Behind the Epic Universe Hype, Epic for Miles/Points Nerds, Japan Trip Planning & Co-Traveler Zen!

Get an easy $200 from Melio for making your first payment! (Affiliate link. Terms below) https://affiliates.meliopayments.com/travelonpointsteam Episode Description This week Universal Epic Universe opened its doors. As the first major theme park to open in the United States since 2001 it is a big deal, but if you aren't a huge theme park nerd should it be on your radar? Joe attended the Epic Universe media preview while Shawn went as a normal guest. You can listen to a more in depth nerdy conversation about the park on this week's Disney Deciphered, but on this show we discuss what it was like doing the media preview, what sort of hype is promised, how it affects your views plus what we both think of the park and how Shawn's real guest experience different from Joe's VIP tours.   We also discuss some of Joe's plans for his upcoming Japan family trip plus why business class one way and economy the other isn't just a way to save points. It could be a way to save your kids! :) Episode Guide   Episode Guide   0:00 Welcome to MTM Travel 1:41 Locking down Korea/Japan for the Summer - Family rates, finding a compatible traveling family, international driving permits & business class vs. economy 12:20 Why it isn't always about traveling for "free" 16:30 What it's like doing press trips - Behind the Epic Universe VIP opening 23:35 The coolest part of the Epic Universe media experience 32:36 Is Epic Universe the culmination of themed entertainment in 2025? 42:15 Universal vs. Disney and Epic Universe for the miles & points normie   Enjoying the podcast? Please consider leaving us a positive review on your favorite podcast platform! You can also connect with us anytime at [email protected].  You can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, TuneIn, Pocket Casts, or via RSS. Don't see your favorite podcast platform? Please let us know!