Recap: The 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.

A new report paints a disturbing picture of the airline industry’s successful efforts to push the government to approve the American-US Airways merger.

New DOT Rules Aim to Spur Competition, Protect Travelers. Do They?

A new set of rules enacted this week by the DOT is supposed to increase competition and enhance consumer protections. Here’s a reality check.

Leapfrogging Rivals, Google Flights Now Predicts Airfare Changes

Google this week added a new feature to the Google Flights app that alerts users to the timing of upcoming price changes. This changes everything!

Conde Nast Readers’ 20 Favorite Airlines. Are They Yours?

Conde Nast’s latest reader survey ranks Singapore Air and Virgin America as the world’s best airlines. Check the complete list and see if you agree.

Coming: Cheaper Flights to Europe, but Mind the Restrictions

In the coming months, Europe airfares should be a relative bargain, if you’re willing to live with the compromises that come bundled with bare fares.

Ready or Not, Bare Fares Coming to American, United in 2017

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Ultra-cheap fares, stripped of perks and loaded with restrictions, are coming to American and United in early 2017. Good news, or bad?

Use Your Amex Card to Earn More Points at Small Businesses

Intense competition in the credit card market is forcing American Express to offer better bonuses and perks. It’s about time!

4 Ways to Earn Loyalty Points for Airbnb Stays

Airbnb customers have limited options for earning loyalty points for their stays. Here’s what you need to know.

How the Government Failed Consumers: The Sad Story of Airline Consolidation

A new report paints a disturbing picture of the airline industry’s successful efforts to push the government to approve the American-US Airways merger.

Win a 12-Day Tour of Peru for 2

Enter this sweepstakes for a chance to win a 12-day trip for two to Peru, including air, tour package, accommodations, some meals, travel apparel, and more.

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

More from SmarterTravel:

• 21 Things Flight Attendants Hate About You
• The Latest Award Discounts for American Air Credit Cardholders
• Coming: New York to London in 3 Hours, for $5,000 Roundtrip

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.