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Every spring, the Netherlands explodes into a brilliant patchwork of color. Millions of tulips bloom across fields, gardens, and canals, turning the entire country into a storybook landscape. Tulips have always been my favorite flower, and someday — when my kids are a little older — I plan to experience the Netherlands in full bloom myself. Until then, I love helping clients plan this dream trip and hearing their stories when they return. Here are the best ways to experience tulip season (plus how to get to Amsterdam for nearly free using points). 🌷 1. A Tulip Time River Cruise — The Most Relaxing Way to Experience It All River cruises are one of the most popular ways to experience tulip season for good reason. They glide through smaller waterways, giving you access to charming Dutch towns, windmill villages, and fields in full bloom — all without packing and unpacking. I can help you with river cruise lines like AmaWaterways , Avalon Waterways, and Viking River Cruises . Most spring itineraries include stops like: Keukenhof Gardens  — over seven million blooming flowers Lisse & Haarlem  — iconic tulip-growing regions Kinderdijk  — UNESCO windmills Gouda or Delft  — cheese, ceramics, and classic Dutch charm It’s slow, scenic, and effortless — almost like watching a painting move around you. 🌷 2. A Land Tour Through the Netherlands (Perfect for Flexibility) If you prefer to explore at your own pace, a land-based tour is ideal. Start with a few days in Amsterdam, then branch out into the countryside. I can help you plan independent travel or part of a small or large tour group. Top tulip-season highlights include: Keukenhof Gardens , open only 8 weeks a year The Flower Strip  (“Bollenstreek”), a rainbow of fields stretching for miles Canal towns and windmill villages , including Volendam and Zaanse Schans Historic cities  like Utrecht, Haarlem, or Rotterdam Land tours are perfect if you want to add museums, food tours, or day trips beyond the typical tulip route. 🌷 3. Ocean Cruises That Start or End in Amsterdam Some ocean itineraries — like Holland America, Windstar, and Viking ocean cruises — begin or end in Amsterdam. It’s a great way to combine a sailing with a tulip-season stay on land. You can plan: A pre- or post-cruise stay in Amsterdam A day trip to Keukenhof A countryside tulip tour before or after your sailing This option gives you the convenience of cruising with the bonus of a spring visit to the Netherlands. 🌷 And the Best Part… You Can Often Fly to Amsterdam for Nearly Free Thanks to flexible points programs, getting to Amsterdam doesn’t have to break the bank. I can help you fly on credit card points or miles, just like I’ve done for other clients. Flying Blue (KLM/Air France) is one of the best programs for award flights to Amsterdam — and points transfer from: American Express Membership Rewards Chase Ultimate Rewards Citi ThankYou Points Capital One Miles Bilt Rewards 🌷 Ready to See the Tulips? Spring in the Netherlands is unlike anything else — vibrant, peaceful, and visually stunning. Whether you want a river cruise, guided tour, or a custom itinerary, I can help you plan a trip that fits your pace… and help you fly there with points. Let’s make your tulip-season adventure effortless, colorful, and unforgettable. 🌷✈️

When it comes to earning points for travel, the right business credit card can be a total game-changer. The best part? You don’t need to own a huge company to qualify—many small businesses, freelancers, and even side hustlers are eligible. And unlike personal cards, most business cards don’t count against your personal credit “5/24” limit, making them an incredibly smart move if you’re serious about maximizing points. In this post, I’ll share the three business credit cards I use most often for earning transferable points  to airlines and hotels—my everyday strategy for building flexible rewards. Then, I’ll also highlight a few co-branded airline and hotel business cards  that can add extra perks and elite benefits if your business spending justifies more than two cards. 1. Capital One Spark 2X Miles My go-to for everyday business spending. The Capital One Spark 2X keeps things simple: 2X miles on every purchase , no complicated categories to keep track of. Those miles transfer to more than 15 airline and hotel partners, giving me flexibility whether I want to book a quick domestic flight or a dream vacation abroad. I especially love this card for consistent, predictable rewards on expenses that don’t fall into special bonus categories. It’s one of the easiest ways to build a huge balance of transferable points just by running your business as usual. 👉 Apply for Capital One Spark 2X Miles here with my referral link 2. Chase Ink Business Cash® My little hidden gem (and a points powerhouse). The Chase Ink Cash doesn’t just earn cash back—it earns Ultimate Rewards points , which can be transferred to a Chase Sapphire Preferred®, Sapphire Reserve®, or Ink Preferred® account for even more value. Here’s why I love it: 5X points  on office supply stores (up to $25,000 per year). Those office supply stores sell a wide variety of gift cards  (hello, restaurants, travel, and online retailers!). Pair that with your 5X bonus, and it’s easy to get 10 cents per dollar or more in real-world value  when transferring to travel partners. I wrote a full blog post on this “gift card hack” here: Maximizing Chase Ink Cash with Gift Cards . 👉 Apply for Chase Ink Cash here with my referral link 3. Chase Ink Business Preferred® The travel transfer MVP. If the Ink Cash is where I stockpile my points, the Ink Preferred is where I turn them into dream trips. With this card, I can transfer Ultimate Rewards points to top partners  like United, Hyatt, Southwest, British Airways, and more. It also has strong bonus categories: 3X points  on travel 3X points  on shipping 3X points  on internet, cable, and phone services 3X points  on advertising purchases (social media and search engines) This is the card that makes my Chase strategy work, turning all those 5X gift card purchases into airline miles and luxury hotel stays. 👉 Apply for Chase Ink Preferred here with my referral link Why I Recommend Having More Than One Each of these cards has its strengths, but together, they form a powerful toolkit: Spark 2X  for everyday spending at 2X flat. Ink Cash  for office supplies and gift cards (huge return on spend). Ink Preferred  for categories and, most importantly, transferring points to airlines and hotels. Used strategically, they can generate hundreds of thousands of points a year—points that stretch further because they’re transferable. If Your Business Is Big Enough for More Than Two Cards… Once you’ve mastered the basics with everyday earners and transferable-points cards, you might want to layer in a co-branded airline or hotel card. These cards aren’t always the best for day-to-day spending, but the perks they come with can be incredibly valuable—especially if you’re loyal to a specific brand. Here are a few of my personal favorites: American Express Marriott Bonvoy Business® Card  – A great way to build up Marriott points, with a free night award every year  that can easily offset the annual fee. Chase United MileagePlus® Business Card  – Earn directly into your United account and enjoy perks like free checked bags and priority boarding , which can make travel so much smoother. Chase World of Hyatt Business Card  – Hyatt points are among the most valuable in the industry, and this card not only helps you earn them faster but also provides elite night credits  to move you toward higher status. If your business spending is large enough to justify more than two business cards, these can be a smart way to stack perks and loyalty benefits  on top of your transferable points strategy. Unlock Your Dream Travel with the Right Card Strategy Not all points are created equal—and the right business credit card strategy can turn everyday spending into flights, hotels, and experiences you’ve been dreaming about . Let’s work together to figure out which cards fit your business, maximize your points, and create a custom travel roadmap  so you can reach your goals faster. Book a credit card consultation today and start planning your next unforgettable trip!

Vancouver, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant city life, is a must-visit destination for travelers. Whether you're heading to or departing from this beautiful city, why not elevate your journey by using airline points, gaining lounge access, and taking advantage of Priority Pass perks? Here’s a comprehensive guide to making the most out of your flight to or from Vancouver, ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience. 1. Choosing the Right Airline and Using Points Flying to or from Vancouver is convenient with major U.S. airlines like Air Canada, American Airlines, United, Delta, and Alaska Airlines offering regular flights. Here’s how you can use points to enhance your travel: - Air Canada: Known for its excellent service, Air Canada offers flights to and from Vancouver from various U.S. cities such as Austin, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. As an Aeroplan member, you can accumulate points on these flights, and use them to book another flight or upgrade to premium economy or business class, which are ideal for longer routes. Air Canada points can also be earned by transferring 1:1 from American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, Capital One Miles, or Chase Ultimate Rewards. Air Canada offers access to their exclusive Maple Leaf Lounges at select airports, including Vancouver. These lounges provide a serene environment with gourmet food, premium beverages, comfortable seating, business facilities, and shower rooms perfect for relaxing before or after your flight. Air Canada business class - American Airlines: If you’re flying with American Airlines, you’ll likely connect through hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth or Chicago O'Hare. AAdvantage members can look out for mileage promotions or utilize points for upgrades. Plus, consider accessing the Flagship Lounge at select hubs, offering a superior pre-flight experience with gourmet food and beverages. - United Airlines: United connects many U.S. cities to Vancouver, providing ample opportunities to earn or redeem miles through their MileagePlus program. United points can be earned with their co-branded credit card . United Airlines points can also be earned by transferring 1:1 from Bilt Rewards or Chase Ultimate Rewards . Flying through one of United’s hubs? Don’t miss the United Club lounges for a quiet spot to relax, complete with snacks, beverages, and comfortable seating. - Delta Air Lines: Ideal for those flying or connecting through Atlanta, Los Angeles, or Seattle, Delta offers smooth connections to and from Vancouver. SkyMiles members can book flights or upgrades using miles, and SkyMiles can also be earned by transferring 1:1 from American Express Membership Rewards. Accessing Delta Sky Clubs ensures a luxurious travel experience, with complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, a variety of hot and cold dishes, showers, and stunning runway views, making your wait time more enjoyable. Maple Leaf Lounge - Alaska Airlines: Another excellent option for flights to and from Vancouver, Alaska Airlines offers convenient routes from cities like Seattle, Portland, and Los Angeles. For members of the Alaska Mileage Plan, booking flights or upgrades using points is easy and rewarding. Alaska Airlines miles can also be earned by transferring 1:1 from Bilt Rewards. Although Vancouver International Airport (YVR) does not have an Alaska Lounge, Alaska Airlines passengers can still enjoy access to the airline’s lounges at several U.S. departure cities, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). 2. Enhancing Your Experience at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Whether you’re arriving in or departing from Vancouver, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is designed to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. - Multilingual Signage: YVR is known for its traveler-friendly environment, which includes clear signage in three languages: English, French, and Chinese. This multilingual approach reflects Vancouver’s cultural diversity and helps make navigation easier for international travelers. - United States Border Pre-Clearance: For those returning to the U.S., YVR offers the convenience of United States Border Pre-Clearance. This allows you to complete U.S. customs and immigration procedures before boarding your flight, meaning you can skip the customs process upon arrival in the U.S. and proceed directly to your connecting flight or final destination. This service is a huge time-saver and adds to the overall smooth travel experience. One of the Plaza Premium lounges - Plaza Premium Lounges: Priority Pass members can access multiple Plaza Premium Lounges at YVR, located in both the domestic and international terminals. These lounges offer complimentary food and drinks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a quiet place to recharge, whether you’re in transit or waiting to explore the city. - WestJet Elevation Lounge: While WestJet isn’t a U.S. carrier, their Elevation Lounge at YVR is worth noting for those continuing their journey within Canada. With Priority Pass access, you can enjoy its modern design, ample seating, workstations, and a range of refreshments. 3. Making the Most of Priority Pass Perks For frequent travelers, a Priority Pass membership is invaluable. It grants access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide, including several at YVR. Here’s how to maximize your membership: - Pre-Flight Comfort: Arrive early at the airport to take full advantage of lounge access. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite, catching up on work, or simply relaxing, the lounges at YVR offer a comfortable retreat away from the bustling terminal. - Priority Pass Dining Options: Vancouver has Priority Pass Airport Take Out. Order and pay for food on the go, and collect with priority service. Check your app to see what’s available. - Access on Arrival: If you’ve had a long journey, consider using your Priority Pass access upon arrival. Freshen up, have a snack, and recharge before heading out to explore Vancouver. 4. A Luxurious Overnight Stay: Fairmont Vancouver Airport View from Fairmont Vancouver Airport of departures For travelers with early morning flights, consider staying at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport hotel , located right within the airport. This luxury hotel offers soundproofed rooms with stunning views of the runways or mountains, ensuring a restful night’s sleep before your flight. For an added touch of convenience and luxury, book a Fairmont Gold room, which includes access to a private lounge and the Fairmont Gold Fast Track service, allowing you to breeze through airport security lines with ease. If you only need a place to rest or freshen up for a few hours, you can book a day-use room through me, allowing you to recharge without needing an overnight stay. Additionally, for those looking to relax and rejuvenate, the Fairmont offers a 3-hour spa and fitness facilities pass for just $39 . This pass includes access to the hotel’s pool, sauna, steam room, and fitness center—a perfect way to unwind before a long journey. 5. Final Thoughts Vancouver’s allure is undeniable, and getting there—or departing—should be just as enjoyable as the destination itself. By leveraging airline points for upgrades, accessing lounges through Priority Pass, and selecting the right airline, you can transform your trip into a luxurious and stress-free journey. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a business trip, these tips will help you fly in style and comfort. So go ahead—book your flight, pack your bags, and prepare to discover all that Vancouver has to offer, from its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural scene. Your journey begins the moment you step onto the plane.

Make your milestone dream trip a breeze with expert planning, stress-free booking, and maximizing your credit card points. Adventure Awaits! Plan Now! Make your milestone dream trip a breeze with expert planning, stress-free booking, and maximizing your credit card points! Discover Your Next Adventure With travel experience in 38 countries and a global network through Travel Leaders, our expert travel advisor is ready to design your dream trip. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the soft black-sand beaches of the Azores, let us craft a journey that’s uniquely yours. Explore, dream, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Forward Points + Travel. SCHEDULE A CALL! Europe Asia North America Cruises Karina P., TX "Wanting to go to Europe, Renee helped me decide credit cards to sign up for to help with airfare costs. After I earned the sign-up bonuses, we worked together step by step to book a complicated itinerary involving positioning flights to get the best point value, and visiting England, Scotland and Ireland. Renee identified places of interest and activities to add to the itinerary that my family still talks about today. Planning a vacation can be overwhelming, but Renee made the process so easy. She ensured we were able to maximize our time and resources for an amazing trip that fit our budget and exceeded our expectations." Julie B., TN "Renee expertly planned my 35th birthday Caribbean cruise, organizing every detail for my family, including hotels before and after the cruise. She also helped me maximize my Delta points, making it possible to fly to Texas during the pricey holiday season for our departure from Galveston. Her assistance turned what could have been a costly trip into a seamless and affordable celebration." Millie F., TX "This was an amazing cruise experience! Being my first cruise, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but now I can confidently say it won’t be my last. Everything was smooth and enjoyable from start to finish. A big thank you to Renee for her excellent communication and for going above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic time. Looking forward to cruising again soon!" Sheri W., TX "I've always been in awe of Renee's personal trips and vacations, so I knew she would not disappoint. Renee suggested maximizing our credit card points, saving us thousands on our first trip to the Netherlands and Greece! Renee answered my million questions, sent checklists and itineraries, and adjusted arrangements when our first flight had a change - all with patience. positivity, and a smile. I 100% recommend Forward Points + Travel and look "forward" to planning with Renee again!"

Balkan River Cruise Interest Request Info About the 2026 Balkan River Cruise An exclusive 12-day hosted journey with Forward Points + Travel First name* Last name* Email* Phone Best for quick follow-ups or text updates Where are you based?* How many people might travel with you? * What’s most exciting to you about this trip? * Do you typically travel in economy, premium economy, or business class? Do you have any points or miles you’d like help using for flights or hotels? Anything else you'd like to share? Submit

Learn about Foward Points + Travel, and Owner and Travel Advisor, Renee Ward. About Us At Forward Points + Travel, we understand that your travel dreams deserve to become a reality, just like they did for our founder and travel advisor, Renee Ward. Instilled with a love for exploration by her parents, Renee now brings that same passion to helping you discover the world. As a proud member of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and an affiliate of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, Renee upholds the highest industry standards while providing exclusive travel perks to her clients. Renee has explored 38 countries, flown with 25 different airlines, and sailed on nine unforgettable cruises, gaining invaluable insights and experiences along the way. For the past decade, her family has enjoyed frequent, luxurious travels, all thanks to strategically leveraging airline and hotel points through smart credit card sign-on bonuses. This approach allows travelers to maximize their adventures while minimizing costs—and Renee is here to help you do the same. Renee’s expertise includes booking across a wide range of airlines and hotel chains, including Aer Lingus, AeroMexico, Air Canada, Air France, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Airlines, Hilton properties, Hyatt properties, Iberia Airlines, IHG properties, Japan Airlines, JetBlue, KLM, Lufthansa Airlines, Marriott Properties, Qatar Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines. She is also an Alaska Certified Expert with Princess Cruises and a Hyatt Inclusive Collection Confidant to plan all-inclusive vacations expertly. As a proud member of the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), Renee upholds the highest industry standards, ensuring her clients receive exceptional service and expert guidance. As an independent contractor with Travel Leaders Network , Renee provides personalized trips complete with extra perks. Travel Leaders advisors can offer exclusive amenities and unique experiences that may not be available when booking on your own. Perks vary, but can include: Hotels: Room upgrades, daily breakfast, welcome amenities, early check-in or late check-out, and free Wi-Fi. Cruises: Shipboard credits, complimentary shore excursions, welcome aboard receptions, dedicated on-board hosts, and private car and driver services. Group Space: Special amenities like shipboard credit and prepaid gratuities. Museums and Venues: Special access. Accommodations : Unique accommodations with special amenities. Moreover, Renee specializes in navigating the intricate world of credit card rewards, transferring points from Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One, American Express, and Citi Premier credit cards to unlock unparalleled travel opportunities. Whether you’re a young family yearning for adventure, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, a group planning a collective expedition, or a traveler with unique accessibility needs, Renee tailors experiences to meet your specific desires . At Forward Points + Travel, our commitment is to optimize your resources and time to curate unforgettable travel experiences. Let’s embark on your next adventure together, where every journey is as unique as the travelers themselves. Renee Ward Owner, Forward Points + Travel Certified Travel Professional SCHEDULE A CALL!