Would you buy a timeshare package from Hilton Grand Vacations? I did. In June 2025, while passing through the Palmer House in Chicago, I signed on the dotted line. To seal the deal, I paid an initial $299, with a remaining balance of $149 due once I selected my dates.
Are you interested in volunteering for Open House Chicago in 2026? The third weekend of October brings the annual Open House Chicago (OHC), a FREE event organized by the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC), offering behind-the-scenes access to some of the most amazing architecturally, culturally, and historically significant buildings in the city.
Do you know about the Museum of BBQ in Kansas City? In May, I learned about a new museum and booked a quick trip to Missouri before heading back to work for my 32nd year in education. What a great way to end a summer of domestic and international traveling.
I am back in Williamsburg, Virginia, because I found a deal on a property for Hilton Vacation Club Greensprings Williamsburg. I used 1,040 Club Points instead of 2,600 to book a two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite with a balcony. Although I was traveling solo, I managed to save 60% of my points.
Can I get an upgrade? Have you ever requested an upgrade at your hotel when you check in? Almost every time I make a reservation, I receive an email offer from Hilton asking if I want to upgrade my room. I find the offers interesting because I have Diamond Status.
What do you do when you need to redeem a Hilton Honors Free Night Reward? I save my free night rewards for travel during Spring Break. However, I only traveled to Arizona and Virginia in 2025. I redeemed a free night with Marriott Bonvoy for a two-night stay in Phoenix.
I spent two nights at the Hilton Vacation Club Varsity Club South Bend, a cozy property steeped in Notre Dame spirit and conveniently located near shopping, dining, and the University of Notre Dame. Upgrading to HGV Max opened opportunities to explore new drive-to properties, including those in Indiana and Wisconsin.
I accepted a timeshare offer. Because I purchased Hilton Grand Vacations in 2014, I know the value of consistency and premium experiences. Below, I explore the pros and cons of ownership. As an HGV owner who has also taken advantage of Marriott Bonvoy offers, I’ll share insights into both programs.
It is time to check off Delaware. Most of my flights for the 50 States Challenge have been on Southwest. However, Delaware is not on their route. I flew to Philadelphia on Southwest and took Amtrak to Wilmington, Delaware. I now have two states to go: Vermont and West Virginia.
I woke up one morning and mapped out my solo road trip to Canton, Ohio. Although I was going to Hershey, Pennsylvania, I stopped in Canton to visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame. I packed a small suitcase, loaded a cooler, and stayed on the road for six hours.