Miles & Points: The Week's Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of January 2, 2015)

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.

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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.

Free Checked Bags in January with Alaska Air

Alaska Airlines will waive fees for the first checked bag, throughout the month of January, for all Mileage Plan program members.

25 Retirement Cities Worth a Visit

If great places to retire are great places to visit, the new Forbes “Best Places to Retire” study is a great source of trip ideas.

From InterContinental: Double Airline Miles

Between January 7 and April 30, 2015, IHG Rewards members who elect to earn airline miles can earn double miles for every stay, up to a maximum of 10,000 bonus miles.

Alaska Air Discounts Award Flights Up to 60%

Alaska Air’s award sale is a terrific deal: solid discounts, on a fairly wide range of flights, with a two-month travel window. But you must book by January 8.

AirTran, Gone but Not Forgotten

AirTran completed its final flight, between Atlanta and Tampa, on December 28, closing a chapter in aviation history that began in 1993, with ValuJet.

Hyatt Does Free Wi-Fi Right

Next year, Marriott, Starwood, and Hyatt will offer their guests free in-room Wi-Fi. But only one company’s free Wi-Fi will come with no strings attached. Thank you, Hyatt!

Double Points for Select Virgin America Flights

Through February, Elevate members can earn double points for Virgin America flights to Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, and Palm Springs.

New Choice Hotels Offer: Triple Points

Between now and February 18, Choice Privileges members can earn triple points for stays that include a weeknight, up to a maximum of 30,000 bonus points.

Win a Four-Night Trip for Two to Paris

Enter the Boiron sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip for two to Paris, including air and four nights’ hotel accommodations.

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

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