. TPG Travel Editor Melanie Lieberman and TPG Social Media Editor Samantha Rosen share their must-have tips on everything you need to know about Adriatic coastal cuisine to Europe’s version of Yosemite National Park. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Summer Hull, AKA Mommy Points, joins Miles Away to tell you everything you need to know about booking a trip to Disney World. You'll learn how to navigate all four parks, discover resort and hotel options, and walk away knowing if you're better off going to Universal instead. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Darren Murph returns to the podcast to share his love of Alaska, detailing the best times to visit, the differences between Fairbanks and Anchorage, and providing recommendations so you can maximize your time in this gigantic, 663,300-square-mile state. And, being the world-class traveler that he is, Darren even manages to mix in some advice for taking your adventure to the next level, with a side trip way down south to Hawaii. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

TPG's social media editor Samantha Rosen and producer Danielle Vito break down how social media is changing the way people travel. They share tips, explain what to look out for and what to avoid, and offer their strategies for maximizing points and miles. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Johnny Jet is the founder of johnnyjet.com, a world traveler and a Manhattan Beach local. We sat down with him while he was in New York City to find out what to do if you have a long layover at LAX. Manhattan Beach is just five miles from LAX, so there is no need to stay in the airport if you have time to kill. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Sarah Silbert,TPG's senior credit cards editor, is a Kauai expert. She explains the differences between Princeville and Poipu, shares several hotel and flight options — bookable on points and miles, of course — and offers a few activity and food recommendations. You'll walk away from this episode knowing whether Kauai is the right Hawaiian island for you. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

TPG's travel analyst, Zach Griff, takes us along as he recounts his recent trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand. Not only is this destination bookable on points and miles, it also has tons of affordable accommodation (if you look in the right place) and is easily accessible from many major hubs in South East Asia. Griff suggests experiences that would be great for both families and couples, like farm-to-fork cooking classes and Thai spa treatments, and explains why Chiang Mai’s perfect for adventure travelers. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Aruba is the epitome of classic white sand beaches and clear blue water, and a destination you should be adding to your travel list in 2019. TPG reviews editor Nick Ellis tells us about his recent family trip to this tropical island and helps Zach plan his upcoming trip. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Instead of hanging out near LAX on a recent overnight layover, Zach headed down to Anaheim for a quick trip to Disneyland. TPG contributor and Disney guru Ed Pizzarello joins this episode to share how you can do the same, explaining when to chose Disneyland over Disney World, how to save on a nearby hotel and making the most of a quick trip with various line-skipping tips. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today, you'll hear from Zane Lamprey, a world traveler, entrepreneur and TV host, to talk all things Maui. Zane's been to Maui a dozen times and recently booked a first-class ticket on points. He shares his hotel picks, tips for first-time visitors and why you're better off going to Kauai if you want to avoid the crowds. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Seychelles is a cluster of islands that TPG's senior writer Darren Murph describe as "Africa's Hawaii." This remote destination is meant for adventurous travelers: You'll find awesome hiking trails, gorgeous beaches, fresh seafood, and experience a unique culture. With several points-and-miles options for hotels and flights, your trip to paradise is more accessible than ever.Links:How to Use Points to Visit The Seychelles See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

TPG's global news editor Emily McNutt and reviews editor Nick Ellis share why Singapore is a great pick for your first Southeast Asia trip, detailing activities around town, top flight and hotel options, and even a quick ferry jaunt to Indonesia. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today we’re exploring New Orleans with the editorial director of special projects at the New York Times and TPG‘s social media editor, Samantha Rosen. Dan Saltzstein explains why he named the Crescent City the No. 1 place to travel in 2018, as well as some of his favorite bars and restaurants. Afterward, Samantha shares points-and-miles tips, when to book and what neighborhoods to stay in. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode of "Miles Away," we're going to Auckland, New Zealand, with TPG's Global News Editor Emily McNutt. Emily shares her favorite hotels, flights and activities, like exploring wineries and hiking. Auckland is a perfect destination for families and groups of friends. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On this episode of Miles Away, host Zach Honig welcomes TPG Family editor Summer Hull and contributor Jason Steele to explain the best spring skiing options in Colorado. You'll hear planning logistics and ski pass tips, as well as hotel and flight redemption options to get you to resorts like Keystone, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek and more. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

TPG news editor Emily McNutt and reviews editor Nick Ellis join Miles Away host Zach Honig to talk about what makes Scandinavia such a desirable destination - and why you should consider visiting in the dead of winter. Nick's never been, so Zach and Emily detail options to get there in business class using his Chase or Amex points, as well as hotel options. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

One of the world's most remote islands is now within reach — naturally, Lee Abbamonte, one of the world's most-traveled people was among the first to visit by air. In this very special "Off the Beaten Path" episode of Miles Away, host Zach Honig sits down with Lee as they explore St. Helena's newfound tourist appeal, including attractions, hotels and the local culture, and why you might want to book a trip soon. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this episode of Miles Away, host Zach Honig digs into one of his favorite travel topics as TPG Family editor Summer Hull and contributor Kathleen Porter Kristiansen share their favorite ski destinations throughout North America. You'll learn where to stay, tips for saving on rentals and lift tickets and how to use points and miles to book your flights and hotel for a fraction of the price. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this podcast premiere, Miles Away host Zach Honig explores French Polynesia with The Points Guy Senior Writer Darren Murph. Honeymoon hotspots Bora Bora, Moorea and Tahiti are more accessible than ever before, with affordable flight and hotel awards, even at some of the world's top resorts. You'll walk away with booking advice for lie-flat business-class flights and Instagrammable bungalows, along with planning tips and activity recommendations, from jet ski tours to volcanic mountain hikes. It's time to pack your bags and join Miles Away for an unforgettable, yet affordable trip to paradise.Notes: French Polynesia Hotels See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Welcome to Miles Away, a new podcast from The Points Guy launching Jan. 2, 2019. Each week, travelers will learn how to make the most of their points and miles to book a luxurious trip to some of the world's most incredible destinations, at a fraction of the price. In this introductory episode, host Zach Honig sits down with Nick Ewen, TPG's senior points and miles editor, to explain how to easily earn and redeem valuable travel rewards, making it clear that you're just a few miles away from an unbeatable vacation. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.