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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What are smart blinds and window shades?
Learn how they can save you time, effort and even money.
5 min read May 23, 2022 -
Coinbase vs. Coinbase Pro: Which should you choose?
Here’s how Coinbase compares to Coinbase Pro across key areas and what you need to know.
5 min read May 20, 2022 -
What does contingent mean in real estate?
What are contingent listings, and are they still worth looking at when you’re searching for a new home?
6 min read May 20, 2022 -
“Can I have $20?”: When to give your child a debit card
Managing a debit card can provide valuable financial lessons, but it’s important to make sure your child is ready.
6 min read May 20, 2022 -
How Gen Zers can use credit cards to plan a vacation
As Gen Zers start exploring their financial independence, here are a few tips that can help minimize the cost of their next vacation.
5 min read May 19, 2022 -
Can I renovate a bathroom myself?
Much depends on how skilled you are, but even simple tasks can save you money.
4 min read May 19, 2022 -
2023 Cost of Living in Austin, Texas
Consistently voted one of the best places to live in the U.S., Austin receives top marks for its quality of life and job prospects, among other factors.
6 min read May 18, 2022 -
An unheralded yet lucrative cash back card
You may not have heard of the Shop Your Way Mastercard, but it’s a cash back card that’s worth considering.
3 min read May 13, 2022