Tag: Insider Travel Advice

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[YouTube Bonus] Bali Highlights: Best Things to Do, & Where to Stay | Full Guide to Villas, Food & Culture

[YouTube Bonus] Bali Highlights: Best Things to Do, & Where to Stay | Full Guide to Villas, Food & Culture

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Ready to experience Bali like never before? In this full travel guide, we take you through the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to enjoy luxury travel in Bali without breaking the bank. From stunning bamboo villas to secret swing spots and unforgettable local food — we cover it all.

We spent two weeks in Bali exploring Seminyak, Selat, Amed, and everything in between. 

Bonus: We flew to Bali in business class for under $400 per person (retail: $10,000+). Want to know how? Check out our podcast where we explain how we use points and miles to travel in luxury for less!

 

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Simplifying Points & Miles: A “Lazy” Approach to Travel Rewards with Genni of @travelingfranklins (Ep. 62)

Simplifying Points & Miles: A “Lazy” Approach to Travel Rewards with Genni of @travelingfranklins (Ep. 62)

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Ever wonder how you can simplify your travel rewards strategy and maximize points with minimal effort? 

In this episode, DeAndre sits down with Genni Franklin to demystify the world of points and miles. Genni, who transitioned from the hospitality industry into travel rewards, reveals her “lazy” approach—earning points with minimal effort while still maximizing value. She explains the importance of building confidence through that all-important first redemption, clarifies the differences between flexible and non-flexible points, and shares tailored strategies for families.

Genni also highlights her top credit card recommendations and offers practical tips for streamlining the redemption process, making travel both accessible and affordable. Ultimately, she encourages listeners to focus on their unique travel goals and adopt a flexible mindset to unlock incredible opportunities.

Tune in now to learn how to simplify your rewards strategy and start maximizing your travel potential!

 

Key Highlights:

  • Simplified Approach: Genni emphasizes a “lazy” strategy that minimizes effort while maximizing points and miles.
  • Confidence Through Redemption: Building confidence by making that first successful redemption is essential.
  • Flexible Points Advantage: Understanding the difference between flexible and non-flexible points can expand your travel options.
  • Family Strategies: Tailoring travel rewards strategies for families can significantly enhance travel experiences.
  • Credit Card Recommendations: Genni shares her favorite credit cards that help maximize travel rewards.
  • Smart Budgeting: Effective travel planning and budgeting are crucial for optimizing points and miles.
  • Personal Focus: Focus on your unique travel journey rather than comparing yourself to others.
  • Embrace Flexibility: Flexibility in travel planning can unlock incredible opportunities and better deals.
  • Continuous Learning: Ongoing education about points and miles is vital for long-term success.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Genni Franklin:

 

 

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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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From Tulum’s Unique Vibes to Mexico City’s Food Tours: Our Mexican Holiday Journey (Ep. 60)

From Tulum’s Unique Vibes to Mexico City’s Food Tours: Our Mexican Holiday Journey (Ep. 60)

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Ever wondered what a two-week holiday adventure in Mexico looks like?

In this episode, DeAndre and Taryn share their journey from a week-long escape in Tulum—complete with stunning beaches, a vibrant local community, and unique Airbnb experiences—to exploring the rich culinary scene of Mexico City. They delve into travel tips on maximizing points for flights and accommodations, navigating the new Tulum airport, and embracing the local culture and dining customs of Mexico City. 

The conversation also covers their New Year’s Eve experience, which featured a mix of highs and lows—from a disappointing countdown to an unforgettable food tour, Michelin-star dining, and a luxurious stop at the Centurion Lounge. Whether you’re curious about securing affordable rides, making advanced reservations, or just looking for inspiration, DeAndre and Taryn’s insights will help you plan and enjoy your next adventure.

Listen now to dive into their travel stories and get inspired for your Mexican getaway!

Key Highlights:

  • Tulum Vibe: Tulum offers a vibrant community with great food and stunning beaches.
  • Airbnb Advantage: Booking a unique Airbnb in Tulum can earn you airline miles and enhance your travel experience.
  • New Airport Perks: The newly opened Tulum airport provides added convenience for travelers.
  • Culinary Capital: Mexico City boasts a rich culinary scene featuring family-owned eateries and Michelin-star dining.
  • Late Meal Culture: Mealtimes in Mexico City are notably later, a key cultural insight for planning your dining schedule.
  • Affordable Rides: Ubers in Mexico City are affordable, making navigating the bustling city streets easy.
  • Plan Ahead: To secure the best experiences, make reservations for popular restaurants and food tours in advance.
  • Unique Experiences: Tulum’s beach clubs offer a unique party atmosphere, while the Centurion Lounge delivers unexpected luxury.

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

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