Ehsan's Latest Posts

Last summer, I was finally approved for the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card*. I had wanted the Hilton Aspire card for quite a while, as it’s the most premium Hilton Honors card available. However, late last year, American Express…

Although luxury hotels typically garner the most attention, many travelers prefer a cost-effective stay. This is especially true when you are on an extended vacation or a longer business trip. TownePlace Suites by Marriott shines in this regard as a…

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is a dream travel destination for many. It’s a bustling metropolis best known for blending modern conveniences with traditional culture. The city features famous and dominating skyscrapers as well as historic temples. It is also…

Marriott is the largest hotel chain in the world, with more than 30 unique brands and over 7,000 properties worldwide. Although some of Marriott’s brands are luxurious, a handful can provide a basic hotel experience with little out-of-pocket expense. One…

After traveling to more than 100 countries over 1,300 days backpacking the world, I know a thing or 2 about efficient packing and traveling light. Everything I bring has a reason and a specific spot in my bag. However, the…

Hyatt is the third-largest hotel chain in the world, trailing only Marriott and Hilton. The chain has several brands ranging from ultimate luxury to long-term convenience. Although brands like Hyatt Regency and Park Hyatt are well-known, there are quite a…

Here at Upgraded Points, we love showing our readers what’s possible when working toward maximizing our redemptions. That typically comes when you redeem your points and miles for once-in-a-lifetime business and first class flights. However, the best part about points…

Hong Kong is a vibrant metropolis known for its photogenic skyline, bustling city streets and night markets, incredible cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. Despite its small size, Hong Kong is on the world stage thanks to its complex history and…

Although I prefer to redeem hotel points at mid-tier properties for longer stays, going all out at some of the best hotels in the world is also a ton of fun. There are few things better than staying at a…

Citi recently introduced the brand-new Citi Strata Premier℠ Card, an all-around travel rewards credit card with excellent bonus categories. With the new Citi Strata Premier card, you can get a sizable welcome offer that can be used for exciting adventures:…

Although luxury hotels tend to grab the headlines, many travelers seek out hotels that can provide a sense of home. This is where Residence Inn by Marriott stands out as a well-known brand in the Marriott Bonvoy hotel portfolio’s longer-stays…

Luxury hotels are the epitome of opulence and tend to take the headlines — and rightfully so. Many offer lavish amenities, impeccable service, and stunning accommodations while sparing no expense in providing guests with an unforgettable stay. However, the true…

Luxury hotels typically take the headline, but mid-tier hotels provide more value for many. This is where AC Hotels by Marriott shines as a brand that offers a lot of value. Although a lesser-known Marriott brand, AC Hotels by Marriott…

Although highlighting aspirational and once-in-a-lifetime luxury hotels can be fun, many travelers prefer more down-to-earth hotels where they can trade opulence for an extended stay. This is where Element by Westin stands out as an upper-midrange brand in the “longer…

Although many seek aspirational and luxurious hotels for award redemptions, others prefer more affordable, midtier hotel options. This is where Delta Hotels by Marriott shines as a more budget-friendly Marriott Bonvoy hotel brand that still offers a touch of luxury….

Hyatt Centric, one of Hyatt’s many brands, is a full-service lifestyle chain that focuses on luxury in the centers of its cities. Although not as well-known as other Hyatt brands, such as Hyatt Regency and Park Hyatt, Hyatt Centric hotels…

With diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife, Africa has so much to offer. It’s understandable why tourism is increasing rapidly in many regions. However, accommodations can be quite expensive, particularly in popular destinations. This is where Protea Hotels…

After an incredible 2 months in Asia, which led me to several new destinations, it was finally time to head back to the U.S. As with several prior trips, I returned to Bangkok, one of Southeast Asia’s most important cities….

Highlighting aspirational and lavish hotels can be fun; however, many travelers seek more affordable hotel redemption options. This is where Four Points by Sheraton stands out as a budget-friendly mid-tier Marriott Bonvoy hotel brand. The Four Points brand joined the Marriott…

Airline: Thai Airways (TG)Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ERFlight #: TG920Route: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to Frankfurt Airport (FRA)Date: April 16, 2024Duration: 11 hours, 30 minutesCabin and Layout: Royal Silk business class, 42 seats, 1-2-1 configuration (2 cabins)Seat: 11B (bulkhead)Cost: 80,000 Aeroplan points or…

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is one of my favorite cities in the world. With a modern skyline, delicious street food, cultural diversity, and world-class shopping, Kuala Lumpur (or KL, as the locals call it) has something to offer everyone. After a…