Recap: This Week’s Biggest 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.

Alaska Air Might Keep Virgin America Brand, Operations. Really?

Virgin America loyalists were given a smidgen of hope with this week’s announcement by the CEO of Alaska Air, Virgin’s new owner, that the iconic brand and singular travel experience might survive the merger, remaining in operation as an independent airline.

TSA’s PreCheck Coming to Spirit, Frontier

It’s been a long time coming, but the two ultra-low-cost carriers have finally committed to participating in the TSA’s PreCheck program for trusted travelers.

Hey, Millennials, What’s with You and Travel Agents?

Which age group is most likely to use traditional travel agents to book air and hotel stays? The answer will surprise you.

These 6 U.S. Airlines Approved for Cuba Flights

For the first time in more than 50 years, U.S. airlines have received federal approval to operate scheduled flight services to Cuba.

10 (or 25, or 50) Must-Visit Destinations for Foodies

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If you were to design a travel bucket list around eating, you couldn’t do much better than making it a goal to dine at the top-10 restaurants as defined by the latest World’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards.

Here’s How to Earn an Easy 500 Marriott Points

Through June 21, Marriott Rewards members can earn 500 bonus points for following @MarriottRewards on Instagram.

Uber Partners with Capital One on Loyalty Program

Through March 2017, Uber customers who pay for their rides with a Capital One Quicksilver or QuicksilverOne credit card will receive every tenth ride, costing up to $15, free.

Ryanair’s New Leisure Fares Come with Extra Perks

Beginning this week, Ryanair customers can choose to upgrade their travel experience by booking Leisure Plus, an extra-cost add-on package that entitles travelers to priority boarding, a pre-assigned seat, and a free checked bag.

Win a 1-Week Trip for 2 to Paris

Enter the Atout France USA “Lancome Paris 2016” sweepstakes by August 8, 2016, for a chance to win the grand prize: a one-week trip for two to Paris, including air, hotel, and a day trip out of the city.

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

More from SmarterTravel:

• Delta Says ‘Forget the Price, Buy the Experience.’ Should You?
• United Chases Big Spenders with New Business Class
• Inflight Entertainment – Free, Free, Free on Delta

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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