Andy Leung
- Contributor, Frugal Flyer
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Articles by Andy Leung
Japan Rail Pass: Is It Worth It? Cost, Coverage & How It Works
The Japan Rail Pass is a national fare program for travelers who want to ride on Japan Railways trains across the country. JR is Japan’s largest rail operator, with lines from coast to coast. Tourists will likely take a Japanese Train somewhere along their travels, and the Japan Rail Pass is often something they consider. This rail pass has been popular with visitors to Japan because it provides valuable discounts compared with buying rail tickets individually.
Haneda vs. Narita: Which Tokyo Airport Should You Choose?
Japan’s largest city, Tokyo, has always been a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Both of Tokyo’s airports, Narita and Haneda have similarities and benefits that could make or break a traveler’s airport decision.
Financial Institution Partnerships with Sports Teams in Canada: How Can You Benefit?
When it comes to emotional rollercoasters, two things come to mind: dealing with the bank and cheering for your favourite sports team. Partnerships between Canadian banks and sports teams have increased in recent years, with both sides looking to grow their fanbases and clientele.
Review: Petaling Jaya Marriott Hotel
The Petaling Jaya Marriott is a rebranded and renovated Eastin hotel (not to be confused or affiliated with the Westin brand). Last time I was in Malaysia, I stayed near Kuala Lumpur city centre, however, I wanted to be closer to my friends this time, who live closer to Petaling Jaya.. With a fresh renovation and updated aesthetic, I decided to book this hotel to see how the brand has revitalized the property.
Report for the Sixth Machine Learning in Geotechnics Dialogue (6MLIGD) on “ML revolution in geotechnics: transforming practice and education for future engineers”
ABSTRACT The 6th Machine Learning in Geotechnics Dialogue (6MLIGD), held on 24 August 2025, in Oslo, was a pivotal event under the International Symposium on Geotechnical Safety and Risk (ISGSR 2025). The dialogue brought together leading experts from academia, industry and policymakers to explore the transformative potential of machine learning (ML) in geotechnical engineering.
Eurail Pass: Complete Guide to Saving Money on European Train Travel (2026)
I used the Eurail pass during a trip to Europe last year and had an almost seamless experience booking trips and adjusting my schedule to meet changes to my itinerary. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the Eurail pass and how it can benefit your next trip to Europe! The Eurail Pass is an international rail pass that is accepted by multiple rail operators in Europe.
Amex Front of the Line®: Your Ticket to Exclusive Events and Presales
Love special event VIP benefits and concert pre-sales? American Express Cardholders have exclusive access to ‘Front Of The Line’ and Amex Reserved tickets. Unlike other flashy card benefits, the Front of the Line program is open to all American Express Cardholders. Front of the Line is a program for American Express cardmembers to access ticket presales and reserved tickets just for subscribers. The program competes with similar card benefits at other banks like RBCxMusic.
Review: TransLink Double Decker Coach
The closest thing to flying in Economy on the ground is a bus. For an elevated experience, transit agencies in North America have Double Decker buses with upper deck seating for higher capacity routes. Riding on these buses, passengers can soar past freeway traffic in the HOV and bus only lanes, especially on days with absolutely terrible congestion.
WestJet’s UltraBasic product is a competitive product to Flair’s no-frills, low-cost carrier model. With WestJet’s continuation of slashing benefits and features to maximize revenues, including public outrage over reduced legroom for rear rows, I wanted to see for myself how comparable WestJet’s UltraBasic product is to Flair’s service. All the major airlines in Canada have a basic economy product nowadays, including Air Canada and Porter.
When Should You NOT Rely on Points (Even If You Have Them)
Points and miles are powerful tools — but they’re not always the right tool for the job. While it’s tempting to reach for your points balance at every checkout, doing so without a strategy can quietly erode the value you’ve worked hard to build. The truth is, knowing when not to use points is just as important as knowing how to earn them. From holiday sales to off-peak flights, let’s take a look at the scenarios where paying cash will actually leave you better off.
Review: Air Canada Express Business Class (E-175)
Air Canada Express’ E175s (operated by Jazz) are regional jets based out of their eastern hubs, including Toronto and Montreal. After Air Canada changed my outbound itinerary, I was rebooked to a flight on one of these small planes, which were also one of my favourites to fly on, regardless of class or airline. Although a little outdated, the service and product on Air Canada Express’ E175s still beat other cross-border options in my opinion.
With the recent decline in travel to the United States, Canadians have been looking to other sun destinations for their winter vacations. Mexico is a popular resort destination, and Canadian airlines are adjusting their flight schedules and frequencies to capitalize on the demand. In this article, learn about all your options for flying to Mexico from Canada, with or without the use of points! Mexico has always been a popular destination for Canadians during the cold season.
Review: United Airlines First Class (737 MAX 8)
While coming back from visiting friends in California, a looming Air Canada strike led to the decision to rebook my flight with a cheap upgrade onboard United Airlines’ MAX 8 aircraft. I’ve previously flown on domestic business products on Air Canada and WestJet so I thought I would give United First a try given the opportunity. My original itinerary included flying on Air Canada, however, due to the strike, I wanted to rebook for a flight on a different airline.
Which Hotel Loyalty Programs Offer Lifetime Elite Status?
Hotel Lifetime Status is always a good investment to consider. Whether you’ve just started your miles and points journey, or you’re looking to retire soon, having exclusive hotel benefits for the rest of your life is something that should be looked at. For most of our readers, you are probably familiar with the different hotel chains and hotel loyalty status programs.
Which Airlines Offer Lifetime Elite Status?
Taking airline elite status up a notch, Lifetime Status aka Million Miler programs, offer lifelong benefits and rewarding loyalty to the most devoted fliers. Let’s dive into the options for obtaining Lifetime Elite Status and see if it’s right for you! You should also consider Episode 20 of the Miles Ahead Podcast which discusses whether or not Airline Elite Status is worth the investment! Airline Lifetime Status is a long term goal that many loyal frequent fliers hope to achieve.
Review: Imperial Riding School, Autograph Collection, Vienna
After arriving in Vienna, Austria on the OBB NightJet from Amsterdam, staying in the Mini Cabin, I wanted to book accommodation that was near Wien Hauptbahnhof. Less than 10 minutes away from Vienna’s central station was the storied Imperial Riding School, which was also served by various local tram and bus lines that circumnavigate the city. The Imperial Riding School has an interesting history as a military equestrian school, established by Emperor Franz Joseph in the 19th century.
Back to School: How to Earn Points and Save Money
Whether it’s your kid’s first day at school in September or you’re entering college as a freshman, saving money before going back to school is an annual challenge that doesn’t seem to get any easier. However, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to take advantage of the best deals and point bonuses offered by retailers.
Review: ÖBB NightJet Sleeper Cabin
Taking the train across Europe is a great alternative to flying. With stations located in most city centres, they can be a more convenient and timely option compared to heading to the airport and flying to the next city. I’ve always wanted to try a night train and luckily, this trip presented a fantastic opportunity to take one. In 2023, OBB introduced private Mini Cabins onboard their sleeper trains across the continent.
The Ultimate Guide to IC (Suica) Cards in Japan (2025)
Suica, and its IC Card family, are one of the primary contactless payment options for transportation, retail, services, and even accommodation in Japan. Instead of relying on cash and bringing change everywhere you go, IC cards, like the Suica, are accepted across the country. You simply can’t visit Japan without understanding and utilizing the IC card system, but it can be a bit overwhelming for a first-time visitor. We break it down for you in this guide.
Review: Boston Marriott Copley Place
While visiting family and fellow Frugal Flyer writer Danny in New York City, I decided to do a small side trip to Boston. Taking the train with some of my family, we wanted to stay somewhere close to the metro system and Amtrak. Ultimately, the Boston Marriott Copley Place was chosen for its close proximity to transportation services and shopping areas. Convenience was the most crucial factor in looking for a hotel in Boston for my trip.
The range of Marriott Bonvoy properties has recently been expanded after announcing a new partnership with Sonder. With properties around the world and deep discounts for extended stay travellers, Sonder compliments the line-up of Marriott’s extended stay properties. Although Marriott is well known for its hotel and global reach, people are not very familiar with Sonder and their offerings.
How Costco Can Help you Save on Travel
I am a long-time Costco and Kirkland Signature fan. I’ve always known Costco as the store to save and purchase in bulk quantities for less, during each visit. But it’s not as well known that beyond their retail offerings, Costco can also help you save on travel expenses through products and services. From local food options to airline gift cards, let’s take a look at how a Costco membership can help save you on your next trip.
Review: Civic Hotel, Autograph Collection
The Civic Hotel, Autograph Collection is an interesting accommodation option for those who don’t need to stay around the Downtown Vancouver core. Autograph Collection hotels tend to have a uniqueness to them compared to Marriott’s established sub-brands. Having some events to attend in the surrounding area, the Civic Hotel was the most convenient location for me.
Review: Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver
While attending multiple events in different parts of the city, I was in need of centrally located accommodation. After a great impression during a previous stay, the Metropolitan Hotel was the perfect option for me, staying in Downtown Vancouver. On Marriott’s website, booking the Metropolitan Hotel doesn’t appear as one of their sub-brands nor as part of any of the hotel collections.
How to Earn and Use Miles & Points as a Student
Miles & Points are for Students Too! When I first started my Miles & Points journey, I was in my last year at university. I wished I had started sooner, especially when the only credit card I had at the time was a student CIBC Aeroplan Platinum card, where the primary earning rate was 1x in Aeroplan points on Gas, Transit, Grocery, and Air Canada purchases. Students should try to save as much as possible from all their different spending, whether it’s tuition, rent, groceries, or anything else.
Review: Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel
Engaging in a mileage run for Air Canada Aeroplan Elite status, I needed to book two nights for my layover at Calgary International Airport (YYC). Fortunately, YYC had two in-terminal hotels, both affiliated with the Marriott Bonvoy banner. The Marriott was inside the terminal building in contrast to the other property, a Delta, which was a short walk away across the airport roadways. Read on for my review of the Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel.
Apples to Oranges: Canada’s Grocery Rewards Programs Compared
The cost of groceries has continuously increased with little hope of going back down in price. With loyalty point programs and promotional offers, some of these costs can be cut down using points.
Review: JW Marriott Parq Vancouver
Due to work obligations, I found myself in need of a hotel in Downtown Vancouver for one night in November. After taking a look at options in the city, and reading a great review by Josh of other on-site hotel located adjacent to the JW Marriott, The DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection, I thought it would be worth it to check out the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver. Prices for a night can vary between $270-$340, with the exception of major events and concerts like Taylor Swift’s Era’s Tour.
Review: United Airlines Polaris Business Class (787-10)
Ending my trip to Japan on a high note, I paid for an enticing upgrade offer to Polaris Business Class onboard United Airlines’ Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner. Considering that Economy and Premium Economy were fully booked on this flight, a more spacious seat and cabin were also a driving factor in my impulse decision.
Comparing Canadian Coffee Rewards Programs
Many Canadians start off their day with a cup of coffee bought on the way to work. Comparing the four major coffee brands and their reward programs, McDonald’s Tim Hortons, Starbucks, and Second Cup, my goal is to find out which loyalty program offers the best value for the return on spend when purchasing your morning coffee. Beyond the big 4, we also take a look at local cafes and how they compare to the major chains as well as sharing some tips and tricks that can take advantage of.
Review: The Osaka Station Hotel, Autograph Collection
During the planning stages of my second trip to Japan this year, I found out that The Osaka Station Hotel, Autograph Collection, was opening just before I arrived. I had already planned to stay the night in Osaka as I didn’t want to rush getting to Toyama on the same day as my arrival from Vancouver. As a result, I took the opportunity to experience The Osaka Station Hotel, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection.
Review: TIAD, Autograph Collection Hotel
TIAD’s acronym (Tomorrow Is Another Day) subtly influenced my decision to stay in Nagoya for a night or head straight for Tokyo. Although the comfort onboard Singapore Airlines Economy Class 787-10 from Singapore was fantastic, TIAD, an Autograph Collection hotel, offered luxurious amenities and wonderful Japanese hospitality which made me glad that I decided to stay a night instead of rushing to Tokyo right after an overnight flight.
Flair Airlines Review: Is It Worth It?
We recently held the Frugal Flyer Miles & Pints Meetup in Edmonton and since Edmonton is only about an hour away from me by plane, I decided to attend.
Review: Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection
The Madi Paidi Bangkok is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, a selection of independent properties that are part of Marriott’s premium property catalog. Visiting Bangkok with a friend, I was looking at hotels near Sukhumvit Road for easy access to various places in Bangkok using Mass Transit. Although there were many properties along the busy strip, including the W Bangkok, I decided to try something new since I had never experienced an Autograph Collection property before this trip.
Review: Aeromexico Business Class (737-800 & 737 MAX 8)
I’ve always wanted to visit Mexico City for their incredible transportation infrastructure and I found a bit of free time during the early summer. At the same time, my Air France KLM Flying Blue Silver Elite status was almost up for renewal, and I was close to achieving Gold Elite status, so I decided to book a short status run to level up to the next tier. What follows is my review of Aeromexico business class onboard both the 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 to and from Mexico City.
Review: 21 Carpenter Singapore, Design Hotels
For a 22-hour layover in Singapore before meeting my connecting flight to Kuala Lumpur the next day, I wanted to stay somewhere close to the city center so that I could explore as many things as possible before flying back out.
Review: Singapore Airlines Economy Class (787-10)
With existing plans for a trip to Japan and an enticing Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer status upgrade offer, I decided to book a trip to Southeast Asia onboard Singapore Airlines. The offer required four paid segments, so I chose to book the cheapest airfare possible in Singapore Airlines’ award-winning Economy class. While we have previously focused on business and first class flight reviews on Frugal Flyer, it is no secret that Asian airlines offer very solid economy class products.
Review: ZIPAIR Economy Class (787-8)
After finishing my trip to Japan, I didn’t want to spend too much on airfare to get back home to Vancouver. Flights between North America and Japan have gone up quite a lot when paying with cash, so new long-haul low-cost carriers like ZIPAIR bring hope for cheaper flights across the Pacific. Thankfully, ZIPAIR recently launched flights to Vancouver from Narita International in Tokyo, so I wanted to give them a shot.
Review: Nagasaki Marriott Hotel
In May, I embarked on a two-week trip to Japan and Southeast Asia. This stay was part of the first portion of the trip, mainly residing in West Japan and Kyushu regions. Learning that the Nagasaki Marriott only opened a few months ago with the station’s redevelopments, I thought it would be worthwhile to book a stay there.
Review: W Seattle
In March, the Frugal Flyer writers got together for our annual team trip, where we stayed at the W Seattle to enjoy good food and attend a Mariner’s baseball game together. For a remote team, catching up with everyone in person is always refreshing, and a great opportunity to exchange miles and points knowledge too. We had a great time in Seattle and the W Seattle pulled through as a comfortable and convenient place to stay for the weekend. Read below for our review.
Review: Westin Wall Centre, Vancouver Airport
The Westin Wall Centre Vancouver Airport is one of a few Marriott Bonvoy properties that serve the area around the airport. My sister’s wedding was coming up and my parents and I wanted to stay somewhere near the ceremonies. I’ve been to this property before and the service, amenities, and overall reception have always met and exceeded my expectations during each stay. One major factor in deciding where to stay was where I could use my Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite status benefits.
Gas Station Rewards: Earn Points at the Pump
Gas can take up a substantial portion of someone’s budget. With many different gas station brands in different locations, it can be hard to decide who to fuel up with and how to get miles and points back from your purchase. Whether you’re commuting to work or going on a road trip across the country, knowing what gas station fuel programs have the best value and where to redeem points can be valuable for your car and easier on your wallet.
Review: Renaissance Seattle Hotel
While visiting some friends in Seattle, I wanted to stay at a hotel convenient to downtown attractions and transportation options. Although I’ve stayed at the Renaissance Seattle hotel before, this time I had a lot more downtime to thoroughly explore the property and its amenities. My previous stay also left a bad taste in my mouth with a few housekeeping issues, but I thought I’d give the property another shot.
How CAA Memberships Can Help You Save Money Beyond Your Car
The American Automotive Association’s Canadian division, the Canadian Automotive Association (CAA), offers memberships for roadside assistance and recovery. At first glance, the memberships are geared toward drivers who want protection if their vehicle breaks down. However, being a member can unlock savings on many different kinds of purchases. Some alternative benefits include discounts on travel, fuel, car rental, and even in-store and online retail.
UPS Makes Inaugural Flight to AIFA
UPS landed its inaugural flight at Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) on the same day it celebrated its 116th anniversary. AIFA’s facilities can handle up to 590,000 tons of cargo annually, according to Mexican authorities. UPS’s Boeing 767-300 flight departed from Kentucky, the US, and arrived at AIFA on Aug. 28 at 5:56 am. The carrier recently acquired eight new Boeing 767-300 cargo planes.
For Best Tax Savings, Year-Round Tax Planning Is Essential
It’s commonplace to focus on tax savings in early spring as Tax Day approaches in mid-April, but how often do you think about them otherwise? If your answer is “not much,” consider making a change. After all, the ultimate goal in tax planning is to minimize taxes paid over your lifetime — not just on your current tax bill — and to foster overall growth and preservation of your assets. Tax planning is therefore most effective when it’s ongoing throughout the year.
Retirement Planning for the Self-Employed: Five Options for Lowering Taxes and Maximizing Saving
By Andy Leung Reprinted with permission from Procycon Partners, LLC Choosing the right retirement plan can be confusing and overwhelming. Multiple options are available, which is a good thing, but understanding their attributes and intricacies takes time. Additionally, there are frequent updates and changes made by the IRS, such as the CARES Act in 2020 and SECURE Act in 2019, that change the landscape.
Retirement Planning for the Self-Employed: 5 Options for Lowering Taxes and Maximizing Saving
© Provided by Kiplinger Choosing the right retirement plan can be confusing and overwhelming. Multiple options are available, which is a good thing, but understanding their attributes and intricacies takes time. Additionally, there are frequent updates and changes made by the IRS, such as the CARES Act in 2020 and SECURE Act in 2019, that change the landscape.
National Review editor slams reporters from major media outlets - The Locker Room
Image by Andy Leung from Pixabay Rich Lowry writes at National Review Online about major journalistic failures within mass media outlets. The American media — long stalwart defenders of the First Amendment — are now having second thoughts. For decades, it was a commonplace sentiment among journalists that freedom of the press was one of the glories of our system.
U.S. Seed Potatoes to Cuba
Image by Andy Leung from Pixabay December 11, 2020 Potatoes USA has sent the first shipment of U.S. seed potatoes to Cuba. The mixed load of 10 different varieties will be utilized in trials conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture in Cuba. This trial process must be completed prior to commercial shipments of U.S. seed potatoes occurring. Concurrent to the trial shipment, USDA and the Ministry of Agriculture signed a market access protocol for U.S. seed potatoes to enter Cuba.
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