Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of October 30, 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.

American to Challenge Spirit with No-Frills Fares

American last week disclosed plans to begin offering low-priced, stripped-down fares beginning in 2016. Look out, Spirit!

IHG Award Nights at 186 Hotels for 5,000-Points

IHG Rewards today released its latest list of 186 PointBreaks hotels that are available for booking for just 5,000 points per night.

DOT Bans E-Cigarettes In Checked Bags

E-smokers beware! The Department of Transportation this week issued a ruling prohibiting any battery-powered e-smoking devices from being transported in checked bags.

Four Seasons Does Free Wi-Fi Right

How much for hotel Wi-Fi access? Now, at all Four Seasons hotels, the answer is an unqualified “free.”

Devaluation Alert: British Airways Executive Club

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On February 2, British Airways will raise the price of some short-haul award flights by 67 percent. So book your flights now, or face sticker shock later.

Delta Spurns Airline Lobbying Group

Delta will sever ties with the airline industry’s foremost lobbying organization next year. Should travel consumers cheer the break-up?

Starwood Offers Members-Only Discounts

Starwood this week began offering discounts of up to 10 percent to members of its Preferred Guest program. The discount scheme is off to a rocky start, however.

Alaska Airlines, Emirates Expand Ties

Building on their existing reciprocal frequent-flyer program relationship, Alaska Airlines and Emirates will begin codesharing as soon as the necessary government approvals have been secured.

Win a 3-Night Trip for 2 to the Napa Valley

Enter the Food Network “Destination Napa” sweepstakes by November 23 for a chance to win a three-night trip for two to the Napa Valley, including air, hotel, and a check for $1,500.

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