Revolutionizing Your Journey: Travel With Points & Miles

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastDeAndre Coke sits down with Carrie Yoder, Creative Director at Frequent Miler, to explore a side of long-term travel that does not always make it onto Instagram. Carrie shares how she and her former partner built a life around travel, points, miles, and extreme flexibility, eventually visiting around 70 countries while spending years living nomadically. What started as an experiment in proving that long-term travel could actually cost less than a traditional lifestyle gradually became their everyday reality.Carrie takes DeAndre inside the evolution of that lifestyle, from backpacking through Asia on a tight budget to learning how airline miles and hotel points could completely change the way they traveled. She explains why IHG became especially valuable during their nomadic years, how hotel promotions and inexpensive stays helped them build huge points balances, and how points eventually opened the door to experiences that once seemed completely out of reach. But after years of constant movement, travel began to feel different. Once-in-a-lifetime experiences started becoming routine, and Carrie realized she was ready for something she hadn't had in years: a home base.That realization eventually led her to West Virginia through the Ascend WV program, where she was actually paid to relocate and build a more stationary life. Now, Carrie is entering a completely new chapter. After years of being the P2 in a two-player points strategy, she is learning how to become her own P1, rebuilding her credit card strategy, earning points independently, and deciding what travel looks like when she is no longer traveling simply because she can. The conversation explores travel burnout, identity, solo travel, financial organization, and the surprising challenge of rediscovering travel excitement after seeing so much of the world.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: When the Dream of Full-Time Travel Becomes Too Much(03:00) Meet Carrie Yoder and Her Role at Frequent Miler(04:55) How Carrie Started Traveling Full Time(06:58) Discovering Points & Miles While Traveling on a Budget(12:00) The Evolution of Nomadic Life and Using IHG Points(17:47) How Points Changed the Way Carrie Traveled(19:54) Visiting 70 Countries and What Kept Her Going(26:04) Why Carrie Finally Walked Away From Nomadic Travel(30:06) Getting Paid to Move to West Virginia With Ascend WV(33:11) From P2 to P1 and Rediscovering Points & Miles(36:45) Rebuilding Credit and Creating Her Own Card Strategy(43:00) Figuring Out What Travel Looks Like on Her Own(46:35) Using Daydream Explorer to Find New Travel Inspiration(49:07) Carrie's Role at Frequent Miler and What's Coming Next(51:15) Final Thoughts on Nomadic Life and Why She Still Recommends ItKey Highlights:Nomadic Life: Carrie spent years traveling full-time and has now visited around 70 countries.Travel Can Become Routine: Even extraordinary destinations can lose some of their magic when constant travel becomes everyday life.IHG Strategy: Cheap stays, promotions, and award opportunities made IHG especially valuable during Carrie's nomadic years.Travel Burnout Is Real: Years of moving constantly eventually left Carrie craving stability, routine, and a permanent home base.Moving to West Virginia: Carrie joined Ascend WV, a program offering financial incentives and other benefits to remote workers who relocate to the state.From P2 to P1: After years of participating in a two player points strategy, Carrie is now building and managing her own credit card and rewards strategy.Rebuilding Credit: Carrie started carefully with a Capital One Savor card while focusing on improving her credit and avoiding unnecessary complexity.Travel With Intention: Carrie's biggest challenge now is deciding where she genuinely wants to travel instead of simply chasing another destination.Points Feel New Again: Building her own balances has brought back some of the excitement and curiosity she experienced when first discovering points and miles.A New Chapter: Carrie's story shows how travel goals and points strategies can evolve dramatically as life changes.Resources:Become a BoldlyGo Member on PatreonDeAndre’s Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin the Mile Protection WaitlistJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard 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 & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Carrie Yoder:Instagram: frequentmilerCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this special announcement episode, DeAndre Coke introduces the official BoldlyGo Patreon, a new optional way for listeners and community members to support the podcast, videos, blog, WhatsApp community, and other resources BoldlyGo continues to create. Over the years, members of the community have asked how they can contribute directly, but DeAndre explains that he never wanted financial support to determine who gets access to valuable information. With the launch of Patreon, that philosophy is staying exactly the same. Every podcast episode, bonus release, travel strategy, guide, and community resource will continue to be available for free.DeAndre also shares some of what goes into keeping BoldlyGo growing behind the scenes, from producing the podcast and creating videos to maintaining the website and developing new resources for the points and miles community. Patreon gives those who find value in the content an opportunity to help support that work, with contributions starting at just $1 and no exclusive content tiers or special access based on contribution level.More importantly, Patreon will also become another way for the BoldlyGo community to give back. Twenty percent of every dollar contributed will be donated to Give Kids The World Village, a nonprofit resort in Kissimmee, Florida that provides cost free vacations to children with critical illnesses and their families. DeAndre's financial planning practice will match those charitable contributions, doubling the impact generated by the community. Supporting through Patreon is completely optional, and listening, sharing, subscribing, leaving reviews, and participating in the community remain equally meaningful ways to help BoldlyGo continue its mission.If you want to contribute, here’s the BoldlyGo Patreon link.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: A Special Announcement From DeAndre(01:08) Why DeAndre Wanted a New Way to Support BoldlyGo(02:23) Introducing the Official BoldlyGo Patreon(03:12) Why All BoldlyGo Content Will Continue to Be Free(04:16) What Goes Into Producing and Growing BoldlyGo(05:08) The Charitable Mission Behind the Patreon(06:21) 20% Donated to Charity Plus a Matching Contribution(07:09) Supporting BoldlyGo Is Completely OptionalKey Highlights:BoldlyGo Patreon: The new Patreon provides an optional way for the community to financially support BoldlyGo and the resources it continues to create.Everything Stays Free: Podcast episodes, bonus content, travel strategies, guides, videos, and community resources will remain freely available.No Paywalled Community: Contribution levels will not determine access to information or create separate levels within the BoldlyGo community.Supporting Future Growth: Patreon contributions can help support the costs associated with producing and expanding BoldlyGo content and resources.20% Goes to Charity: Twenty percent of every Patreon contribution will be donated to Give Kids The World Village.Double the Impact: DeAndre's financial planning practice will match the charitable contribution generated through Patreon.Give Kids The World: The organization provides week long, cost free wish vacations to children with critical illnesses and their families.Completely Optional: Listening, subscribing, sharing, reviewing, and participating in the community remain meaningful ways to support BoldlyGo without contributing financially.Resources:DeAndre’s Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin the Mile Protection WaitlistJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard 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 & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastThis week’s Quick Hits covers a relatively quiet week in points and miles news that was interrupted by one major loyalty shakeup. DeAndre starts with an elevated Capital One Venture Rewards offer featuring 75,000 miles plus a $300 hotel credit, followed by a new Bask Bank promotion offering 20,000 bonus AAdvantage miles for eligible new Miles Savings customers. He also highlights an easy path to I Prefer Gold status through AARP, which is available to members 18 and older, and a new Amex Offer that can earn 20,000 Membership Rewards points on qualifying Air France or KLM purchases.The biggest story of the week is Hyatt’s changing airline loyalty strategy. American Airlines and World of Hyatt are ending their enhanced partnership, bringing an important relationship that dates back several years to a close. Just hours later, Hyatt announced a new long-term partnership with Delta SkyMiles. DeAndre breaks down what is known so far, what benefits may remain during the transition, and why this could matter most for travelers who used the American Airlines partnership to access Hyatt elite status challenges. He also shares how that opportunity helped him earn Globalist status and what he will be watching for as the new Delta-Hyatt relationship develops.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: This Week's Quick Hits and the Biggest Loyalty Shakeup(00:21) Capital One Venture 75K Bonus + $300 Hotel Credit(00:54) Bask Bank's 20K AAdvantage Miles Promotion(01:57) Easy I Prefer Gold Status Through AARP(03:16) Earn 20K Amex Points With Air France or KLM(04:30) American Airlines and Hyatt Are Ending Their Partnership(05:52) Hyatt Announces a New Partnership With Delta(06:52) What the Delta + Hyatt Partnership Could Mean(07:38) The Hyatt Status Challenge That Helped DeAndre Earn Globalist(09:38) September 11 Reflection and Closing ThoughtsKey takeaways: Capital One Venture Offer: The Venture Rewards card offers 75,000 miles plus a $300 hotel credit after you meet the spending requirement.Bask Bank Bonus: New Miles Savings customers can earn 20,000 bonus AAdvantage miles after maintaining a $50,000 balance for 90 days.I Prefer Gold Shortcut: AARP members can earn I Prefer Gold status after one eligible Preferred Hotels stay booked through the AARP rate.AARP Has No Retirement Age Requirement: Membership is available to adults 18 and older, making the hotel status opportunity accessible to younger travelers too.20K Amex Offer: Eligible cardholders can earn 20,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $1,000 with Air France or KLM under the targeted offer.AA + Hyatt Partnership Ending: The enhanced American Airlines and World of Hyatt relationship is coming to an end, although some existing benefits will continue during the transition.Delta + Hyatt Partnership: Hyatt is replacing that relationship with a new long term collaboration with Delta SkyMiles.Elite Members Will Cross Earn: Eligible Hyatt elites will be able to earn Hyatt points on qualifying Delta flights, while Delta Medallion members can earn SkyMiles on qualifying Hyatt stays.Hyatt Status Challenges Could Change: The biggest potential loss may be the Hyatt status challenge opportunities previously available through American Airlines elite status.Globalist Strategy Impact: DeAndre originally earned Hyatt Globalist through one of these 90-day challenges, making this partnership change especially significant for similar travelers.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin the Mile Protection WaitlistJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart 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 linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard 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: BoldlyGoTravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke sits down with Erin Lynch to break down one of the easiest ways to earn more points and miles without opening another credit card or spending more money: shopping portals. Erin shares how she incorporates portals like Rakuten and American Airlines AAdvantage eShopping into her family's points strategy and reveals that she earned more than 100,000 Amex Membership Rewards points through Rakuten in a single quarter. Those points alone were nearly enough to book two Qatar Airways Qsuite tickets that would have cost roughly $20,000 in cash.DeAndre and Erin walk through how shopping portals actually work, how to choose between earning transferable points, airline miles, status, or cash back, and why timing purchases around elevated multipliers can dramatically increase your returns. They discuss Rakuten, American Airlines AAdvantage eShopping, Capital One Shopping, Viator, browser extensions, airline shopping portals, and the importance of understanding exclusions before making a purchase. Erin also explains how shopping portals can play a major role in earning American Airlines Loyalty Points and maintaining elite status without relying entirely on flying.The conversation gets practical with strategies for stacking portal rewards with credit card earnings and Amex Offers, tracking purchases that fail to credit, taking screenshots before large transactions, and planning purchases around Black Friday and other promotional periods. DeAndre and Erin also discuss Check Before You Shop, a newer tool designed to compare shopping portal rates and help users track rewards. The biggest takeaway is simple: purchases you already make can become a meaningful part of your travel strategy when you take a few extra seconds to shop through the right portal.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: How Online Shopping Can Pay for Business Class Flights(03:37) Meet Erin Lynch and Her Points & Miles Journey(07:14) Where Shopping Portals Fit Into a Points Strategy(12:26) Rakuten, AAdvantage eShopping and Other Portal Options(14:30) Elevated Multipliers, Viator and Earning Airline Status(19:27) How Erin Earned 100K Amex Points in One Quarter(23:01) Shopping Portal Mistakes That Can Cost You Thousands of Points(26:00) Capital One Shopping and Comparing Online Deals(31:00) What to Do When Your Shopping Portal Points Don't Track(35:41) How Long Does It Take for Shopping Portal Points to Post?(39:01) Black Friday and Timing Purchases for Huge Multipliers(42:00) Turning Shopping Rewards Into Two Qatar Airways Qsuites(46:37) Check Before You Shop and Comparing Portal Rates(50:17) Tracking Missing Rewards, Erin's Travel Philosophy and Final ThoughtsKey Highlights:Shopping Portals: Online purchases you already make can generate additional points, miles, cash back, and even airline elite status progress.100K Amex Points: Erin earned more than 100,000 Membership Rewards points from Rakuten in a single quarter.Qsuite Redemption: Roughly 100,000 points helped Erin book two Qatar Airways Qsuite tickets worth around $20,000 in cash.Rakuten Strategy: Rakuten can turn cash back into Amex Membership Rewards or Bilt Points, creating significantly more potential travel value.AAdvantage Status: American Airlines eShopping can earn both redeemable miles and Loyalty Points toward elite status.Wait for Multipliers: Portal rates change constantly, so waiting for elevated offers can turn the same purchase into significantly more rewards.Stack Your Rewards: Shopping portals can often be combined with credit card earnings and eligible card offers for multiple layers of value.Protect Large Purchases: Screenshots can provide valuable proof when a major transaction fails to track correctly.Black Friday Strategy: Holiday shopping periods can produce some of the strongest portal multipliers of the year.Compare Before Buying: Tools like Check Before You Shop can help identify which portal currently offers the best return.Resources:Erin’s Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteDeAndre’s Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin the Mile Protection WaitlistJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard 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 & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Erin Lynch:Instagram: intheairwitherinCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this YouTube bonus episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke takes viewers inside the Park Hyatt Auckland and breaks down how he and Taryn booked a four-night luxury stay that would have cost more than $6,000 for zero cash out of pocket.Located directly on Waitematā Harbor in Auckland's Viaduct Quarter, the hotel became the perfect place to slow down and reset during their 33-day honeymoon. DeAndre shares a full look at their spacious Harbor Suite, complete with a separate living area, private balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows, marina views, and a massive marble bathroom.Beyond the room, the episode explores the hotel's restaurants, breakfast experience, infinity pool, spa, fitness center, and waterfront location. But the biggest reason the Park Hyatt stood out was the service. When Taryn became sick and their luggage was delayed, the hotel arranged for a doctor to visit their suite, helped track down the missing bags, and continued checking on them throughout the stay.DeAndre then breaks down the points strategy behind the booking. They redeemed 116,000 World of Hyatt points for a standard room, benefited from Globalist status to receive a Harbor Suite upgrade, and enjoyed complimentary breakfast as another elite perk. With Chase Ultimate Rewards points transferable to Hyatt, the episode shows how a smart redemption can transform an expensive five-star stay into an attainable luxury experience.By the end of the stay, the combination of location, accommodations, amenities, service, and points value made Park Hyatt Auckland their pick for the best all-around hotel in the city.Timestamps:(00:00) Park Hyatt Auckland: First Look & Overview(01:33) New Zealand Honeymoon Context(02:26) Why the Wynyard Quarter Location Works(03:14) Inside Our Harbor Suite(04:29) Hotel Amenities & Meeting Larry(05:36) Breakfast, Dining & Food Experience(07:53) Five Star Service During Travel Problems(09:36) How We Booked with Hyatt Points(12:18) Hyatt Globalist Benefits Explained(14:45) Final Verdict on Park Hyatt Auckland(15:52) Next Stop: Queenstown Key takeaways: Prime Auckland location: The Viaduct Quarter puts restaurants, bars, waterfront attractions, and transportation within easy reach.The Harbor Suite delivers: More than 760 square feet, marina views, a balcony, and separate living spaces made it feel more like an apartment.Service was the standout: Staff helped arrange medical care, locate delayed luggage, and continued checking on Taryn.Strong luxury amenities: The infinity pool, spa, sauna, steam room, and fitness center round out the experience.116,000 points covered four nights: Hyatt points eliminated the room's cash cost.Globalist status added major value: A suite upgrade and complimentary breakfast made the redemption even stronger.Transferable points are powerful: Chase Ultimate Rewards points can unlock significant value through World of Hyatt.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:We Booked Auckland’s Best Hotel for $0 | Park Hyatt Auckland Review (YT Vlog)Park Hyatt Auckland Review: One of New Zealand’s Best Hotels?BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart 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 linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard 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: BoldlyGoTravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastThis week’s Quick Hits opens with a recap of DeAndre and Taryn’s trip through Cappadocia, Malta, and Zurich, including finally getting to experience Cappadocia’s famous hot air balloons before flying out to Malta. DeAndre also follows up on the recent Aeroplan episode with an important listener clarification about schedule changes, including how much flexibility travelers may actually have when trying to modify an award itinerary after an airline changes the schedule.From there, DeAndre covers a packed week in points and miles news. Amex has launched some of its highest Delta SkyMiles card offers yet; US Bank added Avianca LifeMiles as its fifth transfer partner; and Rove added Copa ConnectMiles with a limited-time 40% transfer bonus, opening up some interesting Star Alliance redemption opportunities. There’s also a targeted Accor status offer, an improved DoorDash benefit for Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders, Alaska’s chance to win 1 million Atmos Rewards points, and a long list of September transfer bonuses from Citi, Amex, Chase, Rove, and Capital One.Timestamps:(00:00) Cappadocia, Malta and Zurich Trip Recap(00:48) Important Aeroplan Schedule Change Clarification(02:40) Amex Launches Huge Delta SkyMiles Card Offers(03:40) US Bank Adds Avianca LifeMiles as a Transfer Partner(03:52) Rove Adds Copa ConnectMiles With a 40% Transfer Bonus(05:12) Accor's Targeted Elite Status Offer Through 2027(06:02) Chase Sapphire Reserve Improves Its DoorDash Credit(06:37) Win 1 Million Alaska Atmos Rewards Points(07:17) September's Best Points Transfer Bonuses(08:18) Labor Day Weekend and Closing ThoughtsKey takeaways: Aeroplan Schedule Changes: A listener clarification highlights that changing destinations after a schedule change may depend on the size of the change and the agent handling the request.Huge Delta Card Offers: Amex has rolled out elevated Delta SkyMiles offers, including business card bonuses reaching as high as 200,000 miles.US Bank Adds LifeMiles: Avianca LifeMiles becomes US Bank’s fifth airline transfer partner at a 1:1 ratio.Rove Adds Copa: Rove now transfers 1:1 to Copa ConnectMiles, with a 40% bonus through September 30.Copa Sweet Spots: ConnectMiles can unlock Star Alliance awards, including potential value on United Polaris and business class to Europe.Accor Status Offer: Targeted members can receive complimentary ALL Silver status for 90 days and potentially extend it through 2027 after three qualifying nights.Sapphire Reserve DoorDash: Starting October 1, the card’s monthly DoorDash value increases from $25 to $35.1 Million Atmos Points: Alaska Airlines is giving one winner 1 million Atmos Rewards points through a new sweepstakes.September Transfer Bonuses: Multiple bonuses are available across Citi, Amex, Chase, Rove, and Capital One.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Win 1 Million Atmos™ Rewards PointsJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart 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 linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard 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.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke sits down with Stefan Krasowski, an experienced points-and-miles traveler who has visited every country in the world, lived in China for more than a decade, and traveled to every Chinese province. Stefan shares how studying Mandarin from a young age eventually led him to China, how living there introduced him to the points-and-miles world, and why many of the assumptions American travelers have about visiting China do not align with the experience on the ground. From choosing where to go to understanding how the country has changed for international visitors, this episode serves as a practical guide for travelers interested in exploring China independently.DeAndre and Stefan dive into one of the biggest challenges for points travelers: actually getting to China. With many pre-pandemic routes still missing, Stefan explains why travelers may need to get creative with positioning flights and connections through places like Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea. They discuss award availability on airlines such as EVA Air, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, and Korean Air, as well as the importance of understanding partner availability and planning well in advance. Once in China, Stefan breaks down the essential apps travelers should set up, including Alipay, WeChat, and DiDi, why physical credit cards and cash have largely disappeared from everyday transactions, and how foreign visitors can navigate China's mobile-first ecosystem.The conversation also covers domestic travel, including why China's high-speed rail network can often be a better option than flying, how to avoid overpaying for domestic airfare, and why hotel travelers can find exceptional value across Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, and IHG. Stefan shares practical details that can make a major difference on a first trip, from translation tools and local transportation to hotel quirks and cultural differences. The episode closes with a broader discussion about the value of international travel, the Points Travel Festival community, and why stepping outside familiar destinations can completely change the way travelers understand the world.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: The Ultimate Guide to Traveling China(03:21) Meet Stefan Krasowski and His Points & Miles Journey(05:24) How Stefan Ended Up Living in China(10:20) What Americans Get Wrong About Traveling to China(14:32) Where Should You Go on Your First Trip to China?(19:59) How to Fly to China Using Points and Miles(24:59) Positioning Flights, Asian Hubs, and Finding Award Availability(31:37) The Essential Apps You Need Before Visiting China(40:11) Getting Around China and Booking Domestic Flights(44:11) Why China's High Speed Trains Can Beat Flying(47:21) Incredible Hotel Value With Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton & IHG(54:24) Language Barriers, Translation Apps, and Traveling Without Mandarin(59:59) Points Travel Festival and Finding Stefan Online(01:03:36) How Points & Miles Can Change the Way You Experience the World(01:07:28) Final Advice for Exploring China and the WorldKey Highlights:China Is More Accessible: Recent changes have made payments, transportation, and other everyday travel tasks significantly easier for international visitors.Think Beyond Beijing and Shanghai: Cities and regions like Chengdu, Chongqing, Yunnan, and lesser visited provinces can offer some of China's most memorable experiences.Getting There Takes Creativity: Limited nonstop award availability from the US makes positioning and connecting through other Asian hubs an important strategy.EVA Air Can Be Valuable: EVA can offer useful award availability through Taipei, particularly for travelers with access to its transferable points partners.Book Strategically: Some Asian airlines follow predictable award release patterns, making advance planning especially valuable.Essential Apps: Alipay, WeChat, and DiDi are among the most important tools to set up before or during a trip to China.China Is Nearly Cashless: Mobile payments dominate everyday transactions, while physical cards and cash are used far less frequently.High Speed Rail: China's extensive train network can often be more convenient than domestic flights, especially between major cities.Hotel Value Is Exceptional: Major loyalty programs have extensive footprints in China, with luxury hotels often available at surprisingly low cash and points rates.Language Is Manageable: Translation technology and the willingness of locals to help can make independent travel possible even without Mandarin.Explore Beyond the Familiar: Stefan encourages travelers to look past assumptions and experience destinations that may initially feel intimidating or unfamiliar.Resources:Join the Mile Protection WaitlistJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard 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 & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Stefan Krasowski:Instagram: rapidtravelchaiWebsite: rapidtravelchai.boardingarea.comCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a...

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastThis week’s Quick Hits comes from DeAndre’s suite at the Hyatt Regency in Malta after three unforgettable days in Cappadocia, Turkey. Before jumping into the news, DeAndre shares a quick update from the trip, including why the hot air balloon experience in Cappadocia ranks among the top moments of his life and a lesson learned after paying extra for Turkish Airlines exit row seats. He also previews what is still ahead, with several days in Malta followed by an Aeroplan stopover in Zurich and a business class flight home.On the points and miles front, DeAndre breaks down Citi’s new 25% transfer bonus to Leading Hotels of the World and why the program deserves more attention from luxury travelers. He also covers Alaska Airlines’ new nonstop routes from Seattle to Athens and Paris, rumors of potentially massive new Amex welcome offers, and a new Hyatt Vivid adults only all inclusive resort in Cancun that can be booked with World of Hyatt points. The biggest airline news comes from United, which is planning 13 new international destinations for 2027, including several places without existing nonstop service from the US. DeAndre wraps up with Hyatt’s plans to bring the first Park Hyatt to Portugal in 2029.Timestamps:(00:00) Quick Hits From Malta and Our Cappadocia Experience(01:04) The Turkish Airlines Exit Row Lesson I Didn't Expect(02:54) Citi's 25% Leading Hotels of the World Transfer Bonus(03:10) Our Incredible Leading Hotels Property in Cappadocia(04:41) Alaska Adds New Seattle Flights to Athens and Paris(05:29) Massive New Amex Platinum and Gold Offers Rumored(05:59) New Hyatt Vivid Adults Only All Inclusive in Cancun(06:19) United Announces 13 New International Destinations(07:15) The First Park Hyatt in Portugal Is Coming(07:35) Malta, Our Aeroplan Stopover in Zurich and What's NextKey takeaways: Cappadocia Experience: DeAndre calls the hot air balloon experience one of the top three moments of his life.Turkish Airlines Exit Rows: Paying extra for legroom came with an unexpected restriction requiring all personal items to be stored overhead.Leading Hotels Transfer Bonus: Citi is offering a 25% transfer bonus to Leading Hotels of the World through September 19.Luxury Hotel Value: Leading Hotels of the World can offer close to 2 cents per point in value at many high end properties.Alaska Expands to Europe: New Seattle routes to Athens and Paris are launching next spring using Boeing 787 Dreamliners.Potential Amex Offers: Rumored offers could reach 185,000 points on the Platinum Card and 105,000 points on the Gold Card.New Hyatt All Inclusive: Hyatt Vivid Cancun is now open and bookable from around 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night.United's International Expansion: United plans to add 13 international destinations in 2027, including Ibiza, Sicily, Sardinia, the Azores, and Okinawa.Park Hyatt Portugal: Hyatt plans to open Portugal's first Park Hyatt in 2029 with beachfront accommodations and private villas.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Join Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart 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 linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard 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.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke sits down with Aeroplan expert Moli to take a deep dive into one of the most powerful and flexible airline loyalty programs in the points and miles world. After hearing Moli's presentation at the Points Travel Festival in Toronto, DeAndre realized there were still layers of Aeroplan he had not fully explored, despite having transferred and redeemed hundreds of thousands of points through the program. Together, they break down why Aeroplan can be incredibly valuable for US-based travelers, from its roughly 50 airline partners and access to Star Alliance awards to its flexible routing rules and broad range of transferable points partners.The conversation goes beyond the basics, exploring some of Aeroplan's most powerful strategies. Moli explains how distance-based award pricing works, where premium cabin sweet spots can be found, and how the program's stopover rules can turn a single award into a much bigger trip. DeAndre shares his own booking for Malta, Zurich, and New York as an example of adding another destination for only 5,000 additional points per person. They also discuss creative international routings, booking larger families into business class, finding partner availability that does not always appear online, and the role Aeroplan status and credit cards can play.The episode also tackles Aeroplan's frustrating side, including long call center wait times, change and cancellation fees, married-segment availability, and inconsistent online award searches. Most importantly, Moli reveals a clever strategy to avoid change and cancellation fees by converting an existing award into a flexible fare, plus another opportunity to make free changes or cancellations when an airline schedule change occurs. From beginners learning Aeroplan for the first time to experienced travelers seeking advanced booking strategies, this episode is packed with practical ways to unlock more value from one of the most versatile points programs.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Why Aeroplan Is More Powerful Than I Realized(02:09) Welcome to the Podcast and Introducing Moli(05:23) Moli's Points and Miles Journey(07:43) Why Aeroplan Is So Valuable for US Travelers(10:45) How Aeroplan Award Pricing Actually Works(13:00) Aeroplan's Biggest Frustrations and Call Center Problems(15:35) Business Class Sweet Spots and Unique Partner Awards(18:00) Aeroplan Stopovers Explained(24:01) Adding Another Destination for Just 5,000 Points(27:33) Changing Stopovers, Destinations, and Existing Awards(31:03) The Aeroplan Trick That Could Save Cancellation Fees(35:19) Using Schedule Changes to Cancel or Rebook for Free(39:34) Finding Business Class Awards for Larger Families(43:21) Aeroplan Status, Credit Cards, and Upgrade Benefits(46:53) Married Segments, Hidden Award Space, and Final Aeroplan TipsKey Highlights:Aeroplan's Partner Network: Access to roughly 50 airline partners gives travelers an enormous range of options beyond flying Air Canada itself.Transferable Points: Aeroplan partners with major transferable currencies, making its points relatively easy for US travelers to accumulate.Distance Based Awards: Redemption pricing depends heavily on regions and total distance flown, creating valuable sweet spots on certain international routes.Premium Cabin Value: Business class between the East Coast and Europe can start around 60,000 Aeroplan points each way, with other strong opportunities around the world.5K Stopovers: Aeroplan allows travelers to add an international stopover to a one way award for just 5,000 additional points.Creative Routings: Flexible routing rules can make it possible to combine multiple destinations into one larger award trip.Cancellation Fee Trick: Moli explains how changing an award into a flexible fare could potentially eliminate the usual cancellation fee.Schedule Change Strategy: Even a small airline initiated schedule change can potentially open the door to free changes or cancellations.Family Award Travel: Larger families may find multiple premium cabin seats by targeting the right partners, booking far in advance, or searching close to departure.Aeroplan Quirks: Long call center waits, married segments, hidden partner availability, and inconsistent online changes remain important limitations to understand.Resources:Join the Mile Protection WaitlistJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Moli:Instagram: anmolezzMaple Miles at TravelUpdate.comCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at <a...

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this YouTube bonus episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke and Taryn spend four days exploring Queenstown, New Zealand, to find out why the destination gets so much attention and quickly discover that the hype is well deserved.After arriving from Auckland, Queenstown immediately delivers with dramatic mountain scenery, the bright blue waters of Lake Wakatipu, long summer days, and a compact downtown that makes exploring surprisingly easy. DeAndre explains why staying directly in the center of town at The Spire became one of their best decisions, giving them easy walking access to restaurants, the waterfront, tour operators, and nightlife while largely eliminating the need for a rental car. They also used Capital One travel credits to help reduce the cost of their boutique luxury stay.The episode then dives into some of their favorite Queenstown experiences, starting with an unforgettable fly, cruise, fly excursion to Milford Sound. Instead of spending hours driving each way, they flew over mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, valleys, and alpine lakes before cruising through Milford Sound and flying back to Queenstown. It became one of the most spectacular experiences of their entire month-long honeymoon.Back in town, they uncover a local trick for experiencing the famous Ferg Burger without standing in the massive line, discover that Queenstown's food and cocktail scene is much better than expected, and embrace the city's reputation as the adventure capital of the world with a wild Hydro Attack ride across Lake Wakatipu.The adventure continues aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak Farm, followed by a Lord of the Rings tour through the landscapes surrounding Glenorchy. Along the way, DeAndre shares practical lessons about booking popular activities early, preparing for rapidly changing weather, staying central, and leaving flexibility for weather dependent excursions.By the end of four days, Queenstown becomes their favorite destination in New Zealand. It offered the rare combination of luxury, adventure, scenery, great food, nightlife, and spontaneous exploration, while still leaving them feeling like they had barely scratched the surface.Timestamps:(00:17) Queenstown First Impressions &amp; Arrival(01:17) Our Four-Day Queenstown Plan(02:17) Exploring Lake Wakatipu &amp; Queenstown(04:59) Staying at The Spire(08:14) Fly, Cruise, Fly to Milford Sound(09:57) The Ferg Burger Secret(13:15) Hydro Attack: Queenstown’s Mechanical Shark(15:30) TSS Earnslaw &amp; Walter Peak Farm(18:07) Lord of the Rings Tour(19:26) Essential Peak-Season Queenstown Tips(21:17) Our Two-Week New Zealand Itinerary(21:48) Final Verdict: Is Queenstown Worth the Hype? Key takeaways: Queenstown lives up to the hype: It became their favorite destination in New Zealand.Stay in central Queenstown: Walking access to restaurants, tours, and the waterfront makes a major difference.Book peak season early: Popular hotels and excursions can sell out well ahead of arrival.Milford Sound is a must: The fly, cruise, fly experience ranked among the best moments of their honeymoon.Prepare for changing weather: Summer can still bring cool, misty, and rainy conditions.Queenstown delivers adventure: Hydro Attack, scenic flights, farm tours, and movie locations offer plenty of variety.Leave time to explore: Some of their best food, cocktails, and experiences came from simply wandering around town.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Is Queenstown, New Zealand Worth the Hype? Our Ultimate 4-Day Guide (YT Vlog)BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastThis week’s Quick Hits starts with a preview of DeAndre and Taryn’s upcoming trip through Turkey, Malta, and Switzerland, a journey that actually began with Turkish Airlines miles that had been stuck in DeAndre’s account after a phantom award booking. He shares how they built a trip around those miles, including a stop in Cappadocia, diving in Malta, an Aeroplan stopover in Zurich for just 5,000 additional points per person, and a Swiss business-class flight home.From there, DeAndre covers the latest points, miles, and travel news, including easier access to Bilt’s Blade helicopter partnership, Delta’s major expansion in Austin, a creative way to use Amex Uber Cash and Chase DoorDash credits for AMC movie snacks, and a family-friendly improvement to Alaska Airlines award bookings. He also breaks down American Airlines’ plans to bring 4K seatback entertainment, Bluetooth connectivity, USB-C charging, and more premium seating to its domestic fleet. The episode wraps with changes affecting CardPointers and Amex Offers, clarification around Chase Sapphire Reserve The Edit credits, and the biggest disappointment of the week: major upcoming changes to Flying Blue award fares that could strip valuable benefits from the cheapest redemptions.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Turkey, Malta and Switzerland Trip Preview(01:17) How Stranded Turkish Airlines Miles Created This Trip(01:53) Bilt Adds Easier Blade Helicopter Bookings(02:50) Delta's Major Austin Expansion and New Paris Route(03:50) Use Amex and Chase Credits for AMC Movie Snacks(04:33) Alaska Makes International Lap Infant Awards Easier(05:12) American Airlines Is Bringing Back Seatback Screens(06:43) CardPointers and the New Amex Offers Restrictions(08:32) Chase Clarifies The Edit Back to Back Booking Rules(09:48) Flying Blue's Major Award Ticket Changes and Why They HurtKey takeaways: Turkey Trip Preview: DeAndre and Taryn are turning previously stranded Turkish Airlines miles into a trip through Turkey, Malta, and Switzerland.Bilt + Blade: Bilt members can now book Blade helicopter flights directly through Bilt Travel and potentially save up to $350 per seat using Bilt Cash.Delta Expands Austin: Delta will launch nonstop Austin to Paris service in 2027 while continuing to expand its presence in the Texas market.Movie Night Credit Hack: Amex Uber Cash and Chase DoorDash credits can be used toward AMC snacks through delivery and pickup orders.Alaska Lap Infants: International lap infants can now be added more easily to Alaska operated award flights without additional points.American Airlines Upgrades: American plans to add 4K screens, Bluetooth, USB C charging, and more premium seating across its narrow body fleet beginning in 2028.CardPointers Changes: Amex restrictions are affecting the ability to add the same offer across multiple cards, prompting new CardPointers features.The Edit Clarification: Chase says language restricting back to back The Edit credit bookings was added by mistake and has since been removed.Flying Blue Changes: New Light award fares will preserve lower mileage pricing but remove benefits including checked bags, business class lounge access, and changes or cancellations.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Join Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke gets an exclusive first look at MileProtection, a new company preparing to launch a product designed to protect the value of airline miles, hotel points, and credit card transfer relationships. Founder Sebastian Bigatti joins the show to explain where the idea came from after experiencing points devaluations himself and why he believes travelers need another option beyond the traditional "earn and burn" approach. Together, they walk through how the concept could work for travelers holding large balances they plan to use years down the road.DeAndre pushes beyond the basic concept to explore the questions points and miles enthusiasts are likely to have before paying for protection. They discuss how MileProtection determines the value of a point, what level of devaluation could trigger compensation, deductibles, pricing, dynamic award pricing, and how protection differs between airline or hotel balances and credit card transfer partners. They also use real examples, including DeAndre's Japan Airlines miles, to show where the product could potentially make sense and where the cost may outweigh the benefit.The conversation also examines the risks behind a brand new product. Sebastian addresses how MileProtection plans to fund potential payouts, what could happen during a major industry wide devaluation, the possibility of the company itself failing, and why the product is technically structured differently from traditional insurance. DeAndre then brings in questions directly from the Boldly Go community covering multiple loyalty programs, changing balances, transfer partner losses, contract lengths, and more. With MileProtection still preparing for launch, this episode offers an early look at an entirely new concept while giving listeners the information they need to decide if protecting their points could eventually fit into their own strategy.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Can You Protect Your Points From Devaluation?(03:18) Introducing MileProtection and Founder Sebastian Bigatti(04:26) Sebastian's Travel Background and How the Idea Started(07:26) How MileProtection Actually Works(12:05) What Triggers a Payout and How Points Are Valued(13:56) Pricing, Deductibles, and Customizing Your Protection(21:44) How Payouts Work and Why This Isn't Traditional Insurance(25:55) Protecting Multiple Programs and Credit Card Transfer Partners(32:47) Dynamic Award Pricing and Measuring Real Devaluations(36:42) How Much Will MileProtection Cost?(42:35) What Happens When a Bank Loses a Transfer Partner?(47:20) Major Devaluations, Financial Risk, and Can MileProtection Afford the Payouts?(52:45) Launch Timeline, Waitlist Benefits, and What's Coming Next(59:43) Boldly Go Community Questions(01:01:50) Final Questions, MileProtection Waitlist, and Closing ThoughtsKey Highlights:MileProtection: Sebastian introduces a new product designed to protect against points and miles devaluations and lost credit card transfer partners.Devaluation Coverage: Compensation can be triggered when the measured value of protected points falls beyond the selected threshold.Points Valuation: MileProtection plans to use redemption data rather than relying solely on a single award chart or route.Custom Protection: Users will be able to adjust point values, deductibles, balances, and the loyalty programs they want to protect.Transfer Partner Protection: The product can separately protect against a bank losing access to a specific airline or hotel transfer partner.Dynamic Pricing: The model is designed to account for loyalty programs that use dynamic award pricing instead of fixed award charts.Cost vs. Value: DeAndre and Sebastian discuss scenarios where paying for protection could make sense and others where simply using the points may be smarter.Company Risk: Sebastian explains how MileProtection intends to prepare for large payouts and what protections could exist if the company itself fails.Waitlist Access: Boldly Go listeners can join the waitlist ahead of launch and receive additional protection time once the product goes live.Still Evolving: MileProtection is a new concept, and Sebastian emphasizes that customer feedback will help shape the final product.Resources:Join the Mile Protection WaitlistJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Sebastian Bigatti:Website:mileprotection.comLinkedInCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastThis week's Quick Hits covers a packed lineup of points, miles, and travel updates, starting with new tools and improvements that make award travel easier to search and book. DeAndre highlights Roame adding EVA Air award availability, Chase Travel making it easier to find The Edit properties, a new way for Qatar Airways cardholders to earn Avios on rent through Bilt, and Alaska eliminating a quirky award pricing loophole that previously made some connecting itineraries cheaper than nonstop flights.The episode also dives into a new 20% Chase transfer bonus to Air Canada Aeroplan, changes to American Airlines elite upgrades on select premium economy routes, a new monthly Avios award calendar, and US Bank finally introducing transferable partners for Altitude Reserve points. DeAndre also shares expanded Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts options and an unusually family friendly Lufthansa A380 business class opportunity with four to six or more award seats available on some dates. He wraps up with three newer tools worth putting on your radar: Check Before You Shop for comparing shopping portals, Point Auctions for discovering unique points experiences, and Travel Smarter for tracking airline earnings and elite status progress.Timestamps:(00:00) This Week's Quick Hits(00:30) EVA Air Award Search, Chase The Edit Filter &amp; Qatar Avios on Rent(01:26) Alaska Ends Its Partner Award Pricing Loophole(02:02) New Oneworld Emerald Lounge &amp; Chase Aeroplan Transfer Bonus(03:09) American Airlines Elite Upgrade Changes &amp; New Avios Award Calendar(04:58) US Bank Finally Launches Transfer Partners(06:04) Amex Adds 350 FHR Hotels &amp; Lufthansa Opens 6+ Business Class Awards(07:33) Symphony Deposit Delays &amp; Important Account Update(08:53) Check Before You Shop &amp; Point Auctions(12:03) Travel Smarter Elite Status Tool &amp; Final UpdatesKey takeaways: EVA Air Award Search: Roame now shows EVA Air award availability, though current search results may be limited.Chase The Edit Filter: Chase Travel added a dedicated filter for The Edit properties.Qatar Avios on Rent: Eligible Qatar Airways cardholders can now earn Avios on rent through Bilt.Alaska Award Loophole Ends: Alaska fixed unusual partner award pricing on some connecting itineraries.Aeroplan Transfer Bonus: Chase is offering a 20% transfer bonus to Air Canada Aeroplan through September 30.American Airlines Upgrade Changes: Complimentary elite upgrades on select premium economy routes now move travelers up one cabin.US Bank Transfer Partners: Altitude Reserve points can now transfer to airline partners.Amex FHR Expansion: American Express added roughly 350 hotels to Fine Hotels + Resorts.Lufthansa Family Award Space: Some A380 dates are showing four, six, or more business class award seats.New Points Tools: Check Before You Shop, Point Auctions, and Travel Smarter add new ways to save, redeem, and track status.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Join Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke sits down with Patrick Sugarman to explore two advanced areas of the points and miles world: buying and reselling gold to generate massive credit card spend, and understanding the travel insurance protections that can save a trip when things go wrong. Patrick shares how he uses gold purchases strategically to earn points, hit welcome bonuses, and generate qualifying activity toward elite status, including how gold reselling contributed significantly to earning his Hyatt Globalist status.DeAndre and Patrick break down how the gold reselling process actually works, from purchasing gold at retailers like Costco to working with buyers and resellers, calculating spreads, and understanding the risks involved when thousands of dollars can be moved through a credit card at once. They discuss why this strategy can make sense for someone pursuing a specific point or status goal, but also why it is far from a guaranteed way to make money. The conversation explores credit card considerations, market fluctuations, shipping risks, cash flow, trusted buyers, and the importance of understanding the entire process before attempting it.The second half shifts into travel insurance and risk management, an area where Patrick brings professional experience from the insurance industry. Together, they unpack the differences between standalone travel insurance and the protections included with premium credit cards, along with trip cancellation, trip interruption, delays, emergency medical coverage, cruises, missed connections, and medical evacuation. They also examine the unique challenges of protecting award travel when the retail value of a points booking can be dramatically higher than the amount actually charged to a card. This episode is a deep dive into strategies that can create tremendous value, but only when the risks, protections, and potential consequences are fully understood.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Buying Gold for Points and Protecting Your Biggest Trips(04:29) Meet Patrick Sugarman and His Unique Points Strategy(05:56) How Patrick Got Into Buying and Reselling Gold(08:12) How Gold Reselling Actually Works(10:05) Why Buy Gold for Points, Welcome Bonuses, and Elite Status?(12:02) Breaking Down the Math Behind a Gold Purchase(16:27) Gold Prices, Resale Value, and Finding the Right Buyer(19:40) Moving Thousands of Dollars in Gold and Managing the Risk(22:55) Credit Card Risks and What Can Go Wrong(26:02) When Gold Reselling Actually Makes Sense(31:13) Using Gold Spend to Earn Hyatt Globalist(32:22) Travel Insurance vs Credit Card Travel Protections(36:26) When Credit Card Coverage Isn't Enough(43:28) Protecting Award Travel and Understanding Your Policy(46:48) Medical Emergencies and Evacuation Coverage Abroad(52:23) The Travel Insurance Coverage Travelers Often Overlook(57:52) Patrick's Insurance Background and Final Advice(01:00:04) Final Questions, Risk Tolerance, and Closing ThoughtsKey Highlights:Gold Reselling Strategy: Patrick explains how buying and reselling gold can generate significant credit card spend that can be used toward welcome bonuses, points, and elite status goals.Hyatt Globalist Through Spend: Roughly 40 of Patrick's 60 Hyatt qualifying nights were generated through credit card spending tied to gold reselling.Not Free Points: Gold reselling involves real financial risk, including changing gold prices, transaction spreads, shipping issues, cash flow requirements, and potentially unreliable buyers.Costco Gold: Costco has become one of the most popular places for this strategy because of its gold pricing and the ability to earn additional value through eligible credit card and membership rewards.Know Your Goal: The strategy becomes easier to evaluate when there is a specific objective, such as earning a welcome bonus or reaching elite status, rather than simply generating spend without a plan.Risk Tolerance Matters: A strategy involving tens of thousands of dollars in purchases is not appropriate for everyone, even when the potential points and status benefits are attractive.Credit Card Protection: Premium travel cards can include valuable trip cancellation, interruption, delay, and other protections, but those benefits have important limitations.Standalone Travel Insurance: A dedicated policy can provide broader protection, particularly for expensive international trips, medical emergencies, cruises, and situations not fully covered by credit cards.Award Travel Gap: Trips booked primarily with points can create insurance complications because the cash amount paid may be far lower than the true replacement cost of the trip.Medical Coverage Abroad: Emergency medical care and evacuation can become extremely expensive internationally, making it important to understand exactly what coverage exists before departure.Cruise Protection: Missed connections and delays can become particularly costly for cruises, especially when travelers need to catch a ship at another port.Understand the Fine Print: Travel protection should be evaluated based on the actual policy terms and covered events rather than assuming a credit card or insurance policy protects every possible disruption.Resources:Join Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Patrick...

Check out the new Smart Travel PodcastThis episode is supported by Smart Travel a new podcast from Nerd Wallet. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Follow Smart Travel wherever you get your podcasts.Smart Travel PodcastIn this YouTube bonus episode of BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke takes us inside Namale Resort &amp; Spa, an adults only luxury retreat in Fiji that completely changed the standard he and Taryn now have for all inclusive resorts.After researching luxury properties across Fiji for their honeymoon, they chose Namale for its privacy, adults only atmosphere, and true all inclusive experience. Getting there is part of the adventure, with a tiny domestic flight to Savusavu followed by a private resort transfer. Once on property, the scale becomes even more impressive: 525 acres, fewer than 50 guests at full capacity, and only 16 guests during part of their stay.DeAndre also gives a detailed look at the ultra private Duavata Villa, complete with its massive private pool, indoor and outdoor showers, ocean views, and secluded location within the resort. But the biggest surprise wasn't the villa. It was just how much Namale actually includes. From exceptional food and premium drinks delivered almost anywhere on property to bowling, movies, kayaking, golf, fitness facilities, and unlimited access to the hydrotherapy areas of the spa, the resort takes the all inclusive concept much further than most luxury properties.Ultimately, what made Namale unforgettable was the service and connection to Fijian culture. Staff learned their names, welcomed them into traditional kava ceremonies, celebrated New Year's alongside them, and made the experience feel personal rather than transactional. By the end of six nights, Namale hadn't simply become one of their favorite resorts. It had changed their expectations for luxury hospitality altogether.Timestamps:(00:17) Inside Fiji’s #1 Luxury Resort(01:56) Why We Chose Namale Resort(03:08) Getting to Savusavu(05:05) Boutique Luxury in Fiji(06:57) The Best Place to Stay at Namale(09:53) What’s Actually Included(10:41) Food, Drinks &amp; All Inclusive Dining(14:06) Resort Activities &amp; Experiences(15:57) The Best Off Property Excursions(18:10) Inside Namale’s World Class Spa(19:04) Service That Feels Truly Personal(20:25) Fijian Culture &amp; Kava Traditions(23:08) Final Thoughts on Namale ResortKey takeaways: True all inclusive luxury: Premium dining, drinks, activities, and spa access go far beyond the typical resort package.Incredible privacy: With 525 acres and fewer than 50 guests at capacity, Namale feels almost like a private island.Book the Duavata Villa: Its secluded location, huge private pool, and ocean views make it a standout choice.Food sets a new standard: Fresh seafood, cocktails, and restaurant quality meals exceeded expectations throughout the stay.Activities are everywhere: Bowling, golf, snorkeling, kayaking, waterfalls, fitness, and more keep the experience varied.The spa is a major perk: Hydrotherapy facilities can be enjoyed throughout the stay at no additional charge.Service makes the difference: Personalized hospitality and authentic Fijian culture became the most memorable parts of the experience.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:We Stayed at Fiji's #1 Resort and It Ruined Everything Else [YouTube Vlog]Namale Resort &amp; Spa Review: Adults-Only, All-Inclusive Luxury in Fiji (Blog)BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravelsCheck out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email [email protected] or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

This week's Quick Hits is packed with practical updates for points and miles enthusiasts, beginning with a follow up to last week's Symphony interview. DeAndre answers one of the biggest listener questions about combining points between spouses, shares the current limitations of Symphony's platform, and explains why this is a feature the company is actively exploring. He also highlights a new MaxMyPoint feature that allows eligible subscribers to monitor discounted Hyatt and IHG corporate rates alongside award availability, making it easier to maximize both cash and points bookings.The episode also covers several important travel updates, including changes to Chase Sapphire Lounge access for Priority Pass members, a new Hyatt promotion that rewards members with free night certificates after eligible stays, recent updates to American Express Resy dining credits, and multiple transfer bonuses from Citi, Capital One, and American Express. As always, DeAndre wraps everything into a concise roundup of the week's biggest developments so listeners can quickly identify new opportunities to save money and maximize travel rewards.Timestamps:(00:00) Welcome to This Week's Quick Hit(00:40) Symphony Follow Up and Combining Points(01:35) MaxMyPoint Adds Hyatt and IHG Corporate Rate Tracking(02:35) Chase Sapphire Lounge Access Changes(04:20) Hyatt's New Free Night Promotion(06:05) Amex Resy Credit Changes You Should Know(07:40) Citi, Capital One, and Amex Transfer Bonuses(10:23) Final Thoughts and OutroKey takeaways: Symphony Update: Individual Symphony accounts currently cannot combine points, though the company says it's exploring the feature for the future.MaxMyPoint Enhancement: Platinum subscribers can now track Hyatt and IHG corporate rates alongside award and standard cash rates.Chase Sapphire Lounge Change: Priority Pass and LoungeKey members will lose their annual complimentary Chase Sapphire Lounge visit beginning August 15.Hyatt Promotion: Eligible Hyatt members can earn a Category 1 to 4 free night award after completing the required number of qualifying stays.Resy Credit Reminder: Some restaurants no longer qualify for Amex Resy credits, making it important to verify eligibility before dining.Citi Transfer Bonus: Citi ThankYou Rewards is offering a 40% transfer bonus to Turkish Airlines Miles&amp;Smiles through August 31.Capital One Bonus: Capital One cardholders can receive a 15% transfer bonus to Avianca LifeMiles through September 15.Amex Avios Bonus: American Express Membership Rewards now features a 30% transfer bonus to British Airways, Aer Lingus, and Iberia Avios through September 27.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Hyatt Latin America Free Night Award OfferJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke sits down with James Berry, co-founder and Chief Business Officer of Symphony, to explore a platform that blends high-yield savings with transferable travel rewards. James explains how Symphony was built to help people grow their savings while simultaneously earning flexible points, creating a new way for travelers and points enthusiasts to generate rewards without relying solely on credit card spending. Throughout the conversation, they break down the platform's investment model, its guaranteed 5% APY for the initial launch period, and the safeguards designed to protect customer assets.James also provides a transparent look at how Symphony generates returns through US Treasury bills, CLOs, private credit, and over-collateralized lending while explaining the differences between SIPC protections, traditional banks, and fintech platforms. The discussion covers everything from taxes and risk management to transfer partners, point valuations, withdrawals, and the platform's future roadmap. By the end of the episode, listeners will have a clear understanding of who Symphony is designed for, the opportunities it creates for travelers, and the important considerations to evaluate before making it part of their financial strategy.Read our full Symphony blog post and review here: https://boldlygo.world/symphony-savings-review/Timestamps:(00:00) Intro + Why We're Talking About Symphony(06:01) Meet James Berry and the Story Behind Symphony(08:08) Why Symphony Pivoted From Infrastructure to a Consumer Platform(11:58) What Is Symphony and How Does It Actually Work?(14:33) How the 5% APY, Points, and Compound Growth Work(25:06) Where Your Money Is Invested and How Symphony Generates Returns(29:37) Safety, FDIC vs SIPC, and Protecting Customer Assets(36:03) Points, Welcome Bonus, and Upcoming Transfer Partners(42:23) Sneak Peek Into Two of the First Transfer Partners(45:41) Withdrawals, Banking Features, and Accessing Your Money(48:17) Could Symphony Fail? Tough Questions and Platform Risk(58:33) Taxes, Point Valuation, and Listener Questions(01:08:16) Biggest Misconceptions About Symphony(01:10:40) James' Final Thoughts(01:11:46) DeAndre's Independent Analysis of Symphony(01:22:02) Should You Move Your Money? DeAndre's Personal TakeKey Highlights:Symphony Explained: James Berry introduces Symphony as a next generation savings platform that combines a competitive APY with transferable travel rewards.5% APY Model: Learn how Symphony supports its guaranteed 5% APY during the initial launch period through a diversified investment portfolio.Investment Strategy: Discover how US Treasury bills, AAA CLOs, private credit, and over collateralized lending work together to generate returns.Safety &amp; Protections: James explains the platform's safeguards, how customer assets are separated, and what happens if Symphony ever ceases operations.Points Ecosystem: Savings automatically generate transferable points that can be redeemed with future travel partners as the platform expands.Transfer Partners: Get an inside look at upcoming airline, hotel, and travel partner integrations planned for Symphony.Tax Advantages: The episode explores how earning travel rewards instead of additional taxable interest may create valuable tax efficiencies.Platform Roadmap: James shares the long term vision of expanding Symphony into a broader financial ecosystem beyond savings.Who It's For: Symphony is designed primarily for travelers, points enthusiasts, and savers looking to earn rewards without changing their spending habits.Do Your Research: James encourages listeners to understand the risks, diversify their savings, and evaluate Symphony alongside other financial tools.Resources:Join Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with James Berry:Instagram: mr.jamesberryLinkedIn: James BerryFind out more about Symphony

This week's Quick Hits is packed with valuable updates for travelers looking to stretch their points even further. DeAndre covers Emirates' new partner award sale, Chase Offers that can save money on Hyatt and Marriott stays, and Bilt's latest Rent Day promotion featuring Accor Live Limitless. He also explains why this month's Rent Day may not be the flashiest, but could still provide meaningful value for travelers who stay at Accor properties.The episode also highlights several opportunities that are ending soon, including multiple transfer bonuses from Capital One, American Express, Citi, and Rove Miles. DeAndre wraps things up with a reminder about the value of staying connected through the Boldly Go community, where members regularly share time-sensitive deals, award opportunities, and real-world travel experiences that often move too quickly to make it into the podcast or newsletter.Timestamps:(00:00) This Week's Quick Hits(00:40) Emirates 25% Partner Award Sale(01:02) New Chase Offers for Hyatt and Marriott(02:00) Amex Leading Hotels of the World Offer(03:05) Bilt Rent Day and Accor Live Limitless(04:45) Why This Rent Day Is Still Worth a Look(06:05) Transfer Bonuses Ending July 31(07:10) Rove Miles, Qantas and Flying Blue Updates(08:25) Cathay Pacific Transfer Bonus(09:05) Why the Boldly Go WhatsApp Community Is So ValuableKey takeaways: Emirates Award Sale: Emirates is offering 25% off partner award bookings in economy through August 9, making short-haul redemptions more affordable.Chase Offers: Eligible Chase cardholders can earn 7% back at Hyatt Place properties and 10% back at Marriott hotels by activating targeted Chase Offers.CardPointers Reminder: CardPointers can automatically activate Chase, Amex, Citi, and other card offers, helping travelers avoid missing valuable savings.Bilt Rent Day: August's Bilt Rent Day focuses on Accor Live Limitless, creating new value for travelers who regularly stay at Accor hotels.Transfer Bonuses Ending: Several popular transfer bonuses expire July 31, including promotions to EVA Air, Virgin Atlantic, and Rove Miles partners.Qantas Opportunity: Rove Miles members still have time to take advantage of a 50% transfer bonus to Qantas through August 18.Flying Blue Bonus: Citi ThankYou Rewards continues offering a 20% transfer bonus to Flying Blue.Cathay Pacific Bonus: Travelers can receive a 10% transfer bonus when moving eligible bank points through Marriott Bonvoy to Cathay Pacific Asia Miles.Community Benefits: The Boldly Go WhatsApp community regularly shares award deals, transfer bonuses, and flash promotions before they expire.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre and Taryn take you inside their entire Belgium and Tomorrowland adventure, from the complicated process of actually getting festival tickets to the moment they finally walked into one of the largest electronic music festivals in the world. They break down how they booked the trip, used points and miles for business class flights, stacked Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits across their Brussels stay, and turned what started as a trip for a music festival into a much bigger European travel experience.Before Tomorrowland even begins, the trip delivers plenty of stories. An 11-hour flight delay completely changes their plans in New York. However, they still manage to put hotel certificates, dining credits, and travel insurance to work before flying Brussels Airlines business class to Belgium. Once there, they explore Brussels through its food, history, architecture, Belgian beer, chocolate, and one of their favorite food tours, while also fitting in a spontaneous visit to Ghent. Their stay at the Tomorrowland theme hotel then marks the transition into an entirely different kind of experience.DeAndre and Taryn break down all three days of Tomorrowland, including the massive main stage, unique stages across the festival, Symphony of Unity, premium dining experiences, surprisingly good festival food, the cashless Pearl system, transportation, bathrooms, crowds, and the overall atmosphere. They also explain why general admission delivered far more than expected and why they did not feel like VIP was necessary. After three packed days and a much-needed recovery day, they finish the trip with Lufthansa business class back to the United States and share their final verdict on the question that matters most: did Tomorrowland live up to years of anticipation, and would they do it all over again?Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Our First Tomorrowland and Belgium Adventure(02:38) How We Finally Got Tomorrowland Tickets(10:34) Our Points &amp; Miles Strategy and the 11 Hour Flight Delay(23:23) Flying Brussels Airlines Business Class to Belgium(29:08) Our Brussels Hotel and Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts Strategy(38:28) Exploring Brussels, Belgian Food and the Ultimate Food Tour(45:31) Tomorrowland Theme Hotel and Our Trip to Ghent(50:23) Tomorrowland Day 1: First Impressions and the Main Stage(01:03:09) Tomorrowland Day 2: Exploring the Stages and Symphony of Unity(01:10:22) Premium Festival Dining and Tomorrowland Day 3(01:19:44) Recovery Day and Saying Goodbye to Tomorrowland(01:26:00) Flying Lufthansa Business Class Home and Our Final Tomorrowland VerdictKey Highlights:Tomorrowland Tickets: Getting tickets can be incredibly difficult, but Global Journey packages can provide another path into the festival while combining admission with hotels or transportation.Points &amp; Miles Strategy: DeAndre and Taryn used points for business class flights to and from Europe while paying cash for their Tomorrowland Global Journey package.Travel Delay Reality: An 11-hour delay on their positioning flight reinforces the importance of building extra time into major international trips and having travel insurance.Amex FHR Strategy: Alternating Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings across multiple eligible Platinum cards allowed them to maximize hotel credits across their Brussels stay.Belgium Beyond Tomorrowland: Brussels delivered memorable food, architecture, Belgian beer, chocolate, history, and a standout food tour, while Ghent offered another glimpse into Belgium beyond the capital.Theme Hotel Experience: Hotel Le Plaza extended the Tomorrowland experience beyond the festival with themed decor, gifts, breakfast, a friendship lounge, beauty services, and dedicated transportation.Tomorrowland Production: The scale of the stages, visual effects, immersive environments, and international crowd exceeded their already high expectations.General Admission Value: Despite normally preferring VIP at music festivals, they found Tomorrowland's general admission experience strong enough that paying extra for Comfort access did not feel necessary.Festival Food: Tomorrowland goes far beyond typical festival food, with a huge range of options and premium dining experiences that approach restaurant-level quality.Symphony of Unity: A full orchestra performing electronic music became one of the standout experiences of the weekend.Three-Day Experience: Exploring different stages on the second and third days revealed just how much of Tomorrowland exists beyond the famous main stage.Final Verdict: Even after long days, travel delays, and the exhausting schedule, both DeAndre and Taryn would return and are already thinking about another Tomorrowland trip.Resources:‘DoEatBetter’ Food TourBrussel's Taxi (WhatsApp) Daoud +32 484 48 69 47BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

This week’s Quick Hits starts with DeAndre and Taryn returning home from an unforgettable trip to Belgium and Tomorrowland, along with a reminder that even the best planned trips can run into major disruptions. Every flight they took experienced some type of delay, including an 11-hour delay on the way to Europe and another lengthy delay returning home. DeAndre also highlights how the Boldly Go community helped another family navigate major travel disruptions in real time, showing the value of having experienced travelers to turn to when plans fall apart.On the points and miles side, DeAndre breaks down the new Air Canada Aeroplan and World of Hyatt partnership, including why the status opportunities may be much more valuable than transferring points between the two programs. He also covers the elevated Chase Sapphire Preferred and World of Hyatt Business Card offers, a new Citi transfer bonus to Flying Blue, major upgrades to Seats.aero that bring award pricing directly into Google Flights, and new back-to-school shopping portal bonuses from American Airlines and Delta. The episode wraps with a quick Tomorrowland recap and a preview of a full Belgium trip breakdown coming soon.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro:Back From Belgium and Tomorrowland(01:49) How the Boldly Go Community Helps During Travel Disruptions(03:18) Air Canada Aeroplan and World of Hyatt Partnership(04:00) Hyatt and Aeroplan Status Benefits and Challenges(05:52) Chase Sapphire Preferred 100K Offer Ending Soon(06:27) World of Hyatt Business Card Bonus and Citi Flying Blue Transfer Bonus(07:05) Seats.aero Comes to Google Flights &amp; New Features(09:07) American Airlines and Delta Shopping Portal BonusesKey takeaways: Travel Disruptions: DeAndre and Taryn experienced delays on every flight during their Belgium trip, including an 11 hour delay on the way to Europe.Community Support: The Boldly Go WhatsApp community helped travelers navigate cancellations, hotel challenges, and other disruptions with real time advice.Hyatt + Aeroplan Partnership: World of Hyatt and Air Canada Aeroplan launched a new partnership, but the strongest opportunities appear to come from elite status benefits rather than point transfers.Hyatt Status Challenges: Eligible Aeroplan elites and premium cardholders can unlock Hyatt status challenges that may lead all the way to Globalist with up to 20 qualifying nights in 90 days.Chase Sapphire Preferred Offer: The 100,000 point welcome offer remains available but is expected to end soon.Hyatt Business Card Offer: The World of Hyatt Business Credit Card now offers 70,000 points after meeting the required spending threshold.Citi to Flying Blue Bonus: Citi ThankYou Rewards is offering a 20% transfer bonus to Air France KLM Flying Blue through August 22.Seats.aero Google Flights Tool: A new Chrome extension displays award pricing directly alongside Google Flights cash fares, making comparison shopping easier.Seats.aero Upgrades: New features include improved filters, historical award pricing, transfer partner previews, price alerts, and special Delta and United cardholder pricing.Shopping Portal Bonuses: American Airlines and Delta have launched limited time back to school shopping bonuses for members who meet qualifying spending requirements.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke sits down with BoldlyGo community member Gretchen Navy to unpack how her family of five pulled off an ambitious three-week adventure through Singapore and Thailand using points, miles, certificates, and travel credits. With three kids, seven flights, six hotels, and roughly one million points involved, Gretchen shares how nearly two years of planning helped them secure five business class award seats in both directions while building an itinerary that gave their family enough time to experience each destination without exhausting everyone along the way.Gretchen walks through the complete strategy behind the trip, from choosing Singapore and Thailand around school schedules to balancing hotel loyalty programs, free night certificates, and transferable points. She shares their experiences in Singapore, Bangkok, Phuket, and Khao Lak, including family-friendly hotels, incredible food, cultural experiences, and the realities of traveling internationally with three children.The conversation also takes an unexpected turn with one of the most important travel lessons of the episode. After booking five Singapore Airlines business class award seats, Gretchen discovered that a phone number found through a Google search had connected her with scammers posing as Singapore Airlines representatives. She explains how the scam unfolded, how American Express ultimately helped recover thousands of dollars, and the precautions every traveler should take when contacting airlines. From award booking strategy to family travel logistics and fraud prevention, this episode shows how points and miles can create unforgettable experiences while reinforcing the importance of careful planning at every stage.Timestamps:(00:00) How a Family of Five Pulled Off an Epic Asia Trip(02:07) Meet Gretchen Navy and Her Points &amp; Miles Journey(07:20) Planning Three Weeks in Singapore and Thailand(11:40) Flying Business Class to Asia With Three Kids(17:40) Exploring Singapore as a Family(25:25) Thailand Itinerary: Bangkok, Phuket and Khao Lak(31:00) Hotel Strategy, Points and Free Night Certificates(39:40) Booking Five Singapore Airlines Business Class Seats(42:30) The Singapore Airlines Booking Scam(46:00) How Amex Helped Recover Thousands of Dollars(49:30) Biggest Lessons From the Scam and How to Protect Yourself(53:15) Why Points &amp; Miles Are So Powerful for Family TravelKey Highlights:Family Award Travel: Gretchen and her husband used nearly two years of planning to build a three week Singapore and Thailand trip for their family of five.Five Business Class Seats: Strategic award searches helped them secure five premium cabin seats in both directions, proving larger families can still unlock aspirational redemptions.Kid Friendly Planning: Slower itineraries, longer stays, familiar food options, and carefully selected activities helped make a major international trip manageable with three children.Singapore Experience: Singapore delivered an easy introduction to Asia with excellent public transportation, family friendly attractions, great food, and straightforward navigation.Thailand With Kids: Bangkok, Phuket, and Khao Lak offered very different experiences, from cultural exploration and street food to beaches and resort relaxation.Hotel Strategy: Using multiple loyalty programs gave the family more flexibility instead of forcing every stay into a single hotel ecosystem.Booking Scam Warning: A Google search for Singapore Airlines customer service led Gretchen to scammers posing as airline representatives and resulted in thousands of dollars in fraudulent charges.Amex Protection: American Express ultimately refunded approximately $5,000 connected to the scam, demonstrating another potential layer of protection when major purchases are placed on a credit card.Memories Over Perfection: Gretchen emphasizes using points and miles to create meaningful family experiences instead of waiting for every redemption or itinerary to be perfectly optimized.Resources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Gretchen Navy:Email: [email protected]

This week's Quick Hits comes straight from Brussels as DeAndre records from the Steigenberger Wiltcher's ahead of an action-packed weekend at Tomorrowland. Before diving into the latest points and miles news, he shares an important reminder about positioning flights after weather disruptions nearly derailed their journey to Belgium. Their experience reinforces why arriving a day early can save an entire international trip, especially when unexpected delays hit.On the news front, DeAndre covers a lucrative American Airlines AAdvantage Business promotion that can earn eligible households up to 50,000 bonus miles, explains a clever way to consolidate AAdvantage Business miles between travelers, and highlights Flighty's newest predictive gate technology, which continues to make it one of his favorite travel apps. He wraps up with the highest-ever welcome offer on the World of Hyatt Personal Visa Card, then teases upcoming reviews of Brussels and Tomorrowland, and how they maximized Fine Hotels + Resorts credits during the trip.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Recording Live From Brussels Before Tomorrowland(00:43) Why Positioning Flights Can Save Your Entire Trip(02:10) 25,000 AAdvantage Business Miles Promotion(03:15) A Clever Way to Share American Airlines Business Miles(04:10) Flighty's New Predictive Gate Technology(06:20) Highest Ever Hyatt Personal Card Bonus(06:50) Tomorrowland Preview and Brussels Plans(07:21) Final Thoughts and What's Coming Next Key takeaways: Positioning Flights: Arriving the night before an international departure can protect your trip when delays or cancellations disrupt your original plans.AAdvantage Business Bonus: Eligible new AAdvantage Business members can earn 25,000 bonus miles, with some couples able to generate 50,000 miles through separate enrollments.Mileage Pooling Strategy: The AAdvantage Business program offers an easy way to direct business earned miles to another traveler within your household.Flighty Upgrade: Flighty now predicts airport gates in addition to flight delays, helping travelers navigate large international airports more efficiently.Predictive Alerts: Flighty's delay predictions continue to notify travelers well before airlines announce schedule changes.Best Ever Hyatt Offer: The World of Hyatt Personal Visa Card now features its strongest public welcome bonus to date.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre and Taryn pull back the curtain on exactly what their points and miles strategy has looked like so far this year. They share the credit cards they've opened, the massive welcome bonuses they've earned, and the transfer opportunities they jumped on before valuable promotions disappeared. From Bilt's 100% transfer bonus to Japan Airlines and Citi's Preferred Hotels transfer ratio before devaluation, to Hilton free night certificate strategies and American Airlines loyalty planning, they explain the thought process behind every decision instead of simply listing card recommendations.The episode also shifts from earning points to putting them into action with a long weekend in Charleston, South Carolina. DeAndre and Taryn review their first experience flying Breeze Airways, break down their Hilton hotel redemption, and share why Charleston quickly became one of their favorite food destinations in the United States. Along the way, they discuss buying points when the math works, balancing multiple hotel loyalty programs, and how thoughtful planning continues to create luxury travel experiences for a fraction of the retail cost. Rather than focusing on one perfect strategy, this episode offers a real time snapshot of how experienced travelers continuously adapt, diversify, and maximize every opportunity throughout the year.Timestamps:(00:00) Why This Is Our Biggest Mid Year Strategy Update(03:51) Every Credit Card We Opened This Year(05:49) Bilt Rewards and the Japan Airlines Transfer Bonus(09:26) Amex Business Platinum and Hilton Strategy(14:04) Citi Transfer Bonuses Before the Devaluation(17:59) When Buying Points Actually Makes Sense(22:21) Flying Breeze Airways to Charleston(31:13) Our Hilton Hotel Stay Using Points(36:30) The Best Food We Ate in Charleston(43:23) Final Lessons From Our Mid Year Points &amp; Miles Strategy Key Highlights:Bilt Strategy: DeAndre shares why the Bilt Mastercard has become one of his favorite cards thanks to strong transfer partners and a 100% Japan Airlines transfer bonus.Credit Card Openings: Learn why the couple added cards like the Bilt Mastercard, American Airlines Globe, Amex Business Platinum, and multiple Hilton cards this year.Transfer Opportunities: Hear how they locked in valuable transfers before Citi reduced its Preferred Hotels and Choice transfer ratios.Buying Points: Discover why buying hotel points can sometimes deliver incredible value when redemption costs outweigh purchase prices.Hilton Diversification: Find out why they're intentionally expanding beyond Hyatt and building balances with Hilton and IHG.Charleston Getaway: Get a complete review of their first Breeze Airways flight, Hilton redemption, and favorite experiences around Charleston.Luxury Food Scene: Charleston impressed with outstanding restaurants, oysters, caviar, Southern cuisine, and memorable dining experiences.Mid Year Strategy Review: See how experienced points collectors constantly adjust their approach as welcome bonuses, transfer bonuses, and loyalty programs evolve.Resources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

In this YouTube bonus episode of BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke takes viewers beneath the surface of Beqa Lagoon for one of the most unforgettable experiences of the honeymoon: diving in open water with more than 30 bull sharks and no cage.The episode begins by explaining why Beqa Lagoon has become the world's premier destination for bull shark diving. DeAndre shares the unique geography, shark behavior, and conservation efforts that make encounters incredibly consistent while also highlighting the operator that made him feel comfortable enough to take the plunge despite his initial hesitation.The review then walks through every stage of the experience, from the extensive safety briefing and underwater setup to the specially designed "Coliseum" dive site that creates a much safer environment than traditional open sand dives. DeAndre also shares a few honest criticisms, including why the excursion may not be the best choice for newly certified divers and the one part of the dive that felt the most stressful.Finally, the episode breaks down the overall cost of the experience, explains how points and miles made room in the honeymoon budget for a bucket-list adventure, and delivers an honest verdict on one of the most thrilling dives either of them has ever completed.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: The Most Dangerous Adventure of Our Honeymoon(01:54) Why Beqa Lagoon Is the World's #1 Bull Shark Dive(04:24) Why We Chose Coral Coast Divers(05:13) Inside the Famous "Coliseum" Shark Dive(06:47) Ad: SpotMinders(07:46) Cost, Booking &amp; What to Expect(10:08) Face to Face with 30+ Bull Sharks(13:04) Final Verdict: Would We Do It Again? Key takeaways: A true bucket-list adventure: Diving with over 30 bull sharks became the most unforgettable experience of the honeymoon.Safety comes first: The extensive briefing and Coliseum dive design created a highly controlled environment.Choose the right operator: Coral Coast Divers stood out for conservation, professionalism, and experienced guides.Experience matters: Divers with more underwater experience will feel far more comfortable during the dive.The adrenaline is real: The descent, shark encounters, and ascent create an unforgettable rush from start to finish.Points funded the adventure: Smart travel strategies made room in the budget for this once-in-a-lifetime excursion.One dive was enough: It was an incredible experience they would recommend, but one perfect dive felt complete.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:We Dove With 30+ Bull Sharks in Fiji [YouTube Vlog]Fiji Bull Shark Diving: What Beqa Lagoon Is Really Like [Blog Post]BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

This week’s Quick Hits is packed with practical travel tools, useful updates, and a look ahead at one of the biggest trips of the year. DeAndre introduces a new partnership with AirAdvisor, a service that helps travelers claim compensation directly from airlines after delays, cancellations, baggage issues, and denied boarding, making it easier to recover money many passengers never realize they're entitled to. He also shares a new interactive map that helps Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders locate Sapphire Reserve Tables restaurants, Resy dining options, and airport lounges based on where they're actually staying.The episode also covers a small fee increase for Alaska Mileage Plan partner award bookings, a limited time DoorDash discount worth grabbing, and an exciting preview of DeAndre and Taryn's upcoming adventure to Tomorrowland in Belgium. From booking business class flights with points to planning restaurants and experiences in Brussels, this episode combines practical travel resources with a behind the scenes look at another bucket list trip fueled by points and miles.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro + Quick Hits Overview(00:24) New AirAdvisor Partnership Explained(01:22) Travel Insurance vs. Airline Compensation(03:44) New Sapphire Reserve Restaurant Map Tool(05:29) Alaska Mileage Plan Raises Partner Award Fees(06:15) DoorDash Promo Code Worth Using(06:39) Planning Our Tomorrowland Belgium Trip(07:42) Belgium Travel PlansKey takeaways: AirAdvisor Partnership: A new tool helps travelers claim airline compensation for delays, cancellations, baggage issues, and denied boarding with no upfront cost.Travel Insurance vs. Compensation: Airline compensation claims are different from travel insurance and can provide additional payouts many travelers overlook.Restaurant Mapping Tool: A free interactive map makes it easier to find Chase Sapphire Reserve Tables restaurants, Resy locations, and lounges near your hotel.Alaska Fee Increase: Alaska Mileage Plan increased partner award booking fees from $12.50 to $20 each way on partner airlines.DoorDash Discount: Use promo code BITE25 for 25% off eligible DoorDash orders over $15, up to a $10 discount.Tomorrowland Trip: DeAndre shares the travel strategy behind their upcoming Belgium trip, including business class flights, hotel bookings, and festival plans.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:AirAdvisor - airline compensation toolCreditEats - find where your dining credit worksBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this solo episode of the BoldlyGo podcast, DeAndre Coke pulls back the curtain on one of the most requested topics in the points and miles world: his Hyatt Globalist mattress run. He shares exactly how nearly two years of planning, strategic American Airlines status, and carefully timed Hyatt stays helped him earn Globalist through an accelerated challenge instead of the traditional 60-night route.DeAndre breaks down every part of the journey, including the virtual hotel stays he booked but never slept in, how much the entire mattress run actually cost, and why he believed the investment could pay off. He then walks through every major Hyatt stay throughout the following year, calculating the dollar value of suite upgrades, complimentary breakfast, parking, late checkout, waived resort fees, club lounge access, and other elite perks to determine if chasing Globalist status truly made financial sense.Rather than simply celebrating elite status, this episode delivers an honest analysis of the numbers behind the strategy. DeAndre explains where Hyatt Globalist exceeded expectations, where it fell short, and the factors every traveler should consider before pursuing hotel status. If you've ever wondered whether a mattress run is worth the investment or simply wanted an inside look at one of the industry's most talked-about elite programs, this episode provides a complete behind-the-scenes breakdown.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Why I Booked Hotel Rooms I Never Slept In(04:00) Why I Finally Chased Hyatt Globalist Status(05:12) How My Travel Style Changed After Meeting Taryn(09:10) Using American Airlines Status to Unlock the Hyatt Challenge(12:06) Planning the Perfect Mattress Run Strategy(18:19) My Virtual Hotel Stays and Total Mattress Run Cost(19:36) First Place We Stayed After Receiving Globalist Status(23:04) Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Globalist Experience(29:27) Suite Upgrades, Free Breakfast, Parking, and Late Checkout(31:08) Did Hyatt Globalist Actually Pay for Itself?(36:33) How Can You Recreate Your Own Mattress Run?(40:06) Final Verdict: Would I Chase Hyatt Globalist Again?Key Highlights:DeAndre's Globalist Journey: Learn how nearly two years of planning and an American Airlines status challenge opened the door to Hyatt Globalist.Mattress Run Breakdown: Discover exactly how virtual hotel stays were booked, managed, and used to complete the Globalist challenge.Real Cost Analysis: See the true cash and points investment required to earn Hyatt Globalist.Suite Upgrade Value: Compare the retail value of upgraded rooms versus standard bookings across multiple Hyatt stays.Elite Benefit Review: Explore how complimentary breakfast, parking, late checkout, club access, and waived fees contributed to the overall value.Status Strategy: Understand why timing Hyatt promotions and airline status matches can dramatically reduce qualification requirements.Solo Traveler Perspective: Hear why hotel status wasn't a priority until luxury travel became a larger part of DeAndre's travel style.Honest Verdict: Find out if the total value earned actually exceeded the cost of pursuing Hyatt Globalist.Resources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

This week's Quick Hits covers several valuable updates across the world of points, miles, and travel. DeAndre shares a useful enhancement to MaxFHR that now includes Bilt's Home Away From Home hotel benefits, making it easier to compare premium hotel programs in one place. He also highlights a new American Airlines policy that automatically issues meal vouchers during qualifying delays, along with a simple trick to save those vouchers for future use at places like Starbucks or Chick-fil-A.The episode also covers a creative opportunity to support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital while earning rewards, targeted Chase spending offers, a disappointing change to Avianca LifeMiles Plus, multiple transfer bonuses from Amex and Capital One, Rove's newest transfer partner, and an update to Clear pricing. If you're looking to maximize your rewards and stay on top of the latest travel developments, this episode is packed with practical tips worth knowing.Timestamps:(00:00) Welcome &amp; Quick Hits Overview(00:41) MaxFHR Adds Bilt Home Away From Home Benefits(03:26) American Airlines Automatic Meal Vouchers &amp; Hidden Trick(04:59) Payz Donation Opportunity Supporting St. Jude(06:04) New Targeted Chase Spending Offers(06:59) Avianca LifeMiles Removes Free Cancellation Benefit(08:19) New Amex &amp; Capital One Transfer Bonuses(09:53) Rove Adds Frontier Airlines as a Transfer Partner(10:37) Clear Membership Price Increase(11:12) Final Thoughts &amp; Upcoming Belgium Trip Key takeaways: MaxFHR Update: MaxFHR now includes Bilt Home Away From Home benefits alongside Amex Fine Hotels &amp; Resorts and Hotel Collection searches.American Airlines Meal Vouchers: Eligible flight delays now trigger automatic $12 meal vouchers sent directly to AAdvantage members.Voucher Hack: American Airlines meal vouchers can be loaded into apps like Starbucks or Chick-fil-A for future use.St. Jude Opportunity: Some cardholders can donate through Domino's using Payz, earn rewards, and potentially receive statement credits.Targeted Chase Offers: Chase has released new bonus spending promotions across several co branded airline and hotel cards.LifeMiles Change: Avianca removed the free cancellation benefit for new LifeMiles Plus subscribers.Transfer Bonuses: Amex added new transfer bonuses to Virgin Atlantic and Hilton Honors, while Capital One is offering a bonus to EVA Air.Rove Expansion: Rove continues adding transfer partners with Frontier Airlines joining the platform.Clear Pricing: Clear membership pricing increased, but Amex will continue covering the full annual fee for eligible cardholders.Travel Planning Tips: Several new hotel tools and transfer bonuses create additional opportunities for travelers planning upcoming trips.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Check your Chase Bonus PromotionsBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

Finding two business class award seats can already be a challenge. Finding four, five, or even six for an entire family during school breaks is a completely different game. In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre sits down with Maria Fung, to break down her proven strategy for helping families book premium cabin travel to Asia using points and miles. From choosing the right airline programs and building the right transferable points currencies to understanding award release timing and repositioning flights, Maria shares the framework she uses to consistently unlock opportunities that many travelers never realize exist.The conversation goes far beyond Japan, exploring why destinations across Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand deserve a place on every family's travel list. Maria also debunks common misconceptions about traveling to Asia, explains why programs like EVA Air deserve far more attention, and reveals how intentional planning can dramatically improve your chances of booking multiple premium cabin seats together. If family award travel has ever felt impossible, this episode offers a practical roadmap to make it happen.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Why Family Award Travel Is So Different(04:29) Meet Maria Fung and Her Family Travel Mission(08:55) Why More Families Should Travel to Asia(12:03) Debunking Common Myths About Asia Travel(14:27) Maria's Four Step Framework for Booking Family Awards(20:42) Choosing the Right Points Currency for Asia(23:53) Best Transfer Partners and Airline Programs(29:28) Award Timing and Finding Multiple Seats(32:56) Why is Maria a Big Fan of EVA Air(37:55) Which Currencies Transfer to EVA Air(40:51) More Amazing Tips for Booking Premium Family Travel to Asia(48:29) Maria’s Favorite Hotel Points &amp; Miles RedemptionsKey Highlights:Family Award Strategy: Booking premium cabins for families requires a completely different approach than booking for one or two travelers.Think Beyond Japan: Asia offers incredible value, family friendly destinations, excellent transportation, and outstanding safety across many countries.EVA Air Advantage: EVA Air is one of the strongest yet most overlooked programs for family award travel to Asia.Repositioning Flights: Expanding departure airports dramatically increases award availability.Intentional Points Strategy: Build transferable points based on your destination goals instead of simply collecting the most popular currencies.Timing Matters: Families have the best chance of securing multiple seats by booking when award calendars first open.Best Transfer Partners: Citi ThankYou Points, Capital One Miles, Amex Membership Rewards, and Bilt Rewards each play an important role for Asia travel.Flexible Planning: Success often comes from balancing cabin preferences, routing options, and family priorities.Asia Misconceptions: Many concerns about safety and cost are outdated and don't reflect today's travel experience.Family First Mindset: The goal isn't always the cheapest redemption. It's creating memorable trips the entire family can actually book together.Resources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Maria Fung: Website: mariapointstheway.comFacebook: MariaPointsTheWayInstagram: mariapointstheway

In this YouTube bonus episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke takes listeners inside Nanuku Resort, one of Fiji's premier luxury resorts, and explains how they cut the cost of a four-night stay by more than 50% using points and travel strategies.The episode covers everything from the resort's stunning 500-acre beachfront property and authentic Fijian hospitality to its incredible dining, cultural experiences, and family-friendly amenities. One of the biggest surprises was the complimentary one-to-one nanny program for children under eight, allowing parents to truly relax while their kids enjoy immersive cultural activities.DeAndre also shares an honest look at the few challenges they encountered, including a room issue that ultimately showcased the resort's exceptional customer service through a complimentary villa upgrade and thoughtful recovery. The review concludes with the exact booking strategy, including how Hilton Honors points, elite status, and promotional point purchases helped reduce the cost of a $4,300 stay to around $2,000 while unlocking complimentary breakfast and additional perks.From honeymooners and divers to families looking for an unforgettable luxury vacation, this episode explains why Nanuku Resort stands out as one of Fiji's most memorable destinations.Timestamps:(00:00) YouTube Bonus Episode Intro(01:34) Nanuku Resort Overview(02:26) First Impressions &amp; Traditional Fijian Welcome(04:02) Resort Tour, Bikes &amp; Tropical Setting(05:28) Why Families Love Nanuku's Free Childcare(07:47) Dining &amp; Honest Food Review(09:33) Resort Activities &amp; Cultural Experiences(10:50) Villa Tour(11:35) The Unexpected Room Issue(14:25) How We Saved Over 50% on Our Stay(16:53) Flying Out from Nanuku's Private Airstrip(17:53) Final Verdict: Is Nanuku Worth It?Key takeaways: Authentic Fijian hospitality: The warm welcome and cultural experiences made this stay unlike any other resort.Perfect for families: Complimentary one-to-one childcare is one of the best perks in luxury family travel.Excellent dining: Fresh seafood, themed dinners, and consistently high-quality meals exceeded expectations.Outstanding service recovery: A minor room issue led to a complimentary villa upgrade and exceptional customer care.Activities beyond the beach: Cultural performances, snorkeling, diving, and outdoor adventures keep every day exciting.Smart booking strategy: Hilton points and elite benefits cut the cost of the stay by more than half.Luxury with personality: Nanuku delivers a relaxed atmosphere without sacrificing five-star service.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:We Booked This Fiji Dream Resort for HALF PRICE?! (Nanuku Resort Full Review) (YouTube Vlog)Nanuku Resort Fiji Review: Using Hilton Points for Luxury Villas, Fijian Culture, and Exceptional Service (Blog post)BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this week's Quick Hits episode, DeAndre covers several important updates across the points and miles world, including new Chase Freedom Flex bonus categories, Hyatt's latest summer promotion, Bilt's newest hotel transfer partner, and a potentially valuable targeted spending offer. He also dives into the brief appearance and disappearance of new Amex transfer bonuses, shares his experience with delayed Chase to Virgin transfers, and explains why travelers should pay close attention before making speculative transfers to Etihad.The episode wraps up with exciting redemption opportunities, including using Hilton Honors points for seaplane transfers in the Maldives and Virgin Points for a stay on Richard Branson's private Necker Island. Finally, DeAndre shares news that a Chase Sapphire Lounge is coming to Miami International Airport, making one of his most frequently visited airports even more attractive for premium travelers.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro into this Week's Quick Hits(00:13) Chase Freedom Flex Q3 5X Categories &amp; Hyatt Summer Promotion(00:58) Bilt Adds Preferred Hotels &amp; New Targeted 5X Offers(02:57) Amex Transfer Bonus Confusion &amp; Chase to Virgin Transfer Delays(04:55) Using Hilton Points for Maldives Seaplane Transfers(06:22) Virgin Points Can Now Book Richard Branson's Necker Island(08:01) Correction on Chase Transfer Delay &amp; Virgin Bonus(08:42) Etihad Leaving Amex Membership Rewards(09:31) Chase Sapphire Lounge Coming to Miami Airport(10:53) Final Thoughts &amp; Community UpdatesKey takeaways: Chase Freedom Flex Q3 Categories: Activate 5X earnings on gas, EV charging, public transit, select live entertainment, and United Way purchases for the third quarter.Hyatt Summer Promotion: Earn 2,000 bonus World of Hyatt points for every two eligible nights after your second stay, with up to 8,000 bonus points available.Bilt Transfer Partner: Bilt Rewards adds Preferred Hotels &amp; Resorts at a 1:2 transfer ratio, creating another valuable luxury hotel redemption option.Targeted Bilt Offer: Some members can earn 5X points at Amazon, Walmart, and Target on up to $200 in spending through a limited time targeted promotion.Amex Transfer Bonus Mystery: American Express briefly published Hilton Honors and Virgin Atlantic transfer bonuses before removing them, suggesting they may officially return soon.Virgin Transfer Delays: Chase to Virgin Atlantic transfers may experience delays before bonus miles appear, so don't assume something went wrong immediately.Maldives Seaplane Awards: Hilton Honors members can now redeem points for Conrad Maldives seaplane transfers, helping offset one of the destination's largest travel expenses.Necker Island Redemption: Virgin Points now unlock three night stays on Richard Branson's private Necker Island at a significantly reduced redemption rate.Etihad Transfer Deadline: Etihad Guest leaves Amex Membership Rewards at the end of June, making this the last chance for planned transfers before the partnership ends.Miami Sapphire Lounge: Chase confirms a new Sapphire Lounge is coming to Miami International Airport, expanding premium lounge access at one of the busiest travel hubs.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this solo episode of the BoldlyGo podcast, DeAndre pulls back the curtain on his family's complete credit card strategy and reveals exactly what's in his wallet, card organizer, and overall points ecosystem. With more than 35 active credit cards between himself and Taryn, DeAndre explains why most of those cards rarely get used, how they decide which cards are worth keeping long term, and which ones are likely headed for cancellation. He shares the thinking behind his daily spending strategy, how he separates personal and business expenses, and why certain cards continue to earn a permanent place in his wallet despite increasing annual fees.Throughout the episode, DeAndre breaks down the cards generating the most value for their household, including the Bilt Palladium Card, Citi Strata Premier, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Business Platinum, Hilton Aspire, and several Chase Ink and Amex business products. He discusses welcome bonus strategies, retention offers, status benefits, travel protections, and how he evaluates annual fees against real-world value. The conversation also includes practical guidance on managing multiple cards responsibly, avoiding common cancellation mistakes, and building a points and miles portfolio that supports long term travel goals rather than chasing every new offer.Timestamps:(00:00) - Why We Have 35+ Credit Cards(01:54) - Housekeeping and Podcast Resources(03:43) - How We Organize Our Credit Card Portfolio(05:28) - Why Bilt Palladium Is My Favorite Card(08:08) - Citi Strata Premier and Grocery Spending Strategy(10:21) - Chase Sapphire Reserve: Still Worth Keeping?(12:17) - Amex Business Platinum and Welcome Bonus Strategy(15:13) - American Airlines Status and Business Card Spending(17:15) - Hilton Aspire, Business Gold Cards, and Annual Fee Decisions(22:32) - Two Chase Ink Business Preferred Cards Strategy(31:17) - Taryn’s Credit Cart Portofolio(33:49) - When to Cancel Credit Cards Without Losing Your Points(39:22) - Final Thoughts: Keep, Cancel or DowngradeKey Highlights:Bilt Palladium Becomes the Daily Driver: DeAndre explains why Bilt's earning structure and transfer partners have made it his favorite personal spending card.Sapphire Reserve Still Wins: Despite recent changes, Chase Sapphire Reserve remains a cornerstone card thanks to its travel protections and premium benefits.Annual Fees Must Earn Their Keep: Every card is evaluated based on the value it provides, not simply because it earns points.Business Cards Drive Most Growth: Welcome offers from business cards continue to generate the largest portion of the family's points balances.Hilton Aspire Remains a Keeper: Diamond status and annual free night certificates make the card difficult to replace.Retention Offers Matter: Before canceling premium cards, DeAndre regularly checks for retention offers that can offset annual fees.Don't Close Cards Too Early: Canceling before the first annual fee posts can result in losing earned welcome bonuses.Personal vs Business Cards: Most account closures happen on the business side while personal cards are often kept to preserve credit history.Status Can Influence Spending: Strategic spending helps maintain valuable airline and hotel elite status.Simplicity Matters: The best card setup is one that aligns with your actual spending habits and travel goals.Resources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

In this week’s Quick Hits episode, DeAndre covers several noteworthy developments across the points and miles landscape, including some of the best Delta SkyMiles redemptions seen in years. From Delta One flights to Europe starting at just 97,000 miles each way to deeply discounted economy awards to Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, and the Bahamas, Delta travelers are finally seeing meaningful value from their SkyMiles balances. DeAndre breaks down why these unadvertised deals are creating excitement and why now may be a great time to revisit Delta redemptions.The episode also covers updates to Amex Resy dining credits, a new Citi ThankYou Points transfer bonus to Accor, and a lucrative Payz promotion that can generate statement credits and bonus points for eligible cardholders. DeAndre shares his perspective on maximizing opportunities without feeling pressured to chase every deal and emphasizes finding a points strategy that fits your personal goals and capacity. He wraps up with reminders about expiring card benefits, Fine Hotels + Resorts credits, and the upcoming BoldlyGo Live community meetup in Miami.Timestamps:(00:00) Quick Hits Intro(00:23) Delta's Best SkyMiles Deals in Years(01:36) Amex Resy Credit Changes Explained(02:35) Citi ThankYou Points 50% Accor Transfer Bonus(04:03) Payz Promotion Worth Up to $100 Per Card(05:07) NewEgg Changes and Gift Card Strategy Update(07:21) Midyear Credit and Benefit Reminders(08:01) Maximizing Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts Credits(09:00) BoldlyGo Live Miami Meetup ReminderKey takeaways: Delta SkyMiles Sweet Spots: Delta is quietly releasing some of the strongest award pricing in years, including Delta One to Europe from 97,000 miles each way.Amex Resy Update: New terms caused concern among cardholders, but dining credits remain widely usable for now.Citi to Accor Bonus: Citi ThankYou Points are offering a 50% transfer bonus to Accor through July 18.Payz Promotion: Eligible cards can earn up to $100 back through Payz purchases, with additional stacking opportunities available.Points Strategy Mindset: Not every promotion is worth pursuing. Focus on opportunities that match your spending habits and goals.Expiring Benefits Reminder: Time is running out to use midyear and quarterly benefits like Resy credits, FHR credits, and Chase Edit benefits.FHR Booking Tips: Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts credits can be used for future stays, not just trips happening this year.BoldlyGo Live: Registration remains open for the first BoldlyGo Live community event in Miami.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of the BoldlyGo podcast, DeAndre Coke sits down with Owen Beiny, better known as The Points Partner, for a masterclass on one of the most misunderstood parts of points and miles: actually redeeming your points. While earning points often gets the spotlight, Owen explains why booking award travel is where the real value is created and where most travelers leave money on the table.Owen shares his fascinating journey from running a celebrity paparazzi business in London and Los Angeles to building one of the most recognized points and miles education brands in the industry. Together, DeAndre and Owen break down the fundamentals of award travel, including the difference between booking through a credit card travel portal versus transferring points to airline partners, how transfer bonuses can dramatically increase value, and why flexibility is often the secret ingredient to unlocking incredible redemptions.The conversation dives into common mistakes beginners make, the importance of understanding airline alliances, why saver awards matter, and how the same flight can cost drastically different amounts depending on where you book it. Owen also introduces his "Pyramid of Points" framework, helping listeners understand why transferable points are often the most powerful currency in travel.Whether you're new to points and miles or looking to sharpen your redemption skills, this episode provides a practical roadmap for turning points balances into premium travel experiences while avoiding costly mistakes along the way.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro and Episode Overview(03:16) Owen Beiny's Journey into Points and Miles(07:55) Understanding Points: Earning vs. Redeeming(13:37) Booking Strategies: Paid vs. Mileage Tickets(17:35) Award Availability and Pricing Strategies(22:28) Maximizing Points with Transfer Bonuses(24:55) Advanced Strategies for Earning Points(29:20) The Importance of Flexibility in Points and Miles(36:47) Understanding the Booking Process(43:07) Old School vs. New School Booking Methods(48:07) Common Mistakes in Points and Miles(56:05) Finding Balance: Perfection vs. ActionKey Highlights:Transferable Points: Flexible credit card points often provide more value than cashback or airline specific rewards when redeemed strategically.The Pyramid of Points: Points can be transferred from credit card programs to airline partners, but they cannot be transferred back, making redemption planning critical.Travel Portals vs Transfers: Booking through airline transfer partners can unlock significantly better value than redeeming points directly through a credit card travel portal.One-Way Award Tickets: Booking separate one-way flights can provide greater flexibility and lower change or cancellation costs.Airline Alliances: The same flight may cost dramatically different amounts depending on which partner airline program is used to book it.Saver Award Space: Finding saver-level availability is often the key to maximizing the value of your points.Transfer Bonuses: Strategic transfer promotions can reduce the number of points needed for premium cabin flights and luxury travel.Award Ticket Flexibility: Mileage bookings frequently offer more favorable change and cancellation policies than paid tickets.Points Education Matters: Earning points is only part of the equation. Understanding how to redeem them effectively creates the biggest value.Advanced Redemption Strategies: Learning airline pricing models, alliance partnerships, and award availability can unlock thousands of dollars in travel value.Resources:How We Used 900,000 Marriott Points for the Safari of a Lifetime at JW Marriott Masai Mara (Brian Barlow guest blog on BoldlyGo)BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Owen Beiny: Website: thepointspartner.comInstagram: thepointspartner

In this YouTube bonus episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke reviews a business class flight on Fiji Airways from Hong Kong to Nadi and answers a simple question: does an incredibly cheap points redemption still deliver a premium experience?The episode explores both sides of the experience. On one hand, the airline’s Airbus A330 business class cabin showed its age with angled-flat seats, limited storage, no Wi-Fi, and outdated entertainment systems. On the other hand, Fiji Airways delivered exceptional hospitality, attentive service, thoughtful amenities, and some of the best inflight meals of the entire honeymoon.DeAndre also shares how a 13-hour delay disrupted the trip, how travel insurance covered the unexpected expenses, and why the crew’s warmth completely changed the perception of the flight. Finally, he breaks down the exact points strategy used to book a business class ticket for less than $50 in taxes and fees, including why this redemption was cheaper than booking economy on the same route.For travelers looking to reach Fiji on points, this episode offers a realistic look at the strengths and weaknesses of Fiji Airways business class and highlights one of the best-value award bookings available.Timestamps:(00:00) The $47 Business Class Flight Reveal(01:18) Honeymoon Route &amp; Flight Delay Chaos(02:35) Seat &amp; Hard Product Review(05:33) In Flight Service &amp; Fijian Hospitality(07:13) The Best Airline Food: Multi-Course Dining Review(08:26) Our Booking Strategy(10:27) A330 vs A350: Which Aircraft to Book(10:45) Final Verdict on Fiji Airways Business ClassKey takeaways: Delay protection mattered: Travel insurance covered hotel costs and other expenses after a 13-hour flight delay.Not all business class is equal: Fiji Airways' A330 uses angled-flat seats rather than true lie-flat beds.Hard product feels dated: Storage, entertainment, and connectivity lag behind many modern business class cabins.Service carried the experience: The crew delivered some of the warmest and most memorable hospitality of the trip.Food exceeded expectations: Dinner and breakfast ranked among the best inflight meals of the honeymoon.Points redemption was outstanding: Business class cost only 40,000 miles plus $47 in taxes.Know your aircraft: The A350 offers a much stronger business class experience than the A330.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Fiji Airways Business Class: Amazing Service, Terrible Plane? (YouTube Video)Fiji Airways A330 Business Class Review: Hong Kong (HKG) to Nadi (NAN) (Blog)BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this week's Quick Hits, DeAndre breaks down one of the biggest Chase announcements in years, including major upgrades to the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and a significant devaluation to Hyatt transfers that could reshape how points enthusiasts earn and redeem rewards. He also covers Delta's card refresh, Philippine Airlines joining Oneworld, an incredible Hilton points promotion shared by the BoldlyGo community, and several airline and hotel loyalty program updates.The episode explores what these changes mean for travelers, why diversification across hotel programs matters more than ever, and how upcoming Chase welcome offers could create valuable opportunities. DeAndre also shares his thoughts on the future of Hyatt redemptions, American Airlines award pricing, Singapore Airlines seat selection fees, and an IHG promotion that could accelerate elite status earnings. As always, the episode closes with updates on the upcoming BoldlyGo Live community event in Miami and the growing power of the BoldlyGo travel community.Timestamps:(00:00) Welcome to Quick Hits(00:32) Delta SkyMiles Card Improvements(01:27) Philippine Airlines Joining Oneworld(02:28) Hilton's Rare 125% Points Bonus(04:33) Chase Sapphire Preferred Refresh(05:56) Hyatt Transfer Devaluation Explained(08:04) Sapphire Preferred vs Sapphire Reserve(10:03) New Chase Welcome Bonuses(11:14) IHG Elite Night Promotion(11:50) American Airlines and Singapore Airlines UpdatesKey takeaways: Delta SkyMiles Refresh: Delta adds new cardholder benefits including a second free checked bag and expanded rideshare credits without increasing annual fees.Philippine Airlines Joins Oneworld: Travelers gain new redemption opportunities through partner programs like American Airlines AAdvantage.Hilton 125% Bonus Sale: Hilton launches one of its strongest points purchase promotions in recent memory, creating attractive opportunities for future award stays.Sapphire Preferred Refresh: Chase adds new bonus categories, statement credits, and travel protections while maintaining the card's $95 annual fee.Hyatt Transfer Devaluation: Chase reduces Hyatt transfer rates from 1:1 to 4:3 for Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred cardholders.Sapphire Reserve Advantage: Sapphire Reserve cardholders retain 1:1 Hyatt transfers, creating a stronger distinction between Chase's premium and mid-tier products.Elevated Chase Offers: New welcome bonuses launch across several Chase cards, including opportunities to earn up to 200,000 points.IHG Elite Night Promotion: Targeted members can accelerate elite status progress through a double elite night earning promotion.American Airlines Award Pricing: Some transatlantic business class awards appear to be increasing in price, reducing redemption value on select routes.Singapore Airlines Seat Fees: Advance seat selection fees are now being added to many business class award bookings.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

Most points and miles enthusiasts would never consider transferring more than half a million Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Marriott. Brian Barlow did exactly that, and it led to one of the most unforgettable trips of his life.In this episode, Brian shares the story behind his five night stay at the JW Marriott Masai Mara in Kenya, a luxury safari lodge that typically costs around $12,000 for a stay. What began as a simple family travel idea quickly evolved into a bucket list adventure after a Marriott points strategy, a transfer bonus opportunity, and a family invitation aligned perfectly.Brian walks through the decision to transfer 515,000 Chase points to Marriott during a 75% transfer bonus, turning them into 900,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. He explains why focusing solely on cents per point can sometimes cause travelers to miss extraordinary experiences.The conversation also covers the challenges of getting to Kenya, including a major snowstorm that disrupted carefully planned flights just days before departure. Brian shares how flexibility, persistence, and quick decision making helped save the trip.Once in Kenya, the experience exceeded every expectation. From luxury accommodations and personalized service to twice daily game drives, incredible wildlife encounters, and unforgettable moments with elephants, giraffes, lions, and more, the safari delivered memories that will last a lifetime.This episode is a reminder that the best redemption isn't always the mathematically perfect one. Sometimes the greatest value comes from creating experiences that would otherwise never happen.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction and Podcast Overview(04:33) Brian's Journey into Points and Miles(08:27) The Masai Mara Experience(14:35) Planning the Trip to Kenya(18:34) Travel Logistics and Challenges(21:20) Arrival and First Impressions(23:45) The Luxury Tented Camp Experience(25:38) Dining Experiences in the Wild(27:29) The Safari Adventure: Encountering the Big Five(30:33) Safety and Wildlife Encounters at the Resort(32:47) Activities Beyond the Game Drives(36:03) Reflections on the Trip and Future AdventuresKey Highlights:The transfer that broke the rules: Brian transferred 515,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Marriott during a 75% transfer bonus, creating 900,000 Marriott points for a dream safari redemption.A family invitation changed everything: What started as a stay at the Fairmont Mara Safari Club shifted to the JW Marriott Masai Mara after Brian's sister and brother in law decided to join the trip.Points are meant to be used: Brian explains why chasing maximum cents per point isn't always the right approach when a redemption unlocks a once in a lifetime experience.A snowstorm nearly ruined the trip: Severe weather disrupted flights to Kenya just 48 hours before departure, forcing last minute changes and alternative routing.Luxury meets adventure: The JW Marriott Masai Mara combines all inclusive dining, personalized service, luxury accommodations, and daily safari experiences.Two game drives every day: Guests receive morning and evening safari drives led by expert guides who tailor each experience to guest interests.Seeing the Big Five up close: Brian shares what it was like encountering elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, rhinos, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.Unexpected resort perks: Complimentary laundry service made packing easier despite strict bush plane luggage restrictions.The power of flexibility: Quick thinking and adaptability helped save a trip that could have easily fallen apart due to weather and airline disruptions.The best trip of his life: Brian reflects on why this safari experience surpassed expectations and became one of his most memorable family vacations ever.Resources:How We Used 900,000 Marriott Points for the Safari of a Lifetime at JW Marriott Masai Mara (Brian Barlow guest blog on BoldlyGo)BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Brian Barlow: Website: whatsthepointtravel.comInstagram: whatsthepointtravel

In this week's Quick Hits episode, DeAndre covers a wide range of developments across the points and miles world, including a new investment platform that promises transferable travel rewards based on investment balances, unexpected credit limit increases for Bilt cardholders, and a potentially valuable ChatGPT Business promotion for Amex Business cardholders. He also shares reminders about expiring Amex Platinum credits and highlights reports of Chase taking a stricter approach toward account shutdowns involving aggressive points earning behavior.The episode dives into changes affecting award travelers, including reports that American Airlines partner award space may be disappearing shortly before departure and Hyatt's upcoming 13 month booking window advantage for elite members and cardholders. DeAndre also discusses a recent Bask Bank data breach, providing transparency for listeners who may use the bank to earn American Airlines miles.To wrap things up, he reviews several transfer bonuses currently available through Rove, Citi, and American Express, along with a reminder that Chase Sapphire Reserve's record breaking 150,000 point welcome offer is expected to end soon. As always, the episode delivers practical updates that can help travelers maximize rewards and stay ahead of changes in the loyalty landscape.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction &amp; Quick Hits Overview(00:15) Silo Markets: Earning Travel Rewards Through Investments(02:08) How the Silo Rewards Model Works(04:37) Bilt Credit Limits Unexpectedly Jump to $50K(05:12) ChatGPT Business Promotion for Amex Cardholders(06:11) Last Chance to Use Q2 Amex Platinum Credits(06:28) Chase Account Shutdown Reports &amp; Manufactured Spending Concerns(07:53) American Airlines Partner Award Space Disappearing Before Departure(08:43) Hyatt's New 13 Month Booking Advantage(09:38) Bask Bank Data Breach, Transfer Bonuses &amp; Chase Sapphire Reserve 150K Offer Ending SoonKey takeaways: Silo Markets launches a new rewards concept: Investors can earn transferable travel rewards points based on account balances instead of credit card spending. Bilt credit limits increase for many cardholders: Some users reported substantial automatic credit limit increases, with limits reaching as high as $50,000. ChatGPT Business promotion creates potential value: Eligible Amex Business cardholders may be able to maximize new statement credits through a buy-one-get-one style offer. Amex Platinum credits are expiring soon: June is the last month to use several quarterly benefits, including Resy and Lululemon credits. Chase appears to be tightening enforcement: Reports suggest increased scrutiny of manufactured spending and account activity that may violate cardmember agreements. American Airlines partner award bookings may become harder: Travelers are noticing partner award space disappearing within days of departure, reducing last minute redemption opportunities. Hyatt expands advance booking access: Select elite members and cardholders will gain the ability to book award stays up to 13 months ahead. Bask Bank reports a data breach: Customers should review communications from the bank and monitor any affected accounts. Transfer bonus opportunities continue: Rove is offering a 50% transfer bonus to Turkish Miles &amp; Smiles, while Citi and Amex have active transfer bonuses to airline partners. Chase Sapphire Reserve's 150K offer may be ending: Travelers considering the elevated welcome offer may want to act before the promotion disappears.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:ChatGPT Promo CodeBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

DeAndre sits down with Nick Reyes from Frequent Miler to explore two fascinating topics that can completely change how families approach travel. First, Nick shares how he and his wife temporarily pulled their children out of school, homeschooled them while traveling for three months through destinations like French Polynesia and Europe, and then successfully reenrolled them when they returned home. He breaks down the logistics, educational benefits, conversations with teachers, and why the experience became one of the most impactful adventures their family has ever taken.Nick explains how travel became a classroom, allowing his children to learn through cultural immersion, science, history, geography, and real world experiences that simply can't be replicated from a textbook. He also discusses the surprisingly simple homeschooling process, how they balanced education with exploration, and practical considerations for parents interested in doing something similar.In the second half of the episode, the conversation shifts into a masterclass on Avianca LifeMiles. Nick shares some of his favorite redemption strategies, subscription benefits, hidden sweet spots, and ways travelers can stretch their points further than many other airline programs allow. He also explains how LifeMiles can be especially valuable for families looking to book multiple premium cabin seats.To wrap things up, Nick provides an important update on recent LifeMiles program changes that occurred shortly after the recording, helping listeners understand what has changed and how those updates may impact future redemptions. This episode combines family travel inspiration with advanced points and miles strategy, offering valuable lessons for travelers at every stage of their journey.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction to the Journey(05:01) Nick's Background and Entry into Points and Miles(08:19) Homeschooling While Traveling: A Unique Approach(15:56) Structuring Learning During Travel(20:31) The Adventure Begins: Trip Overview(27:13) Points and Miles Strategies for Family Travel(33:30) Booking Flexibility and Award Travel Insights(41:14) Exploring Avianca LifeMiles(45:44) Sweet Spots and Strategies in LifeMiles(49:24) Navigating the Challenges of LifeMiles(55:58) Maximizing Value with LifeMiles(59:27) Who Benefits Most from LifeMiles?(01:03:54) Final Thoughts on Family Travel and LifeMilesKey Highlights:Temporary homeschooling: Nick and his wife successfully pulled their children out of school for three months, traveled internationally, and reenrolled them afterward with far less difficulty than expected.Travel as education: Real world experiences became lessons in geography, science, history, culture, and problem solving, creating a richer learning environment for their children.Flexible family travel: Traveling outside traditional school breaks opened significantly more opportunities for award availability and better travel experiences.Teacher collaboration: Nick worked directly with teachers to keep his children aligned with classroom progress while traveling.LifeMiles sweet spots: Avianca LifeMiles offers unique redemption opportunities that can provide exceptional value for premium cabin travel.LifeMiles subscriptions: The LifeMiles+ subscription can create additional savings and discounts for travelers who frequently redeem miles.Family award bookings: Nick shares strategies that make booking multiple award seats more realistic for families.Stay adaptable: Curiosity and spontaneous learning opportunities often created the most meaningful educational moments during their travels.Travel day productivity: Airport lounges, flights, and downtime became useful opportunities to complete schoolwork.Resources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Nick Reyes: Website: frequentmiler.comInstagram: nickatfm

In this YouTube bonus episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, we take you inside one of Hong Kong's most famous attractions to answer a simple question: Is the Big Buddha at Ngong Ping truly worth your limited vacation time?DeAndre shares his firsthand experience visiting the iconic Tian Tan Buddha during the first stop of his 33 day honeymoon through Asia and the South Pacific. Traveling solo while Taryn recovered from an ear infection, he breaks down the exact route from Hong Kong Island, how to avoid common tourist mistakes, and why booking a guided tour may be unnecessary. Along the way, he reveals a smarter way to purchase cable car tickets, explains how to navigate Hong Kong's transit system, and shares practical tips that can save travelers both time and money.Beyond the logistics, this episode explores the full experience of Ngong Ping Village, the breathtaking cable car ride over the South China Sea, climbing the famous 268 steps to the Big Buddha, and discovering the often overlooked Po Lin Monastery and Hall of 10,000 Buddhas. DeAndre also discusses how technology like Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses enhanced the experience by helping translate cultural landmarks and provide deeper context while exploring independently.Timestamps:(0:00) Is the Big Buddha a tourist trap?(1:47) Our Homebase(2:11) Why I made the excursion solo(3:53) Logistics: MTR to Ngong Ping(4:47) Smart traveler tip: Buying cable car tickets online(5:34) The Ngong Ping 360 cable car experience(7:04) Conquering the 268 steps to the Big Buddha(8:19) Views from the top(8:56) Beyond the Buddha: Exploring Po Lin Monastery(10:52) Using AI for better travel and translation(12:22) Final verdict and cost breakdownKey takeaways: Big Buddha verdict: DeAndre found the experience absolutely worth the trip and believes it lives up to its reputation as one of Hong Kong's must visit attractions.Skip the tour groups: Travelers can easily navigate to Ngong Ping using Hong Kong's MTR system and save more than $100 compared to many guided tours.Book tickets ahead of time: Purchasing cable car tickets online helps avoid long lines and can reduce overall costs.Don't skip the monastery: Po Lin Monastery and the Hall of 10,000 Buddhas ended up being some of the most memorable parts of the entire experience.Plan for a half day adventure: The full excursion can easily take five to six hours once transportation, sightseeing, and exploration are included.Use technology to enhance travel: AI powered tools and smart glasses can help translate signs, explain cultural landmarks, and add valuable context while exploring independently.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Big Buddha Hong Kong: Tourist Trap or MUST-SEE? (Solo VLOG)4 Days in Hong Kong: A Simple First-Timer Itinerary (2026)BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this week’s Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke breaks down some of the biggest developments in the world of points, miles, hotels, and travel loyalty programs. From IHG’s 100% bonus on purchased points to major updates surrounding Hyatt’s new award pricing model, this episode is packed with timely strategies and important changes travelers should know about.DeAndre shares how he and Taryn approach points and miles through the lens of financial planning, including how they incorporate loyalty strategies into their personal “money date” conversations. He also explains why buying hotel points during the right promotions can preserve valuable transferable currencies like Chase Ultimate Rewards and Amex Membership Rewards for higher value redemptions later.The episode dives deep into the latest Hyatt devaluation analysis, including why luxury travelers are feeling the biggest impact, how award pricing volatility could increase over time, and why DeAndre still believes Hyatt remains one of the strongest hotel loyalty programs despite the changes. There are also updates on Emirates award pricing increases, new transfer bonuses from Bilt, Citi, Chase, Amex, and Capital One, plus an interesting IHG promotion offering up to 300,000 bonus points for destination weddings.DeAndre also covers new no-lifetime-language Hilton Amex offers. This Kimpton secret password can unlock surprise perks this summer, and increased Chase Ink referral bonuses that could help business owners earn even more points. As always, the episode blends practical travel strategy with real-world insights to help listeners travel better while maximizing value from their points ecosystem.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro and BoldlyGoLive Miami reminder(01:12) IHG 100% bonus on purchased points explained(02:11) Financial planning meetings and points strategy(04:35) Hyatt devaluation analysis and luxury award pricing changes(06:39) Why Hyatt pricing volatility could increase over time(07:58) Bilt transfer bonus to TAP Air Portugal(10:04) IHG destination wedding promotion for bonus points(11:39) Emirates award pricing devaluation breakdown(12:43) New Hilton Amex no lifetime language offers(13:14) Kimpton secret password for summer perks(14:20) Current transfer bonuses from Citi, Chase, Amex &amp; Capital One(15:07) Chase Ink referral bonuses increased to 40K pointsKey takeaways: IHG points strategy: DeAndre explains why he regularly buys Hilton and IHG points during 100% bonus promotions to preserve transferable currencies for premium redemptions.Hyatt devaluation analysis: Luxury Hyatt properties and all-inclusive resorts are seeing some of the steepest increases in award pricing, especially in Japan and top-tier destinations.Bilt TAP Air Portugal bonus: Bilt members can unlock significant transfer bonuses to TAP Miles&amp;Go, potentially lowering the cost of Europe-bound business-class awards.Destination wedding opportunity: IHG is offering up to 300,000 bonus points for weddings hosted at participating luxury and lifestyle properties.Emirates award pricing changes: Emirates increased pricing for many first-class, business-class, and upgrade redemptions by roughly 10% to 15%.Chase Ink referral boost: Chase increased referral bonuses on Ink business cards to 40,000 points per referral, up to 200,000 points annually.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads.Get a travel insurance quote hereNew American Express Hilton no-lifetime language links: Aspire: 175,000 points after $6,000 spend in six months Surpass: 130,000 points after $3,000 spend in six months, $0 first year fee Honors: 100,000 points + $100 statement credit after $2,000 spend in six monthsResources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast: Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke sits down with points and miles expert Jason Steele for a deep dive into the world of American Express Membership Rewards. Jason shares how he turned a passion for affordable international travel into a decades-long career writing for major travel publications, becoming the first contributor at The Points Guy, and helping travelers save thousands through award travel consulting. Together, they break down the fundamentals of transferable points, airline alliances, and why Membership Rewards remain one of the most powerful currencies in travel.The conversation explores everything from beginner card strategies to advanced redemption opportunities. Jason explains why Amex is often a strong starting point for travelers focused on international trips, highlights the value of business cards, and shares his favorite ways to maximize earning rates through cards like the Amex Gold and Business Platinum. DeAndre and Jason also discuss airline partnerships, transfer sweet spots, Hyatt’s recent devaluation impact on the broader points ecosystem, and how even newcomers can unlock premium travel experiences without spending a fortune. The episode blends foundational education with advanced insights, making it a valuable resource for travelers at every level of the points and miles journey.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro to the Amex Membership Rewards masterclass(03:38) Jason Steele introduction and his travel background(07:34) Why Amex Membership Rewards are so valuable(09:11) Understanding airline alliances and transfer partners(12:43) Hyatt devaluation and the Chase vs Amex debate(16:14) Best Amex cards for beginners and everyday spending(20:38) Best Amex cards strategies for business spend(34:50) Explaining shopping portals(38:17) Best transfer partner sweet spots for business class travel(48:34) Lounge access, premium perks, and luxury travel strategies(55:15) Advanced award booking tactics and maximizing redemptions(01:03:33) Final thoughts and Jason Steele’s best advice for travelersKey Highlights:Jason Steel’s origin story: Jason shares how international family travel pushed him into the world of points and miles more than 20 years ago.Understanding transferable points: Amex Membership Rewards can unlock access to dozens of airline partners and hundreds of global routes.Why Amex stands out: Jason explains why Amex remains especially valuable for international business class travel.Beginner card strategy: The Amex Gold and Business Platinum are highlighted as strong starting points depending on spending habits.Airline alliance knowledge matters: Understanding partnerships like SkyTeam, Star Alliance, and Oneworld can dramatically expand redemption options.Business cards create flexibility: Jason discusses why business cards are often overlooked and how they can help avoid restrictions like Chase 5/24.Hyatt devaluation impact: The episode explores how Hyatt’s changes may affect the overall value proposition between Chase and Amex points.Award travel consulting insights: Jason explains how personalized strategies can save travelers thousands of dollars every year.Resources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Jason Steele: Website: jasonsteele.com

In this week’s Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke breaks down one of the biggest points and miles developments of the year: Chase quietly launching massive bonus earning opportunities through its new Paze digital wallet. The Boldly Go community quickly uncovered ways to earn up to 14x Ultimate Rewards points on United purchases and stack bonus earnings on everyday spending through merchants like Newegg and StubHub. DeAndre shares how he personally used the strategy for Instacart purchases and explains why this could become one of the most valuable short term earning opportunities in the Chase ecosystem.The episode also covers the latest Hyatt devaluation news and why the actual impact may not be as severe as many travelers feared. DeAndre walks through his own Hyatt bookings, discusses payroll by credit card rule changes affecting business owners, shares his surprise approval for the Hyatt Business Credit Card despite being over 5/24, and highlights new Chase transfer bonuses, Bilt updates, Hyatt promotions, and details about the upcoming Boldly Go Live Miami meetup.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro(01:02) Chase Paze launches massive bonus opportunities(02:12) How travelers are earning up to 14x Ultimate Rewards(03:20) Newegg gift card stacking strategies explained(05:00) StubHub and Chase Paze discoveries(06:50) Hyatt devaluation reactions and real world examples(10:35) Payroll by credit card rule changes(12:05) DeAndre’s Hyatt Business Card approval story(14:10) Chase transfer bonuses and NFL international games(19:35) Boldly Go Live Miami event updatesKey takeaways: Chase Paze strategy: Travelers can now earn up to 14x Ultimate Rewards points on select purchases, including United Airlines flights.Gift card stacking opportunities: Newegg purchases created creative ways to earn bonus points on Instacart, DoorDash, and other everyday spending.Hyatt devaluation reactions: Early data suggests the changes are less aggressive than many travelers expected.Payroll by credit card changes: Some platforms may now require business cards tied directly to the business entity.Hyatt Business Card approval: DeAndre shares how he secured approval despite being over 5/24.Boldly Go Live Miami: The upcoming community event will feature live discussions, meetups, and interactive sessions for points enthusiasts.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast: Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke sits down with David, a longtime points-and-miles enthusiast who has spent the last decade mastering family travel for a household of five. From booking business class seats for seven people on a multi generational Asia trip to navigating the realities of traveling with kids, David shares a refreshing and practical perspective on what family travel actually looks like in the world of points and miles.The conversation dives deep into the unique challenges families face when trying to book award travel. David explains why family travel requires a completely different strategy compared to solo or couples travel, especially when searching for multiple premium cabin seats on the same flights. He shares how flexibility, patience, and long term planning have helped his family visit more than 20 countries using points and miles.David also opens up about how his career in nonprofit work pushed him to discover points and miles as a way to create meaningful experiences for his family without spending a fortune. He discusses the importance of starting small, focusing on achievable wins early on, and avoiding the trap of comparing your journey to flashy luxury travel content online. From economy flights to Puerto Rico to international business class trips years later, David walks listeners through the gradual evolution of his travel strategy.Throughout the episode, listeners will learn practical strategies for booking award seats for larger families, how to think about earning points at scale, why flexibility matters more than perfection, and which airline programs have worked best for David over the years. The conversation also explores the value of exposing children to different cultures, helping kids become global citizens, and creating lifelong memories through travel experiences together.This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone trying to figure out how to make points and miles work for a family. David’s thoughtful approach proves that family travel does not need to look perfect to be unforgettable.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Why family travel with points is a completely different game(03:17) DeAndre introduces David and the family travel focus(06:55) Biggest misconceptions about family award travel(09:19) Booking flights for five and seven people with points(11:34) Keeping the family together in the same cabin(15:36) Best airline programs for larger family award bookings(17:34) Earning enough points for premium family travel(24:20) How David planned a trip to Asia for seven people(32:58) David’s highlights from trips to Hong Kong, Singapore &amp; Japan(39:28) Creating meaningful experiences for kids through travel(43:36) David’s family trip to Europe to visit Switzerland and Austria(47:32) Advanced strategies for finding premium cabin availability(54:07) Starting small with family travel redemptions(57:21) Final thoughts and advice on family travelKey Highlights:Family travel realities: Booking five or seven award seats requires a completely different strategy than solo travel, especially for premium cabins.Start with small wins: David explains how their first family redemption was economy flights to Puerto Rico and a Hilton Embassy Suites stay using fifth night free benefits.Flexibility matters most: Successful family award travel often requires flexibility with dates, airports, cabins, and even destinations.The trip starts on the plane: David and his wife prioritize traveling together in the same cabin so the family experience begins the moment they board.Patience pays off: Many family trips involve multiple bookings, rebookings, alerts, and adjustments before everything finally comes together.Long term strategy wins: It took years before David’s family consistently flew international business class using points and miles.Airline programs that help families: KLM, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, and LifeMiles have been particularly valuable for larger family bookings.Earning enough points: Everyday spending alone is rarely enough for premium family travel. Welcome bonuses and business spending are critical.Travel expands perspective: David believes international travel helps children grow, gain responsibility, and develop a broader worldview.Resources:BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with David Morrow: Join the BoldlyGo Community WhatsApp group :)

In this bonus release, we take you inside the official announcement of the very first Boldly Go Live community meetup. DeAndre shares how a simple idea from the Boldly Go community turned into a real in person event after members stepped up to help bring it to life. He breaks down everything listeners need to know, including the official dates, location, ticket structure, hotel options, and what attendees can expect throughout the weekend.The first ever Boldly Go Live will take place February 5 to 7 in Miami, hosted at the Hyatt Regency Miami. The event will feature a Friday night welcome reception, a live podcast recording with community speakers on Saturday morning, and a family friendly Saturday evening outing. DeAndre explains why he intentionally chose an affordable points friendly location and shares nearby hotel alternatives across Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, and IHG for attendees looking to maximize points.He also emphasizes that this is not a profit-driven conference. The goal is to create a smaller, more personal event where members can connect face to face, share travel stories, talk points and miles strategies, and build deeper friendships within the community. DeAndre closes by thanking the community members who helped organize the event and shares why this meetup represents something much bigger than travel rewards.BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationTimestamps:(00:00) Boldly Go Live officially announced(00:45) How the community helped create this event(01:26) Why audio listeners should stay subscribed(02:17) Official dates revealed: February 5 to 7(02:40) Why Miami was chosen(03:10) Friday welcome reception details(03:45) Saturday live podcast recording and panels(05:20) Why this event is not designed for profit(06:25) Hotel options at Hyatt Regency Miami and nearby properties(10:05) Limited attendance, room block plans, and final event detailsKey takeaways: Boldly Go Live is officially happening: The first community meetup is scheduled for February 5 to 7 in Miami.Hosted at Hyatt Regency Miami: Attendees can book with Hyatt points, free night certificates, cash, or nearby hotel alternatives.Friday welcome reception: A casual meet and greet with food, drinks, and networking opportunities.Live podcast event: Saturday morning will feature live podcast recordings, panels, and community travel stories.Family-friendly options: Saturday evening activities will allow attendees to bring partners and kids.Limited attendance: Registration is currently capped at 50 people to keep the event intimate.The community built this event: Boldly Go members helped plan logistics, hotels, and event structure.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; 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 &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre shares a major announcement about the future of the podcast as Revolutionizing Your Journey officially transitions into the Boldly Go Podcast, aligning the show more closely with the growing Boldly Go community. He also reveals details about Boldly Go Live, the brand’s first major in person event happening in Miami next February.Beyond the community updates, DeAndre dives into a thoughtful conversation around credit card annual fees and why points and miles should be viewed like any other hobby. From golf memberships to scuba diving, hobbies cost money and travel can be no different when done strategically.He also breaks down a major update from Autopilot after recently interviewing co-founder Sam Hollander. DeAndre explains how the platform has already saved him money through hotel repricing and shares a limited promo code opportunity before pricing changes take effect.On the travel news front, listeners get updates on the upcoming Hyatt Hotels award devaluation, new IHG Hotels &amp; Resorts bonus promotions, Rove Travel adding Air Canada Aeroplan as a transfer partner, and new perks on business cards from American Express.DeAndre also highlights an incredible travel opportunity to Fiji, including flight deals and a stay at Nanuku Resort, a standout property where children under eight receive complimentary one on one nanny service. He wraps things up with new award discounts from United Airlines, an Amex upgrade offer, and a targeted Bilt Rewards promotion.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro + Why Revolutionizing Your Journey is becoming the Boldly Go Podcast(01:03) First BoldlyGo Meetup announced in Miami(02:01) Why paying annual fees can still make sense in points and miles(03:26) Autopilot update + how DeAndre already saved $150(06:00) Hyatt Hotels Corporation devaluation reminder before prices increase(06:42) IHG Hotels &amp; Resorts promo updates(07:04) Rove Travel adds Air Canada Aeroplan transfer partner(08:36) Fiji flight deals + Nanuku Resort spotlight(09:51) American Express and Bilt RewardsKey takeaways: The podcast is evolving: Revolutionizing Your Journey is officially rebranding into the Boldly Go Podcast.Boldly Go Live is coming: The first community event is scheduled for February 5 to 7 in Miami.Travel can be an expensive hobby and that’s okay: DeAndre explains why annual fees should be viewed through the same lens as other hobbies.Autopilot keeps adding value: The platform already saved DeAndre over $150 through hotel repricing.Book Hyatt stays now: Travelers have limited time before category changes increase redemption costs.Fiji deals are heating up: Great cash and points opportunities are available right now.United cardholders just got stronger perks: Expanded saver availability and extra discounts could create huge value.Check targeted offers: Both Amex and Bilt users may have valuable promotions waiting.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Amex Biz Platinum upgrade offerGet Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; 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 &amp; 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: BoldlyGoTravels

What happens when four points &amp; miles experts plan the same trip but travel completely differently? In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre brings together Serena, Miguel, and Mitch from Let's Get To The Points to break down how their unique travel styles shape every booking decision.Miguel shares how traveling with a family of five forces him to prioritize flexibility, value, and practicality over flashy redemptions. He explains how he booked premium economy flights to London using Virgin Atlantic points before heading to Italy for a family farm stay in Tuscany where his kids can enjoy authentic experiences without draining their points balance.Mitch takes the complete opposite approach, leaning heavily into premium travel experiences. He explains why he loves flying premium cabins on airlines like Starlux Airlines and Singapore Airlines while planning luxury stays at properties like Park Hyatt Bangkok and exploring destinations like Bangkok, Singapore, and Taipei.Serena rounds things out with her own strategy that prioritizes memorable family experiences over maximizing cents per point. From luxury family travel to planning an unforgettable African safari, she explains why sometimes the best redemption is the one that creates lifelong memories.This episode is a reminder that there’s no single “right” way to travel with points and miles. Your ideal strategy depends on your family size, destination goals, comfort preferences, and what matters most to you when you travel.Timestamps/Chapters:(00:00) Intro to the Podcast and Guests(02:24) Meet Serena, Miguel, and Mitch from Let's Get To The Points(08:49) Travel Styles in One Sentence(11:01) Planning a Family Trip: Strategies and Destinations(24:24) Speculative Transfers in Points and Miles(29:10) Earning Strategies for Points and Miles(34:21) Financial Responsibility in Points and Miles(40:27) Unique Strategies for Travel Planning(43:30) Finding Availability for Group Travel(48:08) Traveling with Kids: Business Class or Economy?(50:23) Booking Philosophy: Early vs. Last Minute(54:03) Rapid Fire Questions: Favorites and Preferences(01:03:37) Final Thoughts and Future GuestsKey Highlights:There’s no universal points strategy: The best redemption depends on your personal travel goals, family size, and comfort preferences.Large family travel requires flexibility: Miguel explains how booking for seven people often means mixing positioning flights, premium economy, Airbnb stays, and practical redemptions.Luxury travelers prioritize comfort: Mitch shows why spending more points on premium cabins and high end hotels can absolutely be worth it.Experiences can matter more than redemption value: Serena highlights why chasing perfect math doesn’t always lead to the best memories.Positioning flights can unlock better deals: Travelers outside major hubs often need creative routing strategies.Family travel can still be luxurious: Premium travel is still possible even when traveling with kids.Points should support your lifestyle: Build a strategy that matches your goals instead of copying someone else’s travel style.Resources:Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; 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 &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with ‘Let’s Get To the Points’: Website: letsgettothepoints.comYouTube: Lets Get To The PointsInstagram: letsgettothepoints

In this YouTube bonus episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke shares what it’s actually like spending four days in Hong Kong as first-time visitors during a 33-day honeymoon.The episode breaks down practical arrival tips that can save travelers major headaches, including why the Airport Express is often the best option, why Hong Kong taxis still require cash, and how downloading the Octopus Tourist app makes navigating the city incredibly easy. DeAndre also explains why staying at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong helped simplify the entire experience thanks to its location and skyline views.Beyond logistics, this episode highlights what surprised them most about Hong Kong, including how clean, organized, and efficient the city feels. DeAndre shares honest reviews of major attractions like the Big Buddha cable car experience and Victoria Peak, including what’s worth your time and what can feel overrated.The episode wraps up with Hong Kong’s incredible nightlife and food scene, featuring standout experiences at Bar Leone, The Savory Project, Gokan, and Arcane. From world-class cocktails to local pineapple buns, this episode offers a realistic guide for travelers planning their first Hong Kong trip.Timestamps:(00:00) - Is Hong Kong worth the hype?(01:06) - Airport arrival and the Octopus card hack(02:34) - Staying at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong(03:39) - Day 1: Just go for a walk(06:15) - Navigating the MTR and public transit tips(07:59) - Using smart glasses as an invisible translator(10:37) - Is the Big Buddha excursion worth it?(13:04) - The truth about Victoria Peak and the Tram(16:07) - Hong Kong's world-class bar and food scene(20:39) Final takeawaysKey takeaways: Airport prep matters: Set up transportation and grab cash before leaving the airport.Octopus app is essential: It makes trains, buses, and city transportation incredibly easy.Hong Kong feels efficient: The city is cleaner, easier, and more organized than many first-timers expect.Big Buddha is worth it: The cable car ride and self-guided experience delivered one of the best excursions of the trip.Victoria Peak needs strategy: Skip long tram lines and avoid paying extra when visibility is poor.Nightlife impressed: Hong Kong’s cocktail scene delivered some of the best bar experiences of the trip.Great food exists at every budget: Luxury dining is great, but casual local spots were just as memorable.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:We Only Had 4 Days in Hong Kong. This is What We Learned (YouTube vlog)Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorBook a Free 30-minute points &amp; miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; 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 &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre recaps speaking at the Women in Pediatrics and Pediatric CEO conferences in Alabama, shares a major update on new podcast timestamps now being added to show notes, and gives a real world review of how Autopilot is already saving him money on hotel bookings.The biggest story of the episode revolves around a powerful Hyatt booking loophole ahead of upcoming award changes. DeAndre explains how Hyatt’s advanced booking feature allows members to lock in award stays before they have all the points in their account. What started as a Globalist strategy became even bigger news after a Discoverist member successfully pulled it off too, creating a huge opportunity for travelers trying to secure bookings before pricing increases.He also breaks down frustrations with Chase Edit credits after listeners noticed certain hotels were mysteriously unavailable when trying to use their credits, despite showing availability on other Chase cards. On top of that, DeAndre highlights a lucrative Bask Bank offer that can generate over 58,000 American Airlines miles, discusses elevated offers on the Chase Sapphire Reserve and IHG One Rewards Premier Card, and reviews current transfer bonuses worth knowing about.To close things out, DeAndre shares an update on the first-ever Boldly Go Miami meetup, including plans for a hilarious “Player 2 therapy session” for spouses and partners navigating the points and miles hobby.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro + Alabama conference recap(03:28) Locking in Hyatt stays before devaluation(06:24) Katie successfully tests the Hyatt loophole(08:33) Chase Edit credit hotel booking issue(10:38) Bask Bank bonus for American Airlines miles(12:56) Sofi Crypto Rakuten offer(13:33) Delta Clear membership changes(13:59) 150K Chase Sapphire Reserve offer(15:06) 185K IHG card offer breakdown(18:24) Miami meetup teaser updatesKey takeaways: Autopilot is already delivering real savings: DeAndre shares how Autopilot automatically repriced one of his hotel bookings and saved him over $50 without any manual work.Hyatt’s advanced booking strategy could be huge: Lock in stays before award increases hit, even without having all your points yet. A Discoverist member successfully used this strategy too.Chase Edit credit frustrations continue: Some listeners found certain hotels unavailable only when trying to use Edit credits, which raises concerns about restrictions.Bask Bank promo offers easy airline miles: Eligible users can earn roughly 58,000 American Airlines miles by parking funds in a savings account.Massive card offers are live: The Chase Sapphire Reserve hit 150K points and the IHG One Rewards Premier Card reached 185K points.Miami meetup planning is heating up: DeAndre teased major updates for the first Boldly Go meetup and some fun community activities.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; 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 &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre sits down with Sam Hollander, co-founder of Autopilot, the travel tool designed to help travelers stop overpaying for flights and hotels. Sam shares how a frustrating personal travel experience led to building a platform that automatically tracks reservations and rebooks them when prices drop.They break down exactly how Autopilot works, from importing reservations through Gmail, manual entry, or email forwarding to automatically monitoring price changes behind the scenes. Sam explains how the platform works with major U.S. airlines and expanding hotel partners to help travelers save money without constantly refreshing flight prices.The conversation also dives into Autopilot’s pricing model, which only charges users when money is actually saved, making it a low risk tool for travelers. Sam also shares details on the Pro Plan, which includes award ticket tracking, upgrade alerts, and lower service fees for frequent travelers.DeAndre and Sam discuss how tools like Autopilot can completely change booking behavior by encouraging travelers to book early, secure good deals, and let automation handle future price drops. They also touch on future plans for international airline support and expanded hotel integrations.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro: Why most travelers overpay for flights(03:49) Meet Sam Hollander, co-founder of Autopilot(07:13) How Autopilot works(12:00) Autopilot pricing model explained(18:20) How does Autopilot re-booking work in backend(27:50) Autopilot in the Points &amp; Miles space(34:07) Risks, booking protection, and avoiding errors(38:49) Real-world cases - biggest savings within the app(44:02) Final questions, future growth, and key takeawaysKey Highlights:Autopilot tracks price drops automatically: It monitors flights and hotels after booking and helps travelers save money without manual work.Booking early becomes easier: Travelers can lock in trips sooner without stressing about future price fluctuations.You only pay when you save: Autopilot takes a percentage of savings only after successfully lowering your price.Pro features add more value: Award ticket tracking and upgrade alerts make it especially useful for frequent travelers.Expansion is coming: International airlines and more hotel partnerships are likely part of Autopilot’s future growth.Resources:Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupNeed Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; 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 &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre &amp; Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Sam Hollander: X: SamHollander_

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre breaks down a busy week across the points and miles world, with a strong focus on recent devaluations, shifting transfer bonuses, and new opportunities to watch.He covers Bilt’s latest Rent Day promo, highlighting reduced Avios transfer bonuses and newly introduced caps that signal a shift in strategy after previous generous offers. The episode also dives into multiple airline devaluations, including upcoming changes to Aeroplan and LifeMiles, emphasizing the importance of locking in redemptions before prices increase.On the positive side, DeAndre explores new competition in the transfer partner space, including Wells Fargo adding Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, which could shake up the ecosystem moving forward. He also outlines Hyatt’s confirmed devaluation date and what it means for award bookings and free night certificates.To close, he shares a valuable tool for travelers, Autopilot, which helps track and automatically reprice flights and hotels, along with current transfer bonuses and updates on the upcoming BoldlyGo community meetup in Miami.Key takeaways: Bilt changes direction: Lower transfer bonuses and caps signal tighter rewards moving forward.Devaluations continue: Aeroplan and LifeMiles increases make early bookings more important than ever.Hyatt deadline confirmed: Lock in bookings before May 20 to avoid higher pricing and reduced certificate value.New competition emerges: Wells Fargo adds Cathay Pacific, becoming more relevant in points strategy.Tools matter: Apps like Autopilot can help capture savings without manual tracking.Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World NomadsGet a travel insurance quote hereResources:Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel AgainPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points &amp; Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points &amp; 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 &amp; Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels