7 tips for traveling with friends using travel rewards
Booking travel with friends can be tricky when using different rewards programs.
8 min read
Nov 08, 2024
Cathleen McCarthy
Former Senior Editor, Credit Cards
EXPERTISE
- Rewards strategy
- Small business marketing
EDUCATION
- Bachelor of arts degree in journalism, the University of Maryland
Highlights
- Journalist published in dozens of magazines, newspapers and websites
- Founder and editor of The Jewelry Loupe
- Speaker and writer specializing in small-business marketing, travel and credit
Experience
After receiving her B.A. in magazine journalism from the University of Maryland, Cathleen worked as a staff editor for consumer and trade magazines before becoming a full-time freelance writer.
Her stories on design, travel and business have appeared in dozens of publications including the Washington Post, Town & Country, Wall Street Journal, Marie Claire, Fodor’s Travel, Departures and The Writer. In 2009, she launched The Jewelry Loupe, a magazine-style blog that now has more than 25,000 followers around the world. Cathleen writes and speaks about marketing creative small businesses.
Media
"Opening a Storefront" for the Jewelry Business Forum last month and building a brand at NYNOW last year.
Business
Blog: https://thejewelryloupe.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/thejewelryloupe/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/thejewelryloupe
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thejewelryloupe
Cathleen's latest articles
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How I combined Amex rewards to book a trip for two to Greece
How I combined Amex cards to book a trip for two to Greece.
4 min read Oct 18, 2023
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Why you should have money conversations with your children early
Talking money with your kids can help them become financially responsible adults.
4 min read Dec 08, 2023 -
Why I’m skipping Black Friday for Small Business Saturday
This year, I want to be intentional about shopping small.
4 min read Nov 13, 2023 -
Credit card application rules by issuer
There are a litany of rules around approvals, welcome bonus eligibility and the number of cards you can have.
9 min read Oct 24, 2023 -
Best hotel perks you can get with a credit card
Hotel rewards credit card holders can get access to room upgrades, late checkout, free breakfast, lounge access and free nights among other perks.
4 min read Oct 18, 2023 -
Why I pay my rent with a credit card
Charging rent on a credit card has drawbacks. But given the amount Americans pay for rent, there’s a strong incentive to earn rewards.
5 min read Oct 16, 2023 -
How I use credit cards to combat inflation
When prices go up, credit cards can help you keep costs down. Here’s how one personal finance expert is using her airline credit card to save money and combat inflation.
3 min read Aug 11, 2023 -
How to grocery shop during a recession
What to buy, when to shop and how to earn rewards on groceries
3 min read Jul 27, 2023 -
Cards that get you top-tier hotel elite status via card spending
Whether you’re a business traveler or taking the family on a much-needed vacation, having elite status can pay off.
6 min read Jun 30, 2023
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How to get the best refinance rate on your mortgage
It takes a bit of strategy. Here’s what you need to know, in seven handy tips.
6 min read Oct 28, 2024 -
Here’s how to use an extra paycheck this month
An extra paycheck in the month can be a game-changer for your finances. Here’s how.
5 min read Oct 24, 2024 -
Credit cards that offer purchase protection
Some credit cards offer purchase protection. Here are some of the best
8 min read Oct 17, 2024 -
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
The Blue Business®️ Plus Credit Card from American Express as a decent interest-free period and an acceptable welcome offer for a card with no annual fee.
11 min read Oct 08, 2024 -
How to get a refund for a fraudulent credit card transaction
Do you see a transaction on your credit card statement that you don’t recognize?
3 min read Aug 09, 2024 -
Do American Express Membership Rewards points expire?
The American Express Membership Rewards program is known for its flexibility and points value.
4 min read Jun 18, 2024 -
The history of home (un)affordability
A look at the history of home prices, interest rates and more in the U.S. housing market.
6 min read Jun 18, 2024 -
7 proven strategies to identify potential breakout stocks and boost your investment portfolio
Discovering breakout stocks requires analysis and intuition. Here are 7 tips to spot future winners now.
3 min read Mar 05, 2024