Tag: Award Travel Optimization
Quick Hits: Hyatt Adds The Standard Hotels, Emirates First Class Lockdown, Rakuten Promo Alert & More!

Quick Hits: Hyatt Adds The Standard Hotels, Emirates First Class Lockdown, Rakuten Promo Alert & More!

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Planning your summer 2025 travel? Now might be the perfect time to book. 

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke shares key updates from his recent trip to Roatan and fresh news in the points and miles world. He covers limited-time transfer bonuses, how to spot travel savings on previously booked trips, and why Rakuten’s 7,500 Amex point promo is worth jumping on. You’ll also hear why Newark Airport might be best avoided for now, how Hyatt integrates The Standard hotels, and what Hyatt’s new gifting rules mean for loyal travelers. 

Finally, DeAndre breaks down Emirates’ move to restrict first-class redemptions and how to still unlock the experience through strategic credit card plays.

 

Key takeaways: 

  • Roatan reflections: A surprisingly incredible stay at the Grand Kimpton Roatan, made better with points and Amex FHR perks.
  • Summer 2025 alert: Now is the sweet spot for booking cheap domestic flights before prices spike.
  • Travel disruptions: Newark Airport is seeing significant delays and cancellations—consider alternative routes.
  • Booking tip: Already booked a summer trip? Check current pricing—DeAndre saved $300 and 70k Hyatt points on a rebook.
  • Rakuten promo: New users can get 7,500 Amex points with just $25 in spending through Rakuten.
  • Hyatt & The Standard: The Standard hotels officially join World of Hyatt with elite perks intact.
  • Award gifting limits: Hyatt will limit members to 10 award gifts received per year starting June 7.
  • Emirates first-class restrictions: As of May 12, only Skywards elite members can redeem for first class.
  • Credit card workaround: Get Emirates Silver or Gold elite status through co-branded Skywards cards to retain access. 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

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Quick Hits: March’s Best Credit Card Offers, Hilton’s Luxury Expansion, Chase Card Reporting Errors & More!

Quick Hits: March’s Best Credit Card Offers, Hilton’s Luxury Expansion, Chase Card Reporting Errors & More!

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Looking to take advantage of the best travel credit card offers this March? In this Quick Hits episode, host DeAndre Coke breaks down the latest elevated offers from IHG, Capital One, and American Express, explaining how to maximize welcome bonuses and transfer bonuses for the best redemptions. He also highlights why switching browsers when searching for credit card offers can lead to better deals.

Additionally, DeAndre covers unique Capital One redemptions such as MLB tickets, Marriott’s expansion into luxury safari properties in Kenya, and Hilton’s partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH)—creating even more premium travel opportunities for points and miles enthusiasts. Wrapping up, he shares insights into recent Chase credit card reporting errors, the impact of the 5/24 rule, and upcoming networking opportunities at TravelCon in Tucson, Arizona.

Tune in for the latest travel updates, expert credit card strategies, and exclusive tips to level up your travel game with points and miles.

 

Key takeaways: 

  • March Credit Card Offers: New best offers available from IHG, Capital One, and Amex.
  • Amex Business Platinum: Features a high-value welcome offer this month.
  • Browser Tricks: Using different browsers can reveal better credit card deals.
  • Hilton’s Free Night Certificate: A valuable perk for award travelers.
  • Capital One Redemptions: Includes MLB tickets and other exclusive experiences.
  • Marriott’s Luxury Expansion: New safari properties coming to Kenya.
  • Hilton & Small Luxury Hotels (SLH): Expanding high-end hotel options.
  • Chase Business Cards Issue: Some cards are incorrectly appearing on personal credit reports.
  • Payroll Points System Update: Temporary technical issues affecting users.
  • TravelCon in Tucson: Great networking opportunities for travel and finance enthusiasts.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

 

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