It's a good day for international travel enthusiasts! Several airlines are offering significantly reduced fares to destinations around the globe, and Vietnam has streamlined its visa process. These factors, combined, create compelling opportunities for both seasoned award travelers and those new to the game. Is now the time to spend down your points balances and take that bucket-list trip, or capitalize on these reduced cash fares and save your points for another day? Let's dive into the details.
Flight Deals
Maui, Hawaii: Flights to Maui (OGG) are available for around $609 in regular economy. This deal is particularly attractive because Maui is typically an expensive destination. The Flight Deal recommends using Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software to find the best dates. Remember that deals to Hawaii can be seasonal and capacity-controlled, so flexibility is key. Read More
New Delhi, India: Flights to New Delhi are appearing for approximately $769 in regular economy. This is a competitive price, especially considering the long-haul nature of the flight. As with the Maui deal, Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software is the recommended tool for finding these fares. India offers a rich cultural experience, and saving on airfare allows for a more immersive trip. Read More
Phuket, Thailand: Keep an eye on The Flight Deal for upcoming details about cheap flights to Phuket. A sample date of January 28th to February 4th, 2026, was mentioned. Phuket is a popular destination for its beaches and nightlife, and a discounted fare could make it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers. Monitor The Flight Deal's website for updates on pricing and availability. Read More
Vienna, Austria: Flights to Vienna can be found for around $486, but these fares are typically for Basic Economy tickets. Be aware of the potential extra costs associated with Basic Economy, such as fees for checked bags and seat selection. Use Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software to pinpoint the cheapest dates. Vienna is a culturally rich destination with beautiful architecture. Read More
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Roundtrip flights to Punta Cana are available for as low as $372 in regular economy. This represents a significant discount. Google Flights or ITA Matrix Airfare Search can be used to find these fares. Punta Cana is a popular destination for all-inclusive resorts and beach vacations, so this is an excellent deal. Read More
San Juan, Puerto Rico: Flights to San Juan are back under $300 roundtrip. The Flight Deal recommends using Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software to find the best dates. San Juan offers a blend of history, culture, and beaches. Read More
Phuket, Thailand (Fall): Affordable flights to Phuket (HKT) are available this November. While only one sample date (November 5th - 12th) is listed, it's worth exploring to find dates that suit your schedule. This could be an excellent opportunity to use travel rewards for accommodations and experiences. Read More
Belize: Flights to Belize are appearing for around $383 for a regular economy ticket. Use Matrix Airfare Search by ITA Software to find the best dates. Belize is known for its Mayan ruins and diving opportunities. Read More
Fairbanks, Alaska: Flights to Fairbanks are available for around $397 on Alaska Airlines, including advance seat selection and a regular-sized carry-on bag. This is a good option for those interested in seeing the Northern Lights or exploring Denali National Park. Read More
Visa Update
Vietnam E-Visa: Vietnam has implemented a new e-Visa system, simplifying the visa application process. This is a significant improvement for travelers, saving time and potentially money. Be sure to check the official government website for requirements and application procedures. Read More
Strategic Takeaways
For Beginners: Now is an excellent time to consider an international trip! The availability of several flight deals and simplified visa processes make it more accessible than ever. Start by researching your desired destination and use the recommended tools (Matrix Airfare Search, Google Flights) to find the best deals.
For Points Veterans: Evaluate whether these cash fares are lower than redeeming miles for the same flights. If so, consider paying cash and saving your points for premium cabin redemptions or hotel stays. Also, the Vietnam e-Visa update is a welcome change, saving time and potentially money.
For Business Travelers: If your travel plans include any of the destinations listed above, take advantage of these deals to save your company money. The Vietnam e-Visa will also streamline the travel process for employees visiting Vietnam.
These deals emphasize the importance of staying informed and being flexible with your travel dates. The combination of flight deals and simplified visa procedures creates a favorable environment for international travel, whether you're a seasoned points collector or just starting to explore the world.