The problem with a lot of special deals is that you don’t know you’re entitled to them. This often happens with credit cards, which offer a variety of fringe benefits that customers rarely use. They include purchase protection, extended warranties, additional rental car insurance and a host of other goodies. AAA and AARP are two other organizations that offer members a wide variety of discounts and special offers that most people don’t take advantage of.

I got an e-mail today about one I didn’t know about. Apparently, Acura, the upscale Honda auto company, and W Hotels have an affiliation. All current Acura owners can receive 50 percent off their second night stay at any W Hotel in the United States and Canada, plus a complimentary upgrade, if possible. They’re calling it an “Advance Package.” In looking over the promotion, I didn’t immediately detect any gotchas.