About Gary Leff

Gary Leff is one of the foremost experts in the field of miles, points, and frequent business travel - a topic he has covered since 2002. Co-founder of frequent flyer community InsideFlyer.com, emcee of the Freddie Awards, and named one of the "World's Top Travel Experts" by Conde' Nast Traveler (2010-Present) Gary has been a guest on most major news media, profiled in several top print publications, and published broadly on the topic of consumer loyalty. More About Gary »

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Starwood Offers 35% Discount on Awards at Top Resorts That Are Usually Outrageously Expensive

Sep 18 2015

One of the best things about Starwood Preferred Guest is that they have many participating properties that are really nice, aspirational places where I really want to spend my points.

One of the frustrating things about Starwood Preferred Guest is that some of their nicest properties cost so many points. At 7 of the most expensive redemption properties, though, they’re offering 35% off the points price of awards.

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United Brings Back Award Holds on Their New Website!

Sep 17 2015

The ability to hold an award is important. Instant ticketing makes life difficult for the frequent flyer, which is why I love American’s 5 day hold policy so much.

United took away the legit ability to do award holds three years ago. But now with the rollout of their new website, they’ve brought it back for folks who have some miles in their account but not enough to ticket their award. Here’s how to use that to your advantage!

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American Will Now Charge You for 2 Awards If You Fly Hawaiian Airlines Beyond Hawaii

Sep 16 2015

September 1 we lost the ability to redeem American miles for travel between the mainland US and Hawaii on Hawaiian Airlines. We could still book awards that include Hawaiian for travel with the islands, and to international destinations beyond Hawaii.

It turns out though — and not part of American’s announcement — including Hawaiian Airlines to destinations beyond Hawaii will require redeeming a separate award.

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