Well, hello there, award enthusiasts! Today's a whirlwind of news, so buckle up. Citi is the undisputed star, shaking things up with a new premium card, AAdvantage transfers, and assurances for Prestige holders. But we've also got deals on gift cards, budget European travel, and even a chance to snag a lie-flat seat on a domestic flight. Ready to dive in?

The biggest news is undoubtedly Citi finally adding American Airlines AAdvantage as a transfer partner! This is huge for anyone holding Citi ThankYou points, immediately increasing their value and flexibility. No longer are you limited to co-branded AA cards to earn those sweet, sweet AAdvantage miles. Plus, with the new Citi Strata Elite card boasting a hefty welcome bonus and ongoing perks, it looks like Citi is making a serious play for the premium travel card market. And speaking of the Strata Elite, existing Prestige cardholders can breathe easy – Citi isn't forcing any migrations, so you can keep enjoying those legacy benefits.

Of course, a new premium card means a hefty annual fee, so is the Strata Elite worth it? That depends. Citi is dangling a $300 annual hotel credit, a $200 "Splurge" credit for things like American Airlines flights or Best Buy purchases, and other goodies. If you can maximize these credits and value the lounge access, it could be a good deal. Crunch those numbers and see if it fits your travel style.

Beyond the Citi-verse, budget travelers rejoice! AwardWallet Blog dropped a guide on snagging super cheap award flights to Europe, sometimes for as little as 6,000 points. Who says a European adventure has to break the bank? And for those who want a taste of luxury closer to home, American Airlines is flying some internationally-configured planes on domestic routes in August 2025, offering the chance to experience lie-flat seats without leaving the US. Keep an eye on those routes – you might just get lucky.

Finally, a few quick hits to keep your rewards game strong: Don't forget to keep your Best Buy rewards alive with a purchase or return. Idaho residents can snag an easy $250 bonus with Westmark Credit Union. And Office Depot/Max is offering $15 off $300 Mastercard gift cards, a great way to rack up credit card rewards (just watch those activation fees!). Plus, the AwardWallet team is enduring Turkish Airlines economy on their Six Continents Million Mile Challenge, giving you the inside scoop on what to expect on those long-haul flights.

So, what's the takeaway from today's deluge of rewards news? Diversification and strategy are key. With Citi upping its game, AAdvantage miles becoming easier to earn, and deals popping up everywhere, it's time to re-evaluate your points strategy and make sure you're maximizing every opportunity. Happy travels, everyone!