How I earned 24,500 points from $180 in hotel stays

When I wrote a news post about a Wyndham Rewards promotion for earning up to 30,000 bonus points after just four nights, I expected most readers might not see the value. But I almost immediately started considering how I could use the promotion, and I ended up earning 24,500 Wyndham points from two stays totaling $180.Similarly lucrative promotions have led me to fly to six continents on Turkish Airlines to earn one million miles, book a series of one-night Choice Privileges stays to earn points and fly 18 Malaysia Airlines segments in 16 days to secure Oneworld Sapphire status from an international airline.Whether you're a frequent or occasional traveler, loyalty program promotions can provide a valuable boost — especially in programs you might otherwise overlook. A compelling offer may make it worthwhile to try a different hotel brand, shift a flight or even plan a new trip. Here's how I maximized the Wyndham promotion and how I decide which promotions are worth pursuing.How I used the Wyndham Rewards promotionThe Wyndham Rewards promotion offered 7,500 points for two nights, 12,500 for three nights, or 15,000 for four nights or two separate two-night stays. Plus, as a Wyndham Re...