Tag: Off the Beaten Path Adventures

Growing Up Alaskan: Alaska Airlines Tips, Points & Miles Strategies, and Epic Travels with @heralaskatravels (Ep. 59)

Growing Up Alaskan: Alaska Airlines Tips, Points & Miles Strategies, and Epic Travels with @heralaskatravels (Ep. 59)

Ever wondered what it’s like growing up in the rugged landscapes of Alaska—and how that shapes a traveler’s mindset? 

In this episode, host DeAndre Coke talks to Betsey from Her Alaska Travels, a lifelong Alaskan who discovered the power of points and miles. Betsey reveals how Alaska Airlines plays a crucial role for Alaskans, highlighting game-changing updates like earning elite qualifying miles on award travel. She also delves into Hawaiian Airlines’ evolving relationship with Amex, shares tips for exploring Alaska via cruises or road trips, and emphasizes how stopovers can elevate your travel experiences. 

Whether you’re curious about the best time to visit Alaska, how to manage “phantom flights,” or simply want insider advice on maximizing miles and planning epic adventures, Betsey’s first-hand knowledge will inspire you to explore the Last Frontier—and beyond.

Key Highlights:

  • Alaskan Grit: Growing up in Alaska instills resilience and a drive to explore.
  • Early Travel Influence: Traveling young shapes a lifelong passion for discovery.
  • Alaska Airlines Loyalty: Residents rely on the airline for connectivity, and recent updates, like earning elite qualifying miles on award travel, offer new advantages.
  • Hawaiian Airlines Shifts: Upcoming changes with Hawaiian Airlines’ Amex partnership may impact point transfers.
  • Stopover Strategies: Utilizing stopovers in destinations like Fiji or Iceland can enhance international trips.
  • Cruise vs. Road Trip: Adventurous land travel often offers more flexibility than cruising Alaska’s coastlines.
  • Budget-Friendly Alaska: Outdoor activities and extended stays (around ten days) can help travelers fully experience the region without breaking the bank.
  • Points & Miles Tips: Understanding “phantom flights,” stopover rules, and loyalty program nuances can lead to better travel deals.

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Betsey: 

Unearthing Africa’s Hidden Treasures: Insights from Lynett Nakamanya (Ep. 58)

Unearthing Africa’s Hidden Treasures: Insights from Lynett Nakamanya (Ep. 58)

Ready to discover the richness and diversity of African travel?

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke chats with Lynett Nakamanya, a seasoned African tour operator and founder of Girls Travel Africa. Together, they explore the wealth of experiences Africa has to offer, from Uganda’s vibrant food scene—earning it the reputation as the continent’s “food basket”—to immersive cultural and wellness-focused trips. Lynett also highlights the importance of safety for solo female travelers and shares how her company empowers women to explore Africa with confidence. Additionally, they discuss the value of deeply connecting with local communities and how cultural immersion can lead to more fulfilling travels. By shedding light on Africa’s untapped tourism potential, Lynett underscores the need for greater awareness and responsible marketing to showcase the continent’s extraordinary travel opportunities.

Tune in to this episode to learn more about Africa’s diverse experiences and start planning your own unforgettable journey.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Seasoned Expertise: Lynett Nakamanya’s background in African tour operations provides valuable insights.
  • Uganda’s Abundance: Known as the “food basket of Africa,” Uganda boasts diverse culinary experiences.
  • Solo Female Travel: Girls Travel Africa prioritizes safety and empowerment for women exploring the continent.
  • Cultural Immersion: Real connection with local communities enriches the travel experience.
  • Customizable Trips: Tailor-made itineraries cater to unique interests, from safaris to wellness travel.
  • Underexplored Destination: Africa’s vast tourism potential remains largely untapped.
  • Preparation Matters: Thorough research is crucial for a smooth and fulfilling journey.
  • Empowering Women: Travel can be a transformative tool for women venturing into new experiences.
  • Marketing Africa: Increasing awareness is key to showcasing the continent’s tourism offerings.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Lynett Nakamanya: