Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of March 18, 2016)

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 10 Worst U.S. Cities for Traffic

Travelers visiting these car-choked cities should expect to spend some of their precious vacation time sitting in traffic alongside commuting locals.

The Best Mileage Program for Average Travelers: Alaska Air’s

Average travelers looking to get worthwhile value from an airline program will find that Alaska’s Mileage Plan is at the top of a very short list.

Spirit Waives Bag Fees – What Could Happen Next?

It’s true: Spirit is waiving fees. But not all fees. And not for all travelers.

Earn a Free Starwood Night After Three Paid Nights

Through May 31, Starwood Preferred Guest members can earn a free night at a Category 1 – 5 Starwood hotel after three paid nights at Design Hotels.

The World’s 10 Most (and Least) Expensive Cities

According to The Economist’s “Worldwide Cost of Living” report, the world’s 10 most expensive cities are also among the world’s top travel destinations.

SeaWorld’s Killer Whale Program to End – Can Zoos Survive?

SeaWorld’s decision to end its killer whale program raises the prospect of a world in which zoos and animal parks simply don’t exist.

Marriott Offers Discount for Direct Bookings

With Marriott’s new direct-booking discount, travelers have one fewer reason to book through a travel agent.

New Offer Could Derail Marriott-Starwood Merger

An unsolicited bid for Starwood from a Chinese investor group could derail the merger with Marriott that was widely assumed to be a done deal.

What Do Spirit and WOW Air Have in Common?

Will the appointment of Spirit’s former CEO to WOW Air’s board of directors turn WOW into UGH?

Win a $10,000 American Airlines Vacations Voucher

Enter the American Airlines “Your Vacation Spot” sweepstakes by April 1 for a chance to win a $10,000 American Airlines Vacations travel voucher.

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

More from SmarterTravel:

• Airline Nuisance Fees – Should They Be Outlawed?
• The Uber Dilemma: To Tip, or Not to Tip
• Spring Travel Forecast: More Flyers, Less Comfort

After 20 years working in the travel industry, and 15 years writing about it, Tim Winship knows a thing or two about travel. Follow him on Twitter @twinship.