Mark Jackson Latest Posts

Distance Traveled in 2025
Visited in 2025

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.

A Beginner’s Guide to Building a Credit Card Application Strategy

U.S banks play a huge role in the travel rewards ecosystem. Learning about credit card application rules won’t be the most exciting part of your points-and-miles education, but it’s hard to overstate the importance of building a healthy relationship with the banks for your credit card application strategy. In this post, we explain how to build a sustainable, long-term strategy.

Fly With a Plus One for Less: How to Earn and Use an Alaska Airlines Companion Fare

The Alaska Airlines Companion Fare is available to both personal and business Alaska credit cardholders after meeting minimum spend requirements. The fare code allows you to book a one-time coach ticket for a companion for just $99 plus taxes and fees on any Alaska Airlines-operated domestic or international flight. Here's how it works, including the restrictions to beware of.

Launching This Summer: Use Your Alaska Airlines Companion Fare on Hawaiian Airlines

Alaska’s 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 this summer, you’ll be able to take it even further on Hawaiian Airlines.

Choice Privileges® Mastercard® Credit Card Review: Earn Hotel Points and Pay No Annual Fee

If you regularly often stay at Choice hotels — or have a trip planned to Japan or the Nordics — the Choice Privileges® Mastercard® can be a great option to add to your wallet. It lets you earn Choice Privileges points with no annual fee, along with granting complimentary Choice Gold elite status. Is this the right card for your wallet? Let's take a look.

Carnival Cruise Line Teases New Ships — and Big Changes to Its VIFP Loyalty Program

Carnival is going big — literally! From two new Excel-class ships designed with families in mind to mega-ships capable of carrying 8,000 guests, Carnival Cruise Line just revealed major fleet and destination upgrades. Plus, changes are coming to the VIFP loyalty program for the first time in over a decade. Here’s everything shared at Carnival’s “Innovation Itinerary” media event — and what it means for travelers.