Tag: Award Travel
Quick Hits: Chase & Amex Pause Emirates Transfers, The Zil Money Payroll Saga Continues and More!

Quick Hits: Chase & Amex Pause Emirates Transfers, The Zil Money Payroll Saga Continues and More!

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Is travel finally getting cheaper again? In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke breaks down the latest shifts in travel trends, including a noticeable drop in flight prices and increased award seat availability, especially in business and first class. He explains why now might be the ideal time to snag flight deals using points or cash and shares valuable tools for smarter travel booking, including the newly launched hotel search tool Gondola.

DeAndre also provides an update on the ongoing saga of using payroll for your credit cards with Zil Money, which has been down for over a month now. He also covers a fast-closing loophole that lets travelers transfer Amex points to Alaska Airlines miles. He warns listeners about the upcoming temporary suspension of point transfers from Chase and Amex to Emirates. The episode closes with a heads-up on an active 30% transfer bonus from Citi ThankYou Rewards to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, along with key considerations for making the most of those points.

From smart booking strategies to maximizing redemptions, this update helps you make the most of the current travel climate.

 

Key takeaways: 

  • Flight Prices Dropping: Demand is cooling, bringing cheaper cash fares and improved award availability.
  • Alaska Airlines Loophole: The Amex → Hawaiian → Alaska transfer hack may end soon—act fast.
  • Gondola Tool: A new site showing cash vs. points hotel prices, elite benefits, and price tracking, though it requires email read access.
  • Emirates Transfers Paused: Chase (May 28–June 30) and Amex (starting May 29) are temporarily pausing point transfers to Emirates, hinting at a likely devaluation.
  • Virgin Atlantic Transfer Bonus: 30% bonus on Citi ThankYou Rewards transfers to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club through May 17.
  • Thrifty Traveler & Daily Drop: Helpful tools for spotting mistake fares and daily point deals.
  • Cash vs Points Strategy: When flight prices drop, cash may offer better value than points. 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

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Quick Hits: AA’s Free Wi-Fi, Bilt Rent Reward Strategy & Google Flights Update

Quick Hits: AA’s Free Wi-Fi, Bilt Rent Reward Strategy & Google Flights Update

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How can a trip to Napa and a few updates completely shift how you think about points, perks, and booking tools? In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke checks in from the stunning Estate Yountville in Napa Valley, sharing major news from the world of travel, credit cards, and points and miles.

He covers Bilt’s new rent payment option—even if you don’t use a Bilt card, you can now earn points while paying rent, with a small fee. American Airlines is rolling out free high-speed Wi-Fi across most of its fleet by early next year, boosting in-flight productivity. Google Flights is also testing a long-awaited feature: the ability to filter out basic economy fares. And finally, shoutout to Karen, winner of the recent Hyatt Free Night Certificate giveaway, with more perks to come for newsletter subscribers.

This episode is packed with fast, practical updates for anyone looking to get more value from their travel routines and rewards, no matter where you’re headed next.

 

Key takeaways: 

  • Bilt Rent Payments: You can now earn Bilt points while paying rent with any credit card (3% fee applies).
  • Amex Wi-Fi Credit Tip: DeAndre uses Amex Platinum’s $50/month airline credits to cover American Airlines Wi-Fi—soon to be obsolete as free Wi-Fi rolls out in 2025.
  • American Airlines Wi-Fi Update: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is coming to 90% of American Airlines’ fleet starting in January 2025.
  • Google Flights Filter: Google Flights is testing a filter to remove basic economy fares from search results.
  • Newsletter Giveaways: Recent winner Karen scored a Hyatt Free Night Certificate—newsletter subscribers get access to future giveaways.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

 

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Planning the Ultimate F1 Grand Prix Experience on Points with Jenna of @travelersinlaw (Ep. 71)

Planning the Ultimate F1 Grand Prix Experience on Points with Jenna of @travelersinlaw (Ep. 71)

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Ever wondered how to make luxury travel to a world-class Formula 1 race affordable? 

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with attorney-turned-travel-hacker Jenna of @travelersinlaw to explore exactly that. Jenna shares how she went from burnout in the legal profession to building a lifestyle fueled by points and miles—one that now includes an upcoming trip to the F1 Italian Grand Prix 2025 in Monza.

They dive into how to strategically earn and redeem points, the best credit card approaches for high-value travel, and what it takes to attend global events like Formula 1 without breaking the bank. Jenna also opens up about how travel became part of her self-care routine, why it’s okay to explore without a perfect itinerary, and how busy professionals can still make unforgettable trips a reality.

This episode is packed with real-world advice, smart strategies, and inspiration for travelers looking to elevate their experiences using points and miles.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Burnout Recovery: Travel as a tool for self-care and balance.
  • Credit Strategy: Smart use of cards and bonus categories boosts rewards.
  • Monza Planning: Insight into budgeting for the 2025 Italian Grand Prix.
  • Luxury on Points: Premium hotels and flights are within reach with the right strategy.
  • F1 Travel Costs: What to expect and how to offset costs with points.
  • Flexible Itineraries: It’s okay not to plan every minute—some freedom is part of the fun.
  • Credit Scores: Managing your credit while optimizing travel benefits.
  • Busy Professionals: Why taking time off is essential—and how to make it worth it.
  • Long-Term Wins: Starting small in points and miles leads to big travel gains.

 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Jenna:

 

 

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Choice Hotels, Citi Points, and Irish Charm: A Unique Points and Miles Strategy by @thepointsflygirl (Ep. 67)

Choice Hotels, Citi Points, and Irish Charm: A Unique Points and Miles Strategy by @thepointsflygirl (Ep. 67)

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What happens when a criminal defense attorney turns her free time during the pandemic into learning about travel rewards strategies?

 In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Deanna Keane aka @pointsflygirl, an attorney by day and a points and miles expert by passion. Deanna shares her journey into the world of points and miles, including how she leverages Citi ThankYou points, Amex Business Platinum benefits, and underappreciated programs like Choice Hotels to craft unforgettable experiences. 

From her favorite redemptions in Ireland to unique travel moments in Iceland, this conversation is packed with actionable tips for travelers looking to maximize value without sacrificing quality.

Whether you’re curious about driving in Ireland, booking with kitchenettes in Iceland, or how to score the best deals from Vegas to Dublin, Deanna breaks it down in a relatable, strategic way. Tune in and discover how smart planning, flexible redemptions, and a little creativity can unlock global adventures.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Pandemic Pivot: Deanna began exploring points and miles during COVID and found a new passion.
  • Strategic Redemptions: Citi ThankYou Points offer substantial value for everyday spending and travel.
  • Hidden Gems: Choice Hotels often provide surprisingly good redemption opportunities.
  • Ireland Tips: The Dingle Peninsula and Blarney Castle are must-visit destinations.
  • Flight Deals: KLM and British Airways offer interesting routes and redemption options.
  • Best Time to Visit Ireland: May through September offers ideal weather for exploration.
  • Drive to Discover: Renting a car in Ireland enhances the experience beyond tourist hotspots.
  • Iceland Insights: Booking hotels with kitchenettes helps save money in a pricey destination.
  • Wine Hack: You can purchase wine at the airport in Iceland—perfect for budget travelers.

 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Deanna Keane:

 

 

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Travel Smarter: How to Maximize Every Mile and Point with Julia Menez of @geobreezetravel (Ep. 64)

Travel Smarter: How to Maximize Every Mile and Point with Julia Menez of @geobreezetravel (Ep. 64)

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Have you ever wondered how to get the most value out of your points and miles?

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Julia Menez, founder of Geobreeze Travel, to break down the best strategies for maximizing travel redemptions. Julia shares her journey into the points and miles space and explains the importance of tracking travel metrics, including cents per point (CPP) and out-of-pocket cost ratios, to ensure you’re getting the best possible value.

They also discuss how to prioritize travel goals, when to opt for luxury versus budget-friendly options, and why transfer bonuses and airline partnerships can significantly enhance your travel experience. Julia highlights Hyatt’s strong redemption value, the best lounges to visit, and the benefits of tracking routes for premium travel. 

Whether you’re new to points and miles or looking to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you optimize your redemptions, minimize expenses, and elevate your travel experiences.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Tracking Metrics: Decide if tracking cents per point (CPP) or other metrics aligns with your travel goals.
  • Fun Over Stress: Points and miles should enhance travel, not add pressure.
  • Value Over Cost: Travel isn’t just about spending less; it’s about maximizing experiences.
  • Minimizing Out-of-Pocket Costs: Keeping expenses low is crucial for budget travelers.
  • Hyatt’s No-Tax Redemptions: Standard room redemptions with Hyatt don’t include additional taxes.
  • Transfer Bonuses: Using strategic transfer bonuses can significantly boost redemption value.
  • Tracking Flight Routes: Helps with planning premium cabin redemptions and maximizing luxury.
  • Best Lounges: The Pier Lounge in Hong Kong is a must-visit for Oneworld Emerald members.
  • Underrated Travel Programs: Choice Hotels and other lesser-known programs can offer great redemptions.
  • Luxury on Short Flights: High-end experiences can still be affordable on shorter routes.

 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Julia Menez:

 

 

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From Budget Traveler to Full-Time Content Creator: Using Points & Miles to Fund a Lifestyle of Travel with @themobilehomie! (Ep. 63)

From Budget Traveler to Full-Time Content Creator: Using Points & Miles to Fund a Lifestyle of Travel with @themobilehomie! (Ep. 63)

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Have you ever wondered how to transition from budget travel to a full-time travel lifestyle? 

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with travel enthusiast Jordyn Verzera, co-founder of The Mobile Homie, to explore her inspiring journey from a frugal traveler to a full-time content creator. Jordyn explains how leveraging points and miles has been key to making travel both affordable and rewarding, while sharing practical strategies for planning trips and navigating the complex world of travel rewards. The conversation also includes memorable travel stories—including a humorous, cautionary tale about her experience with rabies vaccines—and offers crucial advice on maintaining travel insurance and balancing work with wanderlust.

Listen now to discover how to follow your dreams, master travel planning, and turn everyday adventures into a sustainable lifestyle.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Budget to Full-Time Transition: Jordyn’s journey shows that it’s possible to evolve from budget travel to a full-time travel lifestyle through smart use of points and miles.
  • Travel Rewards Strategy: Effective planning and strategy are essential to maximize the benefits of points and miles, significantly reducing travel costs.
  • Balancing Work and Travel: Treating travel like a business can help you sustain a full-time travel lifestyle without compromising your income.
  • Learn from Experience: Memorable travel mishaps, like the rabies vaccine incident, serve as important lessons in travel planning and safety.
  • Financial Safety Net: Having a solid financial plan and safety net is critical before making the leap to full-time travel.
  • Community and Resources: Utilizing travel communities and resources can simplify the complex world of points and miles, making travel more accessible for everyone.
  • Follow Your Dreams: Jordyn’s story underscores that with the right strategies and mindset, you can turn travel into a lifelong passion.

 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Jordyn & JT:

 

 

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From Practicing Medicine to Points Pro: Learn How Travel Rewards Fit into a Wealth-Building Strategy with Devon Gimbel (Ep. 61)

From Practicing Medicine to Points Pro: Learn How Travel Rewards Fit into a Wealth-Building Strategy with Devon Gimbel (Ep. 61)

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Have you ever considered how strategic use of points and miles can be a powerful tool for building wealth?

In this episode, host DeAndre interviews Devon Gimbel, a former physician who has successfully transitioned into a points and miles expert. Devon discusses her journey from medicine to mastering travel rewards and details her ambitious family trip to the Maldives, where she leveraged her expertise to secure a luxurious stay at the Park Hyatt Maldives. 

The conversation delves into practical strategies for maximizing travel rewards, balancing spending and saving, and utilizing everyday expenses to generate valuable points. Additionally, Devon emphasizes the importance of financial education and responsible planning—especially for individuals managing consumer debt—and explores scenarios where buying points can further enhance financial growth. 

Tune in to discover how you can transform your travel experiences into opportunities for financial advancement.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Career Transition: Devon successfully shifted from medicine to becoming a points and miles expert.
  • Family Travel Strategy: Planning an ambitious family trip to the Maldives required careful budgeting and mastery of travel rewards.
  • Luxury Experience: The exceptional service at the Park Hyatt Maldives underscores the value of premium travel experiences.
  • Wealth Building Through Travel: Points and miles can be leveraged as tools for financial growth and wealth building.
  • Balanced Spending: Striking a balance between spending and saving is essential for maximizing travel rewards.
  • Financial Education: Continuous learning about personal finance is critical, especially for managing consumer debt.
  • Smart Points Strategy: Buying points in specific scenarios can be beneficial when approached responsibly.
  • Customized Approach: Listeners are encouraged to develop their strategies to optimize travel rewards and achieve financial growth.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Devon Gimbel:

 

 

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Exploring Ambitious Travel Challenges and Points & Miles Strategies with @luckytictac (Ep. 34)

Exploring Ambitious Travel Challenges and Points & Miles Strategies with @luckytictac (Ep. 34)

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Another Wednesday brings another episode full of travel strategies for earning free flights and luxury stays!

Join host DeAndre Coke on this episode of “Revolutionizing Your Journey” as he chats with points and miles pro Allison Tackette, known online as @luckytictac. Allison reveals her transition from a military career to becoming a renowned professional in the points and miles community. 

Together they discuss her journey so far and unpack invaluable strategies for maximizing travel rewards, her favorite travel destinations, and details about her ambitious 12-in-12 travel challenge. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned traveler, Allison’s insights will elevate your travel game and help you make the most of your rewards.

Key Highlights:

  • Journey into Points & Miles: Allison’s inspiring transition from the military and academia to award booking, sparked by a simple Google search on how to fly for free
  • Top Credit Card Picks: An inside look at Allison’s favorite cards, including the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Freedom Unlimited, Marriott card, and Amex Gold Card
  • Effective Points Management: Discover why Allison focuses on flexible transferable points for maximum value and versatility
  • Essential Travel Tools: Explore Allison’s preferred tools for booking award travel and how they make the process seamless
  • Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Learn crucial tips on confirming availability and pricing before transferring points, and the importance of patience and regular monitoring
  • 12-in-12 Travel Challenge: Follow Allison’s journey to experience 12 new airlines, hotels, and countries in 12 months, and see her progress so far
  • Unforgettable Travel Experiences: Highlights from Allison’s adventures, including Japan Airlines’ first-class service and a stay at the luxurious Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay in Montenegro
  • Practical Travel Advice: Get Allison’s recommendations for managing points and miles stress-free and finding value in both extravagant and simple travel plans
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Allison Tackette: 

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Vegas Vacation Strategies: Experiencing the Uncanny EDC Las Vegas (Ep. 33)

Vegas Vacation Strategies: Experiencing the Uncanny EDC Las Vegas (Ep. 33)

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Get ready to light up your next adventure and discover the electrifying world of EDC Las Vegas.

Join your hosts DeAndre Coke and Taryn Gisbert as they dive into the pulsating energy of the world-renowned Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC), an exhilarating all-night electronic dance music festival. In this episode you’ll find a treasure trove of personal stories, expert tips, and insider strategies that will make your Vegas trip absolutely unforgettable.

Key Highlights:

  • EDC Las Vegas Adventure: Experience the magic of EDC Las Vegas, a festival with over half a million attendees and music sets from night to sunrise. Learn about transportation options, including shuttle buses, Uber rides, and an unforgettable helicopter ride over the Strip
  • Maximizing Airline Status: Discover how DeAndre & Taryn achieved Platinum Pro status with American Airlines through strategic use of shopping portals and business expenses, unlocking benefits like preferred seating and priority boarding
  • Capital One Lounge Review: Explore the unique offerings of the Capital One Lounge in Dallas, from individually portioned meals to a higher standard of food compared to typical airport lounges
  • Bellagio Hotel Hacks: Find out how booking through the Amex portal earned them 5x points, daily breakfast credits, and room upgrades, plus tips on requesting a mini-fridge for “medical purposes” and using a Brita filter to save on bottled water costs
  • Timeshare Presentation Strategy: Navigate timeshare presentations to gain perks like comedy club tickets and free hotel stays without succumbing to high-pressure sales tactics
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

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