About Victoria M. Walker
Victoria M. Walker is an award-winning journalist, travel reporter and the founder of the “Carrying On with Victoria M. Walker” newsletter.
Victoria has been featured as a travel expert on Business Insider, Travel Noire, Conde Nast Traveler, D.C.’s FOX6, NPR, MSNBC, Newsy, and FOX 5 in Washington, among others. She contributes to Upgraded Points, AFAR Magazine as Special Correspondent covering the U.S. South, and The New York Times Real Estate “Build” section. She was formerly the Senior Travel Reporter at The Points Guy.
Between 2017 and 2019, Victoria first served as an adjunct and then full-time multimedia journalism lecturer at her alma mater, Howard University. Victoria taught Multimedia Storytelling, Intro to Media Production, and Digital Media Literacy. She holds a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism from the Howard University School of Communications.
You can follow Victoria on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Countries Visited
U.S. States Visited
World of Hyatt Globalist
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Star Alliance
Emirates first class (A380)
Etihad business class
Park Hyatt St. Kitts Upgrade from King Bed to Plunge Pool Suite: used $90k points and $75 per night, but would have cost $3,600+ in cash
Chase Ultimate Rewards
Victoria M.'s Latest Articles
See More ArticlesSpend $150, Get $30 Back at Turo [New Amex Offer]
Check your Amex Offers because there’s a solid new offer for cash-back on purchases with Turo. We’ve seen this offer before, and it’s a great way to save some cash on this peer-to-peer rental platform where discounts are hard to…
Norse Atlantic Will Fly From London to Cape Town in October
Norse Atlantic will begin nonstop flights between its London Gatwick (LGW) hub and Cape Town (CPT) starting October 28, 2024. Let’s take a look at this exciting news! Norse’s First Route to Africa Norse will fly the Boeing 787 Dreamliner…
The Legend Paracas Resort Joins Destination by Hyatt Brand
Here is some big news from World of Hyatt this afternoon: The Legend Paracas Resort in Peru will soon be bookable with Hyatt points. Here’s everything you need to know about the resort! Destination by Hyatt Brand Debut in Peru…
Aeromexico Resumes Boston-Mexico City Service
It’s now easier to fly to Mexico City (MEX) from Boston (BOS), as a nonstop route has commenced between the 2 cities. Here’s what you need to know about this exciting route — and how to book! The Return of…
Canopy by Hilton Guadalajara To Open in 2028
Hilton is continuing its expansion in Mexico with the addition of the Canopy by Hilton Guadalajara. Let’s take a look at the news and what you need to know about the hotel. Hilton’s Big Expansion in Western Mexico Canopy by…
The 12 Best Tapestry Collection by Hilton Hotels To Book With Points [For Max Value]
Tapestry Collection by Hilton offers incredible value for travelers looking for boutique hotels at a comfortable price point. With a slew of properties either open or in development, Tapestry Collection hotels should be considered by leisure and business travelers alike…
New Wyndham Alltra Samaná All-Inclusive Resort in the Dominican Republic Now Open
Wyndham has announced that its newest Alltra all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic has officially opened for guests — a first for the brand. Let’s get into the details of this exciting new resort property! Wyndham Alltra Samaná Resort Has…
Six Senses La Sagesse Grenada Hotel Is Now Open
Six Senses La Sagesse Grenada is now open. This is an exciting new property, as it’s the brand’s first location in the Caribbean. Let’s take a look at what this resort has to offer and how to book it. Six…
[Expired] Hilton Honors American Express Card 100K Offer Ending April 17
What would you do with 100,000 Hilton Honors points? If this has piqued your interest, you’re going to want to keep reading because one of Hilton’s co-branded cards has a sweet welcome offer. But, it’s set to end on Wednesday,…
Kimpton Lisbon Hotel Set To Open in Portugal in 2026
IHG has some exciting news this morning: the luxury Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants brand is opening a new hotel in Lisbon. Here’s what you need to know! First Kimpton Hotel in Lisbon Kimpton Lisbon will have 141 guest rooms and suites….
Avianca’s Sale Has Flights to Colombia, Costa Rica, and More From $49 One-Way
Avianca Airlines is offering record-low promo fares to many exciting destinations — but you’ll need to book fast. Here’s what you need to know about the sale! Deal Alert — Details Avianca is running a sale from the U.S. to…
New Hilton Hotel Debuts in Sonoma’s Wine Country
Want to be close to Sonoma County’s famous wineries and restaurants? You’re in luck, as Hilton has opened a new hotel in the region — and it’s affordable with cash and points. Here’s everything you need to know about the…
Earn Double Points With New Homes & Villas by Marriott Offer [Book by April 20]
If you’ve been thinking about booking a stay with Homes & Villas by Marriott, now may be the perfect time to do so. There’s a new promotion available that will allow you to earn double points on your stay. Here’s…
Breeze Airways Will Open a New Base at Fort Myers Airport in Florida
The ultra-low-cost Breeze Airways has announced that it will open a new base at Fort Myers’ Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) this fall. This is another step in the airline’s continuing expansion in Florida. Here’s what you need to know….
Hiatus Clearwater Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton Opens in Florida
Hilton is making a massive splash in Florida by opening a new Curio Collection property, the Hiatus Clearwater Beach. Here’s everything you need to know about Hilton’s newest Curio Collection hotel and how you can book with Hilton Honors points!…
Get $50 Back After Spending $250+ at Grand Hyatt [New Amex Offer]
Amex Offers are deals that allow you to earn statement credits or Membership Rewards points for purchases you may already be making. If you’re thinking about a hotel stay, check your American Express cards because there’s an enticing new Amex…
The 10 Best LXR Hotels & Resorts To Book With Points [For Max Value]
LXR Hotels & Resorts is one of the world’s most high-end luxury hotel brands. Among Hilton’s luxury brands, LXR doesn’t have a massive presence like Conrad Hotels & Resorts or Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. In fact, just 15 LXR…
Avelo Airlines Inaugurates Burbank to Las Vegas Flights
The low-cost Avelo Airlines is back with an exciting route: Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) to Las Vegas (LAS). Here’s what you need to know about the route — and how to book it for your next vacation! Avelo’s 14th Route…
JetBlue Launches Nonstop Flight from Boston to Paris
Following last summer’s successful addition of flights from New York to Paris, JetBlue Airways is expanding its European flights again with a new route between Boston (BOS) and Paris (CDG). There’s a lot to cover, so let’s dive right in!…
Fordson Hotel Joins Hyatt’s Unbound Collection [Category 4 Property]
The Fordson Hotel, one of Oklahoma City’s most storied hotels, has officially joined the World of Hyatt program. Let’s take a look at the news and how you can book a stay at this hotel! First Unbound Collection Property in…
Grand Hyatt Barcelona Hotel Now Open in Spain
Hyatt is expanding its Grand Hyatt brand with the opening of an upscale hotel in the heart of Barcelona, Spain. Here’s what you need to know about Spain’s newest Hyatt property! Grand Hyatt’s Fifth European Hotel The Grand Hyatt Barcelona…
Find out about other members of the team
Ashley Onadele
Content Contributor
Ashley discovered a love for travel in college that’s continued as her family has grown. She loves showing parents how they can take their families on trips using points and has contributed to numerous publications and podcasts.
Brandon Brunner
Former Content Contributor
Brandon was born and raised in California and really didn’t travel much growing up, even outside of his own state. While attending college, he was constantly looking to find the cheapest fares to any destination abroad, and quickly learned about the motto- “Chase the fare, not the destination”. Luckily, his first international flight was to Costa Rica (under $300 roundtrip) where that “Pura Vida” lifestyle (and Imperials) hit him hard, and he knew he had to see more.
Brian Graham
Former Content Contributor
Brian’s first ever airplane ride was in a private turbo-prop jet. He was merely an intern boy trying to make a good impression, but it turns out the plane made an impression on him.
Carissa Rawson
Senior Content Contributor
Carissa served in the U.S. Air Force where she developed her love for travel and new cultures. She started her own blog and eventually joined The Points Guy. Since then, she’s contributed to Business Insider, Forbes, and more.
Caroline Lupini
Former Content Contributor
Caroline Lupini always enjoyed traveling, but it became her goal to do as much as possible after a 3-week trip around Europe in 2011. In March 2014, Caroline left her job and embarked on nearly full-time travels.
Charlie Page
Former Content Contributor
Charlie is a Senior First Officer and has been an airline pilot for nearly 15 years. He currently flies long-haul on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner after 10 years buzzing around Europe on the A320. He got into travel and aviation from an early age, fortunate enough to be taken on some great family holidays.
Chris Dong
Editor & Content Contributor
Chris is a freelance writer and editor with a focus on timely travel trends, points and miles, hot new hotels, and all things that go (he’s a proud aviation geek and transit nerd). Formerly full-time at The Points Guy, his work can now be found at AFAR, Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, and Lonely Planet, among others
Christine Krzyszton
Senior Finance Contributor
Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.
Christy Rodriguez
Travel & Finance Content Contributor
After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.
Daniel Ross
Senior Content Contributor
Daniel has loved aviation and travel his entire life. He earned a Master of Science in Air Transport Management and has written about travel and aviation in publications like Simple Flying, The Points Guy, and more.
David Slotnick
Former Content Contributor
Born and raised in New York, David still remembers his first flight when he was only four years old: a U.S. Airways trip from New York-La Guardia to Palm Beach, Florida. He formed his love of travel around that and other family vacations, including to England at age eight and Namibia when he was 13. During college, a four-country trip around Europe with a friend cemented his passion for seeing the world.
Ehsan Haque
Content Contributor
Ehsan is an avid traveler who has traveled to 100 countries, diligently using points and miles to fund his journeys. Currently, he holds 32 active credit cards and earns over a million points and miles annually, primarily using them for luxury hotels and long-haul premium cabins.
Erin Miller
Content Contributor
An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.
Greg Stone
Content Contributor
Greg got bitten by the travel bug at a young age while traveling with his Dad on business trips to Asia. He took over the family business in 2012 and uses it to maximize his loyalty points earning. His obsession with earning and burning loyalty rewards points allows him to travel over 100 days every year.
James Larounis
Senior Content Contributor
James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in dozens of travel publications.
Jarrod West
Senior Content Contributor
Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 6 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year and his work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times.
Jeff Brownson
Former Content Contributor
Since discovering miles and points in 2010, Jeff has traveled to over 35 countries, flying in first class, business class, and sometimes even in coach. Whether he’s staying in a hostel dorm, or in a luxury suite at a 5 star hotel, Jeff is constantly looking for the best deal to make travel as close to free as possible.
Julian Kheel
Content Contributor
Julian Kheel first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. With over 15 years of professional experience studying travel loyalty programs, Julian has served as CNN’s Senior Editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the Editorial Director of The Points Guy, and has worked as a consultant for the Big 3 U.S. airlines.
Katie Seemann
Senior Content Contributor and News Editor
Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.
Kellie Jez
Director of Operations & Compliance
Kellie’s professional experience has led her to a deep passion for compliance, data reporting, and process improvement. Kellie’s learned the ins and outs of the points and miles world and leads UP’s compliance operation.
Lindsey Olander
Former Content Contributor
Currently based in New York, Lindsey spent her childhood in Connecticut dreaming of far-off places. Her first flight was to Disney World at age 11. Her second flight was for a high school field trip to Italy, though travel as a career didn’t stick until she studied abroad in London during college and discovered the true power of her passport. Since then, she’s worked as a travel editor at Jetsetter and Travel + Leisure, where she reported on everything from African safaris to hot hotel openings to, yes, Disney World.
Lori Zaino
Senior Content Contributor
Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.
Lukas Picton
Former Content Contributor
Lukas escaped his hometown south of Sydney and moved to the big smoke immediately after high-school, but the bright lights of the city weren’t enough, and he soon set his sights on more exotic international destinations and has been in love with travel ever since.
Michael McHugh
Former Content Contributor
Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Michael took his first international trip in 2013 with friends to the Bahamas. Although he didn’t travel much in his younger years, on that trip, he caught the travel bug and has been hooked ever since.
Michael Y. Park
Editor
Michael Y. Park is a journalist living in New York City. He’s traveled through Afghanistan disguised as a Hazara Shi’ite, slept with polar bears on the Canadian tundra, picnicked with the king and queen of Malaysia, tramped around organic farms in Cuba, ridden the world’s longest train through the Sahara, and choked down gasoline clams in North Korea.
Ryan Smith
Content Contributor
Ryan completed his goal of visiting every country in the world in December of 2023 and now plans to let his wife choose their destinations. Over the years, he’s written about award travel for publications including AwardWallet, The Points Guy, USA Today Blueprint, CNBC Select, Tripadvisor, and Forbes Advisor.
Spencer Howard
Former Content Contributor
Always a fan of flying, it was only natural that Spencer was drawn to finding a way to improve the travel experience.
Stephen Au
Senior Content Contributor
Stephen is an established voice in the credit card space, with over 70 to his name. His work has been in publications like The Washington Post, and his Au Points and Awards Consulting Services is used by hundreds of clients.
Susan Wright
Former Finance Contributor
While writing about finance and insurance isn’t something that keeps most people awake at night, it is what Susan Wright has focused on for more than 25 years. As a financial copywriter, Susan has an eye for money-related details such as credit and savings, and she loves to pass along helpful information to consumers. Susan holds 11 financial industry designations (including CLU, ChFC, RHU, REBC, ADPA, CITRMS, CIPA) as well as several licenses.
Cherag Dubash
Content Contributor
Cherag was born in a family associated with aviation and was hooked on to planes since the age of 3, the time he undertook his first flight on an Airbus A310 from Mumbai to Dubai.
Andrew Kunesh
Former Content Contributor
Andrew was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs and now splits his time between Chicago and New York City.
Alex Miller
Founder & CEO
Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.
Brett Holzhauer
Content Contributor
Brett is a personal finance and travel junkie. Based out of Fort Lauderdale, he’s had over 100 credit cards and earned millions of credit card rewards. He learned the tricks of the trade from his mom, and has taken many steps forward. He wasn’t exposed to much travel as a kid, but now has a goal of reaching 100 countries in his life. In 2019, he sold all of his possessions to become a digital nomad, and he says it was one of the best decisions he ever made. He plans to do it again at some point in his life.
Dan Miller
Content Contributor
Realizing that it wasn’t all first class flights and 5-star hotels, Dan started the Points With a Crew blog in 2014, with the aim of helping families (especially large families) to use miles, points and credit card rewards to take that trip that they might have thought they couldn’t afford. He has spent over 10 years covering developments in the travel rewards credit card space. His expertise extends to all things personal finance, including student loans, budgeting and real estate, and his work has been featured in sites all over the Internet, including NerdWallet, Forbes, Business Insider, Rocket Mortgage, CreditCards.com, Bankrate, Turbotax, Credit Karma and Intuit Mint.
Nick Ellis
Editor & Content Contributor
Nick’s passion for points began as a hobby and became a career. He worked for over 5 years at The Points Guy and has contributed to Business Insider and CNN. He has 14 credit cards and continues to leverage the perks of each.
Juan Ruiz
Senior Editor & Content Contributor
Juan has extensive experience in writing and editing content related to credit cards, loyalty programs, and travel. He has been honing his expertise in this field for over a decade. His work has been featured in various prestigious publications, such as USA Today, CNN Underscored, Forbes and The Points Guy. Juan is the visionary behind JetBetter, a premier award booking concierge service.
Keri Stooksbury
Editor-in-Chief
With years of experience in corporate marketing and with a nonprofit, Keri is now Editor-in-Chief at UP, overseeing daily content operations and reviewing thousands of UP articles in the process.
Stella Shon
News Managing Editor
With a degree in media and journalism, Stella has been in the points and miles game for more than 6 years. She most recently worked as a Corporate Communications Analyst for JetBlue. Find her work in The New York Times, USA Today, and more.
Senitra Horbrook
Writer
Senitra Horbrook is a frequent solo traveler who began using points and miles in 2012. Formerly credit cards editor at The Points Guy, Senitra has also contributed to Forbes Advisor, AwardWallet, Insider, among others.
Amar Hussain
Senior Content Contributor
Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.
Jessica Merritt
Editor & Content Contributor
A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.
Chris Hassan
Social Media & Brand Manager
Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.
UP's Bonus Valuation
This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.