Points, Perks, and Paradise: Award Travel News Roundup
Hey award travel aficionados! Today's news is a whirlwind of opportunities to maximize your miles, score sweet deals, and maybe even snag that dream trip to Tahiti (on the cheap!). From transfer bonuses to flash sales and new experiences, there's something for everyone looking to make their travel dreams a reality. Let's dive in!
Capital One & Avianca: A Transfer Bonus Bonanza
First up, Capital One miles are getting a 15% boost when transferred to Avianca LifeMiles! Important: This bonus lasts until August 31, 2025. LifeMiles has some serious sweet spots, like United flights from just 6,600 Capital One miles (with the bonus) or business class to Europe for under 48,000 miles. The catch? LifeMiles can be a little quirky. But are those savings worth a bit of extra effort? I think so!
Tahiti on a Budget? United Says Yes!
Speaking of dreams, United MileagePlus is having a flash sale today only (August 4, 2025) on economy award tickets to Tahiti, with prices as low as 30,000 miles each way. Yes, you read that right: Tahiti on a budget! If you've been eyeing those overwater bungalows, now's the time to check your MileagePlus balance and pounce. Flash sales are fleeting, so don't delay!
Southwest: Deals on Deals, But Seat Selection Changes on the Horizon
Southwest is making waves with both good and slightly concerning news. On the bright side, you can currently snag up to 40% off your next Southwest flight (book by August 7, 2025!). On the other hand, starting January 27, 2026, Southwest will start charging for seat selection. While A-List members and those booking certain fares get freebies, budget travelers might want to factor these fees into their planning. Sneaky tip: You can always roll the dice and pick your seat at check-in for free. Is this the end of the free-for-all Southwest seat selection era? Only time will tell!
Extra Perks: Uber Savings, Choice Experiences & British Airways Avios
Beyond flights and hotels, there are other ways to save. Uber users can snag a $100 gift card for $85 at Newegg or get a free 5-month Uber One membership through PayPal. Choice Hotels is offering racing experiences for points redemptions, so you can live out your need for speed. Plus, British Airways is releasing special Avios-only flights on select routes. These could be your ticket to a premium cabin without breaking the bank.
Citi and Southwest Credit Card Bonuses: Maximize Your Earnings
Don't forget about those credit card bonuses! AwardWallet Blog has a guide to help you time your Citi card applications for maximum bonus potential. Plus, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card is offering a whopping 100,000-point bonus. With these huge point bonuses, now is a good time to open the accounts.
Final Thoughts
Today's news is a reminder that the award travel world is constantly evolving. Deals pop up and disappear quickly, so it's crucial to stay informed and be ready to act fast. Whether it's a flash sale to Tahiti or a limited-time transfer bonus, there are always opportunities to make your travel dreams a reality, and remember to keep your eyes out for deals.