Southwest Airlines is making power moves, IHG just dropped their richest-ever bonus, and British Airways is completely reimagining their lounge experience. Let's dive into today's biggest developments in miles & points...
✈️ Southwest's Premium Evolution: Lounges & $500+ Card Coming
In a stunning shift from their no-frills roots, Southwest Airlines has confirmed plans to open multiple premium airport lounges across their network. The airline is also testing a new premium credit card with a $500+ annual fee that would include lounge access. This represents Southwest's biggest push yet into the premium travel space.
🏨 IHG's Richest-Ever Offer: 200,000 Point Bonus
The IHG Business Credit Card just launched its largest welcome bonus ever - 200,000 bonus points for new cardholders. This offer is particularly valuable for luxury stays at InterContinental, Kimpton, and Six Senses properties. But act fast - this offer ends October 22nd.
🛫 British Airways Unveils Stunning New Lounge Design
British Airways just revealed a completely reimagined lounge concept, debuting first in Miami. The new design is genuinely impressive, featuring elevated dining spaces, wellness areas, and a sophisticated British aesthetic. This will be the template for all future BA lounge renovations globally.
⚠️ Delta's Outdated Rule Stranding Passengers
Delta continues enforcing a problematic 1990s-era rule requiring passengers to present their original payment card at check-in for international flights. This has left travelers stranded overseas and may violate UK/EU compensation laws. If you're flying Delta internationally, bring the card you used to book or risk major headaches.
😅 Marriott's Review Bribery Exposed
One Miami Marriott property got caught offering 3,000 Bonvoy points to guests - but only for perfect review scores. The hotel's email explicitly requested 10/10 ratings in exchange for the points, raising serious questions about review authenticity.
💰 US Bank's $1,200 Business Bonus
US Bank launched an impressive business checking bonus offering up to $1,200 cash with no direct deposit requirement. You'll need to deposit $25,000 within 30 days and maintain the balance for 60 days. A smaller $400 bonus is available with just $5,000 in deposits.
💳 Today's Best Points & Miles Opportunities
Before we wrap up, I wanted to share some timely opportunities I've been tracking (courtesy of our friends at AwardTravelFinder). These deals won't last long, so let's dive in.
✈️ Current Transfer Bonuses
Active transfer bonuses worth considering:
Rove Miles → Air France KLM Flying Blue: +20% bonus
Rove Miles → Finnair Plus+: +20% bonus
Capital One Miles → JAL: Japan Airlines) Mileage Bank (+30% bonus
Other / Unknown → United MileagePlus: +25% bonus
Wyndham → United MileagePlus: 10 Wyndham points -> 4 United miles) (+100% bonus
💰 Buy Points & Miles Promotions
Airline programs:
JetBlue TrueBlue: 130% bonus at 1.4¢ (expires October 28, 2025)
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club: 70% bonus at 1.48¢ (expires October 12, 2025)
American Airlines AAdvantage®: 35% discount at 2.45¢ (expires October 11, 2025)
United MileagePlus: 30% discount at 2.63¢ (expires December 31, 2025)
Hotel programs:
Wyndham Rewards: 90% discount at 0.68¢ (expires October 21, 2025)