Travel
![Is Amtrak Northeast Regional Business Class Worth It?](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Amtrak-Northeast-Regional-Business-Class-Rear.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Is Amtrak Northeast Regional Business Class Worth It?
The Northeast Regional train is the backbone of Amtrak’s operations. It operates from the Virginia cities of Roanoke and Newport News to Boston, with many intermediate stops in between. As a lifeline of the Northeast Corridor, the train makes important…
![JW Marriott Panama [In-Depth Hotel Review]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/JW-Marriott-Panama-Family-Friendly-Infinity-Pool-1.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
JW Marriott Panama [In-Depth Hotel Review]
The author stayed as an invited guest of the JW Marriott Panama. All opinions are the author’s own, and JW Marriott Panama had no input in any part of this review. Although I haven’t traveled to every country in the…
![The 13 Best Protea Hotels by Marriott To Book With Points [For Max Value]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Protea-Hotel-Johannesburg-Wanderers.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
The 13 Best Protea Hotels by Marriott To Book With Points [For Max Value]
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…
![How To Find American Airlines Systemwide Upgrade Availability — Best and Worst Routes](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/American-Airlines-777-300ER-First-Class-Seat.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
How To Find American Airlines Systemwide Upgrade Availability — Best and Worst Routes
If you’re a top-tier American Airlines elite member, you’re probably familiar with systemwide upgrades (SWUs). While earning a “free” upgrade to a fancy seat may seem like a dream, redeeming these certificates can be challenging as there is often little…
![Silver Falls State Park Guide — Camping, Trails, and More](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Silver-Falls-State-Park-Guide.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Silver Falls State Park Guide — Camping, Trails, and More
Silver Falls State Park is often called the crown jewel of the Oregon State Park System because of its captivating beauty and scenery. This park is the biggest state park in all of Oregon, and it offers something for everyone,…
![Marriott New York JFK Airport [In-Depth Hotel Review]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Marriott-JFK-Front-Entrance.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Marriott New York JFK Airport [In-Depth Hotel Review]
Marriott New York JFK Airport is a relatively new airport hotel near New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). It’s a modern hotel that offers a clean, convenient stay before a flight and a regular shuttle service to the…
![Luxury and Love: The 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in México for Couples [2024]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Cheap-Weekend-Getaways.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Luxury and Love: The 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in México for Couples [2024]
Mexico is a popular destination for American and Canadian travelers due to its proximity, world-class accommodations, and amazing beaches. All major airlines fly several times a day to many cities in Mexico from cities throughout North America. It also doesn’t…
![The 6 Best Motto by Hilton Hotels To Book With Points [For Max Value]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Motto-by-Hilton-New-York-City-Times-Square-guestroom.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
The 6 Best Motto by Hilton Hotels To Book With Points [For Max Value]
Motto by Hilton offers incredible value for travelers looking for affordable options with a familiar brand. While the brand has a small footprint, Motto by Hilton has established itself as a solid choice, especially for families. Below, we’ll discuss everything you…
![What You Need To Know Before Booking Thompson Playa del Carmen Main House](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Thompson-Playa-del-Carmen-Main-House-rooftop-pool.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
What You Need To Know Before Booking Thompson Playa del Carmen Main House
The author stayed as a guest of G Adventures. All opinions are the author’s own, and the hotel had no input in any part of this review. I recently returned from an incredible trip to Mexico. This was my ninth…
![Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 in Thailand [In-Depth Hotel Review]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Aloft-Bangkok-Sukhumvit-11-W-XYZ-Bar.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11 in Thailand [In-Depth Hotel Review]
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….
![Natural Bridge State Park Guide — Hiking, Programs, and More](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Natural-Bridge-State-Park-Guide-1.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Natural Bridge State Park Guide — Hiking, Programs, and More
Virginia’s Natural Bridge State Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts with its fantastic mountain and valley views, lush forests, and meadows that stretch on and on. This park has a host of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking…
![17 Top Family-Friendly Destinations in Mexico [2024]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Sunscape-Puerto-Vallarta-Resort-Spa-pool-bridge.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
17 Top Family-Friendly Destinations in Mexico [2024]
One of the best family vacation spots in the world, Mexico is home to endless natural wonders, miles upon miles of stunning shoreline, and numerous historical and cultural attractions. The country is nearly two-thirds the size of Western Europe with…
![The 12 Best Museums in Portland, Oregon [2024]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Best-Museums-in-Portland-Oregon.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
The 12 Best Museums in Portland, Oregon [2024]
Portland is known for its eclectic culture and has enough museums to suit virtually any interest. Whether you’re a fan of oddities, photography, or learning about other cultures, there’s an exhibit in the City of Roses for you. Here’s a…
![We Stayed at a Route 66 Classic: Best Western Rail Haven Motor Court](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Best-Western-Rail-Haven-Springfield-exterior-from-road.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
We Stayed at a Route 66 Classic: Best Western Rail Haven Motor Court
My family spent a few nights at Best Western Route 66 Rail Haven, a historic motor court on Route 66, in March 2024. Staying on the route was an absolute must as we visited Springfield, Missouri, the birthplace of Route…
![24 Best Things To Do in Houston With Kids [Museums, Nature, Entertainment, and Food]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Thompson-Houston-Buffalo-Bayou-bike-trail-Eleanor-Tinsley-Park.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
24 Best Things To Do in Houston With Kids [Museums, Nature, Entertainment, and Food]
Houston is the largest city in Texas (and the fourth largest in the U.S.). It is packed with arts, nature, diverse food, and family fun. Houston is a destination of its own, and it’s not far from the beaches of…
![The 15 Best Four Points by Sheraton Hotels To Book With Points [For Max Value]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Four-Points-by-Sheraton-Danang-pool.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
The 15 Best Four Points by Sheraton Hotels To Book With Points [For Max Value]
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…
![Sun Siyam Iru Veli in Maldives [In-Depth Resort Review]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Iru-Veli-beach-bed.jpeg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Sun Siyam Iru Veli in Maldives [In-Depth Resort Review]
The author stayed as an invited guest of Virgin Atlantic and Sun Siyam Iru Veli. All opinions are the author’s own, and neither the airline nor the hotel had input in any part of this review. I’ll never forget waking…
![Echo Bluff State Park Guide — Lodge, Trails, and More](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Echo-Bluff-State-Park-Guide.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
Echo Bluff State Park Guide — Lodge, Trails, and More
Echo Bluff State Park is a hidden gem in the Ozarks region of Missouri. The park allows visitors to experience the beauty of Missouri’s rugged wilderness, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. With various trails available for hiking, biking, and horseback…
![How To Book the Alaska Airlines Milk Run [2024]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Petersburg-Airport-Shed.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
How To Book the Alaska Airlines Milk Run [2024]
The world-famous Alaska Airlines “Milk Run” is a must-do adventure for an aviation geek. It’s definitely something to add to your bucket list if you’re a plane enthusiast, though it can be a bit tricky to book if you don’t…
![The 9 Best Hyatt House Hotels To Book Using Points [For Max Value]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Hyatt-House-Chicago-West-Loop-Fulton-Market-Exterior.webp?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
The 9 Best Hyatt House Hotels To Book Using Points [For Max Value]
Hyatt House is an extended-stay line of hotels under the World of Hyatt umbrella. With a recognizable global brand, Hyatt House offers comfort and familiarity to travelers looking for a no-frills option in both hot-spot destinations and more off-the-beaten-path ones….
![The Reykjavik EDITION in Iceland [In-Depth Marriott Hotel Review]](https://upgradedpoints.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Reykjavik-EDITION-Hotel-Front.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&width=1200)
The Reykjavik EDITION in Iceland [In-Depth Marriott Hotel Review]
I have a minor love affair with Iceland. While I have yet to explore everything there is to see and do, I keep returning to add to my experiences. Iceland is easy to travel to with reasonably priced and frequent…