Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of April 24, 2015)

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.

Rapid Rewards, What’s Your Deal?

In a major change to a loyalty program once lauded for its value and transparency, Southwest has begun pricing award tickets “dynamically.” In other words, however they want.

Unlimited Flights on Surf Air for $1,750

All the flying you want, for $1,750 a month. Sound too good to be true? It is true, however, but with some important qualifications.

Pay American’s CEO in Frequent-Flyer Miles

Instead of stock or cash, what if American’s CEO were compensated with frequent-flyer miles? That would align his interests with those of American’s customers, rather than stockholders.

Where to Go: the 10 Happiest Places on Earth

Given a choice, would you choose to visit a happy country or an unhappy country? Either way, the World Happiness Report can steer you in the right direction.

Delta’s ‘Basic’ Fares Come with a Warning

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Delta’s Basic fares entail some sacrifice in flexibility in exchange for a cheaper ticket. That seems like an acceptable tradeoff, and probably a good deal. Or is it?

Free Uber Rides, Discounts for Capital One Cardholders

Uber now has two promotions in effect with Capital One, featuring a 20 percent discount for the next year and two free rides.

Alaska Air Debuts Self-Tagged Bags with a Bonus

Alaska Airlines has a new idea for checking bags: self-tagging bags at home, before leaving for the airport. And it’s offering bonus miles to flyers willing to try it out.

IHG’s ‘Share Forever’ Promotion Begins on May 1

Between May 1 and September 7, IHG Rewards members can earn between 68,500 and 115,500 bonus points, plus up to 58,500 bonus points to share, or to keep for themselves.

Win Premium Economy Tickets to Paris

Enter the Atout France “France on the Fly” sweepstakes by June 30 for a chance to win Premium Economy tickets for two to Paris, and a culinary experience with a top French baker.

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