happ
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jul 7, 2017
I've had 4 cards with them in the past and none were instant approvals. I've had to submit identity info multiple times and call them to get the apps approved. They make you work for their cards
I love credit cards so much! v6.0 - 2023 (see first page for add'l details)
- Thread starter miztressuz
- Start date
happ
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jul 7, 2017
There's the hotel credit if you have a use for it. That's one benefit that I haven't used because I can't make the numbers work. I think I'm too much of a budget traveler, or I'm just not going to places where using the credit makes sense.Just finishing up my Platinum spend for the credits before I cancel it...$200 for united travel bank, $50 for Saks. I think that's all I can double dip.
We're also flying Aer Lingus, booked via Avios. I picked up a Chase Aer Lingus card and got 100k for $6000 (?) MSR?
We've already booked our economy seats back from Shannon on Aer Lingus/Avios. I think it was 20k points each, so no complaints, but I wish I'd poked around a little more trying to get biz seats.
Anyone know if award seats on Aer Lingus via Avios can be upgraded if you are willing to fork over the additional points? Although, doubtful there will be biz award seat availability from SNN...just remembered that's why we booked TO DUB.
Good Luck!
This seems amazing! Can't wait to read about it. We're doing 2 full weeks in Ireland. It's our first European trip and our first in semi-retirement so we're just taking out time and hoping we can book 2 weeks somewhere else (thinking London/Scotland) for the next year.
This sounds like a great itinerary for a short trip.
I booked the Conrad in Dublin for 2 nights for the credit. I used points as I'm trying to minimize my cash outlay for the trip. I would have been more than happy to stay at a less expensive hotel, but with the credit for 2 nights I'm paying (the equivalent) of about $600 including taxes. It's not awful.
We are going the end of March and only doing 6 days if you exclude travel days. DH wanted to visit friends and we've both been to Ireland before, so we're taking it easy: 2 nights in Dublin (3 touring days), 2 in Kilkenny (1 touring day) and then his friends are picking us up and we're staying with them for the weekend. They have one day devoted to driving us to the Cliffs of Moher and whatever we want to see on the way. Otherwise, we will just hang out with them.
*WDW*Groupie*
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Oct 2, 2006
What a fabulous trip!
If you want the lowest price for the LNER to Edinburgh book as soon as the window opens (usually 90 days before travel). I love the LNER!
In Dublin, def visit Kilmainham Jail -- you'll need to book tickets before you leave as they sell out quickly. We couldn't get tickets last summer, so I will book tickets before we leave and we'll tour this year.
FreeDiningFanatic
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Aug 18, 2015
My apologies, I meant to circle back to this. Here are a few recommendations from previous trip reports plus a few new at the end. You probably know this, but Cabo is made up of two areas. The WA is in Cabo San Lucas, whereas about 25-30 min away is San Jose del Cabo, a smaller, quieter city. Aim for the recommendations in Cabo San Lucas if you aren't interested in an hour round trip. Having said that, Uber is SUPER cheap and we use it often.
We made reservations in advance, almost all through opentable. Party of 2, Jan 2022:
Casa Martin, Cabo San Lucas just outside city-center
This restaurant has a beautifully eclectic courtyard, which you enter by stepping through an old hacienda style door. This meal was ridiculously delicious. I ate vegetarian again and we shared a country salad to start. OMG, this salad had lightly grilled romaine lettuce, which sounds awful, but is so, so, so tasty. I’m going to try doing that at home this week. It gave it a roasty kind of char that was so delicious. I had a meal called Vegan- again, unbelievable. The hubby had the catch of the day, seabass. Everything was out of this world. The courtyard setting was very picturesque and we enjoyed live music by a Cuban singer, but mostly an American gentleman. Outstanding entertainment. Total= $67
Bar Esquina, Cabo San Lucas a few streets off the marina
Again, such a cute setting. Very moody, only lit by candlelight. Outdoors meets indoors as it’s really a pergola setting surrounded by high shrubs and curtains, giving the feeling of being indoors, yet you are completely outside. Listen people- we had an avocado flatbread I am still thinking about and plan to try to make this week. It was a flatbread with tomatillo baked over it, no cheese. Then it was topped with thinly sliced tomatillos, kalamata olives, avocado and cilantro. We also split the catch of the day and roasted vegetables. The live music here was also so, so good. Total= $75
Party of 8, Summer 2021. We made reservations in advance, almost all through opentable.
Flora Farm’s, outside San Jose del Cabo -Father’s Day Brunch. We spent three hours here at this farm to table restaurant. Flora Farm is a lush farm oasis in the middle of the desert. While you dine, the kids play within sight in their grassy areas, playing bag toss and yard Jenga. Live music plays while fans blow and misters cool you. Farm dogs sit at your feet while you enjoy their hand-crafted cocktails and brunch served family style. As you wander the grounds, you’ll find mango and lime trees, and rows and rows of fresh crops growing. Drying herbs hang nearby and fresh herbs and produce are available for purchase. Meander into their retail boutiques or feed the ducks and turtles at the pond. Total= $359
Hacienda Cocina y Cantina, Cabo San Lucas. This is one of our favorite repeat restaurants in Cabo, with views of Land’s End (the tip of the Baja). We enjoyed live musicians singing contemporary hits. Service is exceptional and the food is outstanding. If you go, you must try a Molcajete for two. Their fresh fish is perfectly seared, especially the seabass and salmon. For dessert, enjoy the most delicious churros served with caramel and chocolate sauces, or the artisan ice cream. Total= $363
Los Tres Gallos (The Three Roosters), San Jose del Cabo. Located in the gallery district, surrounded by boutiques, art galleries, paleta (fresh frozen fruit “popsicles”) and souvenir shops, this was our first time dining at Los Tres Gallos. We were seated in their courtyard, with traditional brightly colored paper decorations hanging overhead (papel picado). Local musicians played in the courtyard and tableside. Authentic upscale Mexican cuisine is served. We enjoyed cocktails and appetizers of flaky chips, spicy salsas and guacamole. Dinner selections ranged from fresh fish, to steak filets to traditional Mexican fare. We skipped dessert. Our group rated this as their number one food choice. Total= $272 There is also a location in Cabo.
El Farallon, Waldof Astoria, Pedregal, Cabo San Lucas- Farewell Dinner. This resort is carved into the cliffside at the tip of the Baja, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. Your journey begins as you are driven through a 1,000 footlong tunnel carved straight through the mountainside. You’re then escorted through the stunning Waldorf Astoria grounds to your cliffside dining location. Waves crash below as you watch fish jump and in the winter, whales breach. El Farallon serves a four course meal and the service is impeccable. For our party of 8, no less than 3 servers would bring and clear each course, simultaneously. This is a signature, memorable experience. This is the kind of experience often reserved for a romantic dinner or proposal, but like us, we saw many large families, or milestone birthday celebrations. As you would expect, it gets gusty and waves crash and spray. Your hosts at El Farallon will bring you a Mexican poncho to warm you, as you enjoy the experience. The menu changes daily and consists mainly of fresh seafood. Total= $667.
We will be trying these two restaurants and I hope to be able to update you before you leave:
La Lupita Taco & Mezcal
El Huerto Farm to Table, supposed to be similar to Flora Farm, though I am skeptical that's possible
CyndiLouWho
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Feb 7, 2013
Like when we learned about Darwin and I thought oh how cool. Total science and nature geek here and love the idea. Our first trip to Costa Rica came about as a cheap version of Galapagos because we couldn't afford more.
Can I follow you on Instagram?
georgina
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Apr 21, 2003
OK, time to pay Q4 estimated federal tax. I would like to use up some $200 VGC to cover some of it, and I see each online payment processor can be used twice. I have read up on the process for using.
What is making me nervous - on the IRS website under frequency limits for estimated tax it says only 2 payments per quarter allowed. Need some reassurance from those who have done this that I can in fact use 4 or 5 gift/debit card payments toward estimated tax, and then cover the rest separately. I have such anxiety about messing this up!
What is making me nervous - on the IRS website under frequency limits for estimated tax it says only 2 payments per quarter allowed. Need some reassurance from those who have done this that I can in fact use 4 or 5 gift/debit card payments toward estimated tax, and then cover the rest separately. I have such anxiety about messing this up!
mom2febgirls
Castle Decorator
- Joined
- Nov 14, 2002
I'm looking for ideas for a girls trip with my sister. Probably 4 days. I'm from the East Coast she lives in Utah. I'm Marriott Platinum, have MR and UR to spend.
Thanks for any suggestions
Thanks for any suggestions
Alexle2007
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Apr 15, 2013
What type of activities are looking for and time of year? I did a girls trip to Chicago in Sept and we had a blast! And Savannah before that which was awesome too. We are headed to Clearwater Beach next. On our list is San Antonio, Nashville and Charleston.I'm looking for ideas for a girls trip with my sister. Probably 4 days. I'm from the East Coast she lives in Utah. I'm Marriott Platinum, have MR and UR to spend.
Thanks for any suggestions
mom2febgirls
Castle Decorator
- Joined
- Nov 14, 2002
Thanks! We like sightseeing but with some relaxation, too. Last summer we went to NYC/Boston/Salem.
Alexle2007
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Apr 15, 2013
I think all of the locations I have listed would be terrific for that!
calypso726
Escaping reality one Disney vacation at a time
- Joined
- Dec 11, 2006
Yes! I’m also a science nature nerd lol We have not been to Costa Rica yet but it is definitely on the list!
Yes of course and anyone else is welcome to as well. I am trying to remember to post there. I’m more of a FB girl. But this trip I will be sure to do both. Just added a few pics from this morning’s excursion. Wow! It’s an amazing place!
mmmears
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Nov 30, 2005
DD flew Vueling from BCN to Prague and back a few years ago on a budget trip with friends. She said the seats were really small, but it was perfectly fine for a short flight. Hope this helps.
I follow you on Insta and love the photos you share. I hope you have a fantastic trip and I'm looking forward to more updates.
havaneselover
Dreaming about a Disney cruise
- Joined
- Nov 9, 2009
I flew Vueling from BCN to Gatwick last summer. It was totally fine. I think I bought the upgraded fare that included a checked bag. I couldn't figure out how to change my assigned seats and once we got to the airport I was incredibly confused about checking luggage, but we made it!
TexasJedi
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- May 11, 2022
Hi All,
I'm strongly considering getting a Disney Premier Visa. I don't have any questions/concerns about qualifying for the card but am interested in what this group feels about the value of the card and whether it's worthwhile or if I should look elsewhere.
I realize that's a different answer for each individual, so here's a little background:
I'm currently 1/24 - I use the Southwest Rapid Rewards card for my daily purchases, and it's the only CC I have, so currently, I'm only getting 1% on Disney-related purchases. (I pay in full every month, so no concerns on interest rates.)
My family of 5 takes Disney vacation 1-2x/year (always flying Southwest), and we always stay on property. We're not regulars at any of the current restaurants where the 10% off dining is offered, but would likely use that as a tiebreaker when finalizing dining reservations to save on a meal or two per trip.
Among the extra 1% Disney-based purchase rewards vs. the no annual fee version, the 10% off $50 in the Parks stores, and 10% off shopDisney, I'm confident that the rewards/savings would easily outvalue the annual fee.
Plus, there's a $300 statement credit after spending $1,000 in the first three months right now on the Disney Premier Visa, so that would essentially take $300 off what we owe for our summer trip this year.
I've read articles from places like NerdWallet who don't recommend the card because it's tied into the Disney ecosystem and find the rewards card and process cumbersome, so curious how others here on a Disney fan board feel about the card.
Is it a good use specifically for Disney-related points and savings, or is there's an alternative general CC with better rewards propositions that you prefer for paying for your Disney trips?
I'm strongly considering getting a Disney Premier Visa. I don't have any questions/concerns about qualifying for the card but am interested in what this group feels about the value of the card and whether it's worthwhile or if I should look elsewhere.
I realize that's a different answer for each individual, so here's a little background:
I'm currently 1/24 - I use the Southwest Rapid Rewards card for my daily purchases, and it's the only CC I have, so currently, I'm only getting 1% on Disney-related purchases. (I pay in full every month, so no concerns on interest rates.)
My family of 5 takes Disney vacation 1-2x/year (always flying Southwest), and we always stay on property. We're not regulars at any of the current restaurants where the 10% off dining is offered, but would likely use that as a tiebreaker when finalizing dining reservations to save on a meal or two per trip.
Among the extra 1% Disney-based purchase rewards vs. the no annual fee version, the 10% off $50 in the Parks stores, and 10% off shopDisney, I'm confident that the rewards/savings would easily outvalue the annual fee.
Plus, there's a $300 statement credit after spending $1,000 in the first three months right now on the Disney Premier Visa, so that would essentially take $300 off what we owe for our summer trip this year.
I've read articles from places like NerdWallet who don't recommend the card because it's tied into the Disney ecosystem and find the rewards card and process cumbersome, so curious how others here on a Disney fan board feel about the card.
Is it a good use specifically for Disney-related points and savings, or is there's an alternative general CC with better rewards propositions that you prefer for paying for your Disney trips?
Haley R
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Sep 3, 2017
Dh and I thought we would do Japan in 2025 when ds is 5 but now we’re throwing out the idea of going in 2024 instead. We want to go back so badly. I’m not sure if a year difference will matter or not with ds. I’m mostly worried about the long flight unless we can get it overnight. It also depends if we can even get enough points to book in time for next May
Best Aunt
"That's the best-est present ever!"
- Joined
- May 1, 2009
(I edited OP's post too much - this was about the Disney Premier Visa Card.) Do you regularly spend more than $50 at a time in the Disney gift shops? Remember that it's not the total of how much you spend during a trip. If you buy one thing in gift shop # 1 and something else in gift shop # 2, the 10% off $50 isn't going to help you.
It seems like there are price breaks on shopDisney which are unaffiliated with the Disney Visa card, so I'm not sure that should be a strong consideration.
True that it's tied into the Disney ecosystem. If you stop travelling to Disney for some reason (want to go elsewhere, kids' activities schedule, Pandemic comes back in full force), then having built up points tied to Disney is a waste.
I wouldn't use "cumbersome" to describe the process of using it. You transfer your points to a Rewards card. In the past, the Rewards card had an expiration date, so you would use it to buy Disney gift cards that did not have an expiration date. The Rewards card no longer has an expiration date. Once the points are on a Rewards card, you use the Rewards card just like you would use a Disney gift card.
I would say the big downside of this card is that it only pays 1% in rewards. You can get something like the Citi Double card (whatever it's called) and get 2% cash back on every purchase. For awhile it had a new member bonus of $200 cash back once you spent $1500 in the first 6 months.
TexasJedi
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- May 11, 2022
These are great things for me to think about! We definitely don't spend $50 at a time with every shop, but probably 3-4 times in a trip we would.
Is the Disney Visa card savings on shopDisney exclusive of other discounts, or does it stack? For example, there's the Twice upon a Year sale right now with an extra 25% off with "EXTRA25", but I was thinking that the card would add 10% off on the total. If it's either the 10% off or whatever promo code is available on the site, that probably wouldn't be beneficial very often at all.
EDIT/Update: In testing the ShopDisney promo codes, it looks like they will stack, although the T&C say that it only stacks with shipping-related offers. Adding the card promo code to the EXTRA25 code lowers the price in cart, although I can't go all the way through checkout to verify obviously since I don't actually have a card.
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