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Create Free AccountThe Pointify Journal
Points strategies, fare-deal breakdowns, and the stories behind the sweet spots — written by the team that watches award space all day. Updated every week.
All 601 postsPage 17 of 50

Delta SkyMiles co-brand cards come from Amex in three premium tiers. With Delta's dynamic award pricing, the value of these cards is in benefits (Sky Club, MQM boost, free checked bags) more than miles earned.

Mistake fares ($300 trans-Atlantic business, $200 trans-Pacific economy) appear weekly. Most don't hold. Here is the 2026 framework for spotting them, booking quickly, and protecting your reservation.

Most "buy points" promotions are bad value at retail. But periodically, a 100% bonus or 50% discount changes the math. Here is when buying points makes sense in 2026.

Three booking paths: third-party OTAs (Expedia, Booking.com), direct on the airline/hotel, or with points. Each wins on different terrain. Here is the 2026 framework for which to pick.

Sapporo (CTS) sees seasonal direct service from Singapore and connecting routes via Tokyo and Osaka. Here is the cheapest 2026 path for points travelers, plus hotels in Sapporo and Niseko.

Tahiti (PPT) sees direct service from LAX and SFO on Air France and Air Tahiti Nui. The cheapest path is Flying Blue. Here is the practical 2026 picture for getting to Bora Bora on points.

Cusco (CUZ) is the gateway to Machu Picchu. There are no direct international flights — every traveler routes via Lima first. Here is the cheapest 2026 path including the internal LATAM connection.

US-Havana flights returned in 2024 after rule changes. American and JetBlue run direct service. The cheapest award is AAdvantage off-peak. Here is the practical 2026 picture and the legal travel categories.

Tulum opened a new airport (TQO) in December 2023, eliminating the 2-hour drive from Cancun. Direct US service is expanding rapidly. Here are the 2026 award routings and which airport to choose.

Casablanca (CMN) is Morocco's gateway. Royal Air Maroc joined Oneworld in 2020. Delta runs direct from JFK. Here are the 2026 award routings plus the Marrakech and Fez onward by train.

Amex Gold sits at $325/year in 2026. The 4x dining + groceries earn rate is still class-leading, but the credit menu has gotten more complex. Is it still the strongest dining/grocery card?

Amex Hilton Aspire is the only credit card that auto-grants Diamond status. With $550 fee + $400 resort + $200 airline + $200 flight + $100 property + $189 CLEAR credits, the card pays for itself for most travelers.
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