Virgin vs Qantas: Apples and Oranges?

Virgin Australia has gone to great lengths to compete with Qantas since it was rebranded from Virgin Blue. But according to one member, there are two reasons that Virgin and its Velocity Frequent Flyer program cannot be compared to Qantas and its frequent flyer program. The first reason is Virgin’s underwhelming on-board catering. Virgin creates … Continued

George Clooney in Australia?

How far would you go to earn top-tier status with your preferred airline? It’s not uncommon for AFF members to undertake what’s known as a “status run“. This is where a series of flights are taken in order to earn enough status credits to attain or retain elite airline status. Booking a status run canĀ make … Continued

Virgin Velocity Gold Status Fast-Track

Virgin Australia has been offering a unique fast-track to Gold Velocity status through their partnership with Flybuys. Although Virgin Australia does not generally accept status matches, many of our members have received a targeted “Explore Gold” offer. Recipients of this offer are invited to enjoy three months of complimentary Velocity Gold status. If members then … Continued

Optimal Strategy for 14 Annual Europe Trips

One member faces theĀ unenvious prospect of taking up to 14 trips between Brisbane and Dublin over the next year. As this member will be paying for the flights themselves, they are looking for strategies to optimise their travel experience and hopefully score a few upgrades along the way. I’m looking at doing either 13 or … Continued

Living and Working in Different Cities

Imagine that you’ve been offered your dream job. It has everything you’re looking for, except for one small detail… you would have to work in a different city to your current home. One option would be to simply move to the new city, but this isn’t always practical. As our member significance recently found out, … Continued