Tag: Luxury Travel

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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!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

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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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Revolutionizing Your Thailand Experience: Where to Go, What to Eat, and How to Save with Ben of @bensbigdeal (Ep. 66)

Revolutionizing Your Thailand Experience: Where to Go, What to Eat, and How to Save with Ben of @bensbigdeal (Ep. 66)

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Have you ever dreamed of visiting Thailand but don’t know where to start? In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with travel expert and points enthusiast Ben Komenkul to dive into everything you need to know about exploring Thailand. From must-visit destinations like Bangkok and Phuket to the hidden gems that travelers often miss, Ben shares insider tips on maximizing your experience.

The conversation delves into the role of points and miles in reducing travel costs, the best hotels to book for luxury at a fraction of the price, and why Thailand’s rich cultural heritage makes it one of the most fascinating travel destinations. Ben also highlights the deep influence of Buddhism and Hinduism on Thai culture, the country’s inclusive attitude toward gender identities, and how ethical tourism plays a crucial role in responsible travel.

Additionally, they explore Thailand’s world-renowned food scene, why Thai cuisine is all about balancing flavors, and the affordability of dining—even for families. Whether you’re planning a first-time visit, looking for the best time to travel, or simply curious about Thai traditions, this episode is packed with valuable insights and expert recommendations.

Tune in now to learn how to revolutionize your Thailand experience with smart travel strategies and points redemptions!

 

Key Highlights:

  • Cultural Diversity: Thailand is a country rich in history, shaped by immigration and cultural influences.
  • Must-Visit Destinations: Bangkok and Phuket are key stops for first-time travelers.
  • Affordable Luxury: Thailand offers incredible hotel stays, where five-star luxury can be surprisingly affordable.
  • Points and Miles Advantage: Using rewards can make traveling to Thailand more budget-friendly.
  • Easy Transportation: Local options like Grab provide an affordable way to explore cities.
  • Culinary Scene: Thai cuisine focuses on balancing flavors, making it one of the best food destinations in the world.
  • Ethical Travel: Responsible tourism is key when engaging with animal experiences.
  • Budget-Friendly Travel: Dining, massages, and shopping in Thailand are all accessible at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.
  • Best Time to Visit: April’s Songkran Festival is a cultural highlight worth experiencing.
  • Island Hopping: Thailand’s coastal regions offer breathtaking experiences beyond Bangkok and Phuket.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Ben Komenkul:

 

 

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Rum Punch, Beach Vibes & Wedding Bells: Our Jamaica Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall Experience (Ep. 65)

Rum Punch, Beach Vibes & Wedding Bells: Our Jamaica Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall Experience (Ep. 65)

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What’s it like to experience a destination wedding in Jamaica while staying at a top-tier all-inclusive resort?

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, hosts Taryn and DeAndre take listeners through their trip to Jamaica, where they attended a beautiful wedding at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall. They break down the booking process, how they used points to maximize their stay, and how Globalist status enhanced their resort experience.

From luxurious room upgrades to mouthwatering jerk chicken and vibrant entertainment, the episode highlights the resort’s atmosphere, amenities, and dining experiences. It also covers travel tips for visiting Jamaica, including why they recommend Club Mobay VIP entry for a stress-free airport experience. 

Whether you’re planning a trip to Jamaica, considering Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, or just looking for destination wedding inspiration, this episode is packed with insider insights and firsthand experiences.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Destination Wedding in Jamaica: Attended a wedding at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall.
  • Booking with Points: Used Hyatt points to book the stay.
  • DeAndre’s Connection to Jamaica: He is half-Jamaican, making this trip even more special.
  • Resort Experience: The adults-only Hyatt Zillara sits next to the family-friendly Hyatt Ziva.
  • Globalist Perks: Enjoyed suite upgrades and exclusive benefits.
  • Best Jerk Chicken Ever: The jerk chicken at the resort was a culinary highlight.
  • VIP Arrival at the Airport: Club Mobay VIP entry made the arrival process seamless.
  • Wedding Experience: The event was well-organized and stunning.
  • Resort Atmosphere: Energetic, great entertainment, and a lively vibe.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

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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 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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Our 2024 Recap: Points & Miles Wins, Stunning Stays, and Epic Destinations (Ep. 55)

Our 2024 Recap: Points & Miles Wins, Stunning Stays, and Epic Destinations (Ep. 55)

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What were your top travel moments this year? In this reflective episode, Taryn and DeAndre take listeners on a journey through their unforgettable 2024 travel experiences and offer a glimpse into their exciting plans for 2025. They share how they accumulated nearly a million points through signup bonuses, their favorite destinations like Bali, and luxurious stays such as Marina Bay Sands. A highlight of the year was their magical night dive with manta rays, but the adventure didn’t stop there—another unforgettable experience was taking a helicopter ride to EDC Las Vegas, avoiding traffic and arriving at the event in just 45 minutes.

Looking ahead to 2025, Taryn and DeAndre have a packed travel itinerary. They plan to dive deep into adventure in Roatan, Honduras, attend a friend’s wedding at Hyatt Ziva while enjoying the Adults-Only Hyatt Zilara Cancun, and celebrate their own wedding in the Dominican Republic. Skiing and snowboarding with friends at Beaver Creek Ski Resort & Spa Hotels is also on the agenda, as well as DeAndre’s plans to attend the Travel More Conference in October. With so much ahead, they remain committed to travel hacking and sharing tips to maximize points, ensuring every trip is memorable and rewarding. 

Join them in reflecting on a year of growth and looking forward to new adventures!

 

Key Highlights:

  • Podcast Milestone: This marks the first full year of having the podcast, which experienced massive growth and great support from listeners.
  • Points and Miles: Accumulated nearly a million points through signup bonuses alone.
  • Favorite Destinations & Stays: Bali stands out as a top travel spot, while Marina Bay Sands in Singapore was a spectacular experience.
  • Memorable Adventures: The night dive with manta rays in the Maldives was unforgettable, but there’s also a helicopter ride to EDC Las Vegas, which was a first for both Taryn and DeAndre.
  • 2025 Plans: Diving in Roatan, attending a friend’s wedding in Cancun, and hosting their own wedding in the Dominican Republic.
  • Winter Fun: Skiing and snowboarding with friends at Beaver Creek.
  • Professional Growth: DeAndre will attend the Travel More Conference in October.
  • Travel Philosophy: Revolutionize your travels, revolutionize your journeys.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

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Our Maldives Return Recap: Luxury Redemptions with Qsuites, Emirates First-Class and More! (Ep 54)

Our Maldives Return Recap: Luxury Redemptions with Qsuites, Emirates First-Class and More! (Ep 54)

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Ever wondered how to turn your dream trip to the Maldives into a reality using points and miles?

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey Podcast, DeAndre and Taryn share their unforgettable return to the Maldives, offering insider tips on planning luxury travel without breaking the bank. From flying Qatar Airways’ Qsuites to diving with manta rays on ScubaSpa and navigating chaotic airport experiences, they break down every aspect of their journey. They also discuss their stay at Bandos Maldives, vibrant nightlife, and a first-class Emirates flight that redefined luxury. Whether you’re planning your next trip or just dreaming of one, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

Ready to take your travel game to the next level? Start planning your Maldives getaway with these expert tips!

 

Key Highlights:

  • Qatar Airways Qsuites: Experience unparalleled comfort and luxury in the sky.
  • Reservation Confirmations: Always confirm directly with resorts to avoid issues.
  • Airport Challenges: Prepare for a chaotic and hot experience at the Maldives airport.
  • Diving with Manta Rays: Enjoy a magical and unforgettable underwater adventure.
  • Scuba Spa Experience: Combine luxury and diving on a unique liveaboard journey.
  • Emirates First-Class: Redefine air travel with exceptional luxury and service.
  • Family-Friendly Resorts: The Maldives offers great options for families and vibrant nightlife.
  • Layover Strategies: Enhance long-haul travel with smart layover hotel choices.
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

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