Author: Matt Graham
China Southern Put to the Test
Our member mushez recently sampled China Southern Airlines on a quick trip to China. Four China Southern flights were taken in total as our member flew from Brisbane to Shanghai and back, with a stopover in Guangzhou in both directions. So, would the airline meet expectations? Concerned about the quality of the catering, our member stocked … Continued
Air Asia and Scoot Launch Cheap Flights to Europe
Low-cost airlines Air Asia X and Scoot have both announced new flights to Europe, and tickets from Australia to Europe are now on sale for as little as $369! From 30 October 2016, Air Asia X will commence flights from Kuala Lumpur to Barcelona using an Airbus A330. The flights will operate via Istanbul, and … Continued
Avoid High Taxes on Reward Flights
When redeeming frequent flyer points, high taxes can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of a “free” flight. These taxes typically need to be paid with real money, in addition to the points required. Many airlines also impose their own “carrier charges”, sometimes disguised as fuel surcharges. Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Emirates and British Airways … Continued
Virgin Slashes Frequent Flyer Perks
Our members are outraged by Virgin’s plans to remove key frequent flyer benefits from next month. Gold & Platinum flyers will no longer receive perks including Fly Ahead, complimentary seat selection or bonus points when flying on Virgin’s cheapest Economy tickets. Even when flying on more expensive tickets, Virgin’s most loyal flyers may soon be forced … Continued
Enjoying an Eastern European Summer
What better way to escape the Australian winter than by heading north? The Australian winter coincides with summer in Europe, and our member ozmatt has made somewhat of a habit of visiting during this popular travel period. Each Euro-summer I head to Europe for as long as I think I can get away with it … Continued
Inspiration for a Long Weekend Getaway
One member is planning to use points for a long weekend overseas, and is seeking some destination inspiration. Based in Sydney, this member would like to leave Australia on a Friday and return in time to return to work on Monday morning. I’m looking for some inspiration for a weekend getaway. My thoughts are call in sick on … Continued
How to Get the Best Exchange Rate on Foreign Currency
When travelling overseas, you’ll need to obtain foreign currency. This week our members reveal the best ways to get a great rate and save money in the process! If you prefer to change cash in Australia, it’s best to avoid the major banks. Instead, smaller outlets that specialise in foreign exchange can often give you … Continued
Jetstar Price Bait
Jetstar has been accused of blatantly misleading customers by advertising cheap airfares that don’t exist. After clicking on a Jetstar advertisement for $169 flights to Hawaii, one member was unable to find a single flight available at that price. In fact, the lowest airfare our member could find was double the rate initially shown. While Jetstar … Continued
Flying to New York with Virgin Velocity Points
With almost 600,000 Virgin Australia Velocity points at their disposal, one member is planning a trip for two from Melbourne to New York. They would like to redeem their Velocity points to fly Business class, and seek advice on an itinerary to New York that offers good value. Just wondering what is the ‘best’ way … Continued