Quick Hits: Hilton and United Surprise Travelers with “De-Devaluations” & More!

In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre Coke checks in before heading to Tulum, Mexico, sharing exciting updates on upcoming speaking engagements and the latest news in the world of points and miles. He previews his visits to Secrets Tulum and a local Airbnb stay, and announces two 2026 conferences where he’ll be speaking — the Chicago Points Travel Festival and the Pediatric CEO Intensive.On the travel rewards front, DeAndre covers major industry updates, including Amex’s new charge card limits, Hilton and United “de-devaluations”, and Capital One’s clarified Venture bonus rules. He also shares listener data points from the WhatsApp community, such as how Rove bookings impact Hyatt upgrades and how to fix Amex mailer application issues. The episode wraps up with a listener highlight featuring Tom Marsden’s World Series trip, reminding everyone how points and miles can turn passions into unforgettable experiences.Key takeaways: Upcoming events: DeAndre will speak at the 2026 Chicago Points Travel Festival and Pediatric CEO Intensive.Amex limits: American Express now appears to cap personal charge cards at five per customer.Hilton rollback: Some properties, including Grand Wailea and Hermitage Bay, have reduced redemption rates after recent hikes.United Airlines update: Partner award rates dropped up to 9%, offering better value on international redemptions.Capital One clarification: You can still earn Venture X bonuses even if you’ve had Venture or VentureOne.Community insight: Hyatt stays booked through Rove earn status credit but can’t apply suite upgrade awards.Amex mailer fix: If you see “offer in use,” try applying in incognito mode or after clearing browser cookies.Engaged community: The Boldly Go WhatsApp chat continues to offer valuable real-time data points.Resources:Our RoveMiles referral linkBook a Free 30-minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravelsMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsered content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network