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.

Will Travelers Be Asked to Pay for Trump’s Wall?

If the Trump administration has its way, air travelers will bear some of the costs of the President’s $6 billion wall between the U.S. and Mexico.

Southwest Improves Standby Benefit for Elites

Beginning this week, Southwest has made it easier for elite members of Rapid Rewards to standby for alternative same-day flights.

Is Any Rewards Card Worth a $550 Annual Fee?

The pricey Amex Platinum card is under attack by several other perks-rich cards. Is adding benefits and upping the price the right competitive response?

There’s How Much Pee in That Pool…?

A new study estimates that there are 2 gallons of urine in the average backyard swimming pool. Should you take the plunge anyway?

Trump Administration Blocks Travel-Consumer Protections

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Sign Up

The Trump administration has suspended a DOT move to require transparency in airline pricing. Other consumer protections could be rolled back as well.

SuperShuttle Shuts Down at One Major Airport. Next?

SuperShuttle’s once-ubiquitous blue vans are no longer dropping off or picking up travelers at Atlanta airport, the country’s busiest. The problem: Uber.

Travel Hackers Beware, American Express Has Its Eyes on You

Credit card churners beware. American Express has warned that it plans to take steps to prevent consumers from reaping rewards without loyalty.

Earn More American AAdvantage Miles for Online Shopping

Through March 17, AAdvantage members can earn American bonus miles for purchases made through the AAdvantage eShopping portal at any of 850 merchants.

Win Free Marriott Stays for 30 Years

Enter the Marriott sweepstakes to win enough Marriott Rewards points for 30 years’ worth of free hotel stays.

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

More from SmarterTravel:

• Las Vegas Room Rates Hit All-Time Highs
• 85% of Travelers Are Satisfied with Airlines. Really?
• Travelers to DOT: No Inflight Calls, Please!

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.

Don't Miss a Trip, Tip, or Deal!

Let us do the legwork! Sign up for our free newsletter now.

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Sign Up