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Redeeming Virgin Velocity Points to the USA

Redeeming Virgin Velocity points for Business class flights to the United States used to be fairly simple. But in recent times, securing a reward seat has become a real challenge. All Velocity members can redeem points for Business reward seats. Velocity Gold and Platinum members can also request a points upgrade to Business class, provided … Continued

2 Jan 2017 Virgin Australia

Velocity Points to Stop Flowing at BP?

BP has announced plans to purchase Woolworths Petrol for $1.8 billion, spelling an end to Woolworths’ long-standing partnership with Caltex. It will likely also signal the end of BP’s extensive partnership with Velocity, the frequent flyer program of Virgin Australia. As part of the deal, BP will acquire more than 500 Woolworths-branded petrol stations. If regulatory … Continued

31 Dec 2016 Virgin Australia

First Class Tickets Earned in 3 Months

A grateful new member has already earned enough points for two First class tickets to Europe, with the help of the Australian Frequent Flyer forum! Remarkably, they managed to earn these points in just three months by taking advantage of credit card signup bonuses. And this member believes that anyone can do the same thing. … Continued

15 Dec 2016 Credit Cards

The Key to a Successful Points Upgrade

Upgrading to Business or First class is not only an affordable way to travel in luxury, but also an excellent use of frequent flyer points. Unfortunately, there’s a catch: upgrades can be difficult to secure, and there’s a risk that your request will be unsuccessful. But there’s some good news if you want to use … Continued

14 Dec 2016 Airlines, Miles and Points

Should Virgin Australia Join an Alliance?

Virgin Australia currently belongs to a virtual network of partner airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Etihad and Air New Zealand. Virgin flyers can earn and redeem points with each of these partners. Velocity Silver, Gold and Platinum members also enjoy reciprocal status recognition when flying with these airlines. But some members believe that the existing arrangements … Continued

12 Dec 2016 Global Airline Alliances

Around the World in First Class

AFF member mmchow recently set off on what looks like the adventure of a lifetime, sampling First class on Etihad, Emirates, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines as they circle the globe! Frequent flyer points were redeemed for each of the flights, and they’ve certainly made the most of them. It all started with the soon-to-expire 20K … Continued

10 Dec 2016 Flight Reviews

Bonus Qantas Points Bonanza

One of the best deals of the year on Qantas points is back! Until 31 December, you can earn 5 points for every dollar spent on Qantas gift vouchers. That’s on top of the points you could earn for taking the flights and for buying the vouchers with a credit card. Qantas vouchers can be used to book … Continued

8 Dec 2016 Qantas

Non-Stop Flights to London in Doubt

It’s no secret that Qantas has been considering flying non-stop from Perth to London as early as next year, using its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. But it seems this new flight, which would be one of the world’s longest, may not go ahead after all. Qantas will receive its first Boeing 787 aircraft in … Continued

3 Dec 2016 Qantas

Quitting the Frequent Flyer Game

After many years as a Qantas Platinum member, one frequent flyer has decided to give up their status and quit the frequent flyer game. Lamenting the gradual devaluation of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program, this member decided that the benefits of their status were no longer worth the money being spent to stay loyal to Qantas. … Continued

1 Dec 2016 Qantas

Culinary Delights in South Korea

AFF member Abdul_A350 has been on a culinary odyssey lately in South Korea. He decided to explore some recommended restaurants before the first Michelin Guide to South Korea was published in early November, and presumably, the prices increased. I selected these restaurants primarily based on recommendations from friends and colleagues. I also eat a lot … Continued

30 Nov 2016 Destinations

Cash Rush Hits India

Travellers to India this month were stung by the sudden demonetisation of certain banknotes. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave very little notice of the change, resulting in a cash rush at bank branches and ATMs within the country. The 500 and 1000 rupee notes were a common target of forgers. Replacing them will be … Continued

28 Nov 2016 Travel Money

2 Passengers, 1 Cheap Airfare

Have you ever found a great deal on a flight, only to see the price increase when trying to book more than one ticket? One member recently found that a particular flight from Darwin to Sydney was on sale for $299. But when they searched for two tickets on the same flight, the price increased … Continued

26 Nov 2016 Planning & Booking