What's New in March 2025

As we move into March 2025, we are excited to bring you the latest updates from the travel industry. This month, significant changes and enhancements are being introduced by various airlines and hotel companies, ensuring a more enjoyable and seamless travel experience for all. Stay tuned for the latest news and insights that will help you plan your next adventure!

1. Southwest airline changes

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Starting May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines will replace Wanna Get Away with Basic Fare, which won’t allow flight changes, has non-transferable flight credits, and requires a FEE for checked bags. Passengers without A-List status or a Southwest credit card must pay for checked bags, while eligible travelers get free bags. Rapid Rewards earning rates will decrease for lower fares and increase for Business Select, with variable redemption rates. To maximize benefits, book before May 28 or get a Southwest credit card.

It’s really disappointing to see Southwest moving away from what made them so popular—free bags, flexible changes, and simple rewards. The introduction of Basic Fares with no changes, fees for checked bags, and reduced Rapid Rewards earnings feels like a step backward.

2. New Marriott Brands

Marriott has recently expanded its brand portfolio, launching StudioRes in 2023 as its 32nd brand, followed by Four Points Express by Sheraton and the expansion of City Express into the U.S. and Canada. StudioRes, a new budget-friendly extended-stay brand, is designed for affordability and efficiency. However, Marriott Bonvoy members will only earn 4 points per dollar spent at StudioRes with no elite perks, including no qualifying nights, bonus points, or upgrades. This places it among Marriott's lowest-earning brands, second only to Marriott Executive Apartments. While the earnings rate is low, it's in line with StudioRes' positioning as Marriott’s most affordable extended-stay option, targeting guests staying 20+ nights at around $80 per night.

I really don’t see the point of StudioRes at all. If there are no elite perks, no upgrades, and no qualifying nights, what’s the incentive for loyal Marriott guests to stay there? I guess you can at least earn some Marriott points on top of the rental cost, but at just 4 points per dollar, it’s hardly a compelling reason. It feels like Marriott is just slapping its name on another budget option without offering any real value to Bonvoy members.

3. How to Use Phone Protection

My brother's phone got stolen recently and was able to claim some money back through insurance. Most credit card offers phone protection service, you have to use your credit card to pay your phone bill. For my case: Bilt covers up to 600 I believe. How to Get Your Cellphone Insurance Payout Faster

Filing a cellphone insurance claim can be frustrating, but if done correctly, you can get paid within a week. Instead of uploading documents to the portal, email them directly with clear filenames. Follow these steps:

1. File a claim at mycardbenefits.assurant.com.

2. Submit these four documents via email:

   • Wireless bill showing prior month's service charge

   • Billing statement showing payment with your BILT card

   • Repair estimate or price quote

   • Signed statement confirming no other insurance coverage

3. Keep it simple—only send the required documents, clearly labeled.

4. Follow up with a professional email to ensure quick processing.

5. Once approved, create an account with Virginia Surety Company Inc. and choose ACH (bank transfer) over a check for a faster payout.