Tag: Travel Podcast
Quick Hits: ANA’s Devaluation, How to re-qualify for Chase’s Biggest Bonus & More!

Quick Hits: ANA’s Devaluation, How to re-qualify for Chase’s Biggest Bonus & More!

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Is ANA’s legendary around-the-world ticket going away for good?

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke checks in from the Dominican Republic—on a site visit for his upcoming wedding—to bring you the latest news in the world of travel, points, and miles. He breaks down ANA’s significant devaluation, explains the ticking clock on booking their coveted around-the-world ticket, and clarifies who’s eligible for Chase Sapphire Preferred’s elevated 100,000-point offer.

DeAndre also shares the latest updates on Zil Money’s delayed card processing system for payroll and offers a transparent follow-up to a recent discrepancy between a podcast and Instagram about his use of points versus travel insurance for a flight delay. If you’re looking to stay sharp on offers, program updates, and real-life travel hacks, this episode is packed with practical insights—recorded right from paradise.

Tune in to stay ahead on travel strategy and loyalty program changes.

 

Key takeaways: 

  • ANA Around-the-World Ticket: Book by June 24 before ANA eliminates this aspirational redemption.
  • ANA One-Way Redemptions: ANA will finally allow one-way point bookings, offering more flexibility.
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred Bonus: A 100,000-point welcome offer is available—but only if you meet strict eligibility rules.
  • Zil Money Update: The platform is still down due to overwhelming demand; processing is expected to resume soon.
  • Travel Insurance Clarification: DeAndre confirms he used points (not cash) for a Hyatt stay during a flight delay, and breaks down how trip delay coverage varies by card.
  • Trip Delay Insurance Tip: Chase Sapphire Preferred = 12-hour delay or overnight stay; Reserve = 6-hour delay coverage.

 

Resources:

 

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How Business (and Life) Partners Can Turn Shared Expenses Into Luxury Travel with Dr. Andrea Mabry (Ep. 70)

How Business (and Life) Partners Can Turn Shared Expenses Into Luxury Travel with Dr. Andrea Mabry (Ep. 70)

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Can you build a business and a travel lifestyle at the same time?

 In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, dermatologist and entrepreneur Andrea Mabry joins host DeAndre Coke to reveal how she leveraged high-value business expenses to earn millions of points and miles. From negotiating with contractors on a multi-million dollar clinic build to strategically choosing between Chase, Capital One, and Amex cards, Andrea shares actionable tips for entrepreneurs looking to turn their business spend into unforgettable travel rewards. They dive deep into the pros and cons of sharing points with partners, the surprising differences between credit card issuers, and how Andrea used AI to decide between points and cash back. You’ll also hear about her family’s premium cabin redemptions, the true value of understanding credit card fine print, and how setting aside just one hour can lead to long-term rewards.

 If you’re a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur looking to maximize every dollar—this one’s for you.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Business Expense Strategy: Andrea used business spending, including building a clinic, to earn over 700,000 points annually.
  • Credit Card Comparison: Chase offers substantial rewards but is hard to share; Capital One is the most flexible for transfers.
  • Amex Point Tracking: Requires manual systems to manage partner point splits effectively.
  • Contractor Negotiation: Paying large vendors with cards led to significant point accumulation.
  • Cash Back vs Points: Andrea used AI tools to compare long-term value and determine the best strategy.
  • Family Travel: Thanks to effective redemption planning, she flew seven family members in premium cabins.
  • Quick Setup: Setting up a points system can take less than an hour but deliver massive returns.
  • Teaching Others: Andrea educates her network to create shared travel opportunities.
  • Redemption Stories: From Thailand to Iceland, points have become unforgettable travel memories. 

 

 

Resources:

 

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[YouTube Bonus] Tucson: The U.S. Food City You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Eat In ASAP)

[YouTube Bonus] Tucson: The U.S. Food City You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Eat In ASAP)

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Tucson, Arizona, might be America’s most underrated food city—and we’re here to tell you why. From handmade tortillas and Sonoran beef to standout dinners at Charro Del Rey and Bata, this trip turned into a full-on foodie journey. In this special podcast release, we also discuss how we earned 18,000 American Airlines miles on a cash booking, explore Tucson’s status as the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the U.S., and share thoughts on walkability, safety, and local charm.

Tune in to hear what surprised us most and why Tucson deserves a spot on every food lover’s travel list.

Resources:

 

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Quick Hits: More Zil Payroll Woes and More!

Quick Hits: More Zil Payroll Woes and More!

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In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke checks in from the stunning Park Hyatt Beaver Creek in Colorado, offering a glimpse into the luxury ski-in/ski-out experience. 

He shares the latest on the ongoing Zil Money payroll issues, including frustrations from users unable to process payments via credit card. The episode also covers recent turbulence with Southwest Airlines, from point devaluations to new passenger fees, and how American and Delta are stepping in with status match opportunities. DeAndre closes out by breaking down the new Chase and United card changes, which have sparked conversations around value, fees, and whether these cards still make sense for savvy travelers.

Whether you’re navigating the slopes of travel rewards or reassessing your credit card strategy, this episode delivers timely insights to help you make smarter moves with your points and miles.

 

Key takeaways: 

  • Park Hyatt Beaver Creek: A true ski-in/ski-out luxury resort offering a premium travel experience.
  • Zil Money Update: The payroll-by-card system experienced downtime, impacting users across multiple platforms.
  • Southwest Airlines Devaluation: Points were devalued, and new fees were introduced, frustrating loyal customers.
  • Status Match Opportunities: American Airlines and Delta are offering matches for Southwest elites.
  • Chase & United Card Changes: Increased annual fees and reduced perks make co-branded cards less valuable.
  • Community Insight: Ongoing discussions in the Boldly Go Facebook group reflect traveler concerns and strategies.
  • Rewards Program Monitoring: Staying informed is key to adapting to the changing travel rewards landscape.

 

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:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

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