Choice Hotels International is morphing its Clarion Collection into the Ascend Collection program to offer Choice Privileges members a choice of upscale independent, unique, boutique or historic properties with a strong local affinity. The Clarion Collection has offered boutique-style hotels under the Clarion brand, but now, these hotels will be joined with other boutique hotels to offer more choices for members under the Ascend Collection. Each unique hotel will be named independently and the Clarion Collection name brand will be discontinued. Members should start seeing Ascend Collection hotels by the end of October 2008. Choice Privileges members will be able to earn and redeem points at Ascend Collection hotels the same as with other Choice Hotels.
AA, NWA Moscow Bonus

American Airlines is now flying nonstop between Chicago O’Hare and Moscow Domodedovo International Airport. This is American’s first flight from the U.S. to Russia. In celebration, AAdvantage members can earn up to 10,000 bonus miles for flights through Aug. 31, 2008. You can earn 10,000 miles in business class (F, J, A, D or I), 7,500 bonus miles in coach (Y, B or H) or 5,000 bonus miles in discounted coach (K, L, M, N, S, V). You must register prior to travel at www.aa.com. Bonus code AADME.

Northwest Airlines is also offering 10,000 bonus miles for flights to Moscow through Aug. 31, 2008. You can earn 10,000 bonus WorldPerks miles when booking World business class (J, C, Z), 7,500 bonus miles in coach (Y, S, B) or 5,000 bonus miles in discounted coach (M, H, Q, V). You must register prior to travel to receive the bonus at www.nwa.com. Reference code GNWP BONUSMOSCOW.