We all know airlines and hotels are hurting right now. The COVID-19 pandemic has been brutal. In a nod to the reality that 2021 isn’t likely to be a “normal” travel year, some brands are already making big moves. Hilton was the first hotel chain to lower elite status requirements for next year. Airlines are jumping in, with American Airlines going first and United not far behind. But, it’s not just enough to lower status requirements. That only helps generate revenue if people want to travel and your value proposition makes them […]
Miles And Points
Why It’s Time To Start Lowering Hotel Award Redemption Rates (Probably Not Why You Think)
As 2020 starts to wind down, there have been plenty of announcements from airline and hotel loyalty programs designed to keep members engaged. The first salvo revolved around reducing the requirements needed to earn elite status. This was at a time when it seemed like we might get back to some level or normalcy fairly quickly. Heck, at that point I thought I’d be home for 3 or 4 weeks and then back on the road. Little did I know then that I probably wouldn’t get on another plane this […]
Plenty of Details: Air Canada Launches A New Loyalty Program With A Familiar Name
Allow me to nerd out for just a minute. I’ve been a hardcore points and miles nerd for over 20 years. Rarely in that time have we seen a completely new loyalty program emerge. Even more rare is to see a new loyalty program from a large, established airline. Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards program is the one that immediately comes to mind when I think of big airlines with new programs. Fast forward to today, and we have the reimagined Aeroplan program. Many moons ago, Air Canada spun off Aeroplan. […]
A Pointed Reminder On The Value Of Flexible Points And Miles
People often ask me what are the best points or miles that they can collect. Or, they’ll ask me to tell them the best way to redeem. For me, these sorts of questions are akin to asking me who my favorite child is. There’s really no perfect way to redeem points. However, a recent trip I took wouldn’t have been possible for me without flexible points and miles. What Are Flexible Points? An example of flexible points and miles are Chase Ultimate Rewards, which you can earn with credit cards like […]
Capital One Spark Miles 200,000 Mile Bonus. How Should You Spend It?
If you own a small business or spend a lot on credit cards, the current 200,000 mile sign-up bonus for the Capital One Spark Miles could be a great deal. I recently added the card to my wallet, but I’m not 100% sure how to spend the sign-up bonus. So, I called in an expert.
United Adds New Tax To Award Tickets, Even For Top Elite Members
United Airlines appears to be charging more miles for you to book an award flight 30 days or less prior to departure. This appears to be for all travelers, even top-tier 1K members who used to be exempt from a cash fee for close-in bookings.
New Marriott Promotion Misses The Mark
Marriott’s new promotion comes down to whether you think they’ll have a big deal for you in the future. If you think they’re in a generous mood, Marriott might be worth looking at. If not, you should look elsewhere, at least beyond your second stay.
Giveaway! AwardWallet Goodies For Newbies And Experienced Travelers
I’m giving away free AwardWallet Plus memberships and Balance Watch Credits! Use the best tool to maximize your miles and points, including new features that help you earn more miles.
Earn 3X Hyatt Points On Las Vegas Stays!
World of Hyatt is offering 3X points on Las Vegas hotel stays through the end of 2019 at properties like Bellagio, MGM Grand, Park MGM, Vdara and Aria.
New Hyatt Promotion Offering Up To Triple Points On Stays!
It’s about time we’ve had a promo really worth talking about. Hyatt’s fall promo should lead the way in value for road warriors and business travelers.
