"Pick one frequent-flier/guest-loyalty program, and stick with it. With airlines in various states of financial health and the rules of programs changing every nanosecond, you might be tempted to join several frequent-flier programs just in case. But Joel Widzer, author of The Penny Pincher's Passport to Luxury Travel, says 2005 is the year to go the other way. 'Pick one or two programs,' he says. That way, you fly your way to elite status, which is 'more difficult to achieve but also more rewarding once you get there.' That goes for hotel 'frequent stay' programs, too. But once you make it to the top, you'll be treated like Donald Trump--and your award points will be better protected from any new efforts to devalue their worth."

Diversions: Eight simple rules for '05
from US News and World Report
January 10, 2005
by Christopher Elliott

"Joel Widzer, a loyalty program expert based in Orange County, Calif., was recently contacted by the security director of a major airline…'You definitely get the feeling that they are taking any kind of abusive behavior, and even the prospect of abusive behavior, more seriously than ever,' he said. 'Airlines are not afraid to tell their customers to take their business elsewhere.'"

Airlines Blacklist Fliers, Some Merely Annoying
from The New York Times
December 14, 2004

"Looking for great getaway travel deals now that winter is on its way? Well, they're not hard to find."

5 Tips: Finding cheap travel to great vacation spots
from CNN/Money
by Gerri Willis, CNN/Money contributing columnist
November 19, 2004