Revolutionizing Your Journey: Travel With Points & Miles

What happens when a criminal defense attorney turns her free time during the pandemic into learning about travel rewards strategies?  In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Deanna Keane aka @pointsflygirl, an attorney by day and a points and miles expert by passion. Deanna shares her journey into the world of points and miles, including how she leverages Citi ThankYou points, Amex Business Platinum benefits, and underappreciated programs like Choice Hotels to craft unforgettable experiences.  From her favorite redemptions in Ireland to unique travel moments in Iceland, this conversation is packed with actionable tips for travelers looking to maximize value without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re curious about driving in Ireland, booking with kitchenettes in Iceland, or how to score the best deals from Vegas to Dublin, Deanna breaks it down in a relatable, strategic way. Tune in and discover how smart planning, flexible redemptions, and a little creativity can unlock global adventures.   Key Highlights: Pandemic Pivot: Deanna began exploring points and miles during COVID and found a new passion. Strategic Redemptions: Citi ThankYou Points offer substantial value for everyday spending and travel. Hidden Gems: Choice Hotels often provide surprisingly good redemption opportunities. Ireland Tips: The Dingle Peninsula and Blarney Castle are must-visit destinations. Flight Deals: KLM and British Airways offer interesting routes and redemption options. Best Time to Visit Ireland: May through September offers ideal weather for exploration. Drive to Discover: Renting a car in Ireland enhances the experience beyond tourist hotspots. Iceland Insights: Booking hotels with kitchenettes helps save money in a pricey destination. Wine Hack: You can purchase wine at the airport in Iceland—perfect for budget travelers.     Resources: Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld   Connect with Deanna Keane: Instagram: thepointsflygirl Website: thepointsflygirl.com     Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke brings you the latest updates from the world of travel rewards and points. He covers the evolving landscape of earning points through payroll services with Zil Money, highlights Bilt’s expanding partnerships, and breaks down the latest elevated offers from Marriott Bonvoy. Additionally, DeAndre shares critical travel updates regarding earthquakes affecting Santorini, impacting travel plans and potential deals. He also answers a listener’s question about upgrading Emirates flights booked through partner airlines and explains the challenges of navigating that process. Lastly, the episode closes with a heartfelt tribute to Elise Caffee, a beloved member of the travel community known for her generosity and passion for helping others maximize their points and miles. Stay informed with the latest travel strategies and industry news—tune in now!   Key takeaways:  Payroll Points Strategy: Earning points using payroll services can be beneficial, but Zil Money is currently undergoing updates. Bilt Expansion: Bilt has announced new partnerships, including Lyft, providing more earning opportunities for users. Marriott Bonvoy Offers: Elevated sign-up bonuses are currently available for select Marriott Bonvoy cards. Santorini Earthquake Impact: Earthquakes have affected travel plans in Santorini, with possible travel deals emerging. Upgrading Emirates Flights: Upgrading flights booked through partner airlines can be challenging due to fare class restrictions. Community Tribute: Elise Caffee was an inspiration in the travel space, and her contributions will be remembered. Monitoring Travel Deals: Travelers should keep an eye on Santorini for potential post-earthquake travel bargains.   Elise Caffee: Updates Instagram GoFundMe How to navigate family travel with ease (Ep. 37)   Resources: Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld     Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Have you ever dreamed of visiting Thailand but don’t know where to start? In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with travel expert and points enthusiast Ben Komenkul to dive into everything you need to know about exploring Thailand. From must-visit destinations like Bangkok and Phuket to the hidden gems that travelers often miss, Ben shares insider tips on maximizing your experience. The conversation delves into the role of points and miles in reducing travel costs, the best hotels to book for luxury at a fraction of the price, and why Thailand’s rich cultural heritage makes it one of the most fascinating travel destinations. Ben also highlights the deep influence of Buddhism and Hinduism on Thai culture, the country’s inclusive attitude toward gender identities, and how ethical tourism plays a crucial role in responsible travel. Additionally, they explore Thailand’s world-renowned food scene, why Thai cuisine is all about balancing flavors, and the affordability of dining—even for families. Whether you’re planning a first-time visit, looking for the best time to travel, or simply curious about Thai traditions, this episode is packed with valuable insights and expert recommendations. Tune in now to learn how to revolutionize your Thailand experience with smart travel strategies and points redemptions!   Key Highlights: Cultural Diversity: Thailand is a country rich in history, shaped by immigration and cultural influences. Must-Visit Destinations: Bangkok and Phuket are key stops for first-time travelers. Affordable Luxury: Thailand offers incredible hotel stays, where five-star luxury can be surprisingly affordable. Points and Miles Advantage: Using rewards can make traveling to Thailand more budget-friendly. Easy Transportation: Local options like Grab provide an affordable way to explore cities. Culinary Scene: Thai cuisine focuses on balancing flavors, making it one of the best food destinations in the world. Ethical Travel: Responsible tourism is key when engaging with animal experiences. Budget-Friendly Travel: Dining, massages, and shopping in Thailand are all accessible at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. Best Time to Visit: April’s Songkran Festival is a cultural highlight worth experiencing. Island Hopping: Thailand’s coastal regions offer breathtaking experiences beyond Bangkok and Phuket.   Resources: Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld   Connect with Ben Komenkul: Instagram: bensbigdeal Website: bensbigdeal.com Facebook: bensbigdeal YouTube: Ben’s Big Deal      Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke unpacks the latest updates in the world of points and miles, including airline and hotel loyalty program changes, travel incentives, and credit card promotions. He discusses the temporary halt in payroll by credit card through Zill Money, the reinstatement of Air Canada’s points pooling feature, and the latest IHG Rewards card offers that could help travelers maximize their stays. Additionally, DeAndre highlights Vancouver’s new travel incentives, an unlisted transfer bonus with Etihad, and the perks of subscribing to Thrifty Traveler for exclusive flight deals. He also provides insight into AMEX Membership Week, upcoming policy changes at Southwest Airlines—including the end of free baggage for most passengers—and how travelers should prepare for the 40% devaluation of Southwest points. Whether you’re looking to maximize rewards, navigate airline devaluations, or take advantage of limited-time bonuses, this episode covers it all. Tune in now to stay ahead of the latest travel trends and maximize your points and miles!   Key takeaways:  Payroll by Credit Card: Temporarily unavailable due to system upgrades. Air Canada Points Pooling: Reinstated, allowing families to share miles. IHG Rewards Card Offers: Limited-time bonus points promotions are available. Vancouver Travel Incentives: Visitors can receive prepaid Visa gift cards. Etihad Transfer Bonus: Available but not listed in the Capital One portal. Etihad Cancellation Policy: Strict rules, so book wisely. Thrifty Traveler Deals: Subscription includes exclusive discounts and a money-back guarantee. AMEX Membership Week: Exclusive promotions and travel perks are available for cardholders. Southwest Airlines Devaluation: Points for cheap fares reduced by 40%. Southwest Policy Changes: Assigned seating and new baggage fees could impact frequent flyers.   Resources: Thrifty Traveler link Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld     Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

What’s it like to experience a destination wedding in Jamaica while staying at a top-tier all-inclusive resort? In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, hosts Taryn and DeAndre take listeners through their trip to Jamaica, where they attended a beautiful wedding at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall. They break down the booking process, how they used points to maximize their stay, and how Globalist status enhanced their resort experience. From luxurious room upgrades to mouthwatering jerk chicken and vibrant entertainment, the episode highlights the resort’s atmosphere, amenities, and dining experiences. It also covers travel tips for visiting Jamaica, including why they recommend Club Mobay VIP entry for a stress-free airport experience.  Whether you’re planning a trip to Jamaica, considering Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, or just looking for destination wedding inspiration, this episode is packed with insider insights and firsthand experiences.   Key Highlights: Destination Wedding in Jamaica: Attended a wedding at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall. Booking with Points: Used Hyatt points to book the stay. DeAndre’s Connection to Jamaica: He is half-Jamaican, making this trip even more special. Resort Experience: The adults-only Hyatt Zillara sits next to the family-friendly Hyatt Ziva. Globalist Perks: Enjoyed suite upgrades and exclusive benefits. Best Jerk Chicken Ever: The jerk chicken at the resort was a culinary highlight. VIP Arrival at the Airport: Club Mobay VIP entry made the arrival process seamless. Wedding Experience: The event was well-organized and stunning. Resort Atmosphere: Energetic, great entertainment, and a lively vibe.   Resources: Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall blog review Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld     Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Looking to take advantage of the best travel credit card offers this March? In this Quick Hits episode, host DeAndre Coke breaks down the latest elevated offers from IHG, Capital One, and American Express, explaining how to maximize welcome bonuses and transfer bonuses for the best redemptions. He also highlights why switching browsers when searching for credit card offers can lead to better deals. Additionally, DeAndre covers unique Capital One redemptions such as MLB tickets, Marriott’s expansion into luxury safari properties in Kenya, and Hilton’s partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH)—creating even more premium travel opportunities for points and miles enthusiasts. Wrapping up, he shares insights into recent Chase credit card reporting errors, the impact of the 5/24 rule, and upcoming networking opportunities at TravelCon in Tucson, Arizona. Tune in for the latest travel updates, expert credit card strategies, and exclusive tips to level up your travel game with points and miles.   Key takeaways:  March Credit Card Offers: New best offers available from IHG, Capital One, and Amex. Amex Business Platinum: Features a high-value welcome offer this month. Browser Tricks: Using different browsers can reveal better credit card deals. Hilton’s Free Night Certificate: A valuable perk for award travelers. Capital One Redemptions: Includes MLB tickets and other exclusive experiences. Marriott’s Luxury Expansion: New safari properties coming to Kenya. Hilton & Small Luxury Hotels (SLH): Expanding high-end hotel options. Chase Business Cards Issue: Some cards are incorrectly appearing on personal credit reports. Payroll Points System Update: Temporary technical issues affecting users. TravelCon in Tucson: Great networking opportunities for travel and finance enthusiasts.   Resources: Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld       Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Have you ever wondered how to get the most value out of your points and miles? In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Julia Menez, founder of Geobreeze Travel, to break down the best strategies for maximizing travel redemptions. Julia shares her journey into the points and miles space and explains the importance of tracking travel metrics, including cents per point (CPP) and out-of-pocket cost ratios, to ensure you’re getting the best possible value. They also discuss how to prioritize travel goals, when to opt for luxury versus budget-friendly options, and why transfer bonuses and airline partnerships can significantly enhance your travel experience. Julia highlights Hyatt’s strong redemption value, the best lounges to visit, and the benefits of tracking routes for premium travel.  Whether you’re new to points and miles or looking to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you optimize your redemptions, minimize expenses, and elevate your travel experiences.   Key Highlights: Tracking Metrics: Decide if tracking cents per point (CPP) or other metrics aligns with your travel goals. Fun Over Stress: Points and miles should enhance travel, not add pressure. Value Over Cost: Travel isn’t just about spending less; it’s about maximizing experiences. Minimizing Out-of-Pocket Costs: Keeping expenses low is crucial for budget travelers. Hyatt’s No-Tax Redemptions: Standard room redemptions with Hyatt don’t include additional taxes. Transfer Bonuses: Using strategic transfer bonuses can significantly boost redemption value. Tracking Flight Routes: Helps with planning premium cabin redemptions and maximizing luxury. Best Lounges: The Pier Lounge in Hong Kong is a must-visit for Oneworld Emerald members. Underrated Travel Programs: Choice Hotels and other lesser-known programs can offer great redemptions. Luxury on Short Flights: High-end experiences can still be affordable on shorter routes.     Resources: Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld   Connect with Julia Menez: Instagram: geobreezetravel YouTube: @geobreezetravel Website: Geobreeze Travel     Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke shares the latest updates in the world of travel, points, and miles, helping listeners stay informed on the newest opportunities and challenges in maximizing travel rewards. He breaks down the Capital One Venture Card’s limited-time welcome bonus and highlights the addition of new airport lounges in Las Vegas and Philadelphia. He also revisits Hyatt’s 2025 award chart changes, explaining how travelers can lock in lower redemption rates before certain hotels increase in category. Additionally, DeAndre discusses the new Capital One to JetBlue transfer partnership, why it may not be the best use of points, and how current transfer bonuses can help maximize value. He also addresses Uber’s new currency conversion fee, emphasizing the importance of using credit cards that have no foreign transaction fees to avoid unnecessary costs. To make point-earning and credit card selection easier, DeAndre introduces a new credit card finder tool, designed to match travelers with the best card based on their spending habits and travel goals. Whether you’re looking to optimize your points strategy, avoid airline devaluations, or make the most of credit card perks, this episode is packed with valuable insights.   Key takeaways:  Capital One Venture Card: A 75,000-mile limited-time welcome bonus is available. Hyatt Award Chart Changes: Some hotels will move up in category, increasing redemption costs after March 25—book now to lock in lower rates. Capital One to JetBlue Transfers: The new 5:3 transfer ratio makes this a poor value compared to Chase, Citi, and Amex transfer options. Uber’s Currency Conversion Fee: A 1.5% fee is automatically applied if Uber detects you’re paying in a foreign currency—use a card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid it. New Airport Lounges: Capital One has opened lounges in Las Vegas and Philadelphia, expanding premium lounge access for cardholders. AirTags for Travel: Apple’s AirTags can be a great tool for tracking lost luggage and avoiding baggage claim nightmares. American Express Hilton Transfer Bonus: A 25% bonus on transfers to Hilton Honors points, available until March 14. Chase Marriott Transfer Bonus: A 50% bonus when transferring Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Marriott Bonvoy, available until March 31, 2025. Credit Card Finder Tool: A new tool has been introduced to help travelers find the best credit card based on spending habits.   Resources: Credit Card Finder Tool Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld   Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Have you ever wondered how to transition from budget travel to a full-time travel lifestyle?  In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with travel enthusiast Jordyn Verzera, co-founder of The Mobile Homie, to explore her inspiring journey from a frugal traveler to a full-time content creator. Jordyn explains how leveraging points and miles has been key to making travel both affordable and rewarding, while sharing practical strategies for planning trips and navigating the complex world of travel rewards. The conversation also includes memorable travel stories—including a humorous, cautionary tale about her experience with rabies vaccines—and offers crucial advice on maintaining travel insurance and balancing work with wanderlust. Listen now to discover how to follow your dreams, master travel planning, and turn everyday adventures into a sustainable lifestyle.   Key Highlights: Budget to Full-Time Transition: Jordyn’s journey shows that it’s possible to evolve from budget travel to a full-time travel lifestyle through smart use of points and miles. Travel Rewards Strategy: Effective planning and strategy are essential to maximize the benefits of points and miles, significantly reducing travel costs. Balancing Work and Travel: Treating travel like a business can help you sustain a full-time travel lifestyle without compromising your income. Learn from Experience: Memorable travel mishaps, like the rabies vaccine incident, serve as important lessons in travel planning and safety. Financial Safety Net: Having a solid financial plan and safety net is critical before making the leap to full-time travel. Community and Resources: Utilizing travel communities and resources can simplify the complex world of points and miles, making travel more accessible for everyone. Follow Your Dreams: Jordyn’s story underscores that with the right strategies and mindset, you can turn travel into a lifelong passion.     Resources: Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld   Connect with Jordyn & JT: Instagram: themobilehomie TikTok: @themobilehomie Facebook: The Mobile Homie YouTube: @themobilehomie Website: The Mobile Homie     Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast

Ever wondered how to truly optimize your travel rewards and maximize your points? In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre delivers an in-depth update on the latest travel rewards strategies, emphasizing two powerful transfer bonus offers that could transform your points balance. He explains that American Express Membership Rewards is currently offering a 25% transfer bonus when you transfer points to Hilton—an offer available until March 14. In addition, DeAndre highlights that until March 31, 2025, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred to Marriott Bonvoy with a 50% bonus. Along with these key offers, he discusses the benefits of the Southwest Companion Pass, the impact of airline devaluations, and other essential travel tips including how to optimize passport processing times and leverage last-minute travel deals. DeAndre also answers a listener’s question on how best to use transfer points across different airline programs. Tune in now to learn how these exclusive transfer bonuses and strategic insights can help you maximize your travel rewards and elevate your next adventure!   Key takeaways:  Southwest Companion Pass: Secure the pass with a single card and 30,000 rapid rewards miles—available until February 28th. American Express Bonus: Enjoy a 25% transfer bonus on Membership Rewards points to Hilton if you act before March 14. Chase Transfer Bonus: Receive a 50% bonus on Chase Ultimate Rewards points when transferring to Marriott Bonvoy until March 31, 2025. Southwest Companion Pass: Leverage this pass to enhance your travel experience through strategic credit card offers. Airline Devaluations: Understand that airline points are subject to devaluation; it’s best to use them sooner rather than later. Luxury Travel Options: New all-inclusive deals and last-minute travel promotions are emerging, offering more premium experiences. Efficient Travel Tips: Optimize passport processing times and capitalize on last-minute travel deals. Listener Q&A: Gain insights on effective strategies for using transfer points across multiple airline programs.   Resources: Southwest Companion Credit Cards Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel Sign up for our newsletter! This month’s best current card offers LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:  Use coupon code “BOLDYGO” for a 50% discount! BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group Truicity Wealth Management   Connect with DeAndre Coke:  Instagram: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.world YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld     Mentioned in this episode:Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast