Mark Jackson Latest Posts

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Most of Mark’s professional career has revolved around credit cards and points and miles. He’s been to over 95 countries, but still hasn’t visited all the “real” countries of Epcot’s World Showcase. He enjoys leaving his hometown of Scottsdale, Arizona anytime the temperature rises above 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

Spacious and Stunning: 9 of The Most Incredible Suites Bookable With World of Hyatt Points

The World of Hyatt program is an incredible example of hotel loyalty done right. Hyatt charges far fewer points for a free night than the competition—including to book the best rooms at top-tier properties. My favorite Hyatt redemptions are for ‘Premium Suites’, which members can book for double the standard award rate. Here are our picks for the best Hyatt Suites across the globe.

Is Earning Interest on Your Bilt Points Worth It? Here’s What You’ll Actually Get

One of the more unusual perks of Bilt elite status is the ability to earn interest — paid in the form of bonus points — on your existing Bilt Rewards balance. On the surface, it sounds like a no-brainer: keep your points, and they’ll grow over time. But, is it actually worth factoring into your Bilt strategy? Let’s break down how it works, what you can realistically earn, and when it might make sense.

Marriott’s Nightly Upgrade Awards, Explained: Where You Can Use Them and How They Work

Marriott Bonvoy's Nightly Upgrade Awards are a benefit that elite members can choose through Annual Choice Benefits. With these awards, you can request a room upgrade prior to arrival at the hotel. This benefit replaced the previous and similar Suite Night Awards. Here's a closer look at what Nightly Upgrade Awards are, how to earn them, and how to use them.

A Guide to Hyatt Explorist Status: Is It Worth It?

World of Hyatt Explorist status sits one level above Discoverist and one below top-tier Globalist. For those loyal to the Hyatt brand, Explorist offers enough perks to make each stay more comfortable and rewarding. While it's not Hyatt's elite status sweet spot (that award goes to Globalist), Explorist is fairly easy to earn and likely worth the investment to those who prefer Hyatt over competitors like Hilton and Marriott. Here's everything you need to know about World of Hyatt Explorist status, including how to earn it.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Guide: How the 2025 Changes Are Reshaping the Program

Southwest’s loyalty program has long been a fan favorite thanks to perks like the Companion Pass, no change fees, and two free checked bags. But major changes in 2025 — including lower earning rates, variable award pricing, and adding bag fees — have reshaped the program. Here’s what still works, what’s changing, and how to maximize your Rapid Rewards points going forward.

You Can Now Use Your Alaska Airlines Companion Fare on Hawaiian Airlines

Alaska’s "Famous Companion Fare" is famous for a reason. This lucrative benefit allows eligible Mileage Plan credit cardholders to purchase a round-trip ticket for a companion for $99 (plus taxes and fees) anywhere Alaska Airlines flies within North America. Traditionally, it’s only been valid on Alaska-operated flights, but now you can take it even further on Hawaiian Airlines.

Alaska Mileage Plan Adds Redemptions on Porter Airlines — Fly to Canada From 4.5k Miles Each Way!

Alaska Mileage Plan members can now book awards on Porter Airlines using Alaska miles. The partnership between Porter and Alaska kicked off in late 2023, but until now, it hasn't been possible to book award travel on the airline using Alaska miles. Let's dig into the details of this new redemption partner and see if it makes sense for your future travels to and from Canada.