All the Hacks: Money, Points & Life
Luxury Europe for 70% Less: Switzerland & Lake Como with Amy Fox
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Show notes
#300: Chris and Amy break down how they planned an unforgettable trip to Switzerland and Lake Como mostly on points, miles, and free-night certificates. They share how speculative bookings and award alerts landed them better business class flights, the rental car hack that avoided a cross-border drop-off fee, and one of the best uses of Hilton points around. Plus, an inside look at a fairy tale hotel for families in Switzerland.
Link to Full Show Notes: https://www.chrishutchins.com/switzerland-italy-family-trip-points/
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Resources Mentioned
Hotels
Märchenhotel Braunwald
Grand Hotel Victoria
Victoria Beach Club
Park Hyatt Milan
Hyatt Regency Mainz
Park Hyatt Tokyo
Cap Rocat
Articles & Videos
Amazing: Grand Hotel Victoria Concept & Spa on Lake Como
The Märchenhotel on Instagram
ATH Podcast
#107: Italy Unlocked: Insider Tips, Must-See Destinations and Booking Flights/Hotels on Points with Leigh Rowan
#276: Saving $30K+ on the Perfect Spring Break Japan Trip with Amy Fox
#290: The New Rules of Points & Miles in 2026 with Brian M
Hilton Cards
Hotel Upgrade Program
Best Cards Page
Gift Cards Page
Newsletter
AMA: Submit Questions
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Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com
Full Show Notes
(00:00) Introduction
(00:47) How a Fairy Tale Hotel Sparked Our Trip to Europe
(03:22) Booking Business Class to Europe with Points
(09:03) Setting Award Alerts to Find Better Flights
(14:51) Using Up Avianca Miles for a Better Flight
(17:22) Keeping Return Flights Open Until the Last Minute
(18:39) The Trick to Avoid Cross-Border Rental Car Fees
(20:55) Booking Switzerland's Märchenhotel Without Points
(23:10) Why We Paired Switzerland with Lake Como
(26:14) The Math Behind Hilton Points and Free Night Certificates
(34:02) Inside the Grand Hotel Victoria
(36:55) The Best Breakfast Buffet and Dining in Menaggio
(39:26) Why Menaggio Beats Bellagio
(42:10) European Beach Clubs with Kids
(43:34) Gelato, Mini Golf and Other Things to Do in Italy
(45:27) Is the Grand Hotel Victoria Worth It for Families?
(48:51) The Märchenhotel: Switzerland's Fairy Tale Hotel
(49:57) What Makes the Märchenhotel Great for Parents and Kids
(57:06) Hiking, Via Ferratas and Ropes Courses in Braunwald
(01:02:31) Changing Plans and Skipping Milan
(01:05:44) A Quick Stop in Mainz Before Flying Home
(01:07:15) Flying Swiss vs. Condor Business Class
(01:10:49) What It's Like Traveling with Another Family
(01:14:02) What the Whole Trip Cost
(01:15:24) Why We're Booking Trips a Year Out
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