Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of February 3, 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.

Flyers Give Thumbs Down to New Slimline Seats

Airlines have been crowing about their new slimline seats, promoting them as a positive step for passenger comfort. A new TripAdvisor survey reality-checks those comfort claims.

Hilton Will Charge Extra for Faster Wi-Fi

When it comes to Wi-Fi, the hotels can’t decide whether to accede to travelers’ demands for free Internet access, or gouge them for the privilege. Hilton wants to have it both ways.

Upgrades to Follow Delta Lounge Price Increase

Likely in response to complaints about the 54 percent increase in lounge membership prices, Delta today announced a test of upgraded Sky Club amenities.

Now for Sale: Southwest International Flights

After decades of domestic-only service, Southwest will begin flying overseas, to the Caribbean, in July.

Southwest: ‘No Bag Fees in 2014’

Southwest CEO Gary Kelly laid to rest rumors that Southwest would begin imposing fees for checked bags and for flight changes. Not in 2014, he promised.

Up to 3,000 Bonus American Miles for Avis Rentals

Through March 31, AAdvantage members can earn up to 3,000 bonus miles for Avis rentals. It’s among the best mileage bonuses currently on offer for car rentals.

Bonus for AAdvantage Credit Card: 100,000 Miles

For a limited time, new AAdvantage World Elite cardholders are being offered 100,000 bonus miles after charging $10,000 to the card within three months of signing up.

Double Virgin America Points for Emirates Flights

Between February 15 and May 15, members of Virgin America’s Elevate program can earn double points for every roundtrip Emirates flight from a U.S. gateway.

Win a Five-Day Trip for Two to the Cayman Islands

Enter the STARZ “High Seas” sweepstakes by February 15, 2014, for a chance to win a five-day trip for two to Grand Cayman, including air, hotel, most meals, and a rental car.

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