Latest news

Lounge Access Whittled away under new Qantas “Enhancements”

A recent set of Qantas Frequent Flyer program “enhancements” have caused a stir amongst our members. The new changes mean that from 1st October members must be travelling on a Qantas coded Emirates flight in order to obtain lounge access. Likewise, there will no longer be lounge access available at Dubai airport unless flying on … Continued

31 Jul 2014 Qantas

A family trip to Namibia

As anyone with children would know, holidays can be a trying experience. Throw in a long flight, missing baggage and a car hire company not wanting to honour your booking, and it could turn into a nightmare. Despite suffering those misfortunes, this week’s trip report turns out to be anything but a nightmare. Many years … Continued

30 Jul 2014 Destinations

Etihad Status Match with a catch

Over the last few years, there has been something of a competition going on between the Middle Eastern carriers. With their respective states or countries slowly moving away from a dependence on oil for income, tourism and transport has become the focus for the economy as they move forward. This means new airports, facilities and … Continued

29 Jul 2014 Etihad Airways

Using points to upgrade – Premium Economy or Business?

With all the Qantas Frequent Flyer changes that came into effect in July, flight upgrades are probably one of the few areas left where points still have significant value. Depending on the fare you booked, an upgrade to Premium Economy, Business or First Class can often be requested. But if you have not travelled in … Continued

28 Jul 2014 Qantas

Compensation for work hours lost by delays?

Whether you travel once a year or once a week, chances are delays and cancellations will eventually impact your plans. For a leisure traveller, it could be said your time is not so important. But what about someone in business, can the airlines be held liable for the productivity lost? After a recent bad experience … Continued

26 Jul 2014 Qantas

Grateful Newbie praises AFF community

One long-term lurker but infrequent poster takes an opportunity to thank the amazing array of talent that our AFF community has to offer. The tips and hints provided on the forum has inspired this newbie to start a “points project” in an effort to get their family of four to the US for a holiday … Continued

24 Jul 2014 Airlines, Miles and Points

Just Google it – a Trip not for Interns

For many of our Canberra based members, the move to early departure flights with Qantas often means taking the “fog gamble”. Unless you’re on the first flight, you can be stuck at Canberra waiting for your aircraft to land. After a flurry of trip reports from members heading to Europe, this week we are journeying … Continued

23 Jul 2014 Destinations

The Virgin Phone Scam

When it comes to scams, unfortunately airlines are often good fodder for the scammers. As they are in the business of transporting thousands of people a day, it’s easy for the crooks to find a victim who recently took a flight. For the past few weeks, it has been Virgins turn, and a few of … Continued

22 Jul 2014 Virgin Australia

Qantas Club alternatives in Paris

For the less frequent traveller, a Qantas Club membership can offer exclusive services and privileges that make a long journey just that little bit easier. While Qantas may have flights to a particular destination, there is no guarantee a Qantas Club will be available at every location. Having just spent significant money on a 2 … Continued

21 Jul 2014 Airports & Lounges

Concern about possible devaluation of points

Avianca’s life miles program has in recent years been a popular one for our members. Despite being based in Columbia, it has offered some unique opportunities to buy points and travel cheaply at the front of the aircraft, thanks to its membership in the Star Alliance. With a generous 100% bonuses for buying miles every … Continued

19 Jul 2014 Avianca

Ultimate Overseas Driving Guide

If you are intending to negotiate the chaos of Bangkok driving or battle the streets of Brazil be sure to check out our members guide for driving overseas. Some destinations are seen to be akin to driving on Australian roads. A lower speed limit in New Zealand seems to be the only significant difference in … Continued

17 Jul 2014 Car Hire

Fasting and floods – Four weeks on the road to Eastern Europe

This week’s trip report is once again one filled with many contrasts. Written as they travel, our member will experience Dubai during Ramadan, Venice during an Aqua Alta and then a cruise through to Turkey, finishing with some time in Greece. With the larger cruise ships banned from being so close to Venice next year, … Continued

16 Jul 2014 Destinations