Articles
Articles
The calculators answer "is this stay worth it." These answer the questions behind them — how a benefit actually works, where a program quietly costs you money, and when to go. Every figure comes from a program's own published terms.
August 13, 2026
Marriott's fifth night free
Marriott zeroes out your cheapest night, not 20% of the bill — so the benefit is worth least exactly when travelers expect it to be worth most.
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Hyatt points vs cash
Hyatt's five-tier chart changed the math in May 2026. How to work out cents per point, and which tiers still beat paying cash.
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Best months for Albania
September, then June. Albania is three destinations with three seasons — coast, interior and alps — so pick the region first and the month follows.
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Resort fees on award stays
Hyatt and Hilton waive resort fees on award stays. Marriott and IHG charge them. What that does to your points math, and how to keep fees off the bill.
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Book direct vs OTA
The headline price is usually identical. What differs is what comes attached — points, elite night credits, and who controls your reservation.
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