Tag: Strategic Travel

FEATURE IMAGE
From Gigs to Getaways: How Musicians Can Travel Smarter Using Points & Miles with @miles_maestro (Ep. 74)

From Gigs to Getaways: How Musicians Can Travel Smarter Using Points & Miles with @miles_maestro (Ep. 74)

By |

How can musicians and creatives take advantage of points and miles to make travel more affordable—and more meaningful?

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke chats with musician and points enthusiast Matt Jamele, better known as @miles_maestro, about the travel challenges artists face and the strategies that can make the road a little smoother.

Matt shares how his desire to travel more—despite the financial unpredictability of being an artist—led him to the world of points and miles. From choosing the right credit cards and maximizing free night certificates to creating unforgettable moments on the road, he offers practical advice for creatives who want to stretch their travel budgets. The conversation touches on lounge access, business card perks, and how to keep things simple while still traveling well. If you’re touring across the country or planning a well-deserved getaway between gigs, this episode will inspire you to rethink your travel as an artist.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Matt’s beginnings: His passion for travel grew while navigating the financial realities of being a working musician.
  • Business card benefits: A business credit card can offer valuable rewards for artists with side income.
  • Lounge access perks: Airport lounges provide much-needed comfort between gigs or flights.
  • Simple card strategy: A lean card setup is often more manageable and effective for creatives.
  • Redemption value: Points can be used for experiences that create lasting memories, not just luxury.
  • Ask for help: There’s a growing community of travel hackers willing to guide beginners.
  • Travel mindset: The focus should be on enjoying the journey, not overcomplicating it with dozens of strategies.
  • Accessible travel: With a bit of planning, even independent artists can explore the world without overspending.

 

This episode is sponsored by Saily. Use Code BOLDLYGO for a 15% discount

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Matt Jamele:

 

 

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Youtube Music | RSS | More

FEATURE IMAGE
Travel Smarter with Joy & Mara of @savvytravelmamas: Points, Timeshares & Travel Freebies (Ep. 73)

Travel Smarter with Joy & Mara of @savvytravelmamas: Points, Timeshares & Travel Freebies (Ep. 73)

By |

Can vacation clubs and timeshares be worth it, and how do you avoid the traps?

 In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke welcomes Joy Smith and Mara Rice, better known as the Savvy Travel Mamas, for a candid conversation on travel strategies, points and miles, and making family vacations a reality without breaking the bank. Mara shares how she started travel hacking decades ago out of financial necessity. At the same time, Joy reflects on her evolution from avoiding travel planning to becoming the go-to organizer for unforgettable getaways.

They break down the difference between vacation clubs and timeshares, discuss how to spot (and avoid) high-pressure sales tactics—especially in Las Vegas—and explain why freebies can be both a perk and a pitfall. You’ll also hear personal stories from their stays at Hilton and Hyatt resorts, tips for using credit cards wisely, and prioritizing experiences without overspending. This episode offers a practical guide for families, beginners, and anyone curious about getting more from their travels through smart planning and intentional choices.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Mara’s beginnings: She started using points and miles out of necessity, proving you don’t need money to travel smart.
  • Joy’s shift: Initially hesitant, Joy embraced travel planning to prioritize family vacations.
  • Vacation club clarity: Understanding the structure of vacation clubs vs. timeshares is critical to making wise decisions.
  • Maximizing redemptions: Spacious accommodations and points strategy make family travel more affordable.
  • Common mistakes: Many people jump into timeshares without understanding what they buy.
  • Financial insight: Being financially responsible when considering ownership is key.
  • Presentation strategy: If you prepare, you can attend sales presentations just for the perks.
  • Vegas freebies: Joy and Mara reveal how they scored thousands in vacation value just by showing up.
  • Family-first mindset: Travel should work around your family’s needs, not the other way around.
  • Start small: You don’t have to jump into luxury travel—start where you are and build from there.

 

This episode is sponsored by Saily. Use Code BOLDLYGO for a 15% discount

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with savvytravelmamas:

 

 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Youtube Music | 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: Youtube Music | RSS | More

FEATURE IMAGE
Exploring Ambitious Travel Challenges and Points & Miles Strategies with @luckytictac (Ep. 34)

Exploring Ambitious Travel Challenges and Points & Miles Strategies with @luckytictac (Ep. 34)

By |

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:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Allison Tackette: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Youtube Music | RSS | More

FEATURE IMAGE
Vegas Vacation Strategies: Experiencing the Uncanny EDC Las Vegas (Ep. 33)

Vegas Vacation Strategies: Experiencing the Uncanny EDC Las Vegas (Ep. 33)

By |

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:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Youtube Music | 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: Youtube Music | 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: Youtube Music | RSS | More

Our Mid-Year Credit Card Points and Miles Rewards Update (Ep. 30)

Our Mid-Year Credit Card Points and Miles Rewards Update (Ep. 30)

By |

Stop dreaming, start packing! Learn how to turn everyday spending into luxury travel rewards.

Challenge your understanding of maximizing travel rewards in this all-encompassing episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast. Your hosts DeAndre Coke and Taryn Gisbert unveil their mid-year achievements and strategies for leveraging credit card rewards to enhance travel experiences without excessive spending. This episode is full of travel rewards resources and strategies that will help you boost your next trip to luxury heights for a fraction of the price!

Key Highlights:

  • Credit Card Benefits: Explore the IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card’s incredible perks, such as massive points, TSA pre-check, global entry, no foreign transaction fees, trip insurance, and a free annual hotel night—all for just $99 a year
  • Earning Miles: Discover how to rack up American Airlines miles through Basque Bank’s high-yield savings account, turning your savings into flight opportunities
  • Recent Card Strategies: Hear how DeAndre earned 200,000 points with two Chase Inc. Business Preferred cards by spending $8,000 in three months. Plus, learn his trick for using Zill Bank to run payroll on a credit card, earning substantial points even with a 3% fee
  • Travel Freely App: See how DeAndre and Taryn use the Travel Freely app to track cards and spending, emphasizing responsible credit use and strategic planning
  • Actionable Takeaways: Get practical advice on leveraging credit card points and miles to achieve nearly free luxury travel. Reach out to DeAndre and Taryn for personalized card recommendations
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Youtube Music | RSS | More

Playing the Points and Miles Game as a Family with @thefrugalandfreetravelers (Ep. 29)

Playing the Points and Miles Game as a Family with @thefrugalandfreetravelers (Ep. 29)

By |

How can families travel luxuriously without breaking the bank?

Challenge your preconceived notions about cost-effective luxurious travel in this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast. Host DeAndre Coke welcomes Jordan and Courtney from “The Frugal and Free Travelers,” an Indiana-based couple with two daughters who share their love of adventure. 

Together they have mastered traveling frugally yet luxuriously through strategic planning and usage of points and miles. Starting with the Chase Freedom card in 2007 to lavish trips to South America and Disney World, Jordan and Courtney share insights and tips on balancing family, work, and a passion for travel.

Key Highlights:

  • Family Travel Dynamics: Learn how Jordan and Courtney prioritize travel despite a middle-class income, manage long flights with ease, and train their kids to enjoy travel
  • Credit Card Strategy: Discover how they started with the Chase Freedom card and now open multiple cards annually, focusing on transferable points to improve their credit scores
  • Travel Planning: Understand how Courtney handles 80% of research and planning, balancing activities to ensure memorable trips for the entire family
  • Memorable Trips: Hear about their highlights, including hiking in Madeira, exploring Portugal, and using Alaska Airlines miles for South America, plus a budget-friendly stay in Chile and maximizing credits at the Arizona Biltmore
  • Challenges and Solutions: Find out how they overcome challenges like booking four business class seats and hotel rooms for four, emphasizing the importance of earning large points and understanding program availability
  • Advice for Beginners: Receive practical advice on starting small with points, avoiding hoarding, and using them promptly
  • Upcoming Adventures: Get a sneak peek into their future trips to Greece and Turks and Caicos, and dream destinations like Thailand and Indonesia. Follow their journey on Instagram and visit their website for more resources
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Jordan and Courtney: 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Youtube Music | RSS | More