Episode Details

Should you believe the hype behind the new Epic Universe theme park? And should you be buying points as a casual traveler? In today’s episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie discuss the new Universal Epic Universe theme park, the Universal Terra Luna and Helios Grand resorts, sign-up bonuses, and more. Plus, find out about the lesser-known Mexican city that will become a go-to travel destination in the coming years. 

Chris and Katie begin by discussing Katie’s trip to Mazatlan, where she stayed at Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort. Next, they discuss the new Universal hotels and the new Epic Universe theme park, as well as the best places to stay in Orlando with points when visiting Universal or Disney. Finally, Chris and Katie answer your questions on sign-on bonuses and buying points. 

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: 

[0:00] Introduction

[0:32] Katie recently went to Mexico again, and this time she visited Mazatlan. It is a lesser-known city that Katie believes will become a go-to destination in the coming years.

[2:40] Katie stayed at Dreams Mazatlan, which is currently a category B in the Hyatt rewards chart. For 17,000 to 23,000 points a night, every room at the all-inclusive property was oceanfront.

[10:10] Chris recently stayed at the Universal Terra Luna, which is a themed budget-friendly hotel in Orlando.

[12:02] Chris also got to tour the luxury Helios Grand hotel, which will be located inside Epic Universe. He says it will be a five-star hotel and has 360° views of the surrounding park.

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Sneak Peek: Inside Universal Helios Grand Hotel: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/universal-helios-grand-hotel-sneak-peek/

[15:36] Epic Universe itself is a very impressive park, with “portals” transporting people between five different worlds. 

First Look: Universal Epic Universe: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/universal-epic-universe-first-look/

[18:57] The Celestial World has a roller coaster called Stardust Racers that is a dual-track coaster. It was very fast and extreme, and is in the running for Chris’ favorite roller coaster. 

5 Must-Know Tips From the Universal Epic Universe Media Preview: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/tips-universal-epic-universe/

[23:14] Where are the best hotels to book for planning a trip to Universal? Staying on property is going to be your best option if you don’t plan on leaving the parks much, and hotels like the Terra Luna offer great prices. You can also stay at hotels like the Hard Rock that offer express passes.

How to Visit Universal Studios for Cheap by Using Points & Miles: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/universal-studios-for-cheap-with-points/

[27:24] It can be challenging to buy theme park tickets at a discount. Chris likes to go through Undercover Tourist for tickets in cash, which is well-known and sometimes gives discounts. Those tickets also code as travel on your credit card.

Undercover Tourist Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/undercover-tourist-review/

[29:17] How can you continue to get points as a solo points player? Katie says there isn’t a big difference between playi