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Leave Your Best Vacation Idea and Win 100,000 Starwood Hotels Points!
Update: This giveaway is now closed. Click here for the winner announcement!
I’m giving away 100,000 Starwood Hotels Starpoints to one lucky winner, just for helping me plan my Disneyland vacation! Keep reading to find out how to enter.
To give you an idea of how much these 100,000 Starpoints are worth, consider that you could stay at a category 3 hotel, like a Sheraton, for 14 days for free! Or, if you don’t want to stay for 14 days, you could take advantage of the Nights & Flights option and use the Starpoints to get free hotel and free airline tickets.
I hear a lot about people who use rewards points (frequent flyer miles, hotel rewards points, etc.) to take free or almost free vacations and I’m about to do just that. In January – the coldest month here in Alaska – I’ll be taking my family to sunny California to Disneyland for almost free! How would you like to win up to 2 weeks worth of free hotel stay or free airline tickets, courtesy of Starwood Preferred Guest and American Express?
Give me your best vacation tip in the comments below (or just leave any comment) to be entered to win 100,000 Starpoints (which are good at hotels worldwide and for free airline tickets on most airlines).
Why are we Giving Away Free Hotel & Airline Tickets?
We’re able to give away the 100,000 Starpoints thanks to a promotion American Express has going right now. Good from now until August 22, 2011, people who apply for a new American Express Starwood Preferred Guest card will also get up to 30,000 free Starpoints (10,000 at their first purchase and 20,000 more by spending $4,500 in 3 months). Did I mention that there’s no annual fee for the first year?
If you’re planning to take a trip soon, or send kids off to college, now would be a great time to sign up for this new American Express SPG card and use the rewards points towards a free family trip! The American Express SPG card racks up 1 Starpoint for every dollar you spend. You could move all of your regular expenses (groceries, fuel purchases, etc.) onto the card and earn free rewards. This is how my husband and I manage to get so many free airline tickets with our rewards card.
If you want to take advantage of this awesome offer from American Express and sign up for the American Express SPG card, go get the details now – the offer only lasts until August 22, 2011.
But remember, you DON’T have to apply for the American Express to enter our contest – we’re giving away 100,000 Starpoints anyway!
Help Me Plan My Disneyland Trip with Your Best Tip!
Starwood Preferred Hotels is giving me 100,000 free Starpoints too to plan my vacation. Of all the destinations, Disneyland was on the top of our list for a family vacation. We’ll use the Nights & Flights option to get 2 free plane tickets and 5 hotel nights, then use the rest of the points for 5 more free hotel nights. That’s 10 free days at the Sheraton Anaheim, right next to Disneyland with a free shuttle to and from the park.
Ah, the sweet sound of the word free! Keep in mind we’ll be traveling with 4 small kids, which is no easy task. I could really use your best vacation tips – both for Disneyland and just for flying with young ones – to help me plan my trip. Give me your best tip below and you could win 100,000 free Starwood points!
Win Free Hotel Stay and/or Airfare for your Vacation on Me!
You can enter once PER DAY per person, so bookmark this page and enter every day (yes, including extra entries)! One lucky person will win 100,000 Starpoints (how you choose to redeem your free points is up to you). By entering this contest, you agree to our Giveaway Terms and Conditions.
To Enter: Leave a comment on this post telling your best Disneyland or vacation tip (or just leave any comment) between today and August 21, 2011 at 11:59pm PST. Random drawing to be held and winner to be announced on August 21, 2011, 11:59pm AST.
To Get Extra Entries (each day), do one or all of the following and leave another comment for each one:
1. Blog about this giveaway. Leave the link to your post here.
2. Subscribe to our free email updates or RSS feed, then leave another comment.
3. Share this giveaway on Twitter or any forum, including the name of the prize and a link to this post. Then leave the link to your post.
4. Put our badge on your site. Choose one of our badges and put it in your sidebar (leaving the badge up will allow you to put in an extra entry every day!). Leave the link to your site.
–
Disclaimer: In compliance with the FTC Guides, this article has material connections. IS World Media (ISWM) received 100,000 free Starpoints as compensation and 100,000 free Starpoints to give away to a winner. This contest is not facilitated by Starwood Preferred Guest or American Express.
What are you waiting for? Enter NOW!
Mary
August 15, 2011 at 5:13 pm
take at least a full day off from the park during the middle of your stay to hang around your hotel and swim and REST. You will enjoy the trip SO much more and not feel like you need a vacation after vacation!
Pat Hoffmeister
August 16, 2011 at 7:39 am
Take some time to relax in your hotel DAILY. This will keep you rejuvenated throughout your trip.
Cassie
August 16, 2011 at 8:12 am
Pick up a guide book from the library – they’ll tell you which areas of the park have the heaviest traffic at certain times of the day. This can help you avoid lines and crowds (which can test the patience of kids & grownups alike :)
Mikael
August 16, 2011 at 12:07 pm
As a Southern California native, and Disneyland Annual Passholder I have learned much over many years of visiting the parks. First off all, coming in January will be great not only to enjoy the temperate Anaheim weather, but also because January is one of the slowest months in terms of traffic at the parks. The single greatest tip I have come across for making the best out of a Disneyland experience is a little known piece of software called RideMax. There is nothing better that I have found to plan your days inside the parks. RideMax calculates historical wait times for specific days of the week and times of the year along with recommendations on when to get a FASTPASS, eat, see the shows, etc. Some family from out of town actually turned me on to this on their visit to Disneyland recently, and although I thought I knew the parks pretty well, I was surprised just how much more efficient visits could be. This will save you hours in planning alone, you will not feel as fatigued, and the kids won’t have to stand around as long and will get to see more of what they want to see. The website is http://www.ridemax.com, it’s well worth it. Have a great trip!
Lisa
August 16, 2011 at 1:29 pm
In advance of your trip, ship a box to your hotel filled with easy to carry snack items. Call the hotel to see how far in advance they will hold this for you, but it should be up to a week. I typically send snacks like granola bars, fruit snacks, nuts – things that won’t melt! I also send oatmeal packets to save some $$ on breakfast! Finally, I suggest ordering a case or two of bottled water from Costco online to be shipped to your hotel. This will save a tremendous amount of time & money.
Lisa
August 16, 2011 at 1:31 pm
I tweeted about your giveaway. http://twitter.com/#!/HomeEverAfter/status/103573419454496768
JulieB
August 16, 2011 at 1:33 pm
just tweeted the giveaway http://twitter.com/#!/jsbocock/status/103577140129304576
Sarah P
August 16, 2011 at 1:36 pm
I never go anywhere, especially trips, without stickers and Ziploc bags. Stickers because they keep my little ones happy & Ziploc bags because you never know when you’ll need one. They’re great for snacks, keeping things dry, wet clothes, garbage… etc.
JulieB
August 16, 2011 at 1:36 pm
follow people like @disneylandlive, @touringplans, & @DLtoday. Touring plans has an app (lines is the name) that lists current wait times-updated by other people in the park in real time. The app is expensive, but you can view a few selected wait times for free throughout the day without buying the app. It’s helpful when trying to make a plan!
Lud
August 16, 2011 at 2:21 pm
Make a little emergency kit in advance-Keep wet wipes handy, bandages, tylenol, napkins, batteries, pen and paper, and something for tummy aches.
Lud
August 16, 2011 at 2:26 pm
http://www.twitter.com/scoopstweet shared on twitter
Lud
August 16, 2011 at 2:27 pm
subscribed to your email
Lud
August 16, 2011 at 2:50 pm
shared on facebook facebook.com/ludmerka
Lud
August 16, 2011 at 2:58 pm
posted the giveaway on my blog http://www.scoopstweet.tumblr.com
Mikael
August 16, 2011 at 3:55 pm
I subscribed to your email updates.
Pingback: Give Me Your Best Vacation Idea and Win 100,000 Starwood Hotels Points! | Giveaway Promote | Promote your giveaway for free.
Kristen
August 16, 2011 at 8:48 pm
Our family loves-loves-loves all things Disney! My best tip for you is this…buy Disney merchandise AHEAD OF TIME. Souvenirs at the parks are super expensive, and way too tempting–especially for little ones. Shop Disney’s on-line or outlet stores before you leave home, you can get so many great things at an incredible discount! Wrap something up for each of the kids (and yourself!) to find each morning before you head to the park. (If they are young enough it’s fun to tell them that Mickey left it for them *yay*) It’s a great incentive for everyone to get up and moving and makes your souvenir budget strrrrretch out so you can splurge on those few special things. I hope you have a truly MAGICAL trip, filled with wonderful memories that will last a lifetime :)
Thanks for sponsoring this amazing giveaway! I would love to surprise my family with a win…I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed. :)
With pixie dust,
Kristen
Kristen
August 16, 2011 at 8:58 pm
I am following your blog via GFC…looking forward to reading your posts! Thanks so much for offering this Starpoints giveaway :)
Kristen (melbytoast)
kpcarrot@hotmail.com
Kristen
August 16, 2011 at 9:02 pm
I am following you via email…looking forward to reading your future posts! Hoping to win this Starpoints giveaway :)
With pixie dust,
Kristen
Shirliza
August 16, 2011 at 10:59 pm
Print out a packing list and bring it with you. This way you can double-check that you’ve got everything for your return trip. You can find one for families here: http://tinyurl.com/4xpqoc2
In the health section, I’d also recommend a thermometer to check temps just in case anyone starts feeling sick.
Otherwise you can buy a pad of lists from the container store (http://tinyurl.com/3tajzth).
jennifer horn
August 17, 2011 at 5:39 am
Take snacks and water so you don’t have to buy those at the park. Will save a lot of money doing this!
jennifer horn
August 17, 2011 at 5:40 am
Subscribe in Google Reader
jennifer horn
August 17, 2011 at 5:44 am
Tweeted.https://twitter.com/#!/jen_r_horn/status/103823261116268544
Gina Hamm
August 17, 2011 at 6:12 am
My best vacation tip is be FLEXIBLE with plans!! It’s great to have a plan, but be willing to adjust based on weather, moods, crowds, etc. For our family nothing is worse than forcing ourselves through a bad time just because that was what we “planned”. It’s a vacation after all, toss the plans and go with the fun!
Gina Hamm
August 17, 2011 at 6:13 am
I Subscribe to your free email updates
Lud
August 17, 2011 at 7:30 am
i tweeted today http://www.twitter.com/scoopstweet
Lud
August 17, 2011 at 7:31 am
put together a small bag for entertainment, a few new mini games, crayons, coloring books and toys for entertainment
Lud
August 17, 2011 at 7:33 am
shared on fb facebook.com/ludmerka
Lauren
August 17, 2011 at 8:58 am
I love to use Tripadvisor to get honest reviews about activities and hotels I’m considering. I don’t want to waste valuable vacation time!
Katherine
August 17, 2011 at 1:06 pm
I made sure my kids always had their own “boredom busting ” bag
Katherine
August 17, 2011 at 1:07 pm
http://twitter.com/#!/mkjmc/status/103935524225560576
Katherine
August 17, 2011 at 1:09 pm
Subscribed by email
Eli
August 17, 2011 at 1:10 pm
Go EARLY to the parks and since you have kids in tow, build breaks into your schedule. I’ve seen plenty of cranky kids at Disney parks in the afternoon; it’s really easy to get over-extended. You’d be surprised what a little break/nap in the middle of the day can do for you.
And regarding lines, make sure you use Fastpass system as often as you can. They’ll help you spend more time enjoying rides and less time waiting for them. I’d recommend getting one for a popular ride as soon as you enter the park, visit some other attractions, then come back when you Fastpass allows. You can only hold one Fastpass at a time, so plan accordingly.
Enjoy the trip!
Eli
August 17, 2011 at 1:12 pm
Also, just subscribed via e-mail.
Ari
August 17, 2011 at 1:13 pm
Don’t check luggage – try to go carry-on only!
Sarah
August 17, 2011 at 1:14 pm
If you are interested in seeing the parade at Disney, make sure to scope out a good spot early. The route will fill up pretty quickly!
Cory
August 17, 2011 at 1:15 pm
Accept that your trip won’t go as you plan. Depending upon the age of your children also be prepared to have them spooked by the Disney characters.
Kelly Sargent
August 17, 2011 at 1:18 pm
Since you are using Starwood points for your trip, make sure you stay at an SPG property close to Disneyland. Back in November 2009 we also went to Disneyland using Starwood points for a few nights. We stayed at the Sheraton Park on S. Harbor. The staff there was very friendly. We got in VERY late from Texas and they were awesome. The bellman that took us to our room gave us so many wonderful tips for the area. Had to be the nicest bellman EVER!
You can also request a room facing Disney. We got to see the fireworks every night right from our balcony. The hotel had wonderful Disney pictures in the hallways and the beds were great! I was really worried about the walk, but it was easy for my son, who was 5 at the time. Lots of places to walk and eat. I read a bunch of reviews at Tripadvisor and so glad we made a decision to stay here.
David
August 17, 2011 at 1:25 pm
Old School Epcot was the best!!!
Matthew
August 17, 2011 at 1:26 pm
As soon as you get to the park, head over to one of the more popular rides and get a FASTPASS to avoid waiting in line: http://disneyland.disney.go.com/plan/guest-services/fastpass/
Then you can go on other rides and just return during your scheduled time.
Alex
August 17, 2011 at 1:27 pm
There are several different iPhone/Android apps that give real-time updates on ride wait times. They were incredibly useful to us in planning our trip around the park, and I made sure to contribute to them by updating wait time on the rides we were at as well! Good luck!
Matthew
August 17, 2011 at 1:30 pm
Tweeted too: http://twitter.com/matthewhirsch/statuses/103941433836314624
Theo
August 17, 2011 at 1:36 pm
added your blog to my RSS reader.
My tip, buy the water outside the park. I spent a fortune for water inside the park…., wouldn’t do it again.
Crystal
August 17, 2011 at 1:46 pm
I worked as a concierge for Disney for 3 years, so my biggest tip is to PLAN AHEAD! I’m always amazed by how many people turn up not knowing even basic things. Make a list of your must-do attractions and look at menus online so you know which restaurants appeal to you!
Shirliza
August 17, 2011 at 1:50 pm
Retweeted your post: https://twitter.com/#!/HomeEverAfter/status/103573419454496768
Shirliza
August 17, 2011 at 2:10 pm
The BEST view of the fireworks is from Main Street in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle and most of the Fantasyland rides close down during fireworks and reopen afterwards. Everyone knows this and people start saving spots HOURS before. However, If you watch the fireworks from Fantasyland near Dumbo the Flying Elephant and the Carrousel, the fireworks will appear both in front of you and behind you, so you get to watch in both directions, BUT you’ll be first in line when the Fantasyland rides re-open. The Fantasyland rides outside the roped off area re-open first, so you can ride Dumbo and then be ready when they take down the ropes to the rest of Fantasyland. Otherwise there’s usually a 40 minute or longer wait for these rides. And these are the rides that all little ones can ride.
Oh, and shop at the Target on Harbor Blvd. for snacks and bottled water when you arrive rather than having snacks, etc. shipped to your hotel. It will save you space and sanity when you arrive (not to mention shipping costs). It’s about 3 blocks down from Disneyland, which is about a half-hour walk or a few minutes’ drive.
Paul
August 17, 2011 at 2:15 pm
Consider transferring the SPG points into a frequent flyer program for a 25% bonus! Make sure there is award availability for the seats BEFORE you make the transfer though!
Enjoy your vacation!
Melissa elders
August 17, 2011 at 2:32 pm
Always pack light — makes airline travel much smoother, and leaves more room for new purchases!
Mikael
August 17, 2011 at 2:36 pm
For the young kids, check out The Baby Center on Main Street (Pacific Wharf @ California Adventure). There are tiny tables to feed toddlers, and comfortable chairs for moms to feed their infants. There are are small size toilets just for the little ones as well. You can also buy diapers, wipes, formula, baby food, etc.
http://disneyland.disney.go.com/plan/guest-services/baby-center-lost-children/
Mikael
August 17, 2011 at 2:38 pm
Also, I forgot…the whole Disneyland Guest Services page is full of useful information.
http://disneyland.disney.go.com/plan/guest-services/
Mikael
August 17, 2011 at 2:59 pm
Tweeted
http://twitter.com/#!/SPGGiveaway/status/103961575219675136
Mikael
August 17, 2011 at 3:00 pm
I subscribe to your email updates.
Doug
August 17, 2011 at 3:04 pm
Take a look at http://www.mousesavers.com – a great resource
Doug
August 17, 2011 at 3:32 pm
Added your rss feed to my google reader account!
Victoria
August 17, 2011 at 3:53 pm
FastPass, FastPass, FastPass. And spring for a babysitter one night: you guys will need a break from the kids!
Victoria
August 17, 2011 at 3:56 pm
I just subscribed to your emails. Thanks for hosting the giveaway!
Victoria
August 17, 2011 at 4:11 pm
I’m subscribed to receive email updates. Thanks for running the contest, and have a great time at Disney!
Paige
August 17, 2011 at 4:18 pm
Bring new toys that the kids have never seen on the plane. Or a DVD player with headphone splitters so they can watch a new movie they’ve never seen. Too many parents leave kids to their own devices on airplace/don’t plan properly, and everyone (including the kids) suffers as a result.
Also, pack your liquids in your checked bags. That will give you one less thing to worry about while going through security.
Jill Barone
August 17, 2011 at 4:32 pm
The food inside the park is generally not that good by adult standards (and very expensive for what you get). For better dinner options, try dining outside the park. Some of the hotels have pretty good options!
Andrew Jiang
August 17, 2011 at 4:44 pm
Disney: Lots of fun, but extremely exhausting. Rather than try to pack it all in quickly, spread the fun over a multiple days. The tickets are only slightly more for multi-day, and you’ll find yourself enjoying it much more and dreading the exhaustion significantly less.
Roxy
August 17, 2011 at 7:49 pm
Having been to Anaheim, my first tip is to not just focus on disneyland! The Angels play there too and tickets at the box office are not that bad!
Roxy
August 17, 2011 at 7:54 pm
blogged
http://roxyshops.blogspot.com/2011/08/win-starwood-points-at-homeeveraftercom.html
Cory
August 17, 2011 at 8:28 pm
I just blogged it
http://re-declareyourindependence.blogspot.com/2011/08/little-bit-of-travel-stuff.html
Cory Stinebrink
August 17, 2011 at 8:29 pm
Subscribed to the RSS feed.
Pingback: Four travel blogs giving away 100,000 Starpoints this week - Loyalty Traveler
Cory Stinebrink
August 17, 2011 at 8:30 pm
I assume you can only do this once, but I signed up for emails.
Cory Stinebrink
August 17, 2011 at 8:33 pm
Tweet, Tweet I spread the word on twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/CoryStinebrink/status/104047944730288128
Maggie J
August 17, 2011 at 8:48 pm
If there are wee ones, make sure they have something to suck on for take offs and landings to keep their ears cleared.
donna zittel
August 17, 2011 at 8:51 pm
this is awesome. We have 3 small kids and a vacation would be a dream come true right now!
Alan
August 17, 2011 at 9:02 pm
Bring your own snacks and a water bottle to refill at fountains. Saves time and money.
Brian
August 17, 2011 at 9:04 pm
I would hoard the points and keep it in my account. I would look at it everyday for a year and maybe then I’ll decide to use it.
Candace
August 17, 2011 at 9:05 pm
If you are headed to Orlando, FL make sure to keep up with NASA on twitter for unique opportunities to interact with the space program! A great addition to any Disney World visit!
Hans Mast
August 17, 2011 at 9:07 pm
Whenever you travel, make sure you’ve maximized the “rebate” value in every step of the process:
1. Use coupons
2. Use cashback sites (like BigCrumbs) to get cashback from Expedia, et. al.
3. Use a mileage earning card to purchase your tickets/hotel, preferably the loyalty card of the airline/hotel chain that you are purchasing from that gives bonus miles/points
4. Include your frequent flyer number/hotel loyalty number in the reservation
5. Charge incidentals to the room rather than charging to CC so it increases your points earned
Ben
August 17, 2011 at 9:07 pm
Bring your own food!
Hans Mast
August 17, 2011 at 9:08 pm
I subscribed to your RSS feed.
Hans Mast
August 17, 2011 at 9:11 pm
http://twitter.com/#!/hansmast/status/104057577792487424
Chad Moore
August 17, 2011 at 9:11 pm
If it’s raining know where to find your fav characters indoors.
laurent
August 17, 2011 at 9:12 pm
Take a day off from the Disney Park in Tokyo to enjoy the city itself, and the Japanese culture, especially in this post tsunami period; they need the visitors and business
Hans Mast
August 17, 2011 at 9:14 pm
Added badge: http://mennodeals.com
Jon Shih
August 17, 2011 at 9:16 pm
I used RideMax also (http://www.ridemax.com/) on my last trip to Disneyland and it helped a TON! I highly recommend it.
Pingback: Good Deals | MennoDeals
Hans Mast
August 17, 2011 at 9:19 pm
Blogged: http://mennodeals.com/2011/08/good-deals/
Jon
August 17, 2011 at 9:19 pm
Just subscribed to your emails :)
Hans Mast
August 17, 2011 at 9:20 pm
3. Share this giveaway on Twitter, Facebook, or any forum, including the name of the prize and a link to this post. Then leave the link to your post.
If we share on both Twitter and Facebook in one day, do we get multiple entries in one day? The same question applies to those people with multiple blogs (for instance I blog at HansMast.com and MennoDeals.com)
(btw, your comments policy link is broken just above this box.)
Vy
August 17, 2011 at 9:25 pm
I would use it to tour Asia, Tokyo and Seoul. Reedem it at a 4 stars hotel points and cash for extended stay!
Jason
August 17, 2011 at 9:35 pm
Use miles instead of cash!!! Get hotel status to save money on internet and breakfast, not to mention the room upgrades!
Harry
August 17, 2011 at 9:36 pm
Subscribed to your rss feeds — thanks!
Ivan
August 17, 2011 at 9:46 pm
You may spend some time @ Downtown Disney as well….
Allen
August 17, 2011 at 9:48 pm
Check out the restaurants that feature the characters, you pay a bit extra but you can have them all visit your table.
Bruce B.
August 17, 2011 at 9:48 pm
During the afternoon–when the crowds are closing in and the heat is unbearable–go to Tom Sawyer’s Island. Can’t beat it for shade and finding a quiet spot.
Jimmy Y.
August 17, 2011 at 9:50 pm
Sign up or use your AAA card for a Park Hopper Pass!
Michael
August 17, 2011 at 9:53 pm
For maximum enjoyment, take me and my kids along with you!
Kristen
August 17, 2011 at 9:53 pm
Yay! Back to leave another comment (by the way, thanks for your sweet reply!)…
Another souvenir tip is this…PRESSED PENNIES! There are dozens of pressed penny machines scattered all over the parks. Purchase an inexpensive Penny Passport Book at one of the gift shops–it’s a perfect keepsake holders for the pennies. The hunt for penny machines is almost as much fun as seeing the attractions! As far as souvenirs go, it’s about as cheap as you can get….51 cents each, to be exact. My kids have started specific collections (villians, princesses, etc.). You can request a map of all the penny machines at any counter in the gift shops. We now collect pressed pennies on ALL of our vacations (we are really on a shoe string budget, my husband is a full time student and I’m a work-from-home mom…we usually camp). It’s like a little scrapbook of our family adventures! One more tip–take pennies (1985 or before work the best) and quarters from home. Our kids stack them in a mini M&M’s tube…a perfect portable size. Best of luck and enjoy your MAGICAL vacation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
With pixie dust,
Kristen :)
giovanna
August 17, 2011 at 10:25 pm
No matter what you do, the Fast Passes are a must! Plan your day around when you can get and redeem those.
Sayyid C
August 17, 2011 at 10:27 pm
I don’t have kids so best thing I can tell you is stay hydrated? Have loads of patience? Nonetheless, Enjoy.
Rachel
August 17, 2011 at 10:32 pm
I’d love to say I’d take a luxurious vacation and blow all of the points at once, but honestly, I’m pretty frugal so I’d more than likely use the points between myself and my family on multiple good value 4-night stays to get the 5th night free. :)
Tony C
August 17, 2011 at 10:32 pm
I’d redeem it for SPG’s “nights and flights” option for 5 nights at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa. I’ll end up with 50,000 miles at Hawaiian Air; good enough for a round trip First class ticket.
The balance of 30,000 Starpoints; I’de use another obscure option. To assuage such a guilt laden trip, I’d donate the points using starpoints to UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund. This option is one offered by SPG as well.
Cheers!
Tony C
August 17, 2011 at 10:34 pm
subscribed via rss
Tony C
August 17, 2011 at 10:39 pm
email subscription
Sam
August 17, 2011 at 10:47 pm
Get on public transit. Almost anywhere. A cheap way to get around, and really gives you a better feel for a place than any other activity.
Sam
August 17, 2011 at 10:48 pm
Just subscribed to email list.
Ladi O
August 17, 2011 at 10:56 pm
pack fruit cups for the kids as it could be used as mini snacks and fruits also help rejuvinate the body. toys and color pads will also help.
since you will be at the sheraton for 10days, make sure you get some adult time as well…The hotel has a nice pool for the kids, so get to interact with fellow parents. You can set-up outings with the other families. pack pain killers for yourself and the kids. Also, sunscreen is important for california in the summer.
lastly, make sure the kids are dehydrated at all times…..take water bottles along and refill with water at the hotel, so you dont have to purchase all the time. Plus, you save the environment.
I hope I win.
thanks.
Michael Teper
August 17, 2011 at 11:04 pm
I would keep it to one park per day. Disney is incredibly well organized, so you won’t have to worry about much once you get in the park, but doing more than one per day will be taxing on everyone!
Jacob
August 17, 2011 at 11:14 pm
I want a vacation
Con
August 17, 2011 at 11:50 pm
Bring an empty water bottle to filll up at the airport instead of paying $5 a bottle since it will be double that in Disneyland!
Savio
August 17, 2011 at 11:54 pm
Where there are kids, you need wet wipes.
Scott L
August 18, 2011 at 12:28 am
Do not rent a car! You won’t need it. Eat some local Mexican food if you can. The best.
Bill K.
August 18, 2011 at 12:59 am
If you are going to Disneyland, utilize the fast pass system which allows you to pick up passes and skip the general entry line of a ride to a shorter timed entry later for certain more popular attractions.
Disney will tell you that you can only hold one fast pass at a time, but the fast pass for Roger Rabbit’s cartoon spin (good for the kids) is not tied to the rest of the passes in the disneyland park and so you can also get one the same time as holding other fast passes. And if you have a park hopper you can go from one park to the next and get a fast pass one right after the other without waiting until the next allotted time you can get a pass.
Lorie
August 18, 2011 at 1:01 am
Get a book or go to a website that talks about hidden “Mickeys” in the park. It will give you and your family something fun to look for and do as well as you will have a good amount of time at the parks.
Bill K.
August 18, 2011 at 1:02 am
Just completed an email subscription.
Lorie
August 18, 2011 at 1:12 am
completed email subscription
Jordon
August 18, 2011 at 1:26 am
Resting tip is to start early and then take a midday nap back at the room. Leaves you refreshed for the evening fireworks or shows and takes you away from the hottest part of the day!
Johnny L.
August 18, 2011 at 1:26 am
Definitely go to the website http://www.themeparkinsider.com/reviews/disneyland/. This website gives reviews of the rides (including minimum heights and wait times), dining areas, and other facets of the park. All of this is free! Once you finish going through this site, you can then maximize your time by going to the FASTPASS locations that will be the experience your family wants. The site also features reviews of the adjacent park, Disney California Adventure.
DCA Rob
August 18, 2011 at 1:33 am
I have recently gotten the SPG AMEX card. My goal is to save enough points for a 5th Night Free Awared in Rome or Florence.
CC
August 18, 2011 at 1:58 am
Just like a fire, pick a safety spot you can all eet and wait for one another in case one of the kids gets lost
Mikael
August 18, 2011 at 2:10 am
If your hotel room has a freezer, freeze beverages the night before so they will be ice cold in the middle of the day. If your freezer is too small, or you don’t have one, ask the front desk if you can put the bottles in theirs.
Mikael
August 18, 2011 at 2:10 am
Tweeted. http://twitter.com/#!/SPGGiveaway/status/104132393039970304
Mikael
August 18, 2011 at 2:11 am
I am an email subscriber.
MIF1961
August 18, 2011 at 2:13 am
6nights at St Regis Rome using 5th night free and one more night.
Josh
August 18, 2011 at 2:20 am
Make sure to check flights in to John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Long Beach Airport (LGB), in addition to LAX. They might have better availability and are closer to Disneyland!
Josh
August 18, 2011 at 2:28 am
Added your blog to my Google Reader. http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/HomeEverAfter/~3/Mtsi_HTyVmc/
Peter
August 18, 2011 at 2:43 am
Wait until lunchtime or dinnertime to go on the more popular rides. The lines will be shorter.
Garrett
August 18, 2011 at 3:04 am
Leave the kids with grandma and use the 100K to go to Bora Bora instead. That’s my best advice.
Kevin N
August 18, 2011 at 3:25 am
My friend and I have for years talked about seeing the so-called New Seven Wonders of the World. As luck would have it, 100,000 SPG points would cover our accommodations as follows:
(1) Rio (Christ the Redeemer) – Two Cash and Points nights at the Sheraton Barra Hotel & Suites for 9600 SPG points and $180.
(2) Peru (Machu Pichu) – Two nights Tambo del Inka Resort & Spa for 20000 SPG points.
(3) Mexico (Chichen Itza) – Two nights at the Hacienda Temozon for 24000 SPG points
(4) Rome (Colliseum) – Three Cash and Points nights at the Sheraton Roma Hotel & Conference Center for 8,400 SPG points and $135
(5) Agra (Taj Mahal) – Two nights at the ITC Mughal, Agra for 14000 SPG points
(6) Jordan (Petra) – Three Cash and Points nights at the Sheraton Amman Al Nabil Hotel & Towers for 12000 points and $180
(7) China (Great Wall) – Three Cash and Point Nights at the West Beijing Financial Street for 12000 SPG points and $180
Grand Total – 100,000 SPG points on the button!
Joe
August 18, 2011 at 3:26 am
awesome promotion!
FrequentMiler
August 18, 2011 at 3:29 am
Use SPG Cash + Points to maximize the value of your points.
Russ
August 18, 2011 at 3:30 am
any comment
Jacob
August 18, 2011 at 3:33 am
thanks for running the competition!
Jacob
August 18, 2011 at 3:33 am
thanks
jfa
August 18, 2011 at 3:43 am
use google to search blogs that relate other travelers recent experiences. piggyback off their recent trips
jfa
August 18, 2011 at 3:47 am
use trip advisor to share other visitors recent experiences
Scott
August 18, 2011 at 3:47 am
Great contest! Here’s what I’d do…
For my honeymoon next Labor Day weekend, I’m trying to maximize time away, variety of fun/memorable experiences, and overall value with the points. I’d do two of the Fifth Night Free deals at Category 4 hotels, totaling 80k SPG points for 10 nights. For the remaining 20k points, I’d use it for the wedding night at the St. Regis in Washington DC (where we live) and hope they throw a free upgrade our way… hard to turn down bride in a pretty white dress, right? :)
I’ve got the flights in F covered thanks to US Airways miles, but for the hotels:
20k Points: St. Regis Washington DC (wedding night)
40k Points for 5 nights: The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali
40k Points for 5 nights: Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort
With a few overnight connections in First Class on Luthsansa, Thai Airways, and ANA I think this makes for an amazing two week honeymoon that I’d never be able to afford without using miles/points!
jim
August 18, 2011 at 3:49 am
wing it
Matt
August 18, 2011 at 3:53 am
Never been to Disneyland, but I practically grew up at Disney World. Best tip there is to get one of the Park Hopper passes. It’s a little more expensive but well worth it to switch parks during the day.
Dave
August 18, 2011 at 4:08 am
Pack Light – Just take a carry on bag!
Nick
August 18, 2011 at 4:24 am
Take lots of water
K
August 18, 2011 at 4:26 am
Make sure your camera is charged
Larry B
August 18, 2011 at 4:28 am
When we took our small children, we would go first thing in the morning, then take a couple of hours off midday to relax, hit the pool etc. and then return to the park late aftrernoon or evening to catch the fireworks. Always seemed less crowded later in the day.
jim
August 18, 2011 at 4:32 am
use trip advisor to read other travelers recent experiences
Marc-André
August 18, 2011 at 4:38 am
My best tip: Stay hydrated during those long days in the sun. Bring reusable bottles of water and wear light clothes!
Chris
August 18, 2011 at 4:39 am
I could really use a vacation about now :)
Eric
August 18, 2011 at 4:41 am
Points for vacation are great. I appreciate you sharing this great deal and your wealth of Starpoints.
Joe
August 18, 2011 at 4:43 am
Following your blog via RSS! Thanks!
James
August 18, 2011 at 4:44 am
I would also use it for a nights and flights redemption. I’ve always wanted to go to Hawaii and I see Starwood has some amazing looking properties there.
Curtis Tomlin
August 18, 2011 at 4:56 am
Tip: Stay at a hotel near public transit to save on cost, and leave the driving to someone else! Portland, OR, Vancouver, BC, Seattle, WA, L.A. all have good light rail systems.
Randy
August 18, 2011 at 4:59 am
Enjoy the warm weather and your family!
Laura B
August 18, 2011 at 5:02 am
Enjoy the family time and take lots of pictures!!
infamousdx
August 18, 2011 at 5:04 am
100k Starpoints would be amazing. I would string them out as long as possible using the Cash & Points option! Lots of option in Europe, probably the Mediterranean
Thanks for the opportunity!
MSPpete
August 18, 2011 at 5:11 am
I would skip Disney and go to Maldives for a week of scuba diving!
Marcy
August 18, 2011 at 5:29 am
Maybe then I would actually get to go on vacation for more than a 3-day weekend.
Conway
August 18, 2011 at 5:38 am
Subscribed via email!
Conway
August 18, 2011 at 5:39 am
When we last went we went in the summer and the best thing we did was bring face towels to wet and drape around our necks. It made standing in line and walking around a lot easier and you can just refresh the towel at a bathroom!
Joey
August 18, 2011 at 5:41 am
I’d use the 100K points to find a new place to juggle. Any suggestions on other places?
Elizabeth Soundy
August 18, 2011 at 5:43 am
Take a break from the camera yourself and let one of your children take the pictures instead if they are old enough. After years of taking all the photos on our family vacations my children took over the job. It was amazing to see what they found interesting and took photos of and what was memorable to them. Of course I borrowed the camera from time to time to include them in the photos.
Jon S
August 18, 2011 at 5:44 am
I’d do nights and flights to head off to vacation in California for a week and stay at Monarch Beach!
Nadine
August 18, 2011 at 5:45 am
Sounds like a great trip! You can probably use some points to get a free rental car as well. If I won, I would use the points to stay in Hawaii – either at the Sheraton Maui or the St. Regis Princeville in Kauai – trying to get the 5th night free promotion.
erick
August 18, 2011 at 5:50 am
If you are driving an RV to disneyland, whatever you do, don’t run your AC all day. It will absolutely result in a waterfall of condensation from a frozen AC unit right into the middle of your mobile dining room. True story
Andrea
August 18, 2011 at 5:53 am
go on vacation with my family!
Angela
August 18, 2011 at 6:00 am
Stay away from the timeshare or vacation home presentations!
Lud
August 18, 2011 at 6:01 am
i tweeted http://www.twitter.com/scoopstweet
Lud
August 18, 2011 at 6:02 am
Try to get deals online beforehand, like refillable cups and group discounts so you don’t have to keep paying extra and waiting on lines to pay.
Brian Bridges
August 18, 2011 at 6:06 am
Buy your Disneyland tickets from your local AAA office, and parking is included for free! That’s $15 per day to spend on other things!
Cory
August 18, 2011 at 6:13 am
Pack your own food on the flight. Airplane food is toxic.
worldtraveller2
August 18, 2011 at 6:18 am
So here it goes – my “handle” is Worldtraveller2, and I like adventure and to be moving on a trip. It is really hard for me to stay in one place for very long. So my adventure would start like this:
One way ticket, off peak season from PHX-SCL (Phoenix to Santiago, Chile) on AA in November. (It is actually a great time to be there, right before the hot summer time starts). Redeem 35,000 Starwood points to make 40,000 AA points. (Each way from the USA to South America is 20,000 AA points.) You arrive at 7 AM in the morning, so then you would have the entire day to explore Santiago. Check in at either the W Santiago or San Cristobal Tower, a luxury collection hotel (10,000 Starwood points). Eat lunch at NRG Plus in Bella Vista, while visiting the Bella Artes Museum and then the lapis lazuli factories close by and/or riding the gondola at the Parque Metropolitano to Cerro San Cristobal Hill. Reserve dinner at Zanzibar in BordeRio. Sleep late, then rent a car from Avis (3500 points per $50) and take a drive to Algarrobo, just to see the world largest swimming pool (http://www.gizmag.com/worlds-biggest-and-deepest-swimming-pools/8891/) then make your way to Vina de Mar to stay at the Sheraton Miramar (cat 4) 10,000 Starwood points. Next morning, drive back to SCL to catch a flight to Calama, Chile (CJC) to see one of the most intriguing and interesting places on earth, San Pedro de Atacama. Stay at a great B and B here, because there are no Starwood hotels in San Pedro de Atacama (I stayed at the house of the museum curator and it was fabulous!). From CJC, take a flight to Iguzu Falls, Argentina and stay at the Sheraton (Cat 5) for 16,000 Starwood points per night. From Iguzu Falls, take a flight to Montevideo, Uruguay, staying at the Sheraton (cat 4) for 10,000 points, get some sleep and then take a day trip to Punta del Diablo (only a 2 ½ hour drive along the coast), spend the night at El Diablo Tranquilo Playa Suites(awesome!) Drive back to Montevideo and take the ferry across to Buenos Aires, Argentina, my second favorite city in the world! Stay at the Sheraton Libertador Hotel (cat 3) for two nights @ 7,000 Starwood nights per night. Fly back on a one way AA ticket from EZE to PHX (20,000 AA, but redeemed on 35,000 for both ways).
Recap:
• 35,000 Starwood pts= 40,000 AA for flights to and from South America (PHX – SCL, EZE-PHX)
• 10,000 Starwood pts (W Santiago or San Cristobal Tower in Santiago, Chile)
• 10,000 Starwood pts (Sheraton Miramar, Vina del Mar, Chile)
• 16,000 Starwood pts (Iguzu Falls, Argentina)
• 10,000 Starwood pts (Montevideo, Uraguy)
• 14,000 Starwood pts (2 nights at the Sheraton Liberador, Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Spend the last 5000 Starwood points for AVIS rental car (to decrease the car costs @ less than $100 off)
Lee
August 18, 2011 at 6:32 am
I would use the 100K miles to travel on a mini around world run with my wife.
Use cash and point option to cash on hotel rooms on the way in Asia and Europe.
Got the email sub. Thanks!
Aleks
August 18, 2011 at 6:33 am
These points would come in very handy for my next vacation! Might even convert some to airline miles for int’l First!
HoKo
August 18, 2011 at 6:36 am
If you have status with SPG (especially Platinum) I would strongly recommend using SPG points in Asia. Their elite recognition and treatment is head and shoulders above the sort of treatment I normally receive here in the US!
John
August 18, 2011 at 6:38 am
I also would like a vacation
Haplo859
August 18, 2011 at 6:39 am
I just tweeted: Just entered to win 100,000 Starpoints from Starwood Hotels on HomeEverAfter! Thanks for a great promo. You can find it at https://twitter.com/#!/Haplo859
jen
August 18, 2011 at 6:51 am
If you need a break from the parks, head to Celebration, FL for the day. Rent bikes and cruise the nature trails or just hang out in their cute downtown. Lots of restaurants to eat in. A relaxing and fun place with kids or without!
Nathaniel
August 18, 2011 at 6:57 am
there’s a site called http://touringplans.com/ that has a lot of great info about the parks and how to maxmize your time there instead of waiting in lines.
Mark
August 18, 2011 at 7:00 am
I subscribed to your email updates.
VInce
August 18, 2011 at 7:01 am
With kids, I am always flexible with what I do and where I go on any given day. I start out with a plan, but I always have alternate arrangements in case of rain or if the rides are shut down. That keeps everyone busy and doesn’t waste any of our vacation days.
Chad
August 18, 2011 at 7:03 am
Get the travel guide. There actually really helpful in how they tell you to plan out your day.
jennifer horn
August 18, 2011 at 7:19 am
I’m a subscriber.
jennifer horn
August 18, 2011 at 7:24 am
daily tweet. https://twitter.com/#!/jen_r_horn/status/104210836721119233
Stephanie
August 18, 2011 at 7:29 am
Go to the characters breakfast at the hotel! Kids absolutely LOVE it.
ScottyD
August 18, 2011 at 7:32 am
I just subscribed to your email update feed – planning our own Disney trip in a month – best advice, make a plan – have found the Unofficial Guide to Disney invaluable and their website for TouringPlans/wait times etc.
–Scott
Ty
August 18, 2011 at 7:32 am
Take grandma…. believe me worth all the miles!
AY
August 18, 2011 at 7:34 am
Get in early, and use Fastpass wisely.
Russell Mohr
August 18, 2011 at 7:34 am
I would put the kids on the Space Mountain line and hit the bar- and repeat!
laura
August 18, 2011 at 7:35 am
i just subscribed to your blog via emali!
Ty
August 18, 2011 at 7:35 am
subscribed to your RSS thanks!
Russell Mohr
August 18, 2011 at 7:39 am
I tweeted it to the world!!!
http://twitter.com/rmohr
RKS
August 18, 2011 at 7:44 am
FASTPASS!
Jed
August 18, 2011 at 7:44 am
100k starwood points would mean being able to redeem for my upcoming trip to Paris, London, and Amsterdam!
Ty
August 18, 2011 at 7:47 am
http://www.twitter.com/pointpoints shared on twitter thanks
Nathaniel
August 18, 2011 at 7:50 am
subscribed to email
Nathaniel
August 18, 2011 at 7:51 am
sent tweet: http://bit.ly/r42hvt
Simon
August 18, 2011 at 7:52 am
If I win the Starpoints I’d like to try the brand new W Taipei on New Year’s Eve!
Goosh
August 18, 2011 at 8:04 am
Make sure you allocate at least 2 days to see everything. Just went for the first time in 10 years and there’s just so much more now with the addition of California Adventure. Also, when I was a kid, it was all about running from ride to ride and trying to maximize the number of rides. I think the best thing now is to take a leisurely approach and actually have a sit down lunch, see a show, and just enjoy walking around the parks.
James Wilcox
August 18, 2011 at 8:06 am
Considering the number of days you’ll be there, definitely utilize restaurants outside of the park as much as is feasible. It will save your family a bundle of cash throughout those 5-10 days..
James W
August 18, 2011 at 8:08 am
Just tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/jb_sweeps/status/104219484469985280
James W
August 18, 2011 at 8:09 am
Following you via RSS.. Thanks for the great info!
Larry
August 18, 2011 at 8:11 am
Wear tennis shoes and do the fast pass. Bring lots of fruit bars and take a break often to sit and people-watch.
Just subscribed to e-mail
Jon C
August 18, 2011 at 8:11 am
Subscribed to your reader.
Spencer Wheelwright
August 18, 2011 at 8:22 am
Make sure you have comfortable, broken-in shoes before heading on your trip!
StarGoldUA
August 18, 2011 at 8:27 am
I would transfer 80000 points to 100,000 miles to get a Biz ticket to North Asia and then use the remaining *wood points for Cash & Points for a 10 day vacation across the region.
rachelT
August 18, 2011 at 8:28 am
Always bring a change of clothes. There are lots of fun ways to get wet at Disney!
IPBrian
August 18, 2011 at 8:36 am
My vacation tip would be to plan your vacation, but remain flexible. People get too uptight, so what if you miss something, vacations are supposed to be fun and relaxing!
Dan
August 18, 2011 at 8:38 am
just go to space mountain over and over.
Andy
August 18, 2011 at 8:56 am
Get Fastpass tickets and try to use them in the line right away. Half the time the people don’t check the timestamp on them. If they do, just come back at the correct time.
Lance
August 18, 2011 at 9:07 am
Do check out the nights and flights option for redeeming the points: good value to be had there…
Cory
August 18, 2011 at 9:10 am
Tweet, tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/CoryStinebrink/status/104238523640594432
Jeff Dean
August 18, 2011 at 9:11 am
With 100,000 Starpoints, I could take a six-night, seven-day dream vacation to the Pacific Northwest! I feel in love with region while watching the Vancouver Winter Olympic Games, and I’ve longed to visit ever since! (And it just so happens that 100,000 Starpoints is precisely the right amount to make this trip possible!)
First, I would immediately transfer 25,000 miles to American Airlines in order to pay for a round-trip AAdvantage flight from my home in Montgomery, Alabama, to Seattle, Washington, via the American hub in DFW. This transfer would drop an extra 5,000 Starpoints into my balance, leaving a net balance of 80,000 Starpoints.
Now I would transfer 5,000 points to Amtrak in order to pay for intercity travel along Amtrak’s Cascadia route. Each day of travel in along the route requires 1,000 points, so I’m free to explore the wonders of Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia for five full days along an extensive train route! Now my balance stands at 75,000 Starpoints.
Of course, I have to have a place to stay while I’m travelling, so I’ll leave 65,000 Starpoints in my account for nightly rooms. I’ll spend two nights at The Westin Grand in Vancouver (level 4, 10,000 each = 20,000 points), two nights at The Westin Seattle (level 4, 10,000 each = 20,000 points), one night at the Nine in Portland (level 4, 10,000 points), and splurge a little at The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler (level 5, 12,000 points). The remaining 3,000 Starpoints I’ll use in Seattle as part of their “Dine and Unwind” Instant rewards program: I’ll get to “enjoy a 3-course dinner with a glass of select Washington wine in Coldwater,” the hotel restaurant! Now my balance is at 10,000 Starpoints.
Then I’ll take 5,000 of those points to buy a $50 gift card for Starbucks. That way I’ll have $7.14 every day of my trip to spend on breakfast…and that just happens to be the after-tax price of a medium nonfat latte and a Reduced-Fat Turkey Bacon and Egg White English Muffin—a nutritious way to start my days!
The final 5,000 Starpoints are just enough to transfer for a $50 Avis gift certificate, and $50 is the price the rent an SUV in Vancouver and drive myself to Whistler for my one-night stay there. What a coincidence!
You see, then, that with only 100,000 Starpoints, the only costs that would remain are lunch and dinner on my trip—and a little cash out of my wallet is much more in line with the money I have available to spend for this dream vacation! I sure hope you’ll help me take my trip!
Thanks!
Jeff
SC Flier
August 18, 2011 at 9:33 am
Hire a babysitter for a night off.
Cory
August 18, 2011 at 9:34 am
I added a badge to my blog. Not sure how that works exactly just yet though :) This is a fun contest.
SC Flier
August 18, 2011 at 9:39 am
I subscribed to your emails!
Cory
August 18, 2011 at 9:39 am
Suppose I should link the site I put up a badge on
http://re-declareyourindependence.blogspot.com/
slarsondc
August 18, 2011 at 9:41 am
Don’t over do it and have fun.
Victoria
August 18, 2011 at 9:50 am
Daily entry to say I’m subscribed to your emails!
Victoria
August 18, 2011 at 9:52 am
Tip of the day: try to spend some time one-on-one with each member of the family!
Pingback: Several travel blogs giving away 100,000 Starpoints August 20-24 - FlyerTalk Forums
AR
August 18, 2011 at 10:36 am
Check the weather forecast before you go. Simple, but often overlooked.
Cheeseburger
August 18, 2011 at 10:42 am
My suggestion is to go someplace you’ve never heard of.
Mark
August 18, 2011 at 10:44 am
Go on all the rides at Epcot….lots of fun! And try one of the resorts for dining. They are all themed and have so good international food. I hope I win the Starpoints! Thanks.
Jerad Kaliher
August 18, 2011 at 10:45 am
I love Disney and have been an annual pass member for several years. My most memorable trip was in Disney World when I was 13. I’ll never forget it.
Wesley
August 18, 2011 at 10:47 am
Just leaving a comment to enter.
Wesley
August 18, 2011 at 10:51 am
Getting a 2nd entry for following your RSS feed.
Lynn
August 18, 2011 at 11:02 am
Slow down, keek the “Hurry up,we have to go now” to a minimum.
Mike
August 18, 2011 at 11:05 am
Remember to enjoy some adult beverages, preferably poolside.
Isaac
August 18, 2011 at 11:08 am
My strategy for any Disney trip has always been to get to the parks early and take a break in the middle of the day back at the hotel.
lindsey
August 18, 2011 at 11:11 am
get a big hug from mickey mouse and feel like a kid again!
Doug
August 18, 2011 at 11:13 am
day 2 comment! :)
Andy S.
August 18, 2011 at 11:18 am
I work a lot, so it’s hard to get 2-3 weeks off at a time. So when I travel, I dream of luxury across the board, including the flight. So, if you were to leave the kids at home and take a short, but excellent vacation in luxury, you may want to do what I would do:
1) Convert 40,000 Starpoints to 50,000 AA miles.
2) Redeem remaining 60,000 Starpoints for Nights and Flights for 5 nights in a Category 3 hotel and 50,000 AA miles. (Total 100,000 AA miles.)
3) I would use the 100,000 AA miles to book a round trip ticket to Tokyo, Japan on Cathay Pacific airlines (with a stopover in Hong Kong) in their world-renowned, transpacific business class cabin (if you had 20,000 more Starpoints, redeeming them for an additional 25k AA miles would be well worth it for the upgrade to First Class in Cathay — tickets that normally retail for about $18,000+!!!).
4) I would stay at the Sheraton Miyako Hotel (Category 3) for five nights as part of the Nights and Flights redemption. During my stay, I’d take day trips to see Japan! Yokohama; Kobe beef in…Kobe!; Tokyo; etc.
Tom
August 18, 2011 at 11:19 am
I would spend three nights at the Gritti Palace in Venice (30k x 3), and spend the remaining 10k at the hotel on food and drinks!
Ike
August 18, 2011 at 11:34 am
Don’t worry too much about ‘perfect,’ just relax and enjoy.
Becca
August 18, 2011 at 11:35 am
You can use your fastpass anytime after the beginning of the window. The end of the window does not matter.
mark
August 18, 2011 at 11:36 am
5th night free, nights & flights are the best-kept secrets for Starwood redemption.
Mark
August 18, 2011 at 11:41 am
A few fabulous nights at the Westin Excelsior Rome!
Josh G
August 18, 2011 at 11:41 am
Using the Nights & Flights II option I’d redeem 70,000 Starpoints and receive 50,000 airline miles and five free nights at a Category 4 hotel. The Hotel would be The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa, Victoria. I’d go with my wife and we would fly American Airlines. Since we would use MileSAAver, the flight would be 50,000 miles for a round trip. For the Hotel and Flight we would use a total of 70,000 Starpoints. With the remaining 30,000 Starpoints I would get $300 worth of iTunes Gift cards. I would then buy an ITouch for my wife since I accidentally dropped hers in the toilet (which is currently water damaged).
__________________________________________________________________________________
Nights & Flights II = 70,000 Starpoints
$300 iTunes Gift Cards = 30,000 Starpoints
gee whiz
August 18, 2011 at 11:44 am
I’d take my wife to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary in style In Bora Bora
john gamane
August 18, 2011 at 11:55 am
6 of y’all on a plane.
When you choose ur seats, select the back of the plane.
Put the 2 oldest in window / aisle seats behind Dad.
You and Dad sit on opposite aisles – assumes 3 across seating both sides of plane – again using window / aisle seat.
If someone comes for the empty seat you just slide over – worst case.
With some luck, you will think you’re in 1st class.
Enjoy your trip.
john & susan
ps – during the trip, if something strikes you as attractive but too expensive – SPEND THE MONEY – avoid any and all possible regrets.
Kevin
August 18, 2011 at 11:56 am
Use the nights and flights option! Get the most out of the points!
SC Flier
August 18, 2011 at 12:02 pm
Tweeted! http://twitter.com/#!/scflier/status/104281829120552960
Megan G
August 18, 2011 at 12:03 pm
Give my regards to Mickey and Minnie!
Conway
August 18, 2011 at 12:14 pm
My wife and I just recently got married here in Chicago and she has never traveled outside North America. We are both foodies and would love to do an Asian tour and eat all the delicacies the Far East has to offer! Stop one would be Japan and I would try to book The Westin Tokyo for 4 nights Cash and Points (32000 points.) In the early morning we’ll head to the Tsukiji Fish Market and indulge in a bowlful of chutoro. At night we would scour the streets for the best Tonkatsu ramen and Takoyaki! Stop two would be Taipei where would hit up the night markets and chow on yummy street food like the infamous stinky tofu and cool down with bao bing. We would use SPG points to stay at the Sheraton Taipei with the 5th night free (40000 points). Then finally on to Malaysia where we would hit up its beautiful beaches and rainforests. We would probably make a stop at the Petronas Towers and rest our feet Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur with the 5th night free promo (28000 points). Dishes like Malaysian curry chicken, roti canai, and Laksa are my favorites and the best place to do that is Jalan Alor. Now that would be a great way to spend 100,000 Starwood points!
arye
August 18, 2011 at 12:14 pm
lol at all the random tips. enjoy yourself, disney is for whole family fun, not just the kids!!
Conway
August 18, 2011 at 12:23 pm
Tweeted! http://twitter.com/#!/c0ldlimit/status/104287227424669697
Romina
August 18, 2011 at 12:28 pm
I’ll book tickets to Australia to escape winter!
romina
August 18, 2011 at 12:30 pm
I just subscribe to your list, so here it’s my second entry of the day ;)
mat
August 18, 2011 at 12:31 pm
I’ll use them to visit Hawaii for the first time!
Martin
August 18, 2011 at 12:33 pm
In for the win.
Ricky
August 18, 2011 at 12:44 pm
Maximize the cities you see on your trip by using free stopovers.
Jason
August 18, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Make a reservation for lunch/dinner at one of nicer restaurants in the park early in the morning. By meal time, they’ll be booked!
LS
August 18, 2011 at 12:55 pm
Convert to Asia Miles (turn 100,000 SPG to 125,000 Asia Miles) and get a business class round trip CX tickets (need 125,000 Asia Miles) to visit parents!!!
Jeffrey L
August 18, 2011 at 1:04 pm
Tour our wonderful National Parks by car and use the points for hotel stays along the way
Glenda Zoo
August 18, 2011 at 1:06 pm
Take my Hubby to Hawaii for our 25th anniversary.
Curtis Borchardt
August 18, 2011 at 1:06 pm
Go straight to the back of the park first, and work forward!
Jennifer Church
August 18, 2011 at 1:09 pm
You could stay at the Sheraton Lake Buena Vistana and really be able to relax and compare Disney World to Disneyland.
Andrew H
August 18, 2011 at 1:23 pm
Plan out which rides/things you want to see in advance!
aitchly
August 18, 2011 at 1:25 pm
use undercover tourist and go back to the hotel every single day during the heat of the day, you will still see it all and not be tired
Lantean
August 18, 2011 at 1:34 pm
Turno off your cell phone while on vacation – it can’t get any better!
;-)
Cathy
August 18, 2011 at 1:35 pm
Bring your own water bottles and buy gallon jugs to refill your bottles each day before going to the park – you will save SO much money!
steve
August 18, 2011 at 1:38 pm
Always do the parks in a clockwise direction (left to right) as the majority of people do the typical start on the right thing.
Cathy
August 18, 2011 at 1:38 pm
I subscribed via Google reader.
beth
August 18, 2011 at 1:39 pm
have a great time in disney!
shanie
August 18, 2011 at 1:39 pm
can i come too? :)
Mike McKelvey
August 18, 2011 at 1:46 pm
I would take my wife on a 10-day vacation to Kauai for our 10,000-day anniversary and stay in the same hotel we stayed in during our honeymoon 27 years ago, the Sheraton Kauaii. I always try to use the cash and points option, so I would have enough to get a 7-day honeymoon room for my son and his new wife at the Sheraton Maui next year. I’d use the rest to stay at the Sheraton Virginia Beach a couple weekends during the summer!
Shana
August 18, 2011 at 1:47 pm
The best place to watch the fireworks is in front of the castle
Linda McKelvey
August 18, 2011 at 1:48 pm
I would go to Hawaii and stay long enough to see the Big Island and Maui in addition to my favorite, Kauaii!
Shana
August 18, 2011 at 1:49 pm
The best place to watch the fireworks is in front of the castle.
Jan Pitera
August 18, 2011 at 1:52 pm
Get to the park when it first opens. That way during the peak afternoon times you can go back to your hotel and have some down time. Don’t overschedule, this just leads to cranky kids and parents.
Ghenghy
August 18, 2011 at 1:56 pm
Stay at a Disney owned property and you can get “Extra Magic Hours” where you can get into the park an hour ahead of everyone else. This lets you ride more rides in that one hour than would take 3 or more hours later in the day.
mickisue
August 18, 2011 at 2:19 pm
Before you leave, tell your kids that they each get to plan one activity for the whole family. If you need to put a $$ limit on it, no problem. Then, let them have at the brochures, the websites, whatever.
If any of them are not yet reading, they’ll definitely recognize the word “disneyland” by the time that they’re done.
My kids are all grown up, now. But when we took vacations, the idea that they were in charge of some part of it helped them deal better with the bulk of it that they were NOT in charge of. Four, here, too, BTW: the oldest was 7 when the youngest was born.
Rocky
August 18, 2011 at 2:21 pm
1) 40,000 points: 5-night free award at Le Westin Montreal, the city’s newest hotel in a great location.
2) 36,000 points for 3 nights at Le Meridien Barcelona. I’ve seen awards available when the cheapest room is 450 euros!
3) 24,000 points plus $450 cash for 3 nights at the Hotel Eden Rome. This is also an expensive stay at Rome’s most romantic hotel right near Spagna.
For the dates I checked, I estimated this at around a $4000 value. Thanks for the great offer!
Eric Pease
August 18, 2011 at 2:28 pm
My dream vacation would be to fly myself and my girlfriend (of the last 2 years) to Paris and get married. I’m 50, never been married and she’s the woman I’ve been waiting for all my life.
scott t
August 18, 2011 at 2:46 pm
You must know that you cannot see everything in a few days. The only way to keep your sanity is to plan midday breaks to head back to the hotel pool or for naptime and then take several hours off from the park and the crowds. Get some rest and head back late in the day when other families are leaving the park. You’ll feel far better and have a much better vacation!
Shirliza
August 18, 2011 at 2:51 pm
Buy small, Disney-themed notebooks and sharpies (great back to school deals right now) for each of your children before getting to the park to use as autograph books. It will save you money in the park and your kids will have a great memento from the vacation in years to come. We did this with my niece on her first trip to Disneyland and now that she’s 16, she still treasures it.
I’m assuming you plan to take a camera with you to the park, too. When the park photography employees stop you to take your picture along Main Street and in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle (and other spots in California Adventure while you’re in that park), kindly ask if s/he would take your family’s picture with your camera, too. I’ve never had one turn us down and that way you’re guaranteed a complete family photo, in a great location, by someone who is paid to take pictures!
Also, consider going through the park in a clockwise pattern because you find shorter lines in the beginning of the day simply because our culture is so accustomed to beginning on the right. I know this sounds silly, but it has worked for us if we get there when the park opens through about midday when the whole park is full no matter where you go.
DCA Rob
August 18, 2011 at 3:30 pm
Gotta love SPG!
Rob
August 18, 2011 at 3:35 pm
Leave the park in the middle of the day and have your kids take a long nap (and maybe nap yourself). The park is least crowded early in the day and in the evening (evening particularly makes a huge difference for the kid-oriented stuff, because families are worn out and have left by then). If you rest mid-day, you can be there at the best times.
Brandon
August 18, 2011 at 3:41 pm
Best Disneyland tip is to go Geocaching in disneyland. There are plenty of rides to ride, but this is something different that most people don’t do. go online and see if you can find some geocaching locations in the park and then start hunting wiht your gps.
Robert Samstein
August 18, 2011 at 3:45 pm
Always pack as light as possible to avoid checking your bag
Robert Samstein
August 18, 2011 at 3:46 pm
I subscribed to the RSS feed
Forrest
August 18, 2011 at 3:46 pm
Get there early, start at the farthest popular ride and work your way back toward the exit. Have fun!
Alastair
August 18, 2011 at 3:54 pm
Head for the back of the park when it first opens and work your way towards the front. Most people will start at the front and work around so you should find smaller lines.
Miriam Samstein
August 18, 2011 at 3:57 pm
I would love to take a vacation with my husband and little baby!
Robert Samstein
August 18, 2011 at 4:01 pm
http://twitter.com/#!/
Kelli
August 18, 2011 at 4:11 pm
Subscribed to feeds! Thanks!!
John
August 18, 2011 at 4:16 pm
Vacation tip – use the Starwood Nights and Flights Option – You can get two free flights AND five free nights! And don’t forget sunscreen!
jeff behrens
August 18, 2011 at 4:45 pm
A week in Bhutan!
Frank
August 18, 2011 at 4:49 pm
I’d fly to Thailand to experience the best beaches, culture, and food around! Sounds like a dream vacation to me!
Alvin Shimoju
August 18, 2011 at 5:11 pm
Currently at the 1.2mill lifetime miles mark, I would love to add 90,000miles AA miles before the Million Miler Program rule changes to “miles flown” like the other airlines. IF I am the lucky one to win this 100k SPG points, I would probably plan out a trip throughout Eastern Asia. Here is what I came up with:
1. Transfer 75,000 to AAdvantage and receive 90,000 after the 5000 x 3 points bonus. Not only the 90,000 will count towards my lifetime miles but this will allow me to use the One World Award.
2. Use 90,000 to book the One World Distance Zone 5 award which allows me to fly 14,000 miles in coach.
3. I was able to come up with an itinerary starting in Honolulu and ending in Nagoya. I chose to end the ticket in Japan since it will be a great opportunity to visit my family and I would probably stay there for long period of time after the trip. Booking a last-minute ticket out of Japan to US is quite cheap.
HNL – HND JL 3,831 miles
HND – GMP JL 758 miles
ICN – TPE CX 914 miles
TPE – HKG CX 511 miles
HKG – BKK CX 1,049 miles
BKK – SIN CX 899 miles
SIN – CMB CX 1,709 miles
CMB – HKG CX 2,534 miles
HKG – PVG CX 773 miles
PVG – NGO JL 919 miles
GRAND TOTAL 13,897 miles (remainder 103miles) :D
*Miles calculated using OneWorld trip planner
4. Use the remaining 25,000 SPG points to book hotels in Thailand or Taiwan for 6-8nights (Category 2 redemption). I would probably try to use it at Le Meridien in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai and maybe the Aloft in Bangkok.
I would probably spend a good 4-6months for this trip so flexibility will be the key. Also, I read on FlyerTalk that the ticket is good for 1yr and changing dates after departure is FREE so as long as I can book every segment before I hop on the first HNL-HND flight, I can change the date as I go.
I’m used to budget travels being a regular backpacker so 6-8nights randomly at a Starwood property will be my guilty pleasure when I can’t stand the hostel bunk beds! :p
10 Flights
7 Countries
Avg. 9000 AA mileage redemption/flight
NOT BAD EH!?
Danielle
August 18, 2011 at 5:29 pm
Try a pickle in Adventureland at Disneyland.
Jessica
August 18, 2011 at 5:32 pm
I’d want to go to Madrid and Barcelona!
Edward
August 18, 2011 at 5:41 pm
Rent a stroller on main street, take your card with you on the train and get a new stroller when you get off for your kids…
james
August 18, 2011 at 5:47 pm
I like this blog.
Michael
August 18, 2011 at 5:53 pm
Pack essential in carry-ons, just in case the airlines misplace your luggage. Many a vacation jas been ruined because medicines/clothes/cameras were lost on the airline. Packing your carry-ons well can save you much aggravation and save your vacation!
Greg
August 18, 2011 at 5:59 pm
Antarctica! I’d convert the points to AA miles and fly down to Buenos Aires and then use points to stay at the Park Tower in BA. I guess I’d have to pay for the cruise down to Antarctica myself but the airfare and lodging would be taken care of by Starwood. Would be awesome!
Mark
August 18, 2011 at 6:02 pm
You will run out of things to do with 10 days at Disneyland. Maybe you should head down to Legoland to break up the trip a bit.
Savio
August 18, 2011 at 6:04 pm
At checkin, always ask how much it would cost for an upgrade. You might be pleasantly surprised.
Henry
August 18, 2011 at 6:08 pm
I subscribed to your email list
Henry
August 18, 2011 at 6:10 pm
Thanks for the opportunity.
Kelly K.
August 18, 2011 at 6:13 pm
The earlier you book the better the price. Also, try to book the hotel and flight at the same time.
Chris
August 18, 2011 at 6:18 pm
Take a few, smaller vacations instead of one long, extended vacation each year. You’ll enjoy the time, instead of just spending it in a hotel room. And don’t leave home without your Starwood American Express!
mike park
August 18, 2011 at 6:21 pm
I would use some of the points to transfer to delta for two award tickets to LAX and the rest for cash and points to take the fam to disney and visit family
Scott Schmidt
August 18, 2011 at 6:21 pm
Acoid. California. Adventure.
Susan
August 18, 2011 at 6:22 pm
Cash and Points for starters. This really extends your points and allows you to take several vacations with fewer points. On a side note, we do many of the vacation club offers with our without the tours. We’ve gone to so many nice resorts with just each other or with the family that we never would have done on our own. This way we can experience the ownership of a nice villa without the costs or annual fees with an ownership package.
Torsten Jacobi
August 18, 2011 at 6:26 pm
New Years Eve in the tropical paradise of Fiji!
Convert 60k SPG points into 75k AAdvantage Miles.
Call AA and book these flights (they are currently available):
Air Pacific 12/27 LAX-NAN
Air Pacific 01/08 NAN-LAX
75000 miles + taxes $83
Then check into The Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa, Fiji. It has wonderful lush tropical gardens and rooms. http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=202
35000 Starpoints
Total for 6 night(s)
Every 5th night is free! Use 5k points for a spectacular breakfast in the Westin looking at the South Pacific.
Then do a 2 night trip out to the Yasawa islands.
http://www.ssc.com.fj/fiji_island_yasawas.aspx
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yasawa_Islands
Even as a jaded tropics traveler (like me) you will be stunned by the unspoiled beauty of the Yasawa islands. They filmed the movie Cast Away http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cast_Away and it really looks just like that.
We did this trip in April thanks to many accumulated Starwood points.
Venetia Rumsey
August 18, 2011 at 6:32 pm
I just subscrived to your email list. I love Disney. Wear comfy sneakers…lots of walking
Heather
August 18, 2011 at 6:36 pm
I recommend you use the Nights and Flights option to redeem for 5 nights at a category 3 SPG hotel (Sheraton Anaheim Hotel or Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort) and 50,000 AA or Delta miles. This will leave you with 40,000 SPG points which can be redeemed for another 50,000 AA or Delta miles using the transfer bonus (transfer 20,000 SPG points and get 25,000 AA or Delta miles) which would get you 4 free airplane tickets at the lowest redemption level. Or you could redeem for more hotel nights or for two rooms at the hotel! When are you expecting?
Linda
August 18, 2011 at 6:42 pm
Bring moleskin for those blisters when they show up from all that walking. Nothing ruins a day like blisters and sore feet.
Jake
August 18, 2011 at 6:45 pm
Convert SPG points to Aeroplan when Aeroplan has promos for transfering hotel points. Many times they give extra 5000 AP points for transgering 20,000 SPG points to AP. That’s a total of 30,000 with the 5000 bonus from SPG.
Jon S.
August 18, 2011 at 6:47 pm
The new Star Tours is awesome – hope you enjoy it! :)
Lois
August 18, 2011 at 6:48 pm
Get the Unofficial Guide to Disneyland. It has a game plan that involves not doing the rides in order, but doing them according to their research of what rides are busiest at what times, traffic flow, etc. Copy those game plan pages, take them to the park and do not weaken and do the rides in a different order than what they recommend. The time savings really was amazing!
Nathan
August 18, 2011 at 6:51 pm
Four days/ three nights at the St Regis in Bora Bora to relive my honeymoon!! (Three nights at 30,000 a night plus a 10,000 spa package for my wife.)
marben
August 18, 2011 at 6:57 pm
Research to see if ZipCar can be useful to you on your vacation vs a mainstream rental company. I’ve used them on my last several vacations to San Fran / Seattle and its been super convenient.
pinki
August 18, 2011 at 6:59 pm
Stuff everything you can into carry-on bags! I hate waiting at baggage claim!
HC
August 18, 2011 at 7:00 pm
Be flexible with plans and don’t feel like you have to check out everything.
At Disney, definitely check out the “It’s a small world” ride with your kids. It’s a surprisingly enjoyable ride! :)
Mike H
August 18, 2011 at 7:05 pm
Eat at a local food joint that looks like a dive! I’ve found so many GREAT food places that look “sketchy” and you’re supporting local businesses!
DoubleD
August 18, 2011 at 7:06 pm
I would transfer the points to American Airlines since I am very close to lifetime elite status with American Airlines.
Paul
August 18, 2011 at 7:06 pm
I’d actually transfer the points to American Airlines in pursuit of elite status with them.
JC Cangilla
August 18, 2011 at 7:07 pm
Hey, great contest! I think I would use 100K Starpoints to visit Macau–heard it’s an amazing destination and just a great time. 80K Starpoints would get a ticket from LAX to MFM via AirChina. I would use the remaining 20K to bid on the various tickets to the 2011 Macau Open (via http://auction.starwoodhotels.com/), including playing with the pros in the Pro-Am! Fingers crossed…
Michael Hendrick
August 18, 2011 at 7:19 pm
I am so ready to relax in Europe, especially France. I plan to combine the beach and the mountains with fine French dining and plenty of wine. No cheap B&B for me on this getaway. I will be sure to send an electronic postcard!
Roxy
August 18, 2011 at 7:20 pm
another tip… take a break from the kids… hire a hotel nanny and go get steak with your husband.
Eli
August 18, 2011 at 7:21 pm
Another Disney tip: If you’re an iPhone or Android user, there are several apps that will give wait times and park hours. They can be a huge help when trying to plan out your day.
Flamingo
August 18, 2011 at 7:23 pm
Wow, just found your website from FT!
Good site!
phsu
August 18, 2011 at 7:28 pm
This 100K SPG points will be great for me & my wife to achieve 4 milestone events for a 20-day tour from US to China:
1. Celebrate our 20th anniversary for a “luxury” vacation in China
2. Help me to achieve the AA Lifetime Gold tier (1MM)
3. Visit my wife’s parents (88th years old)
4. Attend my dad-in-law 88th birthday party.
Total with estimated out of pocket cost of $500 for 20-day! The total retail value for this vacation will be approx. $14K – using 100K SPG points 14 cents/SPG point value!
The proposed usage of the 100K SPG points for this 3-week China vacation:
– Redeem 60,000 SPG points for 5 nights in a category 3 hotel in China (Sheraton Shanghai Hongkou Hotel) AND get 50,000 American Airline miles
– Redeem 40,000 SPG points for 5 nights in a category 4 hotel in China (The St. Regis Shanghai) — using the Redeem 4 nights and get the 5th free night SPG award option.
Details of the planned 3-week milestone events:
1. AA Lifetime Gold Tier (1MM): My lifetime AA mile balance is approx. 950K miles using all available Citi, Mile transfer, Fidelity .. mile earning opportunities. The additional 50K AA miles from the 60K SPG points for 5-night/50K miles will let me become AA Lifetime Gold Tier (1MM) immediately! out of pocket cost = $0
2. Days 1 & 2: Use the 50K AA miles into my AA account for 2 Business class AA tickets from FL to Shanghai, China (PEK) for 220K miles –> out of pocket cost = $83 (tax). Estimated retail value = $10K
3. Days 2-7: Using the free 5 night category 3 hotel coupon to check into “Sheraton Shanghai Hongkou Hotel” to relax the flight “pressure” and start to plan for the in-law’s 88th Birthday party & coming bus tour –> out of pocket cost = $20 (tips). Estimated retail value = $1K
4. Days 7-14: Take the special 8-day/7-night bus tour sponsored by the China government for $49/person (this special rate can only be obtained from a few special travel agents in US) to visit 4 major cities in southern China:
Shanghai (Yu Garden, Nanjing Street, Shanghai Bund …), Suzhou & Hangzhou (Hanshan Temple , Liu Garden ..), Najing …
The tour fare of $49/person will include these incredible deals:
• Five Star or Four Star Hotel (Twin Sharing)
• Breakfast (Western and Chinese Buffet)
• Sightseeing and Lunch including entrance fees
• All intra-China ground transportation
• Professional local English speaking guide
Total out of pocket cost: $98 + $100 (tips). Estimated retail value = $1.5K
5. Days 14-19: Check in “The St. Regis Shanghai” using the coupon from the 40K SPG points for any category 4 hotel. Compile videos & photos taken during the tour and air the vacation photos/videos in the in-law 88th birthday party. Out of pocket cost = $220 (tips & party $). Estimated retail value (hotel only) = $2K
6. Days 19-20: Take the AA business class seats from Shanghai & back to FL with the best lifetime memory for achieving 4 major milestones – Thanks to the lovely support from Homeeverafter.com, AMEX & SPG.
Crystal
August 18, 2011 at 7:29 pm
Take advantage of the FastPass system at Disney parks to save a lot of time waiting in lines! It’s free!
Byron
August 18, 2011 at 7:29 pm
If you’re not a fan of guidebooks, or don’t have one with you, wikitravel.org is a great source of free information!
Aaron Schuett
August 18, 2011 at 7:33 pm
Best tip: always bring snacks!
jerry
August 18, 2011 at 7:33 pm
My wife wants to go to Ireland
Nathan
August 18, 2011 at 7:37 pm
Disneyland is a blast. I’d make sure to stay till the end of the evening – it is most fun as people start to wind down and crowds disperse. I would use the SPG points for Sheraton Maldives Full Moon.
Louis
August 18, 2011 at 7:48 pm
I would be tempted to use the points to purchase a flight to the Canary Islands off of Spain, using the ‘Flights and Nights’ option. The Sheraton Fuerteventura Beach, Golf & Spa Resort Canary (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1541&neverShowCheckAvail=yes) looks amazing. It’s a category 3 hotel so it would only cost 60K miles for 5 free nights. I’d need an additional 10K SPG points to make a round trip of it. The rest of the points I’d bank for a while.
Brandon
August 18, 2011 at 7:49 pm
My tip would be to just relax. Too many people try to go to the parks every day, and they’re extremely tiring after a few days. Take a day or 2 to just hang with the family by the pool.
Jay
August 18, 2011 at 7:59 pm
This is great.
Peter K
August 18, 2011 at 8:13 pm
Become a fast pass expert!
Greg
August 18, 2011 at 8:14 pm
I would use them at St Regis Bora Bora…………………..oh wait, 100k SPG pts wouldn’t even get me a single free night there, how pathetic. Get a grip on your Category 7 redemption rates SPG, they are OUT OF CONTROL!!!!! :-(
Larry
August 18, 2011 at 8:15 pm
I would take my family to Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. My older son is autistic and loves the ocean and scuba/snorkeling. He says the water pressure makes him feel safe. 5 nights there for 100,000 points? Yes please!
Alex K
August 18, 2011 at 8:20 pm
I try to research restaurants ahead of time on yelp, tripadvisor, frommers, etc – but just to keep a list of good options for different areas. I don’t like every single meal planned ahead, but I don’t want to just guess at random places either.
Alex K
August 18, 2011 at 8:28 pm
I just subscribed to the RSS feed in Google Reader – looking forward to the posts!
John
August 18, 2011 at 8:33 pm
I’d use the points for the Westin Monache in Mammoth Lakes. One three day weekend during peak season at 16k/night = 48k points, One five night stay (12k/night + one free with four night redemption = 48k). Those two trips would get my wife to a ski ability level where we could start skiing Utah and Colorado. Of course, those later trips would require more Starpoints….
Kathleen W
August 18, 2011 at 8:33 pm
Fly free whenever you can! Miles & points make every trip soooo much better.
MT
August 18, 2011 at 8:34 pm
I would transfer 100k points to AA for 125k miles. I’d chip-in 5k of my own AA miles to redeem for a business class ticket that allows for travel up to 20,000 miles. I’d visit Europe and Asia on my way to/from India and the US.
Mike
August 18, 2011 at 8:37 pm
Make sure you get the Park Hopper pass and check out California Adventure, if only for the World of Color show and Soaring Over California ride. Give yourself plenty of time to get good spots for the show. See the fireworks one night and the World of Color another night.
If you only want to spring for admission one night you can get a good view of the fireworks by the pool of the Paradise Hotel which also pumps in the audio track from the actual show.
Consider San Diego as well. A short drive but a ton of other attractions, better than going up to LA if already in Orange County.
Richard
August 18, 2011 at 8:41 pm
I did as well! chose meee
Dustin G
August 18, 2011 at 8:43 pm
Disneyland is great in January! Don’t go at the beginning of the month because of New Years crowds, but after that the crowds become much more manageable. As I’m sure you have found by now, there are many good Disneyland websites that are worth researching. Have fun!
tommyx
August 18, 2011 at 8:50 pm
i would convert the miles to aeroplan and take a round-the-world business class trip!
JP
August 18, 2011 at 8:56 pm
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to enter your contest. This entry is for Thursday, August 18, 2011. – Wow, Disneyland!!! :) I wish I had some good ideas. I haven’t been there in a long time. I once went as a kid and remember it to this day. Our family was moving to Hawaii from Florida so we drove all the way across country eventually ending out trip before flying on to Hawaii in L.A. with a couple days at Disney. It was the only time I ever really saw my dad happy. Something about Disney just use to make the kid in him come out. Living in Florida gave us the opportunity to go to DisneyWorld, so I can offer tips about WDW but not many on Disneyland. I know there are some good websites out there with tips and tricks. If you email me I would be more than happy to share them with you. I didn’t want to SPAM your blog. Well, with all that being said…I guess my pointer would be to have as much fun as possible as it is the memories that stay with you longer than anything else. Remember to not let weather, crowds, rude people, or some other blimp get in the way of just enjoying the time with your family! You’ll have a wonderful trip, I’m sure!!!! :) Enjoy!!! :)
Bradley
August 18, 2011 at 9:14 pm
My vacation tip is to make sure you always go to one new place so that even your favorite destination can be more and more interesting!
Head Angel
August 18, 2011 at 9:23 pm
Added your badge to our website. Hope to win and be able to make a stranger smile by giving them a magical vacation as a Random Act of Kindness.
SC Flier
August 18, 2011 at 9:32 pm
I’ve put your badge on my website!
http://www.journeysearcher.com/js/otherlinks.html
Hans Mast
August 18, 2011 at 9:44 pm
Still have badge: http://mennodeals.com
Hans Mast
August 18, 2011 at 9:46 pm
Added badge: http://hansmast.com
Pingback: HansMast.com » Win 100K Starpoints
Hans Mast
August 18, 2011 at 9:48 pm
Blogged: http://hansmast.com/2011/08/win-100k-starpoints/
Hans Mast
August 18, 2011 at 9:49 pm
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/hansmast/status/104429610988601344
Hans Mast
August 18, 2011 at 9:50 pm
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/hansmast/posts/181579401910195
Holly
August 18, 2011 at 9:52 pm
If you need a rental car for your stay, try autoslash.com to let them try to find the best rate and then for them to keep trying to find one that is even lower.
Hans Mast
August 18, 2011 at 9:52 pm
Subscribed to email updates.
Hans Mast
August 18, 2011 at 9:55 pm
Finally, my tip for the day (should have come first, I guess) is:
If you’re a member of an airline’s lounge (for instance I’m a United Red Carpet Club member), always go to the lounge and have those agents help you in case of irregular operations (weather, canceled flights, delayed flights, mechanical, etc). They are generally better trained, more senior, and more helpful than some random agent. Furthermore, the lines are generally a fraction of the length of the customer service or gate agent lines.
Laura
August 18, 2011 at 10:03 pm
Vacation in NYC, details TBD. Thanks.
Michael
August 18, 2011 at 10:14 pm
Or perhaps go for the St Regis in Bora Bora and those incredible over-the-water bungalows.
laurent
August 18, 2011 at 10:23 pm
would love to go to fiji with my wife and use the spg points to stay there
Edward Klein
August 18, 2011 at 10:41 pm
Try a night, and day, at the Monarch St Regis!
Marc
August 18, 2011 at 10:43 pm
I would stay at The Westin Monache Resort, in Mammoth CA for about a week for a snowboarding trip. I’d bankroll the rest of the points for next really good transfer bonus.
Mae
August 18, 2011 at 10:50 pm
Don’t try and hit it all at once, especially with kids. Take it slow, plan out what you want to see and how much each day to spread it out throughout the trip. Plan to fit in naps or down time away from the parks.
Hamurabi2000
August 18, 2011 at 10:57 pm
take some time to really relax. I actually like to lock-in myself in a hotel room and order tons of in-room dining without seeing/talking to anyone every now and then
Jacob
August 19, 2011 at 12:37 am
subscribed to email updates
Andrea
August 19, 2011 at 12:38 am
hoping to win
Jacob
August 19, 2011 at 12:38 am
aaa
Jacob
August 19, 2011 at 12:41 am
shared on facebook
Manikandan C
August 19, 2011 at 1:30 am
Just subscribed to your RSS feed at http://feeds2.feedburner.com/HomeEverAfter
SK
August 19, 2011 at 1:50 am
HI! I’m planning to take my wife to Madrid and Istanbul upon completing medical school. I was hoping to redeem the nights & flights option to stay at the Le Meredien Istanbul, opening this Nov. 2011, and then use the airline miles to upgrade our existing AA reservations to business class.
Steve
August 19, 2011 at 2:08 am
Subscribed to your feed. Thanks.
Lynn
August 19, 2011 at 2:29 am
Always have a few games in mind to pass time standing in line (Who would win, Batman or Superman….).
Lynn
August 19, 2011 at 2:30 am
Always have a few games in mind to pass time standing in line. Water and a snack, too.
Mike
August 19, 2011 at 2:34 am
Split the group up if need be. Some may need a pool break while others continue the journey thru the park.
Becca
August 19, 2011 at 3:05 am
Buy Disney goods cheaply before going and give them to the kids once there instead of buying at Disney stores.
Ike
August 19, 2011 at 3:05 am
Never go anywhere with more kids than you have hands.
Robert Samstein
August 19, 2011 at 3:47 am
todays comment
Robert Samstein
August 19, 2011 at 3:48 am
Today for twitter
Laura B
August 19, 2011 at 4:00 am
Enjoy your trip….subscribed to emails….
Randy
August 19, 2011 at 4:01 am
I would use the Night and Flights and also the airlines transfer from points to miles….it enables you to get 5 free nights plus two RT tickets for 100,000 points or less…
Mark
August 19, 2011 at 4:13 am
Honolulu Moana Surfrider for a few nights !.
Barry Lipton
August 19, 2011 at 4:17 am
Wear SP1,000,000 sunblock!
Kevin D
August 19, 2011 at 4:27 am
Flights & Nights to visit Munich for Oktoberfest!
Kuba
August 19, 2011 at 4:42 am
Great promo!
Joe
August 19, 2011 at 4:43 am
Enjoy your vacation!
Lizzie
August 19, 2011 at 4:44 am
Don’t forget hats, sunscreen, drinks and snacks. And avoid additives if you want the children to be as calm as possible!
Travis Todd
August 19, 2011 at 4:51 am
I think a great Disney tip is that on the back of the fast pass machines is a button you can push that gives you a fast pass without having to swipe your ticket. This way you get more fast passes and wait in less lines
Also with the Amex platinum use the 200 incidentals on the airline to buy a lot of things you can give as gifts. You may not use 200 on delta this year but you can buy 100 packs of gum and give them out to friends and have a good laugh when you give it away.
mike
August 19, 2011 at 5:06 am
I woudl use the points to buy tickets for my wife to visit her homeland of madagascar
Glenda Zoo
August 19, 2011 at 5:26 am
Will take my hubby to Hawaii for our 25th!!!!
Jeffrey C
August 19, 2011 at 5:27 am
Will take my wife wherever she wants to go… she’ll get to choose!
David
August 19, 2011 at 5:29 am
Using partner airlines is one of the best tips I ever learned. The airline you have miles with may not fly to the location you want to visit, but you can bet that one of their partners does!
Thanks so much for running this promotion.
chris
August 19, 2011 at 5:31 am
Always bring snacks, food is way to expensive in the park.
jennifer horn
August 19, 2011 at 5:32 am
I’m a subscriber
jennifer horn
August 19, 2011 at 5:36 am
tweeted. https://twitter.com/#!/jen_r_horn/status/104546233707794433
Angela
August 19, 2011 at 5:36 am
Eat breakfast and grab drinks from the hotel!
Eric
August 19, 2011 at 5:43 am
I would use the SPG points for a free stay at the W Taipei and the St Regis Singapore!
john zavala
August 19, 2011 at 5:43 am
Take enough strollers- don;t assume all the kids will want to walk!
Spencer Wheelwright
August 19, 2011 at 5:44 am
Take Rick Steves with you!
Sheryll
August 19, 2011 at 5:47 am
Always take snacks! And earplugs.
Chris
August 19, 2011 at 5:48 am
I’d use the 100,000 points to make a return trip to the Westin Maui, I love that hotel and the island. Depending on airfare prices, I’d transfer out part of the points to cover my plane ticket and then do cash and points for the hotel room.
SC Flier
August 19, 2011 at 6:01 am
I’ve kept your badge on my website!
http://www.journeysearcher.com/js/otherlinks.html
Marcy
August 19, 2011 at 6:01 am
So many choices. Am still trying to do the math to see how best to use these points considering all I’d want to do. Must prioritize.
SC Flier
August 19, 2011 at 6:05 am
Tip: Have a clear plan for what to do if you get separated.
Jon
August 19, 2011 at 6:13 am
I would transfer 60,000 SPG points to AA for 75,000 total AA miles (including the bonus) and use Miami as my “gateway city” to allow the ability to build in much needed free trips. I would use the remaining 40,000 towards various hotels as detailed below. The estimated hotel cost would be $4,132, however, I would be required to pay only $690 by using cash + points. In addition, I would likely save several thousand dollars on airfare.
Peru
My first trip would be a one-way award to Lima, Peru in early November, which would be used as a starting point to visit either Machu Picchu in Cuzco or the Amazon river in Iquitos. By leaving in November, I could take advantage of the off-peak dates price of 15,000 miles. I would also use 4,800 SPG points (1,600 + $30 night) towards 3 nights at the Sheraton Lima Hotel ($172/night).
Denver
Next, I would book a one way award from Lima to Denver (for my long awaited ski-trip) with Miami as my gateway city/stopover until February. Again, by leaving in early November I would take advantage of the off-peak dates price of 15,000 miles and by using Miami as my stopover, I have the ability to essentially build in a free trip to Denver for my ski-trip. I would also use 19,200 SPG points (4,800 + $90 night) towards 4 nights at The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa at Beaver Creek Mountain ($435/night).
Scotland
I would book a one way award from Denver to Edinburgh, Scotland for the annual golf trip with Miami as my gateway city/stopover until May. By leaving in early May I would take advantage of the off-peak dates price of 20,000 miles to Europe and by using Miami as my stopover, I have given myself the ability to get home to Miami after the ski-trip and a ticket to meet the boys in Scotland all for 20,000 miles. I would also use 8,000 SPG points (4,000 + $60/night) towards 2 nights at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh ($478/night with current exchange rates).
San Diego
For my last redemption I would book a one way award from Edinburgh to San Diego for a good friend’s wedding with Miami as my gateway city/stopover until the wedding date. Again by leaving in the off-peak dates the cost would be 20,000 miles, giving me a ticket home to Miami as well as a one-way ticket to San Diego for my buddy’s wedding. I would use my last 8,000 SPG points (4,000 + $60/night) towards 2 nights at the Westin San Diego ($460/night). I would use my last 5,000 AAdvantage miles (if my math is correct) towards my ticket back to Miami.
Scott Dunlop
August 19, 2011 at 6:14 am
I just tweeted https://twitter.com/#!/scottdunlop/status/104556661569626113
AY
August 19, 2011 at 6:16 am
I will transfer 80,000 to 100,000 AA miles for a biz RT tkt to Europe, then 20,000 for 5 nights *wood cat 4 plus $300 (point and cash).
Nadine
August 19, 2011 at 6:17 am
One thing I’ve done when traveling with my young son is buy a small portable booster seat to bring along rather than pay to rent one from the car companies (though if you are a AAA member, Hertz gives them to you for free).
Conway
August 19, 2011 at 6:20 am
Subscribed to RSS feed!
Rich A
August 19, 2011 at 6:22 am
Here’s my points-related tip. Airline miles and hotel points are great but keeping track of them can be overwhelming. Try Awardwallet.com to keep track of passwords, account balances, etc.
Ken A
August 19, 2011 at 6:23 am
I would transfer the 100,000 Starpoints into 125,000 American Airline miles to help me in my quest of achieving lifetime AAdvantage Platinum elite status when you accumulate 2,000,000 AA miles from any source.
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 6:26 am
Wear the best, most comfortable pair of shoes you can possibly find. When going on any vacation, especially if you’re visiting a Disney park, proper foot wear is essential. Your feet and legs will still be sore, but you’ll be in worse shape if you choose style over comfort in your footwear.
Conway
August 19, 2011 at 6:27 am
Retweeted!
http://twitter.com/#!/c0ldlimit/status/104559856131899392
Conway
August 19, 2011 at 6:32 am
When traveling with kids, I always recommend making sure kids know 1. your mobile phone number and 2. a homebase in case someone gets lost or split up
SC Flier
August 19, 2011 at 6:35 am
I’m still subscribed to your free email updates.
SC Flier
August 19, 2011 at 6:37 am
Daily tweet! http://twitter.com/#!/scflier/status/104562612511051776
Tom
August 19, 2011 at 6:50 am
Only go to a theme park every other day and rest by the swimming pools every other day.
Cathy
August 19, 2011 at 6:52 am
Bring a backpack. It might not be stylish, but it will be so much better/easier to carry around a park….for things like water bottles and small snacks!
Steve
August 19, 2011 at 6:54 am
Just tweeted the contest from sthubbar. Don’t know how to get the link for the tweet.
Andrew
August 19, 2011 at 6:55 am
This would be great for my trip to Italy, thanks!
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 6:57 am
Tweet, tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/CoryStinebrink/status/104567608061337601
Sherri
August 19, 2011 at 6:58 am
Be sure to hit the Storybookland attraction after dark.
aitchly
August 19, 2011 at 7:01 am
Glad you are running this promo because it led me to your site. Good Stuff!
chris
August 19, 2011 at 7:03 am
The Tiki room in disneyland is a wonderful 15 minutes of sitting and resting in cool air conditioning while the kids watch the singing birds. great stop for the afternoon quick rest
Daniel
August 19, 2011 at 7:04 am
For those interested in using their Starpoints for air travel there are several different transfer partners. If you want to fly Continental or a couple of the carriers though it’s probably better to transfer into another Star Alliance partner and then redeem on a Continental flight since transferring directly from Starpoints to CO miles reduces their value compared to other transfer options.
Terry
August 19, 2011 at 7:08 am
Plan snacks and drinks in advance!
justin
August 19, 2011 at 7:13 am
My best advice for Disney Land is to not schedule every second of every day.. it’s a vacation.. RELAX!
Sam
August 19, 2011 at 7:33 am
Remember: Vacation is all about food. :)
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 7:36 am
Shared on Google+ but not entirely sure how to link that here, but I’ll try anyway.
https://plus.google.com/109553257174184173277/posts?hl=en
Danielle
August 19, 2011 at 7:48 am
I would buy and ship to hotel, water, snacks, etc.. even though you pay for shipping, you save money on things that cost way too much at/around the parks. I would also (depending on kids ages) get Disney books/coloring books via amazon.com (using points), as well as some Disney souvenirs.. that way the kids can learn and get excited about Disney… and you can leave a little Disney gift for them by their bed a few mornings to bring the “Disney Magic” to them :)
I’ll leave some more tips like fasttrack passes for rides and reservations before you get there in the next days :) Sounds like youll have a fantastic trip!
Poley
August 19, 2011 at 7:55 am
Many hotels have a babysitting service on call. Leave the kids with a sitter for a few hours and have a parents night out
Brad
August 19, 2011 at 7:55 am
Have a great trip!
I know it’s been said, but you really should take some downtime–Disneyland is much more enjoyable when you aren’t exhausted!
With the crowds (even in the low months), timing can be everything. If you’re staying at or near Disney–potentially pricey without points, but a great idea that can make the details much more convenient–hit the park early before the crowds build up, and target the busy afternoon hours for a break. You can come back for seconds after other visitors are worn out start hearing home.
Danielle
August 19, 2011 at 8:08 am
Subscribed via RSS yahoo…
Another tip.. if you get the theme park maps at hotel, you can find which attractions have FastPass tickets, such as Pirates of the Caribbean and get a few as you get into the park.. and make a little plan so the kids dont get anxious or walk around aimlessly :) Of course Id suggest getting a few and stop at attractions in between that the kids like.. so its not too scheduled, all about balance :)
Cynthia
August 19, 2011 at 8:08 am
I’ve lived in Florida my entire life and have been to Disney World a bunch of times. But I’ve never been to Disneyland! If I win, that’s where I would go.
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 8:17 am
Google Buzz
https://plus.google.com/109553257174184173277/posts/5mdxZ9P8Rou?authuser=0
11:16 am Great promo for free points to stay in hotels. Huge value.
http://www.homeeverafter.com/give-me-your-best-disneyland-vacation-idea-and-win-100000-starwood-hotels-points/comment-page-9/#comment-47891
Bill K.
August 19, 2011 at 8:18 am
Go to micechat.com and check the expected traffic at each park each day to see what days to at disneyland and what days to do at california adventure
Lorie
August 19, 2011 at 8:20 am
Get to the park as soon as it opens in the morning for the shortest lines, go back to the hotel in the afternoon an return in the evening and stay until the park closes for shorter wait times again
Izzy
August 19, 2011 at 8:21 am
I would use these points to do a month long vacation with my family somewhere in Europe or Asia.
Chad
August 19, 2011 at 8:28 am
Have that water bottle, everyone staying hydrated is the biggest key for getting through a long day
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 8:33 am
Still bloggin it
http://re-declareyourindependence.blogspot.com/2011/08/dont-forget-100000-starpoint-contest.html
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 8:34 am
Still rocking the badge:
http://re-declareyourindependence.blogspot.com/
Ann
August 19, 2011 at 8:35 am
Get a hotel close to the park!
James W
August 19, 2011 at 8:41 am
Considering the number of days you’ll be at the park and their food prices, definitely utilize restaurants outside the gates as much as is feasible. It will save your family a bundle of cash throughout those 5-10 days..
James W
August 19, 2011 at 8:43 am
Tweeted it to the world! http://twitter.com/#!/jb_sweeps/status/104594066657910786
Jamie
August 19, 2011 at 8:56 am
Be sure to check out Universal Studios while you’re there. Have a great trip.
Caleb Barrett
August 19, 2011 at 8:59 am
When you go to Disneyland you should check out the lobby of the Grand Californian Hotel (it is connected to the California Adventure park). It is a really expansive space with sitting areas throughout, you can go there to rest even if you don’t stay at this hotel. A couple things that make the lobby awesome:
1. There is a connected area/room with a fire and small chairs for kids; sometimes someone (an employee) comes out and they tell stories for the kids.
2. There is a piano in the lobby, and sometimes an employee plays Disney music.
Caleb Barrett
August 19, 2011 at 9:03 am
…and I just tweeted about this awesome contest!
Jed
August 19, 2011 at 9:03 am
Points! Is there a secret club in Disneyland like there is in Disneyworld?
Caleb Barrett
August 19, 2011 at 9:04 am
…and subscribed to your blog via Google Reader.
Markus Sleuwen
August 19, 2011 at 9:13 am
Stay at one of the hotels inside Disney resort and get to the resorts an hour early and stay an hour late (with substantially reduced numbers of visitors).
Ryan Harrigill
August 19, 2011 at 9:27 am
Make sure you check the weather and have on comfortable shoes!
Kristi
August 19, 2011 at 9:39 am
Take the train by transferring Starpoints to Amtrak rewards points. Depending on where you’re coming from, you could get there on as little as 5,500 points per person!
Edward Klein
August 19, 2011 at 9:45 am
Make an early dinner reservation for the restaurant inside Pirates of the Carribean.
Jack H.
August 19, 2011 at 9:47 am
As has previously been mentioned, the best advice for a great Disney vacation, is to plan your trip during the offseason. If you can avoid the crowded times, the trip is so much more enjoyable and you are able to see many more attractions without waiting in the long lines.
Shana
August 19, 2011 at 9:56 am
There are lockers near the entrance to store things you don’t want to carry around all day.
russell mohr
August 19, 2011 at 9:58 am
I think I’d stay at the Swan and ride the Pirates of the Caribbean non-stop for a week!
Simon
August 19, 2011 at 9:59 am
I want to go to Disneyland…in Tokyo!
Sean B
August 19, 2011 at 10:02 am
My tip….don’t expect to see it all in one day. You will set yourself up for failure.
mike
August 19, 2011 at 10:03 am
use packing cubes
Dan
August 19, 2011 at 10:08 am
Paris sounds good.
Carling
August 19, 2011 at 10:14 am
I like the check out the local magazine/newspaper for local events and good restuarants when I visit a new city.
David
August 19, 2011 at 10:28 am
Water bottles. Bring lots of water bottles to always stay hydrated.
Nancy
August 19, 2011 at 11:12 am
Add an educational side trip to your itinerary. Head out to the Kennedy Space Center to see where the shuttle and rockets launch and launched from. It’s located righ on the ocean, so you can go for a cool down dip in the ocean after on Cocoa Beach.
Sean
August 19, 2011 at 11:27 am
http://twitter.com/#!/BigBodySS/status/104635211547029504
I’m hoping to send my mom to Spain for her retirement gift.
midnightRanger
August 19, 2011 at 11:30 am
Good question. I would use the points towards my one year anniversary. My wife and I want to have kids but she doesn’t want to get pregnant until after she has a “dream beach vacation”. Therefore, I would use the points to stay at the Le Méridien Tahiti for one week. I need 48,000 points for 5 nights plus I would redeem 48,000 points for the upgrade to an over water suite for four of those nights. The remaining 4,000 would be used for a champagne breakfast on the day of our anniversary.
Jason
August 19, 2011 at 11:55 am
Get fastpasses for popular rides early as by mid-afternoon you may find them all taken!
Michael Lefkovich
August 19, 2011 at 12:06 pm
Plan out your full itinerary in advance. We’ve had vacations where we’ve spent more time planning during the vacation than doing things
Nathaniel
August 19, 2011 at 12:08 pm
there’s a site called http://touringplans.com/ that has a lot of great info about the parks and how to maxmize your time there instead of waiting in lines.
Nathaniel
August 19, 2011 at 12:10 pm
tweeted: http://bit.ly/ozx3N1
Yanina
August 19, 2011 at 12:18 pm
We’d like to spend couple weeks in Europe next summer. SPG points will be very helpfull for our travel budget.
Yanina
August 19, 2011 at 12:20 pm
subscribed to your email
Aaron Schuett
August 19, 2011 at 12:23 pm
This sounds silly, but I always bring one of those thin full-size camping towels. Good to fold and sit on to make terrible Air France seats bearable, good to fold wet swimsuits and freshly washed clothes in to help them dry, and good to use when the hotel offers questionable towels!
Thanks!!
Hannah
August 19, 2011 at 12:39 pm
Use your starpoints to enjoy the hotel amenties. Things like getting spa treatment might not be the most “efficient” way to use your starpoints, but as long as it’s the most efficient to you…
Mikael
August 19, 2011 at 12:46 pm
Ask the monorail cast members if you can sit in the front with the driver. It gives a new perspective to the ride, and the kids will LOVE it (you’ll think it’s pretty neat too).
Mikael
August 19, 2011 at 12:48 pm
I am a subscriber.
Mikael
August 19, 2011 at 12:53 pm
I just tweeted about the contest. http://twitter.com/#!/SPGGiveaway/status/104657006450835456
Debra I
August 19, 2011 at 1:16 pm
Airfare expensive? Try checking right after midnight Eastern time. Any airfares put on hold for the day often clear at midnight. Since so many people live on the East Coast, I notice that airfares often drop around this time.
Heather
August 19, 2011 at 1:17 pm
Consider redeeming your Starpoints for two connecting rooms at one of the Sheraton’s in Anaheim. With 4 kids, you need all the room you can get! Reserve two rooms and make a note in your reservation that you want the rooms to be connecting due to the age of your small kids. You can also make a note requesting a crib (or two). Follow up by emailing the hotel with your request a week before your visit. A relatively early check-in might also help you get connecting rooms. Some hotels have firecodes restricting the number of people who may stay in each room. You are brave to fly with so many kids!
Alastair
August 19, 2011 at 1:18 pm
Depending on the age of your kids, hide some toys for a few weeks before travel. That way they’ll be fresh for the child (and hopefully keep them entertained for longer).
Harold
August 19, 2011 at 1:22 pm
By glitter cases through AAShopping for 83,871 miles each. :-)
tassojunior
August 19, 2011 at 1:25 pm
Maldives !
The Sheraton Full Moon Resort and Spa is 20,000 points per night and a bargain.
The W is one of the world’s best resorts and 100,000 might get two nights.
worldtraveller2
August 19, 2011 at 1:29 pm
five-night stay at Greece’s stunning Blue Palace Resort & Spa.
Troy McClure
August 19, 2011 at 1:30 pm
This life and this world are truly amazing and have been very generous to me. Call me dumb but I would give 100% of the starpoints won to the “Miles for Kids in Need” charity via American Airlines. Of course I would transfer them to AA netting 125,000 miles and from there pass them on to good folks at this awesome charity.
I know many of you have more points and miles that you could ever use and if you find this cause worthy or maybe you have a few spare miles to chuck their way I highly suggest looking into it. Here is their website: http://joinus.aa.com/american-…
Good luck everyone.
Jie
August 19, 2011 at 1:31 pm
Will use the points on a future Hawaii resort stay.
Head Angel
August 19, 2011 at 1:31 pm
Added your badge to our website. (www.angelwingsdeliveries.com) Hope to win and be able to make a stranger smile by giving them a magical vacation as a Random Act of Kindness.
Tyler
August 19, 2011 at 1:32 pm
Try booking flights on Tuesdays–that’s when airlines post their newest discount fares for the week. Prices will always be highest on weekends, so try to avoid booking then.
Falon
August 19, 2011 at 1:42 pm
I’d to the Nights & Flights II and spend 5 days in Victoria, BC.
Hotel = The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa, Victoria. (70,000 Starpoints)
I’d transfer the remaining 30,000 Starpoints to my AA miles account and try to shoot for my million mile goal!
Thanks for this opportunity!
Melis
August 19, 2011 at 1:47 pm
Get a FastPass for Space Mountain as soon as you get in because those run out fast! Remember to get another FastPass two hours later, maybe to Indiana Jones or Haunted Mansion. One person from the family can get the tix stamped for everyone while the rest of you are waiting in line for another ride.
Bring hats and suncreen, it can be a hot day in SoCal even in the winter!
Super Bowl Sunday is always a good day to go if you guys are not football fans :) Most people stay home on that day and the lines are short.
jeff david
August 19, 2011 at 2:20 pm
Carry a pack of tissues with you when traveling in asia. no guarantee that you will have tp in restrooms.
mordy
August 19, 2011 at 2:29 pm
I would take a trip to paris
steve
August 19, 2011 at 2:33 pm
I’d use them to book an amazing hotel on an upcoming Asia trip
beth
August 19, 2011 at 2:34 pm
for an oceanfront room in Maui!
Ben Travis
August 19, 2011 at 2:35 pm
Definitely, go for more than one day and pace yourself. You will enjoy it more.
shanie
August 19, 2011 at 2:36 pm
get to the park early to beat the crowds.
Erin
August 19, 2011 at 2:43 pm
My best theme park tip would be to look in your local grocery stores or coupon books for real deals! Often times they host great promotions especially during lousy weather months in your city. O yes, and the most important one – Always wear comfortable shoes!! :-)
Michael
August 19, 2011 at 2:51 pm
Disney with wee ones? Take a break in the middle of the day and return to your room for a nap. After everyone is recharged go back in the early evening. It’ll help the kids stay composed.
Curtis Borchardt
August 19, 2011 at 2:51 pm
I recommend, in addition to the tissues mentioned above, a travel pack of “personal” wipes.
Jennifer Church
August 19, 2011 at 2:52 pm
I like to bring some $1 US coins along — they are often a curiousity and nice gift when traveling abroad.
JP
August 19, 2011 at 3:16 pm
Thank you, thank you for offering us want-to-travel-dreamers an opportunity to make it happen. Wow, I couldn’t sleep last night…now I’m day dreaming about what to do with 100,000 Starpoints. It would be a total shock!!! Does one use them for one big exotic trip like at a St. Regis property or for little smaller category stays along a big trip around the world? Awww, I hope I win. I have my fingers crossed and my lucky rabbits foot from the Frontier Land gift shop back in the day at DisneyWorld. As cheesy as the shops are at times, they use to have fun little items…like the Tiki Tiki Room memorable or the Haunted Mansion ride stuff. Make sure to put a little extra money aside for some little extras at the gift shops while on your trip at Disney Land. Some of the stuff you can find ahead of time on eBay or such sites…but some is only available there at the park. I would also bring snacks so you don’t have to pay for the expensive snacks at the park…saving money for gifts, souvenirs, or a nice dinner at one of the many nice resturants at Disney. Again, enjoy your trip!!! – JP :)
Crystal
August 19, 2011 at 3:23 pm
Pack an empty tote bag in your suitcase, and use it to bring home all the extra stuff that won’t fit when it’s time to pack at the end of the trip!
Andrew
August 19, 2011 at 3:32 pm
Pack our own Oatmeal, and use the coffee maker to make the oatmeal
Matt
August 19, 2011 at 3:33 pm
Would love to win the points for my honeymoon! Thanks!!
John
August 19, 2011 at 3:36 pm
Critical vacation tip – don’t forget to pack socks and underwear! :-)
Shaown Nandi
August 19, 2011 at 3:36 pm
Make sure you drink plenty of water and take breaks! And don’t forget to mark down where you park your rental car!
Czarina
August 19, 2011 at 3:38 pm
I would help my fiance plan our honeymoon in Asia :)
Mike McKelvey
August 19, 2011 at 3:46 pm
I would take my wife on a 10-day vacation to Kauai for our 10,000-day anniversary and stay in the same hotel we stayed in during our honeymoon 27 years ago, the Sheraton Kauaii. I always try to use the cash and points option, so I would have enough to get a 7-day honeymoon room for my son and his new wife at the Sheraton Maui next year. I’d use the rest to stay at the Sheraton Virginia Beach a couple weekends during the summer.
Phil
August 19, 2011 at 4:09 pm
Forget a backpack to haul stuff around in all day…. get a rolling cart instead. You’ll be able to pack in a cooler for drinks and snacks, a few folding chairs, an umbrella, extra sunscreen and a large beach bag which you can use to hold loose items like jackets and sweaters because it can get chilly in the evenings.
Linda McKelvey
August 19, 2011 at 4:15 pm
I would visit the Big Island and then stay at the Sheraton Maui in addition to my favorite, Sheraton Kauaii!
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 4:27 pm
On Twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/CoryTravels/status/104710623832711168
Frank
August 19, 2011 at 4:28 pm
Thailand baby! A few days on the beaches of Ko Samui, a few days of city life in Bangkok, and culture up in Chang Rai!
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 4:29 pm
Got the email subscription
Kevin Khoo
August 19, 2011 at 4:29 pm
With the 100,000 points, I will do a trip around the world to visit the Disney Parks in Paris, Tokyo, and Hong Kong! It would be great to see the parks in the foreign countries.
Cory
August 19, 2011 at 4:30 pm
My vacation advice is 2 things: First, get lost and enjoy being lost wherever you happen to be. 2nd, don’t blog while on vacation. Leave work at home.
Larry
August 19, 2011 at 4:40 pm
Take one day off to enjoy the pool.
We’d go to Sheraton Kaanapali on Maui. Black Rock sunsets and great views at breakfast.
Guggu
August 19, 2011 at 4:58 pm
I would start out early in the morning when the kids are more alert and I would study and plan the route throughout the park, as not to waste any precious time. A relaxed afternoon break back at the hotel is a necessary energy booster, just to get away from the crowds and noises.
Tracy
August 19, 2011 at 5:00 pm
Definitely take a break mid-vacation and enjoy the pool and relax! Also, buy a rain poncho and your Disney merchandise at the local Walmart – much better pricing!
Danielle
August 19, 2011 at 5:09 pm
Get Disneyland lines wait times from Lines on TouringPlans.com
Eli
August 19, 2011 at 5:15 pm
Just subscribed to your RSS feed!
Rosa Naranjo
August 19, 2011 at 5:17 pm
Use the FastPass and definitely take rest days during your vacation. It pays off to not be pooped.
Rosa Naranjo
August 19, 2011 at 5:19 pm
I subscribed to your email updates
Rosa Naranjo
August 19, 2011 at 5:26 pm
My tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/orangerosy/status/104725492778811394
Mike H
August 19, 2011 at 5:30 pm
Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen. Make sure you put on sunscreen. I got really bad sunburn when I was little in Orlando so don’t forget it!!
Jon
August 19, 2011 at 5:31 pm
Make sure to book some sitdown restaurants for dinner at the beginning of your day so you’ll be guaranteed a table!
Jon
August 19, 2011 at 5:32 pm
Just subscribed to your RSS feed!
Holly
August 19, 2011 at 5:45 pm
Carry a multi-outlet adapter to be able to share an outlet in airports and hotels.
http://www.amazon.com/58368-3-Grounded-Outlet-Adapter-White/dp/B001UE7SC8
Holly
August 19, 2011 at 5:47 pm
Just subscribed to your email!
James H
August 19, 2011 at 6:06 pm
A tip for traveling with kids is to not get into a rush to try and see too much. Especially if the trip is going to be for several days as history has shown the kids get really tired and cranky after going to more than one or two museums in a row. Quality time around a swimming pool is just as good.
Jeff Dean
August 19, 2011 at 6:15 pm
With 100,000 Starpoints, I could take a six-night, seven-day dream vacation to the Pacific Northwest! I feel in love with region while watching the Vancouver Winter Olympic Games, and I’ve longed to visit ever since! (And it just so happens that 100,000 Starpoints is precisely the right amount to make this trip possible!)
First, I would immediately transfer 25,000 miles to American Airlines in order to pay for a round-trip AAdvantage flight from my home in Montgomery, Alabama, to Seattle, Washington, via the American hub in DFW. This transfer would drop an extra 5,000 Starpoints into my balance, leaving a net balance of 80,000 Starpoints.
Now I would transfer 5,000 points to Amtrak in order to pay for intercity travel along Amtrak’s Cascadia route. Each day of travel in along the route requires 1,000 points, so I’m free to explore the wonders of Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia for five full days along an extensive train route! Now my balance stands at 75,000 Starpoints.
Of course, I have to have a place to stay while I’m travelling, so I’ll leave 65,000 Starpoints in my account for nightly rooms. I’ll spend two nights at The Westin Grand in Vancouver (level 4, 10,000 each = 20,000 points), two nights at The Westin Seattle (level 4, 10,000 each = 20,000 points), one night at the Nine in Portland (level 4, 10,000 points), and splurge a little at The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler (level 5, 12,000 points). The remaining 3,000 Starpoints I’ll use in Seattle as part of their “Dine and Unwind” Instant rewards program: I’ll get to “enjoy a 3-course dinner with a glass of select Washington wine in Coldwater,” the hotel restaurant! Now my balance is at 10,000 Starpoints.
Then I’ll take 5,000 of those points to buy a $50 gift card for Starbucks. That way I’ll have $7.14 every day of my trip to spend on breakfast…and that just happens to be the after-tax price of a medium nonfat latte and a Reduced-Fat Turkey Bacon and Egg White English Muffin—a nutritious way to start my days!
The final 5,000 Starpoints are just enough to transfer for a $50 Avis gift certificate, and $50 is the price the rent an SUV in Vancouver and drive myself to Whistler for my one-night stay there. What a coincidence!
You see, then, that with only 100,000 Starpoints, the only costs that would remain are lunch and dinner on my trip—and a little cash out of my wallet is much more in line with the money I have available to spend for this dream vacation! I sure hope you’ll help me take my trip!
Thanks!
Jeff
Steve
August 19, 2011 at 6:26 pm
For Disneyland,
Convert to miles for the airline and then use cash and points for the best hotel.
Steve
August 19, 2011 at 6:28 pm
Subscribed to feedburner.
phsu
August 19, 2011 at 6:33 pm
Good contest. Thanks.
Subscribe your service & FB & Twitter
tinac
August 19, 2011 at 6:35 pm
Wow, am I late for this contest? 100K SPG points will be a great value for travel to Europe + free hotel stays..
Scott
August 19, 2011 at 6:38 pm
Here’s my plan of action to use 100000 Starwood Points that you’re generously offering:
First, I’d transfer 40K Starwood points to my AAdvantage account for the 50K points I require for Lifetime Gold status. This will top up my American Airlines account to just above 200K miles.
Then I’d use the 200K AAdvantage miles to book a OneWorld Distance Zone 6 trip (14001-20000 total miles travelled) with the following dream itinerary
New York (Where I live!)
Amman (Petra!)
New Delhi (Taj Mahal!)
Hong Kong (Victoria Harbour!)
Tokyo (Imperial Palace!)
Vancouver (Stanley Park!)
New York (Exhausted!)
(Total miles: 19490)
During my fifteen-day-long whirlwind trip, I would stay 3 nights in each city using Starwood’s Cash and Points option (12000 points, plus $180) for each of the following category 4 hotels:
Sheraton Amman Al Nabil
Le Meridien, Delhi
Le Meridien, Hong Kong
Sheraton Miyako, Tokyo
The Westin Grand, Vancouver
Total Starwood points used: 100000
Total cash: $900
Vacation of a lifetime for me!
Andrew
August 19, 2011 at 6:48 pm
My travel tip is to take vacations in late summer/ early fall whenever possible because the weather is usually good and settled; hotels and airports are less busy; and it feels like a bonus after the long summer before winter arrives. Lake Tahoe has about the best weather of anywhere I know in the US – for month after month in summer and fall, the skies are blue and the temperatures perfect.
Martha
August 19, 2011 at 6:59 pm
My dream place is to go to the South Pacific, so I would choose The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort or Le Méridien Bora Bora. Maybe someday!!!!
Chris D
August 19, 2011 at 7:18 pm
Thanks for the opportunity to win! Followed your twitter
JB
August 19, 2011 at 7:21 pm
Galapagos!
Nick
August 19, 2011 at 7:40 pm
My trip tip: go back to the hotel at least once per day to shower/freshen up. A favorite is to wash my feet and lay down for a few minutes. This is especially nice if I’ve been wearing sandals.
Louis
August 19, 2011 at 7:47 pm
Looking into the starwoods program, it looks like the best way to spend those points is with the 50% off hotel room rate promotion. Using this option can make each SPG point worth 28 cents or more… (for example the http://www.starwoodhotels.com/luxury/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=3081 goes for about 680 a night. 50% off costs 1000 SPG points, but it saves you $340, which means 1SPG point is worth 34 cents! (Assuming this offer includes suites and not just rooms, I have to investigate that…)).
Victoria
August 19, 2011 at 7:48 pm
Tip of the day: take the shuttle from the hotel and don’t worry about parking!
I accidentally double posted my “I’d subscribed to your emails” on the first day, so I’m doing just one entry today. Please count one of those as today’s “I’m subscribed” comment, since I wouldn’t want to accidentally over-enter.
Sunny_Day
August 19, 2011 at 7:49 pm
Don’t forget sunscreen!
Sunny_Day
August 19, 2011 at 7:51 pm
Subscribed to email!
DoubleD
August 19, 2011 at 7:51 pm
Transfer them to AA and count them towards lifetime status.
DisneyFan
August 19, 2011 at 7:53 pm
Don’t forget you can get a camera from amazon with a gift card with all those spg points :))
DisneyFan
August 19, 2011 at 7:54 pm
Subscribed!
LoveAnaheim!
August 19, 2011 at 7:55 pm
For little kids, I’d recommend soft year plugs as the shows and fireworks can be quite loud sometimes!
LoveAnaheim
August 19, 2011 at 7:56 pm
Signed up for news via email!
MickyMouse)
August 19, 2011 at 7:58 pm
To keep yourself hydrated, a hydropack would be helpful!
MickyMouse)
August 19, 2011 at 7:59 pm
Subscribed to news – keep the good work up!
Abbe
August 19, 2011 at 7:59 pm
Have fun at Disneyland. With kids, it works good to go early in the morning and stay until early afternoon. Then have everyone go back to the hotel for a break when it is the busy time at Disney. Then go back refreshed and stay until closing.
DisneyRules
August 19, 2011 at 8:00 pm
Comfortable shoes are a must!
SunnyCal
August 19, 2011 at 8:02 pm
Happy Vacation!
Summer Fun
August 19, 2011 at 8:05 pm
Sunglasses and a hat!
Hans Mast
August 19, 2011 at 8:07 pm
I still have the badge: http://mennodeals.com
Beach Boy
August 19, 2011 at 8:08 pm
added to email updates!
Hans Mast
August 19, 2011 at 8:08 pm
I still have badge: http://hansmast.com
Kids
August 19, 2011 at 8:09 pm
Band-aid just in case!
Hans Mast
August 19, 2011 at 8:09 pm
http://twitter.com/#!/hansmast/status/104766872339234817
Hans Mast
August 19, 2011 at 8:10 pm
https://www.facebook.com/hansmast/posts/235022363209889
Kids
August 19, 2011 at 8:10 pm
Added updates via email. Good luck to everyone!
Hans Mast
August 19, 2011 at 8:11 pm
Use AutoSlash + USAA for terrific underage car rental rates!
Henry M.
August 19, 2011 at 8:15 pm
I’d use 100K points for 5 nights at the Westin Paris. Thanks for the contest and have a great time at Disneyland.
xing chen
August 19, 2011 at 8:18 pm
transfer to ANA, island hopping around east asia using ANA miles on ANA, Asiana, Air China, Thai and Singapore.
David
August 19, 2011 at 8:21 pm
Great contest! Hope I win!
Edgar
August 19, 2011 at 8:32 pm
Go to New Zealand and visit the caves at Waitomo!
Christa
August 19, 2011 at 8:44 pm
Stay close to Disneyland so that you can leave to take a break & then return for some more time at the Happiest Place on Earth!
David Hagins
August 19, 2011 at 8:51 pm
Our video for our entry is located here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v…
The way we would redeem our points is detailed below.
I would first donate 12,000 SPG points to the American Red Cross to assist with Tornado Relief in our hometown, leaving us 88,000 SPG points remaining.
I would then transfer 60,000 SPG points to AA, in order to receive 75,000 miles. With those 75,000 miles, I would buy 3 tickets to Aruba (my other child is under 2, so she wouldn’t need a ticket) during off peak times.
With the remaining 28,000 SPG points I would use Cash and Points option of 4,000 SPG + $83/night, averaging about $.039 per point, better than the $.024 if redeemed at 10,000 SPG points per night. The best thing about this, is online it doesn’t mention Cash & Points as an option at the Westin in Aruba, but if you call they can book it for you. We would stay for 5 nights, using an additional 20,000 points, with 8,000 points remaining.
I would then redeem 8,000 SPG points for $84 towards a massage via Instant Awards at the hotel for my wife because she’s a rockstar staying at home with both our kids. The ratio for Instant Awards is 950 SPG points is $10.
Orie
August 19, 2011 at 9:21 pm
A much needed vacation
marie
August 19, 2011 at 9:33 pm
Transfer 60K SPG to AA and fly to Bali. Use Cash + Points for Westin Bali at Nusa Dua. Chill, surf, and cook with spices!
Marie
August 19, 2011 at 9:47 pm
Bring Wipees. Great for sticky drinks or foods while walking the park. Also, go early. Then take a midday break to chill out at the hotel pool and nap in the room. You will avoid the midday heat. Return in the evening to shorter lines and cooler weather.
Jackknife
August 19, 2011 at 10:04 pm
Make sure you hit up the Matterhorn… an experience unique to Disneyland!
Jackknife
August 19, 2011 at 10:08 pm
Subscribed to your email. Thanks.
laurent
August 19, 2011 at 10:27 pm
i would take my wife around the world
laurent
August 19, 2011 at 10:30 pm
would take my wife to africa
Michael
August 19, 2011 at 10:40 pm
Transfer some points to Singapore Airlines and try the new A380.
Awan
August 19, 2011 at 11:45 pm
Plan your rides ahead of time using the RideMax software. The software knows which rides are the busiest when and creates an itinerary that minimizes wait time. Best $15 you can spend before a Disney trip.
amy
August 20, 2011 at 12:03 am
Make dining reservations asap. It can be very frustrating to not get into your restaurants of choice. Especially the more popular options such as character breakfasts. Enjoy your trip!
Mark
August 20, 2011 at 12:57 am
A few nights at the Westin Excelsior in Rome!
Elizabeth Winter
August 20, 2011 at 1:17 am
Saw the link on Flyertalk – now added you to my list of “keep an eye on” websites!
Becca
August 20, 2011 at 1:18 am
Bring lots of snacks. A hungry child is an unhappy child!
Devin Bourne
August 20, 2011 at 1:19 am
Purchase a quality offering of cheese from any grocer around Disney Land. When you arrive in Toon Town and stroll through the mouse’s houses, leave said offering in the fridge. Mickey or Minnie will be thrilled to have had such generous company!!
Have a good trip!
Ike
August 20, 2011 at 1:23 am
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002639644710
Ike
August 20, 2011 at 1:25 am
An iPad is your friend. Easy for kids to use, small and compact, and far more durable than a mini DVD player. Hours of entertainment for the kids. Pop in a few Disney movies to get them in the mood!
jacob
August 20, 2011 at 1:30 am
thanks for runnign this!
andrea
August 20, 2011 at 1:30 am
we need a vacation!
Carling
August 20, 2011 at 2:57 am
I love to check out blogs for places that people have stayed or eaten at in the locations I am visiting. They usually have great reviews.
DCA Rob
August 20, 2011 at 3:21 am
I see a lot of 4,000 points per night redemptions in Thailand – hmmmm.
alex
August 20, 2011 at 3:26 am
I would transfer 40K to the AA to get the ticket to Hawaii and spend the rest on Hotel nights.
Kelli
August 20, 2011 at 4:14 am
Stay hydrated!
Nadine
August 20, 2011 at 4:15 am
Another great use for the points would be to transfer them to one of the airlines to get the 20% bump and then transfer to my husband’s account to get the 100% transfeer bonus (paying for the fees). Then we would have plenty of miles for our family to go to Europe in business class.
Eric
August 20, 2011 at 4:24 am
With this many points, consider other Disney options (e.g., Disneyworld or Euro Disney). There’s an educational component, beyond just the fun Disney part!
Tom
August 20, 2011 at 4:30 am
Be sure to check out Universal up near Hollywood.
phsu
August 20, 2011 at 4:30 am
So many entries… I need an vacation to read these great ideas….
Sherri
August 20, 2011 at 4:31 am
Take a day to hit the beach at Surf City(Huntington Beach).
Ryan P.
August 20, 2011 at 4:51 am
Westin Resort/Spa – Whistler: 12k points/night. 6 nights. 6×12=72k points used.
St. Regis – Deer Valley – 25k points/night. 1 night. 25k points used.
Sheraton Suites Orlando Airport – 3k points night. 1 night. 3k points used.
100k points used.
I would like to use these points to experience a true slope side ski vacation. A chance to stay at the most respected hotels at my 2 favorite ski destinations. After all that skiing I thought a trip to Orlando was due so that I could enjoy Cocoa Beach and a theme park for a day.
Pray for snow!
Jeffrey C
August 20, 2011 at 5:09 am
Taking my wife wherever she decides. I love her so much.
Glenda Zoo
August 20, 2011 at 5:10 am
Hubby to Hawaii for our 25th next July!
Gwen
August 20, 2011 at 5:29 am
Take e-books on a Kindle or iPad, for vacation reading.
Danielle
August 20, 2011 at 5:31 am
Tip#3 Character breakfasts are great for any age kid, even you :) You could make reservations before your trip for one of the dine with the characters, and may even find discounts online when booking. :)
Cant wait to here about this trip!
Adam
August 20, 2011 at 6:06 am
Use a touring plan to avoid spending time in lines.
Marcy
August 20, 2011 at 6:14 am
Still the Pacific Northwest.
Cory
August 20, 2011 at 6:36 am
Get the Mickie Mouse Ear hats. Classic and cheesy, perhaps. But, some things you just have to do.
Casey Friday
August 20, 2011 at 6:40 am
I would cash in 90k points for three nights at the W Retreat and Spa Maldives, for three lovely nights with my wife (in the off season). I would use my current CO/UA points to fly over in F, and use the remaining 10k Starpoints for two things: 9500 would go towards a $100 Amazon gift card to purchase loads of sunscreen, and the remaining 500 would be donated to charity, as a symbol of gratitude to the universe.
Frank
August 20, 2011 at 6:43 am
Thailand baby! Culture, beaches, food, nightlife, great hotels, friendly people, monks, etc! That’s my spot!
Linda McKelvey
August 20, 2011 at 6:51 am
I love Hawaii so much — would stay at the Sheraton Kauai for at a week and the Sheraton Maui for a week, then use the rest of the points to visit the Big Island!
Mike McKelvey
August 20, 2011 at 6:54 am
First would be 2 weekends at the Sheraton Virginia Beach using Cash & Points. Next would be the Sheraton Kauai for 5 nights Cash and Points, then Westing Kauai for 5 nights C&P to celebrate our 10,000-day being married. Next year 7 nights C&P at the Sheraton Maui for my son and his new wife. :)
Conway
August 20, 2011 at 6:57 am
If you can swing it, a couple friend of mine brought their babysitter/friend with them. For the price of a plane ticket they had a babysitter for the week!
Llinda McKelvey
August 20, 2011 at 6:57 am
To Hawaii! Maui first, then Big Island, then Kauai — could do it all with Cash and Points!
Conway
August 20, 2011 at 6:59 am
Tweet!
http://twitter.com/#!/c0ldlimit/status/104930384323674112
Danielle
August 20, 2011 at 7:00 am
I tweeted about this contest http://twitter.com/#!/djdcons/status/104930448270045184
Cory
August 20, 2011 at 7:00 am
Tweet, tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/CoryStinebrink/status/104930435771023360
Linda McKelvey
August 20, 2011 at 7:02 am
Would love to see Hawaii again!
Eliyanna
August 20, 2011 at 7:04 am
Buy the Unoffical Guide to Disneyland for the best tips.
Michael H.
August 20, 2011 at 7:04 am
Plan on going to Thailand next year for 10 year anniversary. Would use every point to stay at SPG properties throughout Thailand including Le Meridien Khao Lak.
Cory
August 20, 2011 at 7:05 am
I’m bloggin. Yes, sirree I’m bloggin
http://re-declareyourindependence.blogspot.com/2011/08/dont-forget-100000-starpoint-contest.html
Danielle
August 20, 2011 at 7:05 am
Bring a refillable water bottle for use inside Disneyland.
Cory
August 20, 2011 at 7:06 am
Still rocking the badge
http://re-declareyourindependence.blogspot.com/
Cory
August 20, 2011 at 7:08 am
Google+
https://plus.google.com/109553257174184173277/posts
Roxy
August 20, 2011 at 7:12 am
Another vacation trip is to get your kids a disney breakfast or something with the characters!
Roxy
August 20, 2011 at 7:12 am
posted on blog
http://roxyshops.blogspot.com/2011/08/win-starwood-points-at-homeeveraftercom.html
Edward Klein
August 20, 2011 at 7:27 am
Take a break at Laguna Beach.
Jenny
August 20, 2011 at 7:32 am
Bring your own snacks into Disneyland, set a meeting point in case anyone gets lost, and spend more than 1 day there so you don’t feel too rushed!
jerry
August 20, 2011 at 7:46 am
thank you
Chris N
August 20, 2011 at 7:55 am
I would suggest getting an early start each day and then come back to the hotel for lunch, a dip in the pool and a rest/nap. Then go back late afternoon when everyone else is tired and leaving to enjoy the rest of the park until closing including the parades.
Dan
August 20, 2011 at 7:57 am
I’m more of a Disney World fan, but I think this applies anyway: Get there early, do the popular attractions first and take a break midday if you can to recharge your batteries. Get a good spot for Fantasmic (if it’s on that night). Try out the restaurant reservation for World of Color so you don’t have to go get the fast pass early and then wait for a good spot. More than anything, enjoy Disneyland and take your time!
Dave
August 20, 2011 at 7:58 am
Thanks for offering the Starpoints. I love the 5th night free option. If I win it’s off to Japan for me.
Harold
August 20, 2011 at 8:07 am
Take extra memory cards for the camera
Harold
August 20, 2011 at 8:08 am
Take extra memory cards for the camera.
henry
August 20, 2011 at 8:09 am
the best holiday is the one at lucern, switzerland
Jan
August 20, 2011 at 8:11 am
Go early morning and start in back of the park and work your way to the front. There will be less crowds and shorter lines. Leave the park just before lunch and head for lunch and the hotel pool for a few hours rest. Return to the park later in the afternoon when crowds will lessen once again. You will be rested and can go until evening.
Peter K
August 20, 2011 at 8:11 am
The key to Disneyland – visit early and late, and nap during the middle of the day. Otherwise, you’ll run out of gas at around 4:00PM!
Erin
August 20, 2011 at 8:19 am
A good vacation tip: Pack light by packing several separates that can mix and match, therefore expanding your clothing choices and decreasing luggage space.
giovanni
August 20, 2011 at 8:19 am
consider using those amez spg points on tickets to orlando to see walt disney world next time, the contrast/similarities of the properties is interesting to experience
Amy N
August 20, 2011 at 8:32 am
Hi! Little ones can get tired of waiting for the rides and shows. To do your trip most efficiently:
1. go to California Adventure and get your tickets to the World of Color Show first — otherwise, you’ll end up with a late evening show that is well past bedtime.
2. At Disneyland, stop in at guest relations right away and make sure everyone who has a birthday or is just celebrating with others gets a button.
3. And pick up the listings of attractions for litte ones (recommendations such as the Tiki Room – we would never have know unless we picked that up).
4. Lines: The least busy lines are actually during afternoon nap time since the locals like to come in the morning.
5. The Small World ride is an absolute favorite with the kids. We timed waiting for the ride with the fireworks for an amazing show. This is also the time when the rides are shorter.
Have a great time!
P.S. Sheraton Anaheim is a great choice since their rooms are large. Suite upgrade is even better for a large family so worth the points if you can do it. For a smaller family, the Sheraton Park Anaheim is walkable so you don’t need to wait for a shuttle.
Bill K.
August 20, 2011 at 8:36 am
Another tip for a break or a quicker way into the California Adventure park is that there is an entrance and exit that connects directly from the park into the Grand Californian hotel. You can go here and avoid lines getting into and out of the park and also just take a break in their grand lobby and sitting areas.
Lorie
August 20, 2011 at 8:40 am
Definitely try the dole whip at disneyland in adventureland, it is great.
Chad
August 20, 2011 at 8:44 am
Don’t forget the sunscreen and to re-apply
James W
August 20, 2011 at 8:47 am
Like any family vacation, expect the best…but prepare for the worst. Keep your eyes on the fact that it IS a wonderful thing to be with your family even if there’s a stormy day, the Disney ride you were excited about is down for repair, etc.
James W
August 20, 2011 at 8:51 am
Just tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/jb_sweeps/status/104958472692580352
steve
August 20, 2011 at 9:24 am
Take advantage of being able to enter the parks early if you stay at a Disney hotel.
beth
August 20, 2011 at 9:25 am
Book things ahead of time so you aren’t disappointed if can;t get anything when you get there.
shanie
August 20, 2011 at 9:26 am
Take your kids to a character breakfast and make sure they have their autographs books!
Christina H
August 20, 2011 at 9:39 am
Disneyland will be wonderful – have a great time!
Tracy
August 20, 2011 at 9:41 am
Would use 100,000 SPG points to travel to Greece!
Ann
August 20, 2011 at 9:46 am
Combine better bidding and priceline for great deals on hotels.
Marie
August 20, 2011 at 9:50 am
Do a character breakfast! Save with a package.
Bring wipees, refillable bottled waters, and snacks.
Jason
August 20, 2011 at 9:55 am
Of the “classic” attractions, Peter Pan’s ride is one of the most popular and would be a good candidate to do as soon as the park opens (before the lines get too long).
Jon
August 20, 2011 at 9:57 am
Use your 100,000 SPG points to go to not just Disneyland but EuroDisney, Tokyo DisneySea (totally worth it), or Hong Kong Disneyland as well!! :)
Jon
August 20, 2011 at 10:08 am
Tweet, tweet!
http://twitter.com/#!/jonshih/status/104977508050538497
Eye
August 20, 2011 at 10:16 am
Hi,
Stay near Disney that provides shuttle service. Go when the kids are well rested and have a nice big breakfast. Either pack lunches and bring a cooler or go back to the hotel to eat. It get pretty expensive especially with little ones. Take snacks in a backpack along with water. If you get caught in a long line, you’ll have something to keep them company. Get Fast-passes to your favorite rides so you are not caught up in the long lines also. Let the kids take a nap if they need it and come back for the evening parades, shows and fireworks. Kids love those and usually cannot last the whole day without a meltdown. Enjoy!
Eric
August 20, 2011 at 10:26 am
Travel across asia to explore various SPG properties, Hong Kong tokyo, Taipei, etc, etc. etc.
Howie
August 20, 2011 at 10:26 am
Always pack an extra day clothes on a carry-on!
Sheryll
August 20, 2011 at 10:27 am
The adriatic coast
Lynn
August 20, 2011 at 10:29 am
When visiting Different areas, do not feel as if you have to explore the entire site. If it is not working for your family, move on.
Mike
August 20, 2011 at 10:32 am
Arrange early for any special occasions (birthdays, etc). Disney does an amazing job of recognizing things.
Curtis Borchardt
August 20, 2011 at 10:35 am
Disney parks are great to visit the first 3 weeks in December or the middle of May (before schools get out.) Those with young or homeschooled kids will find quiet, empty, much-less-stressful parks at these times, in addition to avoiding the hot sun.
Jennifer Church
August 20, 2011 at 10:36 am
Christmas Eve is my favorite time to visit amusement parks — no crowds, no heat, and tires the little ones out so they’re not up so early and fried by 10am Christmas morning.
Lud
August 20, 2011 at 10:38 am
Tweeted yesterday 8/19 http://www.twitter.com/scoopstweet
Lud
August 20, 2011 at 10:39 am
tweeted today http://www.twitter.com/scoopstweet
Lud
August 20, 2011 at 10:40 am
Tip: always make sure you plan for extra expenses in the budget, it can be more than what you thought with all the little things!
David
August 20, 2011 at 10:46 am
Love the SPG cash+points option
Alex K
August 20, 2011 at 10:48 am
I try to maximize my vacation days as much as possible – including flying back on the morning I have to be at work, or taking the red eye. Tues morning flights, for example, can be a ton cheaper than Mon night flights. You have to consider the extra hotel night, but you get that much more time at the destination too.
HoKo
August 20, 2011 at 11:31 am
Go to Bali, best use for sure!
HoKo
August 20, 2011 at 11:32 am
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/Haplo859
Heather Christopher
August 20, 2011 at 11:52 am
We would use the 100,000 Starwood points to stay in 3 luxury hotels in Europe: Milan, Monte Carlo, Paris.
aitchly
August 20, 2011 at 12:13 pm
I retweeted the contest! http://twitter.com/#!/HomeEverAfter/status/104302609908760577
Justin M.
August 20, 2011 at 12:15 pm
I would take a trip to either the Swan or Dolphin at Disneyworld with my wife and 2 girls before baby #3 comes along in a couple of months! Both of my kids love Disney characters and would have a blast at Disneyworld!
Todd
August 20, 2011 at 12:17 pm
We always take our portable DVD player. Great for movies on the airplane. Ours has 2 headphone plugs so 2 of the kids can watch at the same time.
worldtraveller2
August 20, 2011 at 12:18 pm
Spend 60,000 points on to get 5 nights at Sheraton Mendoza, plus 50,000 AA miles. The convert the other 40,000 points to another 50,000 AA miles.
Mike
August 20, 2011 at 12:38 pm
Use the miles to take the kids to see their grandparents in Africa
Elizabeth
August 20, 2011 at 12:56 pm
Always pack an extra change of clothes and toiletries in your carry-on bags. If your checked luggage is lost at least you will still have a pair of clean underwear and socks!
Elizabeth
August 20, 2011 at 12:59 pm
Subscribed to email updates.
Elizabeth
August 20, 2011 at 1:04 pm
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/gutterwench/status/105021797082210305
Linda
August 20, 2011 at 1:08 pm
Make sure to sit down for a real lunch and dinner during the day. Make it a sit down, and enjoy the meal with the family. Take time to relax for just a bit and feel the energy come back!
Barry
August 20, 2011 at 1:10 pm
Have everyone pick there must ride attraction and hit those first. That way nobody is disappointed at the end of the day.
JP
August 20, 2011 at 1:19 pm
Entry for Aug 20, 2011. Hello again! :) One tip that has always worked for me at the Disney parks is to wear Mickey ears and/or Disney shirts. For some reason the employees tend to be much friendlier when you put Disney stuff on. Ironically, it even kinda changes your mood and makes the experience even more enjoyable. Wear some Mickey ears! :) You can get some ahead of time or visit a shop at Disney and get a pair you love. At WDW they even have customizable ones…where you can snap on the ear texture/color you want. Once again, have a wonderful trip!!! – JP :)
Alastair
August 20, 2011 at 1:20 pm
The best time to go on the rides in Fantasyland (e.g. Dumbo’s Flying Adventure) is when the Main St parade is on, as all the other kids are at that.
Kevin
August 20, 2011 at 1:21 pm
When visiting Dubai make sure to allow time to visit Sharjah, the emirate immediately to the north. Beautiful public monuments and mosques.
JD
August 20, 2011 at 1:45 pm
Seychelles is calling for a visit.
Mike
August 20, 2011 at 2:10 pm
We’d love to celebrate our wedding anniversary in Paris next May!
Jeff
August 20, 2011 at 2:10 pm
I haven’t been to Disneyland, but for Disney World, go all out on the Fast Passes if you like the popular rides. As soon as you can get another one, sprint to the next one you want to get (even if its the same one or across the park). You can designate one person to do it if you don’t want to run the whole crew around. We snuck food in too to avoid the outrageous prices.
Jeff
August 20, 2011 at 2:13 pm
Subscribed to the RSS too.
I’ll tweet but my account is protected so you’ll have to take my word for it.
Easy Victor
August 20, 2011 at 2:16 pm
I will visit my daughter in Barcelona!
Hong T
August 20, 2011 at 2:21 pm
We love staying at a nearby hotel (the Sheraton works great!). That way we can rest in the middle of the day, so we can enjoy the evening shows, and beat the mid-day heat and crowds.
Russell Mohr
August 20, 2011 at 2:38 pm
I’d use em for one of dem crazy Sheraton resorts down there and then I would REFUSE to pay the resort “fees”- heeee haw!
Russell Mohr
August 20, 2011 at 2:42 pm
I just tweeted your contest again at twitter.com/rmohr
Russell Mohr
August 20, 2011 at 2:44 pm
I just tweeted again- your comments detected a “duplicate” post when I posted my twitter account URL- username is rmohr– love the contest!
Greg
August 20, 2011 at 2:54 pm
Well, I’ll be brutally honest. I’d like the 100K Starpoints to transfer to my American Airlines account as 125K AA miles. This would be put me at just over 2MM lifetime AA – and LT Platinum. A truly worthy cause if there ever was one. :)
Cory
August 20, 2011 at 2:59 pm
Tweeted
http://twitter.com/#!/CoryTravels/status/105050738522206209
Joe
August 20, 2011 at 3:07 pm
subscribed to your email
Joe
August 20, 2011 at 3:14 pm
Let the kids do what ever planing they can. They will feel that you trust them and will be happy even if you don’t get to do everything you wanted.
Hunter
August 20, 2011 at 3:25 pm
Use the points to come to my wedding in Germany next summer!
Jed
August 20, 2011 at 3:43 pm
Points entry!
Jett
August 20, 2011 at 3:48 pm
When I took my daughter to Disneyland Paris (never been to Anaheim Disneyland), we prepared her for the rides by watching youtube videos of each ride. She is 2, and I wanted to make sure she didn’t get scared on the dark, creepy rides. She also got really excited about the rides and sang along to most of the songs when we went.
Simon
August 20, 2011 at 3:52 pm
My birthday is coming up on the 28th, would be a great birthday present!!
laurent
August 20, 2011 at 3:56 pm
i need a free trip with my wife
Eli
August 20, 2011 at 4:10 pm
Would love to be able to use the points on an anniversary trip for my wife and me! Hopefully headed for a tour of Italy and France.
Enjoy your own trip!
Joe
August 20, 2011 at 4:44 pm
Start at the back of the park and work your way forward…
Alan
August 20, 2011 at 4:55 pm
Take your own water and snacks to save time and money.
Sam
August 20, 2011 at 4:55 pm
Here’s to hoping that 690 other people aren’t as luck as #691 :) While Disney sounds fun, I’d prefer something exotic. Airfare for 2 and the Sheraton on Kauai would be my spend. Loved our time there last year!
Crystal
August 20, 2011 at 5:10 pm
You can get on the major attractions with minimal wait during the parades and fireworks!
Kristen
August 20, 2011 at 5:11 pm
Use the fast pass as often as possible. It will give you extra HOURS per day to ride rides! Make sure to take sunscreen with you, it will wear off as the day goes on. I looked like a lobster after the first day. Lesson learned. We want to visit the Seychelles. If it is good enough for Will and Kate, then it is good enough for us!
Louis
August 20, 2011 at 5:11 pm
It looks like you can use the ’50% off for hotels” on suites, though only certain properties support this (at least according to the terms and conditions). If you can find the right property, this could make for a tremendous deal…
Shana
August 20, 2011 at 5:14 pm
If the Disneyland Resort is your only destination, find a hotel that has a Disneyland shuttle, is on the Anaheim Trolley route or is close enough to walk.
Jeff Dean
August 20, 2011 at 5:19 pm
With 100,000 Starpoints, I could take a six-night, seven-day dream vacation to the Pacific Northwest!
First, I would immediately transfer 25,000 miles to American Airlines in order to pay for a round-trip AAdvantage flight from my home in Montgomery, Alabama, to Seattle, Washington, via the American hub in DFW. This transfer would drop an extra 5,000 Starpoints into my balance, leaving a net balance of 80,000 Starpoints.
I would transfer 5,000 points to Amtrak in order to pay for intercity travel along Amtrak’s Cascadia route. Each day of travel in along the route requires 1,000 points, so I’m free to explore the wonders of Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia for five full days along an extensive train route! Now my balance stands at 75,000 Starpoints.
Of course, I have to have a place to stay while I’m travelling, so I’ll leave 65,000 Starpoints in my account for nightly rooms. I’ll spend two nights at The Westin Grand in Vancouver (level 4, 10,000 each = 20,000 points), two nights at The Westin Seattle (level 4, 10,000 each = 20,000 points), one night at the Nine in Portland (level 4, 10,000 points), and splurge a little at The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler (level 5, 12,000 points). The remaining 3,000 Starpoints I’ll use in Seattle as part of their “Dine and Unwind” Instant rewards program: I’ll get to “enjoy a 3-course dinner with a glass of select Washington wine in Coldwater,” the hotel restaurant! Now my balance is at 10,000 Starpoints.
I’ll take 5,000 of those points to buy a $50 gift card for Starbucks. That way I’ll have $7.14 every day of my trip to spend on breakfast…and that just happens to be the after-tax price of a medium nonfat latte and a Reduced-Fat Turkey Bacon and Egg White English Muffin—a nutritious way to start my days!
The final 5,000 Starpoints are just enough to transfer for a $50 Avis gift certificate, and $50 is the price the rent an SUV in Vancouver and drive myself to Whistler for my one-night stay there. What a coincidence!
Caleb B
August 20, 2011 at 5:30 pm
Use sunscreen everyday!
Geneyem B
August 20, 2011 at 5:31 pm
Drink lots of water and remember to rest.
Edward
August 20, 2011 at 5:32 pm
Would love to go to Paris in the spring and cruise the Seine.
Mica
August 20, 2011 at 5:34 pm
Make sure the shuttle doesn’t stop at every hotel in the area. Our shuttle to Disneyworld in Orlando took an hour to go 3 miles!
Jeff Sommers
August 20, 2011 at 5:38 pm
I would use the points to get airfare to Hawaii from Chicago and then use the remaining points to stay at the Westin Maui (cash and points) and also use points to get a rental car while in Maui.
As for a travel tip, I suggest the tripit app for all those smartphone users. Its a great place to store all your travel plans in one convenient place.
Aaron Schuett
August 20, 2011 at 5:40 pm
Trip Tip: never check luggage, and bring an extra pair of socks and underwear!
Daniel
August 20, 2011 at 5:48 pm
Would be an amazing trip with my girlfriend to Hong Kong for sure!
John
August 20, 2011 at 5:56 pm
TIP: Pack powdered sports drink packs like Gatorade to mix with water at Disneyland or other theme parks to save money on flavored drinks (water at the parks always tastes funny) and stay hydrated.
David
August 20, 2011 at 5:58 pm
Make sure to check out the old photos in the halls of the Disneyland hotel between the main lobby and convention center. Really gives you a great feel of the history behind the happiest place on earth.
John
August 20, 2011 at 6:14 pm
This is kind of a silly vacation tip – but don’t forget to wear slip-on shoes to the airport! You’ll get through security that much faster.
Kate
August 20, 2011 at 6:44 pm
My best travel tip is to thoroughly check out places you’re considering staying on TripAdvisor. I love the site-especially the photos real travelers post which show you what the hotel is really like-not just the glossy, pro photos on the hotel’s site.
Sveta
August 20, 2011 at 6:48 pm
I would spend 5 days in Castillo Hotel Son Vida, Mallorca, Spain for my honeymoon and use the rest of the points to get plane tickets!
Kate
August 20, 2011 at 6:50 pm
http://twitter.com/#!/katieamann
Jack Levengard
August 20, 2011 at 6:53 pm
I would take my wife on that Hawaiian vacation we never got around to. Our Honeymoon was suppose to be in Hawaii, but on the flight out, there were problems. We never made it. 20th anniversary coming up in a couple of months. This would be a great surprise trip to give her
Mikael
August 20, 2011 at 6:58 pm
If you see no other show, see World of Color at California Adventure. The show is amazing, combining water, lights, sound and special effects. There really is no adequate way to describe it, but you must see it. You need to get a FASTPASS first thing in the morning, and the lines can be long, even right as the park opens. There are some ways to get a FASTPASS by ordering a meal combo that will give you priority seating. Here are some tips: http://land.allears.net/blogs/guestblog/2010/06/viewing_tips_strategies_for_di_1.html
Rosa Naranjo
August 20, 2011 at 6:58 pm
Take a day to rest and take it easy.
Mikael
August 20, 2011 at 6:58 pm
I tweeted.
http://twitter.com/#!/SPGGiveaway/status/105110279519604738
Mikael
August 20, 2011 at 6:59 pm
I subscribe to Home Ever After emails.
JB
August 20, 2011 at 7:02 pm
Fly to Australia!
SC Flier
August 20, 2011 at 7:20 pm
Your badge is still on my website http://www.journeysearcher.com !
http://www.journeysearcher.com/js/otherlinks.html
SC Flier
August 20, 2011 at 7:21 pm
I’m still subscribed to your emails! Thanks!
David
August 20, 2011 at 7:21 pm
I like it!
Holly
August 20, 2011 at 7:22 pm
Subscribed to your e-mail.
Holly
August 20, 2011 at 7:25 pm
Disney tip: book reservations for restaurants in advance and keep looking back for openings if your first choice was sold out.
SC Flier
August 20, 2011 at 7:28 pm
My daily tip:
There was a great Italian restaurant that I went to when I was there a few years ago. They had offered a free limo ride from the Disney area hotels, and the food was fantastic and affordable. I don’t remember the name, but perhaps a hotel concierge would know it if it’s still around.
SC Flier
August 20, 2011 at 7:30 pm
I tweeted! http://twitter.com/#!/scflier/status/105119477842182145
jennifer horn
August 20, 2011 at 7:36 pm
I’m a subscriber. 8/20
jennifer horn
August 20, 2011 at 7:37 pm
daily tweet. https://twitter.com/#!/jen_r_horn/status/105120574497497088
Paul
August 20, 2011 at 7:40 pm
Florida !
Ted
August 20, 2011 at 7:56 pm
Get a no foreign transaction fee credit card, but also make sure you bring cash with you when going abroad!
Bluto
August 20, 2011 at 7:59 pm
My best tip is to bring two cameras. There are so many vacation photos lost because the main camera runs out of battery.
Lindsay
August 20, 2011 at 8:11 pm
Pack the night before so your items settle in your bag.
Jon
August 20, 2011 at 8:14 pm
Travel with extra collapsible bag w/zipper that can handle any purchases, loose items, etc.
Vishal
August 20, 2011 at 8:23 pm
My parents have never been out of Nepal and India. India was less than 10 miles from where I grew up. They celebrated their 25th anniversary this year. I would like to transfer 80,000 starpoints to Thai Airways getting 100K Thai Airways Miles. I would redeem a roundtrip KTM-BKK-HKT for 50K miles each. BKK because it’s a global and eccentric city and HKT because my mom has never seen the sea. I’d use the cash and points option to redeem for 2 nights at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit hotel. It looks really fascinating. Also 3 nights at the Westing Siray Bay Resort and Spa using Cash and points too. So total 80 points on Thai Airways and 20K for hotels. One in one, a great gift from a son. All thanks to SPG and homeeverafter.com!
Tuan
August 20, 2011 at 8:27 pm
My best vacation tip is always be prepared for the unexpected.
Teresa
August 20, 2011 at 8:42 pm
Return to the hotel each afternoon for a break; then return to the park in the early evening
Christa
August 20, 2011 at 8:44 pm
You mentioned you would have enough to spend 10 days for Disneyland. If you are, I’m sure you’ll have more than enough time for that and some other things. There’s plenty to do in the area. Check out Medieval Times =)
Michael L
August 20, 2011 at 8:49 pm
Use it on Hawaii island hopping between the starwood resorts there
Hannah S
August 20, 2011 at 8:50 pm
Transfer to Amtrak and go up and down the east coast to all the major cities (including orlando to check out disneyworld)
ASen
August 20, 2011 at 9:20 pm
Have a great vacation
AS
August 20, 2011 at 9:21 pm
Eating in the park is expensive. Try to have your meals outside
Allison
August 20, 2011 at 9:42 pm
When staying in Singapore use the hop on hop off bus. A great and easy way to get to all the key sights.
Ann
August 20, 2011 at 9:45 pm
Don’t forget to get the frequent flyer miles for your trip. they can add up faster than you think!
Michael
August 20, 2011 at 10:14 pm
Time to show Mom Cancun and the Westin Lagunamar.
Ben Davis
August 20, 2011 at 10:15 pm
I flew to Denmark for a vacation this week and I have fallen in love with this place. My next trip will be to explore Sweden and Norway!
Shannan
August 20, 2011 at 10:22 pm
Our best tip is to take a mid-day break at the hotel, off property, etc. We found our kids got a little overstimulated and sometimes forgot to slow down and appreciate the little things. A break from the crowds, rides and non-stop disney merchandising helped keep them excited about Disney and less about buying things or riding everything immediately.
JC
August 20, 2011 at 10:46 pm
Simple but classic, take the family to Hawaii to see my dad’s birthplace!
Joyce
August 20, 2011 at 11:21 pm
Go to Disneyland during the winter holiday and you will see Disneyland all lit up like a Christmas tree! It is so festive and the parade has snow! They change up a few rides for the holidays (add Nightmare before Christmas) so it makes it special. There’s a huge Christmas tree on main street. I’m like a kid again on Christmas Day!
Ben
August 20, 2011 at 11:54 pm
HAWAII!
Scott
August 21, 2011 at 12:12 am
Take a break from the park in the middle of the day.
John Knerr
August 21, 2011 at 1:44 am
Pace yourself, take breaks often. Visit the parks during the evening hours and use the fast pass option.
Becca
August 21, 2011 at 2:09 am
Take a midday break from the park. Relax and rejuvinate. Then return in the afternoon, refreshed.
Ike
August 21, 2011 at 2:13 am
Shared: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002639644710
Ike
August 21, 2011 at 2:13 am
Take it easy and don’t try to do and see everything.
Carling
August 21, 2011 at 2:48 am
Always check hotwire and priceline for rental car rates!
Greg
August 21, 2011 at 3:06 am
Well, I’ll be brutally honest. I’d like the 100K Starpoints to transfer to my American Airlines account as 125K AA miles. This would be put me at just over 2MM lifetime AA – and LT Platinum. A truly worthy cause if there ever was one.
Doug
August 21, 2011 at 3:23 am
How I would use 100,000 SPG points.
My wife is on active duty with the Army in Afghanistan for the next year, returning home in July 2012 (maybe if they dont extend her). She will get a 2 week rest & recuperation (R&R) leave sometime around Feb 2012. We plan on meeting in Dubai, UAE and spending time together after being apart for the first time since we have been married for more than a week. We will want to just have a relaxed time together and will want to have her feel special and pampered. So my plan is to use the points to pay for 4 nights at the Grosvenor House in Duabi. SInce this is a Category 6 hotel it will cost 20,000 points a night and therefore 4 nights @20K a night = 80,000 SPG points total. The remaining 20,000 points I would transfer to the American Red Cross who was instrumental in assisting in the notification and assistance to a family and parents of a fallen soldier that we both knew and counted as a friend. They do a great job and service to our military and military families all over the world. So I would transfer 4,000 points x 5 times = 20,000 SPG points for a total of $200 to the American Red Cross.
Linda McKelvey
August 21, 2011 at 4:46 am
Have been thinking more about this, and with 100,000 points I’d want to share share this with more of my family. We’d take a week-long vacation to Kauai to stay at the Sheraton. We’d use the Cash and Points option so we could get 3 rooms!
Mike McKelvey
August 21, 2011 at 4:47 am
Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island to celebrate 10,000th day of being married to my beautiful wife!
Nick McKelvey
August 21, 2011 at 4:54 am
I would go to all the American Idol locations!
Lizzie
August 21, 2011 at 5:00 am
Brilliant, thanks :-)
Stephanie
August 21, 2011 at 5:02 am
use the FastPass to avoid the long lines! also make sure you take breaks during the day instead of doing a marathon session in the park.
enjoy Disney!
Andy
August 21, 2011 at 5:04 am
Italy!
Rob
August 21, 2011 at 5:07 am
Make sure to take lots of pictures of your kids
Susannah Hall
August 21, 2011 at 5:08 am
Enjoy your trip!
Kevin D
August 21, 2011 at 5:10 am
I would use Flights & Nights to go to Munich for Oktoberfest!
midnightRanger
August 21, 2011 at 5:31 am
Good question. I would use the points towards my one year anniversary as described in Comment# 458.
scott
August 21, 2011 at 5:50 am
Arrive early, arrive early, arrive early! Be at the gates ready to go at least 15 minutes before advertised opening time.
jeff
August 21, 2011 at 6:02 am
Use the points for airline miles
jeff
August 21, 2011 at 6:05 am
Just subscribed for emails
John
August 21, 2011 at 6:11 am
Don’t forget to leave the laptop and work behind when you go on vacation (although maybe not, if you’re a travel blogger. :-) )
Chris
August 21, 2011 at 6:32 am
Enjoy your vacation
jacob
August 21, 2011 at 6:42 am
south america
Edward Klein
August 21, 2011 at 6:43 am
Legoland!
Victoria
August 21, 2011 at 6:43 am
I’d take a tour of asia, staying at many of the points-cheap but luxurious hotels Starwood has there. Thailand here I come!
andrea
August 21, 2011 at 6:44 am
israel
Victoria
August 21, 2011 at 6:44 am
I’m subscribed to your emails!
Katie
August 21, 2011 at 6:56 am
I read a tip using the FASTPASS in a magazine once that I really liked – you can see online which rides are available for that option. Make a plan before you go which ones you want. Then, as soon as you get there (usually first thing in the morning) split up the group and go get tickets and have a meeting place designated. You can get FASTPASS tickets for various times of the day, so just plan for it. (Meaning, get one ride from 10-12, on from 12-2, etc.)
Yanina
August 21, 2011 at 7:03 am
I would love to use Starpoints to pay for hotels on a dream trip to Europe!
Yanina
August 21, 2011 at 7:04 am
I’m a subscriber.
Robert Z
August 21, 2011 at 7:10 am
I’d use the points for 5 free nights in a category 6 luxury hotel
Cory
August 21, 2011 at 7:27 am
Ride the Teacups. So much fun :)
jerry
August 21, 2011 at 7:39 am
I want to take my wife to Ireland
Danielle
August 21, 2011 at 7:54 am
Not sure if you mentioned when you were going to take the trip… but if you plan to go in November/December you will get to experience Christmas in Disney which will get you and the whole fam in the xmas spirit! Another plus is that its not peak season so you probably wont experience all those lines and crowds like mid-summer :)
August
August 21, 2011 at 7:54 am
My best vacation tip – pack light if you can and if you are doing a lot of stops. If you are just doing one destination, packing heavy works fine :)
Marcy
August 21, 2011 at 7:55 am
Visors in FL. Hats will be too hot.
Danielle
August 21, 2011 at 8:06 am
@DMTboston
Danielle http://t.co/r4l4gu6 win 100000 starwood points!
I posted a tweet :)
I realized your doing the trip in January.. but you can still experience the holidays in Disney… You could check out a Christmas Carol at the Norris Center or a concert at the Walt Disney concert hall :)
Roxy
August 21, 2011 at 8:06 am
another tip, there are a ton of hotels in the area, so opt for the least expensive since you’ll hardly be there anyway!
Roxy
August 21, 2011 at 8:07 am
… and here’s my blog post!
http://roxyshops.blogspot.com/2011/08/win-starwood-points-at-homeeveraftercom.html
Cory
August 21, 2011 at 8:10 am
Still doing the tweet, tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/CoryStinebrink/status/105310526107697152
Cory
August 21, 2011 at 8:11 am
And bloggin
http://re-declareyourindependence.blogspot.com/2011/08/dont-forget-100000-starpoint-contest.html
Cory
August 21, 2011 at 8:12 am
And rocking the badge.
http://re-declareyourindependence.blogspot.com/
Todd
August 21, 2011 at 8:13 am
I went to Finland as a 15 yr old and loved it. Going back and staying at Hotel Kamp in Helsinki would be incredible. Thank you, Todd!
Cory
August 21, 2011 at 8:14 am
Sharing on Google+
https://plus.google.com/109553257174184173277/posts
Cory
August 21, 2011 at 8:16 am
Also shared via Google’s Buzz function. Looks like this, though linking is not really possible:
8/19 Cory S: Great promo for free points to stay in hotels. Huge value.
http://www.homeeverafter.com/give-me-your-best-disneyland-vacation-idea-and-win-100000-starwood-hotels-points
Kristen
August 21, 2011 at 8:22 am
A family Vacation at DisneyWorld and staying at the Walt Disney World Dolphin would make our 5 yr old Jack happy beyond words!
Chad
August 21, 2011 at 8:28 am
Just remember your in disneyland! enjoy yourself!
Allison
August 21, 2011 at 8:33 am
Pack extra zip lock bags. Can be used to for packing wet bathing suits, protecting a camera during a sudden storm, and hundreds of other uses
KLR
August 21, 2011 at 8:36 am
When traveling internationally check the map of the airport where you will arrive for ATMs. Its much cheaper and easier to get cash in that way.
aitchly
August 21, 2011 at 8:40 am
For disney, get a suite with a kitchen. Eat breakfast at hotel, pack lunch and go back to eat dinner.
Bill K.
August 21, 2011 at 8:40 am
If you want to do some shopping at the park, wait until the end of the day, the shops on main street in disneyland stay open until an hour after the parks close
Lorie
August 21, 2011 at 8:42 am
If you ride thunder mountain railroad, try to sit in the back, it is the wildest ride back there
Brandon
August 21, 2011 at 8:50 am
I would use the points to spend 6 nights at the St. Regis Deer Valley for Spring Break
Roger P
August 21, 2011 at 9:05 am
My only disney tip would be to go off-season (once school starts) and on a weekday. You can avoid the lines and crowds!
Roger P`
August 21, 2011 at 9:09 am
I just subscribed to the email newsletter!
Heather Christopher
August 21, 2011 at 9:16 am
We would use the 100,000 Starwood points to stay in Australia and Singapore.
Joshua Boyd
August 21, 2011 at 9:18 am
I would use the points to stay in Europe!
Alastair
August 21, 2011 at 9:29 am
Make sure you have an adapter for your camera charger.
Noah
August 21, 2011 at 10:03 am
Subscribed via email. My tip: Travel is all about new experiences. Make sure to push your self out of your regular routines/comfort zone to have the most fulfilling experience.
Brian
August 21, 2011 at 10:05 am
Send someone ahead to get the fastlane tickets for everyone in the group. Get on a less crowded ride while you wait for the fastlane time to come around. Saved us tons of time.
Ryan Pringnitz
August 21, 2011 at 10:06 am
http://twitter.com/#!/Ryan_Pringnitz/status/105339963100504064
Sharing via twitter.
Ryan Pringnitz
August 21, 2011 at 10:07 am
Subscribed via e-mail also.
Donna
August 21, 2011 at 10:10 am
We were just there last summer. People keep recommending fast passes and apps that give wait times. While you should definitely do those, don’t rush! Just enjoy being there. Disney does everything first class, so there is so much to look at and enjoy. Take your time. You dont want to feel like you need a vacation from your vacation; and rushing will stress out the kids. Stressed kids don’t make for a happy vacation or good memories.
Be sure to tell them at the ticket office that’s it’s your first visit. I’m holding my “1st Visit” button badge right now. Everyone should get one and the employees should recognize you all day. They made very nice comments and it’s a free souvenir.
Make a game of finding the hidden Mickeys. They’re all over the park. When one of your kids finds one, take their picture with it. Pictures are the best souvenirs.
And speaking of pictures, my favorite pictures from all Disney trips are the HAT pictures. They sell so many different kinds of hats throughout the park. Pit hats on everyone and take their picture…individually usually but can do group or pairs. You don’t have to buy the hats, just borrow them for the picture right in the store. Your kids will love looking at the picture of dad with the goofy hat with long ears or mom with the princess hat or tiara.
One of the most popular things being sold in the parks for good reason are the squirt water bottles with the fan on top. The fan has soft blades that won’t hurt the kiddie. Buy them outside the park much cheaper and take them in. If you don’t want to transport them home, give them to a family checking in when you check out. Good karma.
And if you are so inclined, you can take your own food in. Check the restrictions on size of cooler. I believe they have to fit in one of their lockers which can be found just inside the park.
Have a great trip. Disney is the BEST!
Donna
August 21, 2011 at 10:13 am
Almost forgot…I subscribed by email. Thanks for the contest.
David LaRue
August 21, 2011 at 10:28 am
We use this one for cruises and small hotel rooms… Take a dollar store shoe organizer and hang it over the bathroom door. Use the pockets to organize all the vacation stuff…sunscreen, sunglasses, hairbrushes, kid stuff, music players, reciepts…ect ect The clear pockets make it easy to see what your looking for in all in one spot.
Don’t know if it would work with kids, but it doesnt take much room to pack one.
Nadine
August 21, 2011 at 10:38 am
I would use the Starwood points to supplement my AA miles to have a family trip to Hawaii staying at the St Regis Princeville resort.
Shalisa
August 21, 2011 at 10:56 am
Planning is the key to a great vacation, especially a Disney vacation. With 2 weeks you’ll have plenty of time to see everything, but you should still have a daily itinerary of what you want to do. Going slow, taking breaks, will leave you with memories and a relaxing experience. Know what’s there, map it out, and plan for some extra anaheim adventures, and lots of pool time. I recommend the info at mousesavers.com. Flying with kids is a cinch with crayons, snacks and favorite toys. We love small plastic figurines. Disney actually sells quite a few sets online, they would make a fun surprise present on the plane.
Robert
August 21, 2011 at 10:57 am
Stay the Disneyland Hotel and have breakfast with some of the characters.
Elizabeth
August 21, 2011 at 10:58 am
Make sure to bring some snacks for the long plane ride. Airport food is expensive.
Angela
August 21, 2011 at 11:01 am
Stop by at a fast-food joint to eat a big meal before going into the park!
Christy
August 21, 2011 at 11:02 am
Clear out your memory card so you have plenty of room on your camera!
Robert
August 21, 2011 at 11:02 am
Subscribed to get emails.
Dan
August 21, 2011 at 11:03 am
Stay away from the timeshare tours!
Henrik
August 21, 2011 at 11:04 am
Points can provide great value, but remember to book early, especially if you are several people traveling together and want to get on the same flights.
jennifer horn
August 21, 2011 at 11:12 am
I’m a subscriber. 8/21
jennifer horn
August 21, 2011 at 11:15 am
daily tweet. https://twitter.com/#!/jen_r_horn/status/105356531385643009
Robert
August 21, 2011 at 11:17 am
http://twitter.com/#!/RPSLEGG/status/105355451855667200
cyn
August 21, 2011 at 11:26 am
Remember that those characters are bigger-than-life – and may scare your small ones. Be ready with a big hug, just in case. :-)
Richard
August 21, 2011 at 11:28 am
My best vacation tip would be to make sure you bring a great digital camera with you and take photos and videos so that you can remember your holiday for years to come. I’m 32 now, I remember when I was a kid we went to Disneyland and I spilled a can of Sprite all over me – we got it on a Hi8 videocam and watched it recently, decades later. You’ll want to do the same in 20, 30 years….
Russell Mohr
August 21, 2011 at 11:35 am
How bouts a week at the Westin Orlando Imagine!
Eric
August 21, 2011 at 11:39 am
Good luck to the travel buddies!
Mike
August 21, 2011 at 11:42 am
Enjoy an adult only meal one evening. You can get a Disney sitter to stay in the room with the kids.
Russell Mohr
August 21, 2011 at 11:44 am
I’m getting all tweety with this http://twitter.com/#!/rmohr/status/105363755067645952
Lynn
August 21, 2011 at 11:44 am
Take a spare swim suit and sunscreen in your carry on….just in case.
Shana
August 21, 2011 at 11:50 am
Reminds me of my favorite Jack Handey quote: “I was taking my little nephew to disneyland, but i decided to play a mean trick. i pulled up next to an old, burned down warehouse. “Oh no,” i said. “Disneyland burned down.” He started crying, and i was about to tell him it was all a joke and drive to the real disneyland, but it was getting kinda late.”
Peter K
August 21, 2011 at 11:56 am
Starpoints converted to LAN points for 2 business class tickets to Rio and a couple of nights at the Rio Sheraton – that’s the ticket!
Mikael
August 21, 2011 at 11:57 am
I subscribe to the updates.
Mikael
August 21, 2011 at 11:58 am
I tweeted this. :)
https://twitter.com/#!/SPGGiveaway/status/105367742504374272
Hong T
August 21, 2011 at 11:59 am
Too bad we can’t use Starpoints for Disneyland Fastrack tickets – are you listening, Starwood?
Mikael
August 21, 2011 at 12:00 pm
Eat some of your meals in Downtown Disney. The kids should like the ambiance in Rainforest Cafe and the prices are quite a bit more reasonable than inside the parks.
Maureen
August 21, 2011 at 12:00 pm
Don’t forget sunblock for the kids & self too.
Cory
August 21, 2011 at 12:24 pm
If ever possible DO NOT check bags. There are ways to avoid bag fees, but there is no way to avoid the tendency from airlines to lose your bag, or worse..steal from it.
Cory
August 21, 2011 at 12:24 pm
Twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/CoryTravels/status/105374176113729536
Jack
August 21, 2011 at 12:25 pm
much needed vacation!!!
Ty
August 21, 2011 at 12:28 pm
Maybe use the points to take the family to Tokyo Disney instead!
Sherri
August 21, 2011 at 12:30 pm
when you finsih with disneyland go to dsneyworld
JP
August 21, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Entry for Aug 21, 2011. I have my fingers crossed. I would be total shock if I actually won this!!! – JP :)
Tom
August 21, 2011 at 12:31 pm
Be sure to hit the Lego store at Downtown Disney
Ty
August 21, 2011 at 12:31 pm
http://twitter.com/#!/pointpoints/status/105376205678710785 Tweeted this!
John
August 21, 2011 at 12:40 pm
Definitely worth it to stay at one of the resorts connected via monorail.
Eric
August 21, 2011 at 12:41 pm
I would really like ot win the 100,000 points and take a great vacation with SPG.
Simon
August 21, 2011 at 12:42 pm
Never been to the Disneyland in CA – hope for a visit with 100,000 SPG points!
Brendan
August 21, 2011 at 12:44 pm
Wear comfortable shoes.
Jackknife
August 21, 2011 at 12:54 pm
Keep hydrated… otherwise things could get dicey.
Jackknife
August 21, 2011 at 12:54 pm
Subscribed to emails.
Eliyanna
August 21, 2011 at 1:05 pm
Make a list of attractions you want to visit before entering the parks.
Danielle
August 21, 2011 at 1:07 pm
Visit the Nemo Subs first thing or late in the evening,
Sheryll
August 21, 2011 at 1:14 pm
Baby wipes, always. Also, a sarong is a life saver and can be used for a variety of things.
Henry M.
August 21, 2011 at 1:48 pm
Thanks for the contest and have fun with the family at Disneyland.
bk3day
August 21, 2011 at 1:54 pm
If lines are long at Disny, rent one of those motorized scooters. You’ll get backdoored into every ride.
James W
August 21, 2011 at 1:58 pm
Three words: quick drying clothes… If there is any chance of being on a water ride (such as the canoes), wear something that will dry quickly.
James W
August 21, 2011 at 1:59 pm
Tweeted today: http://twitter.com/#!/jb_sweeps/status/105397544938516480
Frank
August 21, 2011 at 2:15 pm
I’ll be in Buenos Aires in October. I’d use the points for two weeks of indulgence at the Sheraton Libertador in Argengina!
Dano
August 21, 2011 at 2:22 pm
Best vacation family ever (so far). Used Starwood points for 2 rooms for 8 days at Disney World Dolphin/Swan (separating parents from kids). AMX points for 4 park hopper passes and AA miles for Rnd trip air for 4. No pressure to get my money’s worth since it was ALL points. Meaning sleeping in was ok, coming back to hotel pool early on a park day was ok, no pushing to cover tons of ground everyday, etc. I was even able to charge many items back to the room and could use points to pay. It was a relaxing, low cost, Disney World vacation if that is possible with young kids. So I recommend: Use points to take some pressure off the trip, stay at the part if you can (easier to go back/forth) and take the trip when the part is lightly crowded….such as week before Christmas. Happy, happy.
Jason
August 21, 2011 at 2:40 pm
If it’s hot and you need a little shade, Pirates of the Caribbean is a great option. Once you get inside, the line and the ride are comfortably cool.
worldtraveller2
August 21, 2011 at 3:38 pm
I would go to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile! It is stunning!
cindy
August 21, 2011 at 3:39 pm
How about the Maldives!
Jeffrey Sommers
August 21, 2011 at 4:07 pm
I would love to take my family to Disneyland courtesy of the 100,000 SPG giveaway!!!!
Michael
August 21, 2011 at 4:09 pm
Make arrangements with the hotel concierge to secure a reputable babysitter and have dinner with the hubby/wifey! It;s your vacation too!
Lud
August 21, 2011 at 4:10 pm
Tweeted today Sunday http://www.twitter.com/scoopstweet
Lud
August 21, 2011 at 4:12 pm
Tip buy in advance and all at once to avoid extra fees, including processing fees and get online discounts
Alex K
August 21, 2011 at 4:17 pm
When searching for award tickets, probably the best piece of advice I can give is have patience and flexibility. It’s kind of ridiculous how many hours I can spend searching for award flights – but when I find the right combination it’s all worth it!
Stubtify
August 21, 2011 at 4:37 pm
My wonderful wife and I can finally see Hawaii :o) In style!
Dale Mitchell
August 21, 2011 at 4:42 pm
‘nother day, ‘nother entry. Pick me, pick me!
Jason
August 21, 2011 at 4:45 pm
Always bring your own food for the plane ride.
Joan Mitchell
August 21, 2011 at 4:46 pm
100k would be nice right about now! The Hotel Danielle is very nice this time of year!
Nish
August 21, 2011 at 4:51 pm
I want to win this one :)
Curtis Borchardt
August 21, 2011 at 4:53 pm
When booking award tickets you are not 100% sure are going to be the final iteration of your travel plans, use one person’s miles to book both of your tickets, so if you have to cancel, the cancellation and miles redeposit fees will not be doubled.
Jennifer Church
August 21, 2011 at 4:55 pm
Get to your destination a day in advance, so you can check the local supermarkets to see if they sell discounted attractions tickets or have specially marked soda cans with discounts. Sometimes, they are Buy One Get One Free with a soda can at places like Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia (L.A. area)
HoKo
August 21, 2011 at 4:56 pm
Thailand is sweet, I’d check that out!
Conway
August 21, 2011 at 4:56 pm
Tweeting the third day in a row!
http://twitter.com/#!/c0ldlimit/status/105443029074182145
Hoko
August 21, 2011 at 4:57 pm
Tweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/Haplo859 Lets hope I win
laurent
August 21, 2011 at 5:07 pm
i will use these 100k spg points to take my wife to southern europe this fall
Aruna Gohel
August 21, 2011 at 5:19 pm
WOW! Congrats, Disneyland is amazing!
Check out all the fun and scary rides for yourself, even if you have young ones maybe split up with your husband and you guys can take turns riding the scary ones. Trust me, don’t miss out on that!
Get that FastPass thing, so you guys don’t have to waste your funtime waiting for rides. If possible have someone be there when the park opens to get all the fastpasses, then when you arrive you’ll be ready to ROCK and ROLL!
Lastly, get the ParkHopper passes. It saves a load of money if you have trouble making up your mind which AWESOME ride to go on! Also, if Mickey Mouse or another rare character is in another park, you won’t miss out!
Have a lovely time.
–AG :D
JB
August 21, 2011 at 5:22 pm
Go back to Hawaii!
Aruna Gohel
August 21, 2011 at 5:23 pm
Additional entry:
Subscribed to your RSS feed <3
Aruna Gohel
August 21, 2011 at 5:25 pm
Additional entry:
Tweeted this giveaway
http://twitter.com/#!/rfrancis98/status/105447985063800832
I love your blog XD PICK ME, I am worthy, my lord.
Kathleen W
August 21, 2011 at 5:27 pm
Fly free!!
Aruna Gohel
August 21, 2011 at 5:31 pm
Additional entries:
I put your badge on my site and posted about it on my blog. Pick me :D
Shakti B.
August 21, 2011 at 5:44 pm
I always carry my own refillable water container when traveling. This works especially well when flying. I empty it before security and then refill it after going through. I would definitely carry my a refillable water bottle to an amusement park and refill it throughout the day.
Shakti B.
August 21, 2011 at 5:47 pm
Subscribed to RSS feed.
JD
August 21, 2011 at 5:49 pm
When traveling in a foreign country, be cautious when a local negotiates on your behalf in the native language (which you do not speak).
Shakti B.
August 21, 2011 at 5:53 pm
tweeted this giveaway:
http://twitter.com/#!/swisspotluck/status/105457346251210752
Louis
August 21, 2011 at 6:01 pm
I’ve never been to DisneyLand, but it’s only a matter of time before my little girls are old enough to enjoy it. Based on what everyone’s said it sounds like a great place to go.
Erin
August 21, 2011 at 6:02 pm
Best Disneyland Tip: Plan a whole day and plan to be tired at the end of it! I love to go for the entire day and just soak it all up, and pack as much in as possible! You will have tired kiddos the next day, but it’s well worth it! :-)
Kate
August 21, 2011 at 6:08 pm
I always make sure to pack snacks when I go on trips, especially at parks like Disney where they are SO overpriced. When I backpacked though Europe my fiance and I saved a TON of money eating granola bars etc. instead of paying for pricy mini meals.
Miranda
August 21, 2011 at 6:28 pm
Let’s See tips….. There have been so many amazing tips posted. I can’t imagine how you will ever pick 1 winner. I am a mother of 2 beautiful girls and it is their dream to go to Disney someday. I hope that you and your family enjoy your trip. We are a middle class family that struggle paycheck to paycheck and my husband works 60+ hours each week to provide for us so I can be at home to raise our children. Truth is that it wouldn’t only be a dream for my kids to go to Disney it is my dream as a parent to be able to take them on a nice vacation. I dream of my girls being able to fly for the very first time…. I dream of the four of us having a quality family time that could be one of those memories that you grow up and remember forever. How wonderful that trip was, how much you were able to bond as a family, relax as a family, no phone, e-mail, internet, just quality family time that when you return back to home and get caught back up in the hussle and craziness that life brings your direction you could just look back and remember the quiet, peacefulness of not having a care in the world besides sitting back and enjoying the presence of each other. To be able to see my girls faces lit up with pure joy and excitement verses feeling like the bad parent that always has to be creative in explaining to them why it is so much fun to stay at home verses go to the movies, waterpark, theme park, etc. because we just don’t have the extra. Of course, taking lots and lots of pictures and coming home and then being able to spend several family days letting each girl (including myself) create their own scrapbook of pictures and writing their favorite parts of the trip to cherish and keep forever!