Alex's Latest Posts

Few American institutions are quite like the diner. It’s a real piece of Americana that transports you back in time. The best part? Diners are available off highways all over the country.  Come along as we pinpoint where locals are…

The rise of canned cocktails and mocktails has revolutionized how we enjoy beverages, making it easier than ever to sip on something sophisticated without needing a bartender. From boozy concoctions to alcohol-free alternatives, there are countless options for anyone looking…

When it comes to recommending the best rewards cards available, merely publishing a list is not indicative of our Upgraded Points style. We know that the more information you have, the easier it will be to make an educated decision…

Concert tourism, or “gig tripping,” is on the rise, mostly fueled by Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour. With more mega tours scheduled for summer 2024, this travel trend seems to be here to stay as fans turn these concerts into…

Nearly all financial experts agree that having access to at least 1 credit card is an important financial tool. The question of how many cards a person should carry, however, is more complicated. According to data from the Financial Industry…

When it comes to air travel, timing is everything. From the moment you decide to embark on your journey to the decision on departure times to the second you secure your ticket, timing plays a pivotal role in shaping your…

We’ve all been there. You’re nestled in your seat on a flight, the plane has just reached cruising altitude, and the stewards are making their way through the aisle with the refreshments cart. Do you have your order ready? Is…

Retail credit cards, also known as store-issued credit cards, play a significant role in consumer credit and serve as a key revenue stream for many stores.¹ In fact, retailers have issued credit cards for longer than financial institutions, beginning the…

We all know that proper preparation prevents poor outcomes. But there’s one subset of travelers who push that axiom to its limit: the ones who fight tooth and nail to get that suitcase zipper shut; the ones who try to…

In recent years, the perception of marijuana has rapidly evolved. Today, marijuana is legalized in 24 states and decriminalized or available for legal medical purposes in many more. So, when mapping out their travel plans, individuals may factor in the…

Getting to fly on a double-decker jet — especially at the very front of the plane — is a dream for many AvGeeks, myself included. But with the right stash of points and miles, booking this aspirational flight is possible…

Nothing beats a warm welcome or a helpful hand from staff when you’re zigzagging through airport mazes. But bump into a grumpy TSA agent or a less-than-enthusiastic staff member and suddenly your travel vibe gets a dose of unnecessary turbulence. …

Americans’ love affair with cocktail bars is undeniable. From the classic allure of an old-fashioned to the artistry of a skilled bartender, something is enchanting about the experience of sipping a perfectly crafted drink in an atmosphere designed for unwinding…

Update:Entries closed! Thank you for the overwhelming response to our giveaway! We are carefully reviewing each of the many entries and will announce the winner by June 1. An adventure can look different depending on the person and place. With…

After COVID-19-era safety restrictions and protocols upended worldwide air travel, the airline industry is finally returning to normalcy. Airline passenger traffic in the U.S.¹ decreased an astounding 96% in April 2020 compared to the year prior, impacting not only commercial…

Much about air travel has been less enjoyable in the years since the COVID-19 pandemic. Travelers have been plagued¹ by cancellations, delays, and lower-quality service — and more and more passengers are responding with complaints and even incidents of air…

Despite increased costs and high interest rates, U.S. households have not been deterred from spending their money. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, consumer spending¹ in the U.S. increased by 24.1% from the first quarter of 2021 to the…

Despite sharp increases in ticket prices since before the pandemic, 2023 marked a record year for U.S. air travel.¹ While there is some hope for relief² moving into 2024, airline prices remain high. To help travelers navigate this new normal,…

How many people know your annual salary? How comfortable are you discussing your salary openly with colleagues or superiors? Do you share how much is in your savings or retirement accounts with others? Does your partner know your credit card…

Are you someone who relishes a quick bite before your flight? Or perhaps you find comfort in familiar fast food options during layovers? Well, you’re not alone. Airports worldwide cater to this need, but some airports are veritable fast food…

A company credit card is a tool of empowerment, trust, and sometimes, contention. In the complex world of corporate finance, their role often remains obscured. From inadequate training and loose guidelines to using personal funds on business-related expenses, company-issued credit…