Tag: Travel Savings

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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)

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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:

 

 

 

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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)

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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:

 

 

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Quick Hits: Tax Payment Rewards, Gift Card Conversions, and Capital One Lounge Updates!

Quick Hits: Tax Payment Rewards, Gift Card Conversions, and Capital One Lounge Updates!

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Ever wondered how to boost your travel rewards while staying flexible and enjoying the journey? 

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre mentions his recent trip to Mexico City—an often overlooked gem—alongside practical tips for paying taxes with credit cards to earn rewards. He reveals an innovative method for converting gift cards into airline miles, and addresses upcoming changes for Capital One Venture X lounge access. Finally, DeAndre emphasizes strategies to maximize points value without losing sight of the bigger picture: having a memorable travel experience.

Tune in now to stay ahead of your travel game at the start of 2025!

 

Key takeaways: 

  • Paying Taxes for Rewards: Using credit cards for tax payments can be a lucrative way to accumulate points.
  • Gift Card Conversion: Certain gift cards can be turned into airline miles, adding flexibility to your rewards strategy.
  • Capital One Venture X Update: Upcoming lounge access changes require cardholders to stay informed.
  • Valuing Points: Aim for at least two cents per point to maximize returns, but remember that convenience also matters.
  • Balanced Redemption: Not every redemption will be the perfect deal—value your time and enjoyment.
  • Enjoy the Process: Research is key, but don’t let it overshadow the fun and experience of traveling.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

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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:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

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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:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Ryan Horn: 

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