Recap: The Week’s Biggest Travel Stories and Best Deals

Following is our regular summary of the latest travel news and best frequent traveler promotions reviewed during the past week.

If it was a good deal—or a notably bad deal—from an airline, hotel, or car rental loyalty program, you can read all about it here, and plan your travel accordingly.

Delta Domestic Award Discounts – Book by January 13

Through January 13, Delta SkyMiles members can book roundtrip domestic award flights for as few as 10,000 miles in coach and 18,000 miles in Comfort+.

Last Day for 100,000-Point Credit Card Bonus Is January 11

There’s still time to get 100,000 bonus points when signing up for the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. But on January 12, the bonus falls to 50,000 points.

Southwest Changes Companion Pass Policy Twice in 1 Week

On January 1, Southwest summarily cut off the ability to qualify for a Companion Pass from points transfers. But that’s not the end of the story.

Fly from New York to Europe for $69? Yes, Please!

One-way flights between New York and Edinburgh for $69. You read that right; it’s not a misprint or a mistake fare or a cruel joke. Get ready to book!

Carnival Has a Plan to Transform Cruising

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This week, cruise giant Carnival introduced “the world’s first interactive guest experience platform capable of transforming vacation travel.” Really?

Earn Triple Miles for All British Airways Flights

Through March 31, British Airways flyers can earn triple miles for up to eight flight segments throughout the airline’s worldwide network.

3 Ways to Earn Bonus Miles for Year-End Shopping

Three of the largest airline e-shopping portals are offering bonus miles for purchases at any of hundreds of participating online merchants.

The End Begins for Virgin America’s Loyalty Program

Starwood will disengage from Virgin America’s Elevate program next month, reminding members that the program’s future is limited.

Win a 4-Day Stay in an Over-the-Water Bungalow in Montego Bay

Enter this sweepstakes to win a four-day vacation package for two in Montego Bay, Jamaica, including accommodations in an over-the-water bungalow at Sandals Royal Caribbean.

Somebody has to win, right? Might as well be you.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Coming: a $20 Fine for Holding Your Phone While Driving
• Americans Would Rather Work Than Travel
• This New ‘Best Hotel Program’ List Might Surprise You

After 20 years working in the travel industry, and 15 years writing about it, Tim Winship knows a thing or two about travel. Follow him on Twitter @twinship.

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