News and notes from around the interweb:
- Great guide for beginners in the hobby: My friend Mommy Points has launched an introductory series of e-books. I previewed Hawaii for Nearly Free in the draft stage and think it’s a really good place for beginners to start — it’s a clear explanation of many of the concepts of miles and points, and shows you how to think about putting together a trip to a real world destination, how to earn the miles and how to use them. If you’re new to miles and points, check them out.
- How average age of accounts is calculated and affects your credit score. I also offer a fairly in-depth discussion of how your credit score works when you apply for credit cards (and why applying for cards can sometimes even increase your score).
- One way to earn plenty of miles is buying merchandise through a shopping portal to earn miles, then selling off the merchandise to recoup your cash. Here’s a Beginner’s Guide: Reselling on Amazon. This requires being able to front cash for merchandise, and knowing what items you’ll be able to recoup your full purchase price on when you re-sell (including transaction costs). Not for the feint of heart.
- The first trip report I’ve seen of the new Air France first class. It’s an attractive stylish cabin, but to me the seats are way too open and exposed. I’d expect more privacy from a top – and newly re-designed – first.
- You can join the 40,000+ people who see these deals and analysis every day — sign up to receive posts by email (just one e-mail per day) or subscribe to the RSS feed. It’s free. You can also follow me on Twitter for the latest deals. Don’t miss out!
Dunno why people are saying the new AF product isn’t very private. Each suite has full-length solid curtains on the outside, as well as mechanized dividers that come up above head height. Looks pretty darn private to me.
I think Gary meant “Not for the faint of heart,” meaning it is not for the timid or risk-averse. “Feint” has a different meaning. (Sorry for the grammar lesson……)
I think the AF First cabin looks extremely elegant. Coupled with what is already one of the best catering in the skies, I’m sure it’s awesome. I don’t think it lacks privacy (what with the curtains and all), I just think the curtains seem strange, because they’re a completely new concept on aircraft (ironically, considering how low-tech they are). I imagine that they would grow on me, though. I would definitely give it a try. Plus, AF First ground service (especially at CDG) is top-notch.
@A.S. I think that Asiana’s catering is better, personally. I also prefer Singapore at least for the pre-order main meal options, though some of their other stuff is lacking. I’d rate ANA catering over Air France’s as well. Not to mention service in the air, which I guess is just very French which doesn’t appeal to me. (They don’t believe in “water”)
Left unmentioned is the very worst feature of the new AF FC. It can only be booked with miles by those in the very top Elite level of AFs own FF program. So most of us will never be able to fly in it. 🙁