Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of February 21, 2014)

Following is our regular summary of the latest travel news and best frequent traveler promotions reviewed during the past week.

If it was a good deal—or a notably bad deal—from an airline, hotel, or car rental loyalty program, you can read all about it here, and plan your travel accordingly.

The World’s Most Valuable Travel Brands

A new study by Brand Finance ranks the world’s top 500 brands, including those in travel. See which companies made the cut.

US Air to Raise Prices for Elite Status

Beginning on March 1, prices to buy elite status with US Airways will rise precipitously, in some cases more than doubling. Would-be elites should act now.

Upcoming Starwood Changes a Net Positive. Really!

Unlike most recent hotel-industry repricing exercises, which have resulted in devaluations of programs’ point values, the upcoming Starwood changes are benign overall.

Latest Hotel-Program Devaluation: Club Carlson

With the just-announced changes to Carlson’s loyalty program, most program members will find themselves earning fewer points, and redeeming more points for award nights.

Could That Be Capital One Knocking on Your Door?

In its new terms and conditions, Capital One now claims for itself the right to visit cardholders at their home or workplace. How creepy is that?

Delta All in on Seattle: Double Miles All Year

Delta announced today that all Seattle non-stops will earn both double award miles and double elite-qualifying miles through the end of this year.

Earn a 25% Bonus When Buying British Air Miles

Through March 23, Executive Club members will receive 25 percent more Avios when purchasing their annual allotment of 27,000 Avios. Deal or no deal?

Win a Five-Night Trip for Two to Hawaii

Enter the Kona Brewing Company Plan Your Paradise sweepstakes by April 30 for a chance to win a trip for two to Hawaii, including air, hotel, and a $1,000 voucher.

Somebody has to win, right? Might as well be you.