Tag: DeAndre Coke

FEATURE IMAGE
How to Maximize Your Points & Miles Using Data with Kevin Zanes of @thepointsanalyst (Ep. 39)

How to Maximize Your Points & Miles Using Data with Kevin Zanes of @thepointsanalyst (Ep. 39)

By |

Traveling to over 70 countries while keeping costs low may sound impossible, but for Kevin Zanes, it’s a reality—thanks to his mastery of points and miles. As a former data analyst, Kevin has turned his expertise in big data into a winning strategy that allows his family to travel in luxury for a fraction of the usual cost.

Host DeAndre Coke sits down with Kevin to explore his proven methods for maximizing points, from choosing the best credit cards—like why he favors the Amex Gold for families—to earning 2-2.5 million points annually through referrals, shopping portals, and more. He also explores the latest trends in the points and miles world, including devaluations and the rise of “super frequent flyer programs.”

If you’re ready to discover how to book luxury hotels, take advantage of family-friendly perks like child discounts, and save big on long-haul flights, Kevin’s insights are invaluable. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help families elevate their travel experiences while staying within budget.

Key Highlights:

  • Data-Driven Travel: Kevin explains how to leverage data analytics to maximize points and travel in style
  • Best Credit Cards: Why Amex Gold is the ideal card for family-friendly rewards
  • Family Travel Hacks: Tips on using points for discounted flights and luxury hotels
  • Positioning Flights: How flying out of Canadian airports can save you money on international travel
  • Industry Trends: Insights on the future of points, including devaluations and emerging frequent flyer programs
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Hotel Recommendations:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Kevin Zanes:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

FEATURE IMAGE
Points or Cash? How to Choose the Right Travel Strategy with Julian Kheel of Points Path (Ep. 38)

Points or Cash? How to Choose the Right Travel Strategy with Julian Kheel of Points Path (Ep. 38)

By |

Booking your dream vacation is easier with Points Path, a Google Chrome extension developed by Julian Kheel. 

In this episode, host DeAndre Coke interviews Julian about how this revolutionary tool simplifies travel rewards for everyone, from beginners to experts. Points Path seamlessly integrates with Google Flights to show real-time points prices, cash comparisons, and provides smart recommendations on whether to use points or cash for specific flights.

Julian shares his journey from film and television to becoming a leading figure in the points and miles world, with notable experience at The Points Guy and CNN. He discusses the impactful power of Points Path, highlighting its speed, user-friendly design, and upcoming premium features like personalized recommendations and points price alerts.

Tune in to learn about the latest trends in the points and miles industry, the rise of personalized offers and increasing credit card sign-up bonuses, and practical advice to maximize your points.

Key Highlights:

  • Simplified Travel Planning: Discover how Points Path integrates with Google Flights to display points prices alongside cash prices, helping you make smarter decisions
  • User-Friendly Design: Learn why Points Path’s simplicity and speed make it accessible for beginners and experts alike
  • Advanced Features: Get an inside look at the upcoming premium version, featuring personalized recommendations and points price alerts
  • Industry Trends: Explore how increased personalization and rising sign-up bonuses are shaping the future of travel rewards
  • Maximizing Points: Benefit from Julian’s expert advice on ensuring you’re getting the best value from your points and staying updated on the latest credit card options
  • And much more!

Plus, Julian shares his vision for the future of Points Path, including plans to expand to more frequent flier programs and potentially offering predictive pricing tools.

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Julian Kheel:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More
Quick Hits: Your Opportunity to Fast Track Your Path to Top Tier Elite Hyatt Status

Quick Hits: Your Opportunity to Fast Track Your Path to Top Tier Elite Hyatt Status

By |

New opportunities arise with the partnership between Hyatt and American Airlines!

Join host DeAndre Coke on another Quick Hits episode as he breaks down the benefits of the partnership between Hyatt and American Airlines. This partnership allows American Airlines elite members to gain temporary Hyatt status and all of the benefits that come with it, along with the opportunity to make it permanent. 

Between now and October 31st, American Airlines Gold and Platinum members can register, and if you stay 10 nights at Hyatt properties within 90 days, you will keep your Explorist status through February 2026. Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum members have the same option but can also qualify for Globalist status by staying 20 nights. Globalist status offers significant benefits, such as free breakfast and room upgrades. 

Tune in to this quick conversation as DeAndre lays out strategies, including weekend getaways and mattress runs, that can be used to reach the required number of nights for this exciting upgrade!

Key takeaways: 

  • Hyatt and American Airlines have a partnership that allows American Airlines elite members to gain temporary Hyatt status
  • American Airlines Gold and Platinum members can keep Explorist status by staying 10 nights with Hyatt within 90 days
  • Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum members can qualify for Globalist status by staying 20 nights
  • Globalist status offers significant benefits, such as free breakfast and room upgrades
  • Strategies like weekend getaways and mattress runs can be used to reach the required number of nights

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

FEATURE IMAGE
Three Kids and Countless Adventures: How to Navigate Family Travel with Ease with Elise of @3kidstravel (Ep. 37)

Three Kids and Countless Adventures: How to Navigate Family Travel with Ease with Elise of @3kidstravel (Ep. 37)

By |

Picture navigating Tokyo’s bustling streets or Normandy’s serene landscapes, all with three young children in tow. While this might seem overwhelming to many, it’s the everyday reality that Elise of “3 Kids Travel” not only embraces but thrives in. In this episode, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Elise to explore how she and her husband have transformed their passion for travel into a way of life, adventuring across the globe with their kids.

Elise shares the story of how they started traveling with their children from infancy, gradually expanding their journeys from local road trips to international destinations like Japan, China, and Turkey. Through meticulous planning and savvy travel strategies, Elise demonstrates how family travel can be both manageable and incredibly rewarding.

Join us to uncover Elise’s expert tips, from booking flights before accommodations to packing light with just carry-ons. You’ll also hear about their favorite destinations and the exciting trips they have planned for the future.

Key Highlights:

  • Starting Young: Discover how Elise and her husband began their kids’ travel journeys as early as four weeks old, setting the stage for a lifetime of adventure
  • Overcoming Challenges: Learn how they navigated the anxieties and logistical hurdles of traveling with infants and toddlers, turning initial challenges into smooth experiences
  • Cultural Immersion: Get Elise’s insights on choosing accommodations that immerse your family in local culture, from Parisian neighborhoods to an Irish farmhouse
  • Travel Planning Tips: Explore why booking flights first can offer better deals and flexibility, and how to select family-friendly accommodations
  • Packing Light: Find out which essentials make family travel easier, from durable carry-ons to portable chargers
  • And much more!

 

Plus, discover Elise’s favorite destinations and the upcoming adventures her family is most excited about.

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Elise Caffee:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More
Quick Hits: New Changes to Amex Platinum, Hyatt, Capital One, and Chase Rewards Cards

Quick Hits: New Changes to Amex Platinum, Hyatt, Capital One, and Chase Rewards Cards

By |

New changes are coming to your points and miles rewards cards!

In this Quick Hit episode, DeAndre Coke shares updates on a number of credit card offers. Amex Platinum cards now offer increased credit that you receive from Clear Plus, jumping from 189 to 199 to keep up with the increased cost of Clear. The World of Hyatt Business Card now has a new sign-up purchase bonus of up to 75,000 points. This value can earn you up to four nights at certain Hyatt properties! 

DeAndre also reminds listeners that the Capital One Venture Rewards Card bonus points offer will be expiring soon (discussed in the last Quick Hits episode). He concludes with information about the ending offer for the Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card will also be ending their offer for up to 120,000 points within the next few weeks. 

Be sure to take advantage of these offers while you still can! The link to the full list of available card offers is in the Resources below!

Key Takeaways: 

  • DeAndre shares the highlights of the trip he and Taryn took to Southeast Asia
  • Amex Platinum cardholders can now receive increased credits for Clear
  • The World of Hyatt Business Card has a new offer to earn 60,00 bonus points
  • The Capital One Venture Rewards Card offers $1,000 in free travel
  • The Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card has a limited-time offer for bonus points

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

FEATURE IMAGE
Adults-Only Resorts: An Inside Look at Premium Resort Experiences (Ep. 36)

Adults-Only Resorts: An Inside Look at Premium Resort Experiences (Ep. 36)

By |

Adults-only vacation spots sound like a welcome change from the sometimes chaotic family resorts. If these locations come at a higher cost, what points & miles strategies can you use to enjoy this luxury without breaking the bank?

In this episode of “Revolutionizing Your Journey”, host DeAndre Coke and his fiancée, Taryn Gisbert, take you inside the world of luxury adults-only resorts, delivering in-depth reviews of their recent stays at these stunning locations. Each resort—Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres, Secrets Impressions Moshe, and Secrets Aura Cozumel— is located within the beautiful Riviera Maya area of Mexico, starting south of Cancun and continuing down the east coast. These locations offer a unique adult-oriented experience, all accessed through savvy use of credit card points. Whether you’re a seasoned points traveler or just beginning your journey, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you experience luxury resorts without breaking the bank.

Key Highlights:

  • Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres: Experience the stunning beach and natural limestone pools of this new Cancun resort, complete with preferred club access
  • Secrets Impressions Moshe: Discover premium dining, multiple pools, and exceptional butler service, even as you navigate local beach vendors
  • Secrets Aura Cozumel: Perfect for diving enthusiasts, this older resort offers excellent beach access amid some aging facility challenges
  • Maximizing Credit Card Points: Learn how to use Chase Ultimate Rewards points for nearly free stays, with specific strategies to maximize value
  • Honorable Mentions: Explore other notable resorts like Breathless Cancun Soul, known for its lively atmosphere and unique challenges
  • Final Reflections: DeAndre and Taryn emphasize choosing a resort that aligns with your travel goals and invite listeners to share their experiences

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

FEATURE IMAGE
How @nicolestraveltips Turned Points & Miles Into First-Class Travel Experiences (Ep. 35)

How @nicolestraveltips Turned Points & Miles Into First-Class Travel Experiences (Ep. 35)

By |

Imagine being escorted to a suite on an airplane—yes, a suite—from an exclusive airport lounge. What sounds like a reservation for the ultra-wealthy is actually an experience that many people can achieve with the proper travel strategies.

Join host DeAndre Coke as he welcomes Nicole from the “Let’s Get to the Points” podcast, as she shares her remarkable transition from flying economy on Spirit Airlines to luxuriating in Etihad’s apartments in the sky. 

Beginning as an ‘extreme couponer’, Nicole took her strategizing skills to the next level after discovering the points and miles game and signing up for her first rewards cards. Tune in to learn how she uses points and miles to create unforgettable trips for her and her whole family, traveling to exciting locations like South Africa and New Zealand. 

Key highlights:

  • Understanding Points and Miles: Learn how Nicole started her journey into travel hacking, inspired by a late-night YouTube binge
  • Maximizing Credit Cards: Discover which credit cards are essential for earning and using points, including the Capital One Venture X and American Express Platinum
  • Redeeming First-Class Rewards: Nicole’s luxurious experiences, from Abu Dhabi first-class lounges to Etihad’s premium apartments in the sky
  • Travel Strategies: Nicole’s practical advice on booking flights, setting alerts for seats and hotel rooms, and navigating family travel

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Nicole’s Travel Tips:

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

FEATURE IMAGE
Maximizing Points and Miles Travel Rewards and Avoiding Pitfalls with @profitsandpoints (Ep. 32)

Maximizing Points and Miles Travel Rewards and Avoiding Pitfalls with @profitsandpoints (Ep. 32)

By |

Discover how to transform ordinary credit card points into extraordinary travel adventures. 

Your dream destinations are much closer than you think!

Travel rewards expert Ryan Horn, known online as @profitsandpoints, shares his secrets with host DeAndre Coke on this episode of “Revolutionizing Your Journey.” Fresh off his luxurious Alaskan honeymoon, Ryan reveals how he transitioned from frequent business traveler to points and miles guru. Learn how he secured first-class flights and premium cruise experiences using points, and get insider tips on maximizing rewards while avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned traveler, Ryan’s insights will inspire you to rethink your travel strategies.

Key Highlights:

  • Luxury Alaskan Honeymoon: Discover how Ryan used points and miles for first-class flights and a premium cruise suite, saving thousands of dollars while creating unforgettable memories
  • Optimal Credit Card Strategies: Learn about the best credit cards for travel rewards, including the Amex Gold, Capital One Venture X, and the Bilt card for rent payments
  • Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Understand the importance of paying off credit card debt monthly and avoiding the pitfalls of hoarding points, with strategies to ensure you get the most value from your rewards
  • Practical Travel Tips: Gain insights into using Capital One’s Travel Eraser for onboard credits and the benefits of cruise line stock ownership for extra perks
  • Spontaneous Travel: Hear Ryan’s favorite redemption stories, including last-minute trips for sports events and family visits, showcasing the flexibility points offer
  • Planning for Success: Learn how Ryan and his wife blend planned vacations with opportunistic travel deals, and get tips on using points to enhance both planned and spontaneous trips
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Ryan Horn: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More

Traveling with Young Kids to Everest and Beyond with @restlesscrusade (Ep. 31)

Traveling with Young Kids to Everest and Beyond with @restlesscrusade (Ep. 31)

By |

Is it still possible to take extraordinary adventures after you’ve had children and started a family? 

Absolutely! 

For parents who dream of traveling, but feel it has become impossible, this episode of “Revolutionizing Your Journey” is for you. Host DeAndre Coke welcomes Shannon and Tyson from Restless Crusade. Shannon and Tyson are a couple from North Okanagan, BC, Canada, who have taken their five-year-old twins on remarkable journeys across the globe. From trekking to Everest Base Camp to exploring Bali and El Salvador, Shannon and Tyson reveal how they make family travel not just feasible but unforgettable. 

Tune in to learn their secrets and discover that your dream family adventures are within reach!

Key Highlights:

  • Epic Family Adventures: Discover how Shannon and Tyson manage incredible trips like trekking to Everest Base Camp with their twins, showcasing their adaptability and love for hiking
  • Adventurous Lifestyle: Learn about their commitment to maintaining an adventurous lifestyle, seamlessly integrating travel and hiking into their family routine
  • Practical Travel Tips: Gain valuable insights into traveling extensively with young kids, from handling logistics and lightweight packing to encouraging imaginative play over electronic devices
  • Strategic Planning: Understand their thorough approach to planning trips, including checking safety, risk levels, and required immunizations to ensure activities suit both adults and children
  • Memorable Experiences: Hear captivating stories from their adventures, such as trekking Everest and exploring El Salvador’s volcanoes, waterfalls, and beaches
  • Advice for Newbie Parents: Receive essential advice for parents new to traveling, including knowing your limits, choosing child-friendly destinations like Southeast Asia, and maintaining flexibility for a stress-free journey
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Shannon and Tyson: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: RSS | More