After last week’s news explosion, it’s been a relatively quiet week, so I’m going to be lazy and keep it short.
Story of the week
It’s your last chance—TPG reports that the 100k bonus on the Chase Sapphire Reserve is ending “soon.” I’m not sure what that means (could be a month for all we know), but I’m going to harp on this one last time and shut up about it. If you’re thinking about adding a credit card and don’t have any specific needs, this is the card to get and this is the time to get it. I say this as someone who doesn’t even like the card (but totally signed up for it once this offer came knocking). Want in? Check out our referral link HERE (just make sure you still see those 100,000 points!).
Sign-up bonus of the week 🎯
See above?
Previously highlighted bonuses with offers still available:
100k ‼️ on the Chase Sapphire Preferred
70k miles on the AA Aviator Red
75k points + $250 travel credit on the Venture Rewards
Quick Points of the Week ⚡
Good news! 👍
A re-valuation? Points always go down in value—or do they? Avianca just re-valued some LifeMiles after a recent devaluation. (via ThriftyTraveler)
New partnership. Alaska Airlines’ loyalty program, already my personal favorite, just added a new earning and redemption partner that looks promising for redemptions to Asia. (via View From the Wing)
Basic economy getting better? American Airlines is making a positive change to international basic economy fares—the ability to cancel for trip credit. View from the Wing has the details.
Extra points 🪙
Extra points on Hilton stays. If you’re planning a Hilton trip, don’t forget to sign up for 1,000 bonus points per stay during their summer promotion period. (via MilesTalk)
Devaluations 👎
AA cuts award hold period. AA giveth and AA taketh away. You’ll now have only one day to put an award on hold—but that’s still better than the competition. (via View From the Wing)
Lounge fees for Priority Pass holders? Frequent Miler has noticed fees creeping up for access to Priority Pass lounges, at least in the UK. Hopefully not a sign of things to come for users’ ostensibly “free” lounge access.
Galaxy brain?
Marriott is acquiring small hotel chain Citizen M. Might it be work taking a minute to get Citizen M status for a chance that Marriott might match it post-acquisition? View from the Wing thinks so. (I’m agnostic; a credit card like the Amex Platinum or the Marriott Brilliant would also do the trick.)