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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The Amex Blue Cash Everyday Card gets a makeover, with new bonus categories and statement credits
There’s been no shortage of credit card launches and refreshes as issuers scramble to meet consumers’ evolving spending habits in a unique economic environment. This time around, the Blue Cash Everyday® [...]
2 min read Jul 14, 2022 -
How home sellers can start a bidding war
Multiple offers give home sellers more options. What can you do to jump-start a bidding war?
3 min read Jul 13, 2022 -
Buying a house in North Carolina: A how-to
From big-city buzz to coastal chill to mountain beauty, the Tar Heel State has loads to offer.
11 min read Jul 13, 2022 -
The S&P 500 is in a bear market: How much lower could it go?
The S&P 500 is in a bear market. Here’s how long it might last.
4 min read Jul 12, 2022 -
6 ways to invest your wedding gift money
Here are some of the best ways to get money received from wedding gifts working for you right away.
5 min read Jul 12, 2022 -
Does getting denied for a credit card hurt your credit score?
Hard inquiries temporarily ding your credit score, but with the right steps, your credit score will rebound in no time.
5 min read Jul 01, 2022 -
Your medical debt fell off your credit report – What now?
Many medical debts are being removed from credit reports; here’s what you need to know
5 min read Jul 01, 2022 -
Chase once again extends Pay Yourself Back feature on eligible cards and categories
Learn about the Pay Yourself Back tool, which cards offer it and its most recent extensions.
3 min read Jul 01, 2022