🛬💳 Planning your big international getaway in 2025 or early 2026? If you're scratching your head about whether to burn those precious points or keep stacking them at eye-popping 18-40% returns, you're not alone!

In this episode of The Great Indian Points and Miles Show, we bring four real-world experts who’ve been there, done that, and now spill their best secrets on how to squeeze maximum value from your credit cards. From round-the-world trips booked entirely on points to the smartest mixed redemption opportunties, we've got your back for smarter travel in 2025.

Meet Your Travel Buddies:

• Dhimant: Our Cathay Pacific guru who spots award availability faster than you say "free upgrade."
• Ameya: The double-dip maestro and the ultimate Air India card insider.
• Devansh: Strategy consultant by day, points-and-miles ninja by night, straight out of Bangalore.
• Aadil: Your host & dost who believes in one life - live it large and naturally gravitates towards Emirates & Singapore Airlines!

Episode Highlights You'll Love:

• ✈️ Burn vs. Earn: How to strategically decide
• 🏨 Proven mixed redemption tactics (that actually work)
• 💳 Best starter credit cards in India for 2025 (Hint: Premium isn’t always the way!)
• 🌍 Booking epic round-the-world trips using Indian credit cards
• 🎯 Real-life case study: How just 120K ANA miles secured 6 business class flights

Top Redemption Tips Discussed:

• ✅ Amex MR: Instant transfers to Cathay Pacific and Marriott sweet spots
• ✅ HDFC Infinia: Domestic flights via SmartBuy and Singapore Airlines transfers
• ✅ Axis Edge Rewards: Unlock Accor stays and JAL rewards
• ✅ Marriott Bonvoy: ANA round-the-world redemption tips

Pro-Tips to Bookmark:

• ❌ Avoid speculative transfers—Hear how just 15K points could cost you dearly in Vietnam.
• ✅ Start with a single program (Avios is beginner-friendly!)
• ✅ Experience beats theoretical value every time—Convenience over CPP!
• ✅ Mixed strategies = Ultimate travel flexibility

Best Beginner Credit Cards for 2025:

• 💳 HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card (Lifetime Free + SmartBuy perks)
• 💳 HDFC Marriott Bonvoy Credit Card (Instant free night)
• 💳 IndusInd Avios Credit Card (20K bonus to start)
• 💳 Axis Atlas Credit Card (Great if you snag approval!):

Insider Regional Recomendations:

• ✈️ Finnair Avios for weekend stays at Scandic hotels
• 🏨 British Airways Avios Hotels: Score 20% back
• 🏩 Turkish Airlines transit hotels: Free luxury layovers
• 🛎️ Exclusive heritage experiences money can't buy

Ready to dive in? Comment below and let us know:

• 💳 Which card are you applying for next?
• 🛫 What’s your dream destination?
• 🛩️ When do you plan to fly?

Subscribe and never miss a travel hack again! 🔔 Timestamps:

00:00 – The Big 2025 Dilemma: To Burn or To Earn?

02:18 – Meet the Experts & Their Favorite Redemptions

05:55 – Strategic Decision-Making: Burn vs. Earn Framework

12:12 – Planning Ahead: Optimal Booking Windows

17:21 – Best Uses for Popular Credit Card Programs

23:05 – Epic Redemption Story: 19 Unforgettable Days at the Pullman, Maldives

30:09 – Round-the-World Magic: Turning 120K Miles into 6 Flights

42:44 – Game-Changing Mixed Redemption Strategies

47:21 – Real Stories: Finland, Vietnam & Beyond

53:52 – Beginner-Friendly Cards You Must Get in 2025

Disclaimer: Credit card perks and partners can change often. Always double-check the latest terms before booking! Some of the credit card links on this page are affiliate links. If you click through and apply, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.

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