by Cherry | Senior Travel Editor, The Miles Academy | Jan 21, 2026 | Credit Card Reviews and Strategies
Using a card feels easy. You tap or swipe, the bill is paid, and you might even earn rewards. The trouble starts when you use a card for things you cannot pay off quickly. Interest builds, balances grow, and what should be a helpful tool can quietly cause money...
by Cherry | Senior Travel Editor, The Miles Academy | Jan 20, 2026 | Credit Card Reviews and Strategies
Your credit score is the gatekeeper for two things that matter a lot in 2026. It helps decide whether you get approved, and it helps decide how much you pay for borrowing. When this number is healthy, lenders tend to offer better rates and smaller fees. When it is...
by Cherry | Senior Travel Editor, The Miles Academy | Dec 22, 2025 | Credit Card Reviews and Strategies
When you choose a new rewards card, the welcome bonus is usually one of the biggest reasons you apply. Many issuers run limited-time welcome offers, and there are often plenty of strong options waiting for space in your wallet. You get the envelope in the mail, peel...
by Cherry | Senior Travel Editor, The Miles Academy | Dec 22, 2025 | Credit Card Reviews and Strategies
When we talk about miles and points, many of us think about big sign-up bonuses, quiet airport lounges, and surprise seat upgrades. Those things are fun and easy to get excited about. But there is another move that looks small and simple, and it can still help you and...
by Cherry | Senior Travel Editor, The Miles Academy | Dec 22, 2025 | Credit Card Reviews and Strategies
Seeing your score labeled “fair” is like getting a performance review that says “not a disaster” and calls it a day. It is not the worst category, but it usually means you will pay more to borrow and you will have fewer choices when you apply for financing. Most...
by Cherry | Senior Travel Editor, The Miles Academy | Dec 5, 2025 | Credit Card Reviews and Strategies
Getting a welcome bonus from a new card is one of the fastest ways for us to help you build a big pile of points and miles. Instead of waiting a long time for small rewards to add up, you can earn a large bonus in just a few weeks if you plan your spending well. We...