Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of August 21, 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.

For Budget Travelers, Blue(r) Skies Ahead

In what looks to be a developing trend, airfares were down 5.6% in July, the biggest drop in almost 20 years. Time to dust off the rollaboard and check the expiration date on your passport.

United Tightens Up Lounge Access

Beginning on August 18, 2016, “all United Club customers, including members, will only be eligible to access United Club locations if they have a same-day boarding pass.”

When to Forego a ‘Free’ $5,000 Trip

Dottie won a sweepstakes featuring a grand-prize trip worth more than $5,000. Here’s why she turned it down…

Perspective: The Real Life of a Flight Attendant

Ever wondered what it’s like to live the life of a flight attendant? Here’s an unflinching glimpse of the job from one of our readers, who’s engaged to a working flight attendant.

Marriott’s New MegaBonus Disappoints

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The hotel chain’s recurring MegaBonus offers continue to decline in value.

United Discounts Award Flights to Brazil, Chile

Between August 19 and November 30, United MileagePlus members can book coach-class award flights between the U.S. or Canada and Brazil or Chile for 25 percent fewer miles.

Hilton’s Fall Promo: Double or Triple Points

Between September 1 and December 31, Hilton HHonors members can earn double points for weekday stays and triple points on weekends at all 4,300-plus Hilton HHonors hotels.

Book Select IHG Award Nights for 50% Fewer Points

Between August 24 and September 9, IHG Rewards members can book award nights at 12 hotels in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean for 50% fewer points, for stays through October 31.

Win a Week in Colombia for 2

Enter the LATAM Airlines “Colombia Green & Gold” sweepstakes by September 4 for a chance to win a seven-day trip for two to Colombia, including air, hotels, and tours.

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