Hi!

Welcome to Travali Lux, my name is Ali and i'm here to introduce you to my travels and try to give some pointers I've picked up along the way.

Starting will take some time, so please be patient (i'm not patient at all.. so I understand) I've started some destination pages I've traveled to and will continue to add. What I want to accomplish today is introduce myself and give you some advice on traveling before you take too many adventures.

1. TSA: You know when you are waiting in the long security line, lets just say OHARE, and you are having an anxiety attack because you went out the night before, hit snooze, and now waiting in a line that looks like ...hmm... an hour long... and you are cutting it pretty close. (Not that this has happened to me) But then out of the corner of your eye, you see people going through the non-existent line, straight through security.. Yeah, that is TSA. AND YOU NEED IT.

This will also save you hours of lines coming back into the states for customs. I'm telling you, you CANNOT be an avid traveler with TSA. Here is the site to get started: http://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/how-apply

2. Frequent Flyer Miles: I fly United, mainly because my hubby is a travel guru and gets the royal treatment through them. My status with United provides me with complimentary upgrades and I accrue 8x the miles more than not having it.

Scott, on the other hand, receives global upgrades, domestic upgrades, and accrues 11x the miles.. Believe me, it adds up. United has a hub in Chicago, which is why we fly United. You need to find an airline you like and provides a lot of flights through your airport of choice. If you prefer to buy the cheapest flight regardless of airline, then at least use a card that will help get flights with points.

3. Loyalty Programs with Hotels: If you travel for work, get into the habit of signing up for hotel loyalty programs, so you can accrue points and also achieve status. Whoever says status doesn't matter, hasn't had status. It pays to be loyal.

Being upgraded, Early Check-in, Late Check-out, Free Weekend Nights, the perks continue. We have Ambassador Status-Spire Elite through IHG (Intercontinental) and to the extent, we are offered free mini-bar during our stays.. yes, refilled every day. Take advantage. It's the smart way to travel, why not get the most out it. You will find, I'm all about accruing points... AMC movies, Lettuce Entertain You, Open Table etc. If there is a loyalty program, I'm enrolled.

4. Credit Cards with Travel Perks: If you are in the market for a card, find one with good travel perks. We are an American Express family and also use Chase Mileage Plus (United).

Along the way if you feel I'm missing something, please add or message me at travali-lux@travali-lux.com. I'm not a major company, its just me, Ali.

Will there be better restaurants & hotels than the ones I'm suggesting? Yes, I'm sure, but I'm here to provide you with my experiences and tips through word of mouth.

Some trips I take will be a bit more lavish, some not so much, but this is what I like. This is life. Not every trip is going to be your honeymoon, if it is for you--hats off to you, but I need to prioritize trips and spending, so travel doesn't negatively impact my savings account and future planning.

Follow me on Instagram: travali_lux & Facebook: Travali Lux

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