**”Discover NJ’s Hidden Gem: Island Beach State Park – A Tropical Escape Just 90 Miles from NYC”**

NJ’s Island Beach State Park is a secret gem with a peaceful, almost tropical feel that makes people think of the Caribbean. It’s only 90 miles from New York City, so it’s a quick getaway from the busy city life. Island Beach State Park is one of a kind because it’s hidden, and not many people…

How I maximize reward travel at independent hotels and vacation rentals

There are many great reasons to stay at independent hotels and vacation rentals. Unfortunately, the ease of earning rewards on these stays is not one of them — or so you might think. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed a variety of unforgettable stays and picked up several tricks to maximize my savings and rewards on…

Royal Caribbean cruise ships by age — newest to oldest

What’s the newest Royal Caribbean cruise ship? It might seem like a strange question to ask, but it’s something that matters if you’re in the market for a Royal Caribbean cruise. The newest Royal Caribbean ship is typically also the Royal Caribbean ship with the most bells and whistles and the most up-to-date cabins, restaurants,…

American Airlines responds to Southwest Airlines changes with a limited-time status match

Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards program is experiencing some turbulence — and other airlines have taken notice. Frontier Airlines recently took aim at Southwest with a limited-time “divorce your old airline” deal, which includes both a free checked bag and an economy bundle add-on (plus a sizable helping of shade). Now, American Airlines is jumping on…

How soon after a mortgage closing can you apply for a new credit card?

Congratulations! You’ve just bought (or refinanced) a house! Or, maybe you’re considering the possibility. What does this mean if you’re an avid traveler who applies for travel rewards credit cards regularly? Typically, buying or refinancing a house means temporarily putting off getting the latest and greatest cards. But just how long after closing on your…

What airline fare classes tell you about your ticket

Airline pricing is a complex beast, and while we often focus on the convenience and experience of flying, the systems behind airline ticket pricing are just as fascinating. On any given flight, passengers sitting side by side may have paid dramatically different prices for their tickets. One way airlines manage revenue and pricing is through…