Tag: Airline Partnerships

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Growing Up Alaskan: Alaska Airlines Tips, Points & Miles Strategies, and Epic Travels with @heralaskatravels (Ep. 59)

Growing Up Alaskan: Alaska Airlines Tips, Points & Miles Strategies, and Epic Travels with @heralaskatravels (Ep. 59)

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Ever wondered what it’s like growing up in the rugged landscapes of Alaska—and how that shapes a traveler’s mindset? 

In this episode, host DeAndre Coke talks to Betsey from Her Alaska Travels, a lifelong Alaskan who discovered the power of points and miles. Betsey reveals how Alaska Airlines plays a crucial role for Alaskans, highlighting game-changing updates like earning elite qualifying miles on award travel. She also delves into Hawaiian Airlines’ evolving relationship with Amex, shares tips for exploring Alaska via cruises or road trips, and emphasizes how stopovers can elevate your travel experiences. 

Whether you’re curious about the best time to visit Alaska, how to manage “phantom flights,” or simply want insider advice on maximizing miles and planning epic adventures, Betsey’s first-hand knowledge will inspire you to explore the Last Frontier—and beyond.

Key Highlights:

  • Alaskan Grit: Growing up in Alaska instills resilience and a drive to explore.
  • Early Travel Influence: Traveling young shapes a lifelong passion for discovery.
  • Alaska Airlines Loyalty: Residents rely on the airline for connectivity, and recent updates, like earning elite qualifying miles on award travel, offer new advantages.
  • Hawaiian Airlines Shifts: Upcoming changes with Hawaiian Airlines’ Amex partnership may impact point transfers.
  • Stopover Strategies: Utilizing stopovers in destinations like Fiji or Iceland can enhance international trips.
  • Cruise vs. Road Trip: Adventurous land travel often offers more flexibility than cruising Alaska’s coastlines.
  • Budget-Friendly Alaska: Outdoor activities and extended stays (around ten days) can help travelers fully experience the region without breaking the bank.
  • Points & Miles Tips: Understanding “phantom flights,” stopover rules, and loyalty program nuances can lead to better travel deals.

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Betsey: 

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Flying High with SkyMiles: Insider Strategies from Delta’s Biggest Fan @Janelleonajet (Ep. 57)

Flying High with SkyMiles: Insider Strategies from Delta’s Biggest Fan @Janelleonajet (Ep. 57)

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How do you blend a lifelong passion for flying with the fast-paced world of points and miles?

 In this episode, host DeAndre Coke sits down with travel influencer and Delta enthusiast Janelle Rupkalvis. Drawing on her upbringing in a family of private pilots, Janelle recounts how she transitioned from early flying experiences to mastering Delta SkyMiles strategies. She also discusses Delta’s newest innovations, which were unveiled for their 100-year anniversary, including partnerships with Uber and enhanced in-flight amenities.

Beyond tips for earning and redeeming miles, Janelle highlights valuable insights into handling travel disruptions—such as delayed baggage compensation in miles—and the importance of social media tagging for potential brand collaborations. From texting airlines for faster resolutions to leveraging regional compensation policies, Janelle demonstrates how travelers can stay calm, polite, and proactive in any situation.

Tune in to discover her aspirations for exploring luxury travel opportunities, group adventures, and more in the near future. 

 

Key Highlights:

  • Family Influence: Janelle’s early love for flying grew from her family of private pilots.
  • Points and Miles Advocacy: Her passion for travel rewards took off once she learned about the power of SkyMiles.
  • Delta’s 100-Year Anniversary: Exciting announcements include new partnerships with Uber and upgraded in-flight experiences.
  • Brand Tagging: Engaging with brands on social media can open doors to influencer partnerships.
  • Delayed Baggage Compensation: Delta offers miles as reimbursement, a lesser-known but helpful policy.
  • SkyMiles Success: Janelle amassed over 204,000 SkyMiles in one year by combining multiple earning strategies.
  • Texting Airlines: A faster way to resolve issues rather than waiting in line or on hold.
  • Regional Policies: Knowledge of local compensation rules can significantly enhance your travel benefits.
  • Luxury Travel Goals: Janelle looks forward to expanding her high-end travel experiences and group trips.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Janelle Rupkalvis: 

 

 

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Quick Hits: Tax Payment Rewards, Gift Card Conversions, and Capital One Lounge Updates!

Quick Hits: Tax Payment Rewards, Gift Card Conversions, and Capital One Lounge Updates!

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Ever wondered how to boost your travel rewards while staying flexible and enjoying the journey? 

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre mentions his recent trip to Mexico City—an often overlooked gem—alongside practical tips for paying taxes with credit cards to earn rewards. He reveals an innovative method for converting gift cards into airline miles, and addresses upcoming changes for Capital One Venture X lounge access. Finally, DeAndre emphasizes strategies to maximize points value without losing sight of the bigger picture: having a memorable travel experience.

Tune in now to stay ahead of your travel game at the start of 2025!

 

Key takeaways: 

  • Paying Taxes for Rewards: Using credit cards for tax payments can be a lucrative way to accumulate points.
  • Gift Card Conversion: Certain gift cards can be turned into airline miles, adding flexibility to your rewards strategy.
  • Capital One Venture X Update: Upcoming lounge access changes require cardholders to stay informed.
  • Valuing Points: Aim for at least two cents per point to maximize returns, but remember that convenience also matters.
  • Balanced Redemption: Not every redemption will be the perfect deal—value your time and enjoyment.
  • Enjoy the Process: Research is key, but don’t let it overshadow the fun and experience of traveling.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

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