Normally you hear about the wonderful Smoky Mountains, Views, and Cabins.  However, there is so much more to traveling to Pigeon Forge.  There are obvious places that you find on a quick google search, but what about the rare gems.  

1. Our favorite place to stop and shop is Man Cave Metals.  Yes, you will find awesome items for a Man Cave, but there is something for everyone.   Items range from handcrafted seats, metal works for the wall, games, jewelry and more.  Family owned and friendly you will leave wanting to come back to add more pieces to your home. 
2. Savannah Bee Company is located on the Island.  Enjoy a quick tasting of whipped lemon honey, chocolate, cinnamon, and more.  There are tons of honey products to choose from including soaps and lip balms.  Not only is it affordable but it is a really sweet place to shop. 
3. Next Hollywood Wax Museum has to be on your list. Of course, it is a wax museum.  Purchase the All- Access Pass to receive all four (4) attractions. It is a great deal you can buy your tickets online.  The pass was worth the extra $10. Don’t forget your picture with King Kong, All the pop stars, and get a few exclusive interviews.  Then just up the drive way go to the House of Chaos and enjoy your other attractions. 
4. The Titanic Experience gives another outlook on what happened during the events. Since, photos are prohibited inside, it really is a place you just have to go to understand.  The experience is unforgettable and sheds light on the Titanic.  A lot of thought and time went into planning every space. Just Do!
5. Wait! You have to eat or well dessert right! Go down by Apple Valley, better known as Apple Barn.  The Apple Valley Creamy has amazing ice cream and you can mix it.  Make Irish coffee or Apple Pie with real pieces of pie. You have to stop in, seat there and enjoy the atmosphere.  Don’t forget to grab a loaf of bread for the road trust you will be glad you did. 
6. Love seafood? Ok head down to Captain Jim's Seafood Buffet! You heard right, all you can eat and they mean it.  Crab legs, shrimp, fish, clams, mussels, tons of sides, salad, and more.  It is a lovely place to grab all your seafood and they have a lounge serving cocktails.
7. Can you handle more dessert?  Then head over to The Funnel Cake Factory, you could get a regular funnel cake, but where is the fun in that.  Get apple pie, strawberry cheesecake, red velvet, or make a brownie, yes right on your funnel cake.  You can add ice cream, chocolate, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and more to the top to make it your own.  How could you pass this up!!
8. We of course had to sleep right! Everyone does cabins, but what about a resort.  The Resort at Governors Crossing has it down.  From indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, sauna, water slides, multiple game room, mini golf, ice skating during winter season, daily kid’s activities, and every suite has a kitchen. It is the perfect place to go for a family vacation.  With the pandemic they switch to keyless entry and everyone’s key is a wrist band this was a brilliant idea. 
9. As mentioned before we stopped in The Island, why not? The Island has everything in one spot shopping, eating, and playing.  You can spend an entire day there exploring, jumping off and on rides, tasting moonshine, and more.  Love socks, jerky, wine, and puzzles you can get it all there.  Parking is free so why not stay for a while!
10. Did you Try My Nuts? I said it and they will too! Roasted, salted, honey, chocolate covered, and more.  If you love peanut brittle and all things nutty stop in. Don’t forget the crack stix, they are a twist of greatness.  

These are just ten places that we go when in Pigeon Forge.  There are plenty of places to go ahead and stop in.  Many places accept a first responders and military discount.  It is time to start planning your Pigeon Forge escape. 

Many times we as travelers look for deals, discounts, and savings everywhere.  Searching this website and then clicking that popup! How many times has that happened? In one of my previous blogs,

​“What’s in your Wallet” https://bit.ly/3trSxwK  I discussed checking your wallet for discounts that could be wasting away.  However, let’s focus on group travel. 

Group travel around the world has increased significantly over the years.  From Girls Trip, the Ultimate Guys Getaway, Family Reunions, and of course Airbnb rentals tourism is on a steady rise even with the current pandemic. 
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Where do groups travel and why? They travel everywhere and by any means of transportation.  What makes groups so must easier, cost effective, and fun?

1. Groups are normally managed by a group leader.  A group leader can be a travel concierge or work with one.  The group leader works directly with the supplier negotiating the group rates, room category, transportation, and any extra amenities that can be given. 
2. Depending on how far in advance a group is booked, there is plenty of time for a payment plan option.  Also, group pricing is different than the normal room rate listed on any given website. 
3. Groups can optimize room upgrades, transportation, and other features based on how many rooms/persons are booked into the group. 
4. Groups are giving priority check in and check out, seating in the dining room, priority booking on excursions, and more. With check-in a personal representative be there to assist and greet the group.  A group representative is normally assigned to the group before arrival and coordinates with the group leader.   
5. Coupons and/or discounts are given to groups to enjoy more entertainment, shopping, or spa.  

 
Booking a group of 10 or 20 people can be beneficial for all included.   Keep in mind that booking a group whether at a resort, on a cruise, or anywhere amenities change and negotiates are a must.
 Let the professional help, they can tell you if the destination will offer more for less. Also, allowing you to make sure you are informed of all the details with surprises along the way.

​Wear a mask, wash your hands, cough in your sleeve, stay 6ft apart, and the list keeps going.  By now we should have it down, but we are spiking and it’s the holidays right?

We want to travel to grandmas, aunts, cousins, blue waves, and sandy beaches.  However, should we? 
Some are taking the risk and have been blessed/lucky.  Others have been drastically affected by the pandemic.  So, how to we combat the vacation blues, the kids are out and you have time off? 

Well here are 5 things that can help.

1. One-tank trips that are available from your home.  You do not have to stay over-night. Leave early and come back that night.   Go no more than 2 ½ hours or 3 hours.  For instance (Cleveland, OH  to Detroit, Michigan) 
2.  Explore your city.  Download Open Table and try restaurants you have not tried.  Yes, they have a delivery option.  
3. Call friends or family via zoom and have a game night.  Play charades, trivia, or other games that don’t require a board or to be in person.  
4. Create a drive around scavenger hunt for you and your family.  Use landmarks that require pictures to be taken in front of it.  Have teams and enjoy.  
5. If you are tired of binge watching then take some virtual tours.  Click the link and enjoy. https://www.venturesawaytravel.com/go-virtual.html 

Must get away read the following blog! https://www.venturesawaytravel.com/blog/trippin-it-for-the-holidays

​Remember to take all precautions visiting and gathering.  Enjoy the holiday season.  Happy holidays! 

 Everyone loves a long or even weekend getaway.  However, not all get excited about planning or finding things to do.

Whether with toddlers, teens, or couples we all look for something that is intriguing, creative, different, and the perfect photo-op. 

Here are top 10 places you must visit while in Cincy.  

1. American Sign Museum Cincinnati

The museum is the largest public sign museum in America. From art deco to neon signs you can take a stroll down memory lane. On certain days you can catch the workers creating these wonderful masterpieces.   

   2. EnterTRAINment Junction (West Chester Township, OH)
Are you a train lover? Do you have kids who love trains? Enjoy the world’s largest train display, a Coney Island Display, or a fun house the enjoyment keeps coming. 

   3. Duke Energy Children's Museum Cincinnati
With plenty of programs to keep the children busy.  Venture Away through The Woods or enjoy a machine in the Energy Zone.  Let the kids learn and explore. 

   4. Krohn Conservatory
Boasting multiple houses of gorgeous art deco, plants, flowers, and more.   There is also a seasonal floral show room.

   5. Jungle Jim’s International Market (Fairfield)
Get lost in over 200,000 of shopping space.  Spend hours going through this international market.  Want a taste of Italy? How about Jamaican Cuisine? Care for a seafood feast anyone? This market will not have you running across the store.  

   6. Newport on the Levee 
Just across the border in Newport, Kentucky. Stop at the aquarium, go bowling at Rotolo, or play at Game Works.  Why not eat, drink, or grab a dessert at one of the 12 options right on site.  Don’t worry a hotel is located on the property. 

   7. National Underground Railroad Freedom
Learn a piece of history that has traveled from other exhibits and are now permanent.

   8. Kings Island
Catch a thrill, great shows, your funnel cake, or turkey leg right here.  Don’t forget to look for your Peanut Friends. 

  9. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union
This one place is home to 6 attractions.  They do provide package purchases for certain attractions.  

• Cincinnati History Museum
• Duke Energy Children’s Museum
• Museum of Natural History & Science
• Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX® Theater
• Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center
• Cincinnati History Library and Archives

​  10. Ark Encounter
It is built with the same dimensions as in the Bible.  Learn about Noah’s Ark in great fashion.  Until the end of 2020 children under 10 are free. 
 
There is plenty of things to do while visiting Cincinnati.  No matter what you do Embrace the Experience.  

Have you been wanting to go to an All-Inclusive Resort, but have been stuck?  They all appear so appealing, I know. Look no further, I will help you sort through all the information.  Let’s get started! 

1. Location
Ask yourself, do you want to be in Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, or somewhere else?  Location is prime when choosing All-Inclusive resorts.  Now to begin the process of elimination.  Would you rather be on an island surrounded by water or would you rather visit a resort in a country connected to the United States?  Once location is determined you can continue in your search. Also, in determining location you can base it off distance, which brings us to number 2. 

​2. Distance 
If you have taken a flight anywhere you have probably realized the cost can be heavily determined by distance. If you live in Miami, booking a flight to Jamaica or Dominican Republic will be cheaper, than someone who lives in New York or perhaps Oregon.  Therefore, take distance into consideration before booking that flight.  Flights can range from $150- $1200 per person or more round trip if not careful.


3. Family or Couples 
Looking for family friendly resorts Nickelodeon, Riu, or Club Med may be a very intriguing place.  These properties cater to families boasting waterparks, kid clubs and activities.  Also, rooms specifically for children.  Perhaps adult only resorts are up your alley one may book Sandals or Couples Resorts.  Romance and relaxation is key at these properties bringing luxury and pampering for couples.  During your planning process know who is traveling in advance in order to begin the booking process.

4. Vacation Package 
How can you get the best rates? Book your flight and resort together as a package vacation.  Travel Concierge services can find vacation packages that offer upgrades, resort credits, VIP services, transportation, and more.  Coupons might also be available for usage.  Never be afraid to ask or click https://www.venturesawaytravel.com/plan.html.  Also, be aware that payment plan options are great ways to save. 

5. Amenities
Do you enjoy a good spa, gym, kayaking, or paddle boarding?  What do you want to enjoy?  Resorts can offer a variety of amenities based on clientele.  Are you into walking directly onto the beach or wouldn't mind a 5-10 minute drive or walk?  When choosing amenities make sure that there is not a limit to how often you can enjoy it.  Also, make sure there is not an extra fee to enjoy non-motorized water sports which are included in the majority of All-Inclusive stays at neighboring resorts.

6. Dining  
Do you have a favorite cuisine you like or love? Do you have an evolved pallet or would like to evolve? Dining is a big part of your All-inclusive experience.  Researching restaurant options will save you plenty of disappointment upon arrival.  Most resorts offer 5-6 restaurants including a buffet.  Also, resorts have specialty restaurants from seafood, Italian, French, Moroccan, and more.  If you are #foodie this will be a main factor in choosing an All-Inclusive as well as beverages and pairing. 
7. Beverages 
Everyone knows that going to bars can add up. Hey, bartender may I have a Pina colada ($9) and a ginger ale($2). If you do this 4 times a day for five (5) days your total is $220.  Well if you love lounges and different bars and drafts, resorts are the place for you.  Some resorts have swim-up bars, specialty lounges, and so forth.  Also, some resorts include the mini bar in your room and will restock it during the duration of your stay.  

8. Atmosphere 
Are you getting away for relaxation or to party? You must consider this when choosing an All-Inclusive resort.  For instance, Breathless and Temptations provides a vibrant atmosphere with theme parties and fun.  Also, boasting a younger crowd majority of the time and those looking for extreme fun.  However, Couples Tower Isle and Rendezvous allow one to breathe, relax, and rejuvenate.  
Jazz, Reggae, Salsa, what is your preference? Do you want to just sit on the resort and be bored, well where is the fun in that?  Entertainment is a spin off of the atmosphere.  Go DJ, no DJ, Live Band, it is your choice.  Can you dance, is it important? These are questions you must ask yourself.  Resorts are designed to accommodate your greatest vacation fancy all in one place, some have accomplished the dream better than others.  For instance, the Palladium Groups Chic Cabaret is a perfect blend.  

9. Accommodations 
Deluxe, Junior Suite, Ocean view, Standard, Swim-up and more. Wait! Standard and Deluxe look the same, well the devil is in the details and the amenities.  Deluxe offers upgrades such as bathrobes, slippers, luxury bath amenities and free room upgrade if available.  See details, did you also look at the square footage, 512sqft versus 654sqft will add extra money to your stay.  Of course, the other room categories speak for themselves.  However, when choosing a swim-up notice if it is closed off from the neighboring rooms or is it the same distance to the pool.  Why? This will tell you if you have complete privacy or just a portion of the open pool.  Read the room details or check sister properties.       

10. Exchange Privileges 
Lastly, does your resort offer exchange privileges or Stay at 1 Play at 2. Riu and AmResorts (Breathless/Secrets/ Now/ Dreams) offer these privileges.  What does this mean for you? Enjoy restaurants, bars, lounges, and some offer waterpark admission.  

Whatever your idea of a dream vacation you can accomplish it through an All-Inclusive resort. You are able to sit back, relax, enjoy great food, entertainment, and all for one price.  So, Choose Wisely.  

Everyone knows there are over 2 million places to travel by plane, car, bus, or trains  and end up in a hotel. Face it we all can spend 3-7 days at a resort, touring a town or city, or kicking it with the locals. However, have you ever had Jamaican jerk chicken in Jamaica? Have you ever went from Aruba to St. Lucie to St. Kitts all in 7 days? Have you ever went bowling at sea, saw Central park at sea, played laser tag at sea, and the list goes on?  Here are 5 reasons to Cruise.

1. Excursions: Cruising allows for you to have adventures on multiple islands in a matter of days.  One day you are snorkeling in a cave in Belize, the next day on a beach in Cozumel, Mexico.  The excursions list is extensive.  In most places swimming with Dolphins are cool, in others swimming with Pigs are in style.  Excursions do cost extra however, with certain cruise lines a credit can be included with your fare.

2. Entertainment: In cities across the country we have Broadway shows, Cirque Du Soleil, comedy shows, and more. If you went to every show you wanted to see in a year, how much would it cost? Don’t forget dinner, a babysitter, drinks, and parking.  Well you get the picture.  Majority of the shows onboard cruise ships are included unless an exclusive show is being offered with an a la carte meal (we will get to that shortly).  Do you want to cross a Broadway production off your list, how about a popular comedian, maybe a live water show performance, or maybe that date night? A cruise is the way to go!

3. Dining: Some cruise lines start out with a minimum of 10 dining options on their smaller ships. Now on larger ship the numbers can max out at 22-24 dining options. Well which ones are included you ask? All cruise lines offer a buffet and at least 3-5 complimentary options to go with the buffet.  The other dining options are called specialty dining or a-la-carte (per purchase menu items). Depending on which cruise line chosen a few specialty dining nights can be included in your cruise experience.

4. Beverage: I know what you are thinking why wouldn’t my drinks be included? Well unless you are in a main dining room or buffet or only drinking tea, coffee, and juice. Your beverages are not included especially if you stop at a bar and ask for a ginger ale, Pepsi, or libation.  Again beverage packages are available some are high, some are not. Some cruise lines allow you to only pay for the gratuities and/ or taxes (20%) of the beverage package. Keep in mind other cruise lines allow you to purchase the beverage package but govern the amount of alcohol you can consume. For example: placing limits on the time between beverages and how many you can drink a day.

5. Date Night:  How often do you travel with your children? How often do you have date night? Well, on a cruise they have kid clubs. The clubs are open during the day for free and they will watch the children for a nominal fee late nights. Therefore, parents can have date night every night on a cruise.
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​Cruising is awesome for many reasons those are just five to help you make your decision.  If you want to cruise with us https://www.venturesawaytravel.com/book-now.html

​As a Travel Professional of course I love to travel but I love to educate as well!  Since COVID we have been in the house celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, seniors are getting ready to graduate, special moments, and so much more. The world as we know it has changed. But not all things have closed!  Normally we head out on a cruise, go to Canada, Detroit, Cincinnati, or just name it.  So with it being Travel Advisor Day I wanted to do some advising!

1. Sign Up for STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. 
2. When traveling always carry 2 forms of ID. A copy of your birth certificate and ID, or ID and passport. Rule of thumb- take a picture of them and send a secure email to someone who will be able to print them and fax or email them over if you lose them. Bonus: Have Kids Get them a photo ID especially if traveling domestically. 
3. Travel or Trip Protection: Make sure that the in case situations are covered and know your rights. Will they cover luggage, flight delays, and medical if so up to how much? Bonus: Read this to SAVE $$ https://www.venturesawaytravel.com/blog/whats-in-your-wallet
4. The best App to use for Traveling is TripIt. You can create your itinerary. Share it with family, keep a photo of travel documents on here in a secure folder, or share with a group you are traveling with. 
5. Know the new hotel, resorts, airlines, bus, train, or however you are going policies.  Where there were no policies for in case of COVID -19, there are now.  Therefore, cancellation policies have changed, refund policies, social distancing policies, and capacity policies are being put in place.  

1.  Belamere Suites in Perrysburg, OH and Cumming, GA.  Offering 4 types of suites Grand Royal, Royal, and Presidential Swimming Pool Suites and an Ultimate Whirlpool Suite you will be sure to enjoy.  Each location has different offerings check before at  https://www.belameresuites.com/
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2.  Sybaris: 5 locations across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin offering 7 suites.  Enjoy one of 7 suites from there Swim Spa Suite to a Whirlpool Suite, or maybe enjoy a Swimming Pool Suite. Each location has different offerings check before at  https://www.sybaris.com/

3.  Adventure Suites in North Conway, New Hampshire offering 19 suites. Just two or have a group of up 16. They have suites for everyone. Sleep in rooms of luxury that resemble Caves, a Treehouse, the Jungle, a simulated Haunted Castle, and more ! https://adventuresuites.com/all-suites

4.  Chateau Avalon in Kansas City, Kansas. Love the idea of themed rooms? Love history? How about Casablanca, Lincoln Bedroom, or Egyptian Palace, perhaps Castaway Isle, or Monte Cristo Suite or Tuscany. There are so many to choose from. This hotel even offers a spa, and wedding services. https://chateauavalonhotel.com/

5.   Champagne Lodge Luxury Suites in Willowbrook, IL offering a standard, premium, executive, and swimming pool suite.  Looking to propose or have an anniversary coming up there is a package for that. https://www.thecl.com/

6.  Landoll’s Mohican Castle in Loudonville, Ohio. Our favorite quick getaway with or without the kids. Small cottages some connected to each other. An indoor pool house with pool table game room, Jacuzzi, grotto, and sauna. Can be rented out for a minimum $300 after 10pm! Restaurant right on site. In room spa services. Jacuzzi in every cottage and some have one on the deck. https://landollsmohicancastle.com/

Bungalows Key Largo-  Adult Only Resort in Florida and All- inclusive No passport Need ID Only! Waterfront and garden views with outdoor soaking tubs.  Six dining options, top self-libations, and activities included. Approximate Reopening June 26th (subject to change) https://www.bungalowskeylargo.com/

Also, resorts in Cancun, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica looking it open some as early as June 1st 
contact Ventures Away Travel to book your Experience Today! 

Dreaming now and traveling later? 
​Want a staycation check out https://www.venturesawaytravel.com/virtual-tours.html 

We all have been stuck in the house lately. Whether you have been working from home or homeschooling. At this moment in time we all need a break. Adults need a break from kids and kids need a break from adults.  Right? Some of us are like, we are taking a vacation the kids are staying home.  Others are researching family destinations, Disney, and more.  However, should your vacation be for the FAM or for 2 is totally up to you.  Here are 3 travel options to help you with you decision.
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1.  Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort All-Inclusive
Offering 208 rooms and suites, 10 restaurants, 4 pools, a spa, kids club, Aqua Park, character experiences and more.  There is fun for the entire family.  All guest indulge in a Gourmet Inclusive Experience which redefines luxury vacation.  The family will receive gourmet meal and specialty bites (no additional charges), unlimited beverages, personal concierge service, character meet and greets plus photo ops, special tastings exclusively for adults and more.  Did we mention that it has Just Kiddin’, a supervised kids club for ages 4-12 allowing for adult time.  New Location in Riviera Maya Coming Soon
 
2. Couples Resorts Jamaica All-Inclusive Adults Only Just the 2 of You? Why not pick Jamaica? Couples Resorts offers four resorts to choose from.  Need help? Here I will help you!

• Couples Tower Isle has 6 restaurants, 5 bars, 4 pools, 4 Jacuzzis, sports and fitness facilities.  Also, guest receive Unlimited All –Inclusive Spa Treatments at Oasis Spa Villas.
• Couples Sans Souci has 5 restaurants, 7 bars, 4 pools, 3 Jacuzzis, spa sports and fitness. This resort also has private pavilions and intimate.
• Couples Swept Away has 6 restaurants, 8 bars, 3 pools, Jacuzzis, spa, 10 acre sports and fitness complex. This is the largest resort.
• Couples Negril has 5 restaurants, 5 bars, 2 pools, 4 Jacuzzis, treehouse spa, fitness and sports facility.

            If you want to compare more click here - https://bit.ly/2ygVZlK

3. Road Trip for All I know it is sort of cliché but a good road trip can spark interest. Oh, where shall we venture to? Here are some ideas well from Ohio of course:

• Niagara Falls: Yes, for this version you will need a passport.  Visit Clifton Hill and get your walk on. You have multiple miniature golf, 3D to 6D dark theater rides, take a drive on the speedway, and don’t forget to visit one of many wax museums.  Passes are available to help save.
• Detroit, MI: Most people go for concerts and casinos. However, visiting the Henry Ford Museums, Motown, or even the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History might be intriguing. While just across the walk way they have the science center. 
• 3 day/ 3 States/ Adult Only   I personally do this road trip once or twice a year. The best time to go is during a concert.  Head down to Cincinnati there are plenty of concerts, fairs, or festivals. I go during Cincinnati Music Festival.  Then head over to Newport, KY right by the river banks. You can grab a bite to eat, play some games, or go to the aquarium.  Then Friday and Saturday drive over to Lawrenceburg, IN at Hollywood casino they host Boogie Nights.  A huge disco ball, 70s and 80s them music with a light up floor.  Don’t forget to hit up Jungle Jims in southern Ohio. This grocery store is a chef and want to be chefs’ dream!               

For more detailed road trip or to BOOK : https://www.venturesawaytravel.com/contact.html

Capital One uses this catchy phrase, but really what is in your wallet? Discount cards, Membership Cards, Driver’s License, Insurance and Medical Cards. Right? A few people may have some business cards of your own or that you picked up along the way.  Wait! What about the credit card you carry for those what if situations?

When it comes to our insurance cards we all know about our deductible or benefits.  Do you know if your credit cards has benefits? According to Gallup the average American has or has had one credit card.  Take a look at the top 5 benefits overlooked by credit card holders.

1. Roadside Assistance
     All Visa cardholders have access to roadside assistance by calling 1-800-847-2869 and paying a nominal fee (restrictions due apply).  American Express Gold Card, United MileagePlus Card, and Many More.
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2. Price Protection
     An item might be advertised for a lower price, which you can be reimbursed for the difference in price.  They say every penny counts.

3. Rental Car Insurance
     The insurance can depend on the vehicles make and model.  Do not forget to decline the rental cars company insurance. 

4. Trip Insurance
     Some companies require the entire trip to be purchased on the card.  Although there are a few that will allow partial payment of the trip to be placed on the credit card and they will cover the trip.

5.Baggage Delay Coverage
    A sample of coverage on a card could include a benefit of up to $100 per day for 5 days for the reimbursement of essentials such as toiletries and clothing. Best card is through Chase Sapphire.
 
Before going on that next vacation, booking that rental car, or renewing AAA.  Check your wallet! Why miss out on discounts deals or more? When you could save today and travel in security tomorrow. 

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