Most Maritimers are probably familiar with Aeroplan miles and WestJet dollars but few likely pay much attention to the loyalty program connected to Alaska Airlines. That’s for good reason as it doesn’t fly out of any airports in central or eastern Canada. However, you can still use Alaska miles for flights because they have partner airlines that fly out of Halifax. Here are a few thoughts on why you might want to consider acquiring some Alaska miles. [Read more…]

If you’ve ever searched hotel booking websites for various chains you’ve likely come across rates that include breakfast or parking. Those rate types are fairly common and straightforward. I’m going to explore the rates that are not so common. These are the ones that I typically ignore because I assume they represent poor value. However, I’ve found a few interesting rates at Maritime hotels that might be worth considering. Take a look and see what you think. [Read more…]

If you’re an avid deal-seeker you will understand why finding and booking the right hotel is not always easy. Saving money takes effort but I believe it really is worth the time required to get the best value for your travel dollar. Booking hotels with points presents somewhat different challenges so I will leave that topic for another time. Anyway, here’s a breakdown of my considerations when I hunt for the right hotel. [Read more…]

It may not be necessary to fly non-stop to get where you’re going, but it sure is nice. Delays that turn comfortable connection times into mad dashes to the gate are not pleasant. There is also the slight annoyance of departing for your trip to Europe by heading in the exact opposite direction to connect in Montreal or Toronto. The chance to fly non-stop might also serve as that last bit of incentive needed to make you book that trip you were thinking about. Here is a run down of the non-stop destinations from Halifax to Europe in 2019. [Read more…]

Last June my mother and I decided to plan a trip or two…or three. We wanted to go to Europe but Vancouver was on the list as well. I had read about nested itineraries booked with miles or money to save on flights. As I understand it, it refers to putting one flight booking inside another. It was a daunting challenge to make everything line up correctly but we did it. Here is how it went. [Read more…]

Much of the time getting a good airfare is simply a matter of luck. Other times a bit of research and creativity is required. I’m certainly no expert on the topic but I’ve enjoyed using various techniques to try to get a cheaper airfare. Here are a few that I have used and a few that I haven’t. Maybe one of these might be helpful when booking your next flight.  [Read more…]

UPDATE: The Air Miles Travel Hub has changed. Read more about it on a more recent post here.

A few days ago, I noticed something new on the Air Miles website. In the Travel section, under the “Find Hotels” button, it says “Get loads of Miles and find great rates on your hotel booking (CDN $) with the AIR MILES Travel Hub.” Upon clicking, it brings you to the search page where it says,” Get loads of miles + competitive rates on your hotel stay.” So that’s the question. How “competitive” are the rates? And what is meant by “loads of miles”?  [Read more…]

Often a great airfare will turn out to be a disappointment because it won’t be available when you need it. I decided to take a look at what fares are currently available for those inclined to take a vacation over Christmas. I also glanced at hotel rates. Some destinations may seem like a good deal based on airfare, but hotel rates are high over the holidays . One example is New York City – there are airfares in the $400s from Halifax and Moncton over Christmas but it’s very popular then so finding a hotel deal would be difficult. These examples of airfare and hotel were chosen because they seem like a good value for the period. [Read more…]