Tag: Luxury Travel

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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)

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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:

 

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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

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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:

 

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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

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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:

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

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

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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:

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

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

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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:

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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:

 

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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:

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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)

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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:

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

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

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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:

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