Miles & Points: The Week's Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of September 11, 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.

These Hotels Charge Extra for Air Conditioning

“London hotel rooms for $85 a night!” Nice, but you’ll get what you pay for, and that doesn’t include air conditioning. Or towels. Or in-room TV.

One Simple Rule for Surviving an Airline Emergency

Fire onboard! How you exit a burning aircraft can make the difference between life and death, for you and for other passengers. Here’s one simple rule to remember.

United on Ousted CEO: “Jeff Smisek, Who’s He?”

United has gone to great lengths to distance itself from ousted CEO, Jeff Smisek, target of a federal corruption investigation. But can the airline be turned around, post-Smisek?

Best Time to Renew Your Passport: Now

According to the U.S. State Department, the very best time to apply for a new passport, or renew an expiring one, is between September and the end of December. In other words, now.

Southwest Credit Card Sign-Up Bonus: 50,000 Points

Southwest has temporarily upped the sign-up bonus for its Rapid Rewards Premier credit card to 50,000 points after new cardholders charge $2,000 within three months.

Earn Double Airline Miles for IHG Stays

Through December 31, members of InterContinental’s IHG Rewards program can earn double miles for the second and subsequent stays in the programs of 33 airlines.

Earn a Free Night After Two Choice Hotel Stays

Between September 3 and November 11, Choice Privileges members can earn 8,000 points after two stays. That’s enough points for a free night at more than 1,500 Choice hotels.

Who Decides Whether to Allow Inflight Cell Calls?

Last year’s brouhaha surrounding the issue of inflight cellphone calls is being revived with a recommendation to the DOT that the decision be left to the airlines.

Win a 9-Night French Winery Tour for 2

Enter the Atout France “French Vineyards” sweepstakes by October 15 for a chance to win a nine-night trip for two to France, including air, rail passes, hotels, and winery tours.

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

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