• Get 50% off Cardpointers+ - Track cards, automatically load Chase & Amex Offers + a lot more. Lock-in lifetime membership at half off. (affiliate) https://milestomemories.com/go/cardpointers/ Mark is back from Colombia, and this one's a full Cartagena trip report. He breaks down two nights at the …• Get 50% off Cardpointers+ - Track cards, automatically load Chase & Amex Offers + a lot more. Lock-in lifetime membership at half off. (affiliate) https://milestomemories.com/go/cardpointers/ Mark is back from Colombia, and this one's a full Cartagena trip report. He breaks down two nights at the Hyatt Regency Cartagena (a Category 3 gem on points) and three nights at the Dreams Karibana all-inclusive — including the food wins, the brutal heat, the black-sand "beachfront," island day clubs, a killer rooftop bar with a live saxophonist, and the $650 check-in mistake that has one Globalist swearing off Hyatt for good. Plus Shawn answers the Grand Hyatt Athens critics, American Airlines finally drops aircraft trading cards, and Choice Privileges quietly guts its Japan award chart (Tokyo and Osaka properties jumping from 8K to 20K+ points). Is Cartagena worth it? Watch and let us know in the comments.
Episode Guide:
• 0:00 - Welcome to MTM Travel
• 0:25 - Grand Hyatt Athens: The Fallout
• 3:47 - American Airlines Trading Cards
• 5:30 - Choice Privileges Guts Japan
• 8:14 - CardPointers: 50% Off (Sponsor)
• 9:26 - Hyatt Regency Cartagena: Check-In & Rooms
• 11:06 - The Beach Reality & Island Day Trips
• 12:42 - Exploring the Walled City 13:44 - Umbrella Alleys & a Rooftop Bar with Live Sax
• 15:41 - Pools, Cheap Eats & Is Cartagena Worth It?
• 17:16 - Dreams Karibana All-Inclusive: The Food
• 18:31 - Friendly Staff & Entertainment
• 20:05 - A $650 Check-In Surprise
• 22:28 - Hyatt's Antiquated System & Did They Make It Right?
• 26:21 - Pro Tip: The Cancellation-Window Trick
• 27:57 - The VIP Lounge: Premium Booze & AC Escape
• 29:49 - Sharing Lounge Access + Italian Dress Code Drama
• 33:01 - Resort Condition: A Faded Old Conrad
• 35:31 - Final Verdict & Wrap-Up ✈️ Track your travel credit cards for free
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• Cardpointers Sale - https://milestomemories.com/go/cardpointers/
• AA trading cards - https://onemileatatime.com/news/american-airlines-trading-cards/
• Choice Japan - http://loyaltylobby.com/2026/06/06/choice-privileges-increases-point-requirements-at-select-japan-hotels-by-up-to-200/
Today, we're headed to the vibrant and historic city of Cartagena, Colombia. Imagine strolling through cobblestone streets lined with pastel buildings, enjoying the rhythm of cumbia music in the distance, or setting sail on turquoise waters to visit nearby islands.
Joining me today are three incred…Today, we're headed to the vibrant and historic city of Cartagena, Colombia. Imagine strolling through cobblestone streets lined with pastel buildings, enjoying the rhythm of cumbia music in the distance, or setting sail on turquoise waters to visit nearby islands.
Joining me today are three incredible guests who know this city inside and out: my partner in the region, Cristina Consuegra and two of her expert guides, Maria Angelina and Fernando. Together, we dive into everything from Cartagena's must try food, to the influence of pirates on the region, to its booming art and fashion scene. Maria Angelina brings her perspective as an art curator and cultural heritage expert, while Fernando shares his deep knowledge as a historian specializing in the Colombian Caribbean Coast.
Whether you're dreaming of a family getaway, a romantic escape, or an adventure filled with history and culture, this episode has something for you.
Looking to book a luxury hotel? Get special perks and support the podcast by booking here: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sarahgroen/travel/luxury-hotels
If you want our expert guidance and help planning a luxury trip with experiences you can't find online, tell us more here and we'll reach out: https://bellandblytravel.com/book-a-trip/
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Join us on a 7-day Colombian journey you won't want to miss! We'll kick off in Cartagena, indulging in the local food scene and vibrant nightlife, then sail to the stunning Rosario Islands for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Hop on a motorcycle to cruis…Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Join us on a 7-day Colombian journey you won't want to miss! We'll kick off in Cartagena, indulging in the local food scene and vibrant nightlife, then sail to the stunning Rosario Islands for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Hop on a motorcycle to cruise the Caribbean coast, exploring hidden waterfalls and soaking in the breathtaking scenery. This is your chance for an unforgettable experience in Colombia—don’t miss out! More details on our website at www.gtspodcast.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/globetrotters-podcast--5023679/support.more
