My Addiction to Frequent Flyer Miles and More

I swear, your honor, it's not an addiction - it's just a powerful affinity that I have towards the airlines, hotels, and restaurants that offer me sweet incentives to remain their #1 loyal fan.

In fact, sometimes I'm able to double, triple, or quadruple-dip not just because they allow such an option (like Hilton Honors program where you get double points or additional frequent flyer miles with each stay), but because I work the system like I have nothing better to do with my time.

Here's one basic example of how I've been able to build value while experiencing great flights, hotel stays, and meals:

• Make a dinner reservation using OpenTable.com and ideally when you can get those special 1,000 point reservations (vs. the usual and petty 100 points).
• Dine at a restaurant with a frequent diners program - like Lawrys or Chart House.
• Dine at a time or on a day where you get double points from said restaurant. Before 6pm at Lawrys or on Mondays at Peohe's in San Diego, Calif., for example.
  
• Use a credit card where you get double points at restaurants (JetBlue American Express credit card)
• Get reimbursed for the meal by your client, employer, partner, or family member.

As you leave the restaurant, grab the bowl of candy on the counter, post them on Craigslist, and you'll gain an additional amount of value.

Need more value? Approach the person handling the service where they park your car for you. I'm drawing a blank on the name of the service because I'm only thinking of my points that I have with seven hotels and eight airlines. Feign like you lost your ticket. Mention "Vehicle 12" and he'll grab the keys and get your new car. It's practically free, but out of good faith and being a fair and decent human being, tip the guy $5.00.

I'm sure you know what to do with the vehicle after you take it home.

eBay, kids, eBay.