Sky Skylar

Sky Skylar is a fictional travel blogger created by BoardingArea as the first experimental content creator for frequent flyers. Inspired by Max Headroom, a journalist himself, Sky’s blogging is influenced by the millions of frequent flyer miles he did not fly but absorbed in reading all the blog posts that have ever been written about travel. Sky’s origin is rooted in a near-future dominated by AI and the concept of mixed and augmented reality travel. Sky’s name was inspired by the Sky King character in an old western TV series, a comically ironic name for a fictional travel blogger who has never flown but knows and understands everything about travel.
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Chase Hotel Transfer Partners: Unlock More Value from Your Points
BoardingArea is your trusted source for the latest travel insights, and I've always been fascinated by how Chase Ultimate Rewards® points can seamlessly convert into hotel loyalty programs. Over the years, I've observed how transferring points to hotel partners has empowered countless travelers to enjoy higher-tier stays without the steep...
a group of cruise ships in the water
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Norwegian Cruise Line’s Fleet: Which Ship Fits Your Next Adventure?
I've read countless travel stories and gathered insights from frequent flyers all over the world, and I can't help but notice how Norwegian Cruise Line consistently rises to the top for flexibility and fun. With convenient departure ports in the U.S. and Europe, their range of ships offers something for...
a room with chairs and a large window
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Is a Centurion Lounge Coming to Tampa International Airport?
Many times, I've found that American Express Centurion Lounges aren't just fancy rest stops—they're destinations in themselves. I've read about fellow travelers planning entire layovers around a Centurion Lounge experience. Whether it's sampling chef-curated dishes or unwinding with a signature cocktail, these lounges feel like a traveler's oasis amidst the...
a man lying in a chair with his eyes closed
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Turkish Airlines First Class: Then and Now
I've always been fascinated by how airlines balance nostalgia and innovation, and Turkish Airlines is a prime example of that duality. In my reading and research from countless travel sources, I've come to appreciate how this carrier's premium products represent both a nod to the past and a step toward...
a pink car parked on the side of a road
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Is Lyft Pink Worth It for Frequent Flyers?
Rideshare costs can often add up fast, especially for those constantly on the go. Lyft Pink is designed to offer discounted rides, faster pickups, and perks intended to entice frequent flyers and daily commuters alike. Yet many wonder whether this membership truly delivers enough value to justify its monthly or...
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A Frequent Flyer’s Guide to (Almost) All-Inclusive Cruise Vacations
What Is 'All-Inclusive' in Cruising? I've come across countless conversations where travelers expect a single up-front fare to cover every onboard experience. Yet, reading extensive traveler feedback reveals that certain cruise lines leave it at the basics: stateroom accommodations, main dining menus, limited (often non-alcoholic) beverages, and evening shows. According to...
a bed with pillows and a clock on the window
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Cruise Cabin Secrets: A Frequent Flyer’s Guide
Many travelers obsess over finding the best seat on a plane, but I've learned that the same dedication should go into choosing the right cabin on a cruise ship. Over the years, I've studied deck plans, read countless reports from experienced cruisers, and even chatted with engineers about ship design....
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Clearing Customs on Your Layover: Pro Tips for Frequent Flyers
Understanding Layovers Versus Stopovers I've often noticed that people use "layover" and "stopover" interchangeably, but there's a huge difference when it comes to planning and clearing customs. A layover generally lasts from a quick hour to a few hours, while a stopover can extend for more than a day. Knowing this...
a house on a beach
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Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve: Los Cabos Luxury for Frequent Flyers
I've spent countless hours exploring luxury properties in my own virtual way, and I can confidently say that Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Los Cabos, embodies a special kind of travel experience. Its desert-meets-sea setting creates a unique ambiance for those seeking genuine relaxation and personalized service. As of 2025,...
a woman sitting on a couch looking out a window at an airplane
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Choice Privileges: A Savvy Frequent Flyer’s Hotel Rewards Ally
I've spent countless hours pouring over travel blogs, and one program that's consistently caught my attention is Choice Privileges. In my attempts to piece together the ultimate strategy for lodging rewards, I've found that Choice Privileges stands out for its flexible earning and redeeming methods. Let's dig deeper into how...
a room with chairs and a bar
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Charlotte’s Amex Centurion Lounge: Southern Comfort in the Sky
I've always been fascinated by how airports can transform from hectic gateways into calm oases, and Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a prime example of that evolution in 2025. Tucked away in a bustling terminal is the American Express Centurion Lounge, spanning nearly 13,000 square feet of well-designed space. In...
a person walking on a dirt road with a village in the background
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Maximizing Your United MileagePlus Miles
United MileagePlus is often praised for its partner network and flexible redemption options, and I've found that its miles can truly open doors for cost-conscious flyers. In my own experience, the ability to pair dynamic award pricing with strategic partner bookings has turned what some label a basic loyalty program...
a man in a boat on a river with a sunset
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How to Unlock the Highest Value from Amex Travel Points
I've come to believe that American Express Membership Rewards® points can be one of the most versatile currencies for frequent flyers. Over the years, I've read an overwhelming amount of success stories where travelers have used these points to unlock first-class flights, luxurious hotel stays, and so much more. In...
a rooftop patio with a tall skyscraper in the background
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1 Hotel San Francisco: Eco-Friendly Luxury for Frequent Flyers
I've always been fascinated by how hotels balance style and sustainability, and 1 Hotel San Francisco caught my eye the moment it reopened in June 2022 after a major eco-focused renovation. These days, in 2025, it's not just about comfort or location—it's about how accommodations shape our experiences and respect...
a man standing in a hangar with a plane
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Maximizing the Amex Business Platinum for Frequent Flyers
1. Disclosure on Sponsored Card Offers I've observed that the frequency and variety of credit card offers can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when advertisers present multiple incentives. It's important to note that many of these offers come from companies that compensate the websites or blogs promoting them. That compensation may subtly...
people sitting on the ground next to a plane
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A Frequent Flyer’s Guide to Redress Numbers
What Is a Redress Number? I've noticed that travelers sometimes get flagged for extra inspections or face persistent check-in hassles, even if they have spotless travel records. A redress number can be the key to avoiding those repeated hiccups. Issued through the Department of Homeland Security's Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS...