Lane’s story proves that you don’t need years of travel experience to succeed with points and miles — just curiosity, community, and a willingness to learn. In this episode, Lane shares how he went from barely understanding credit card rewards to confidently building a thoughtful points strategy that aligns with his life, finances, and travel goals.

As a nonprofit CEO with limited international travel history, Lane explains what initially held him back and how a late-night podcast binge flipped the switch. Within weeks, he was learning the basics of transfer partners, portals, and redemptions, applying for his first cards, and discovering how powerful community support can be when navigating a complex hobby.

The conversation breaks down the steep early learning curve many beginners face, including information overload, jargon confusion, and fear of making mistakes. Lane walks through his first card decisions, how he approached conversations with his wife about business cards, and why focusing on a small, intentional strategy helped him avoid overwhelm.

You’ll also hear how Lane is thinking about future travel plans — from the Maldives and Italy to Caribbean all-inclusive resorts — and how points can unlock premium experiences that once felt out of reach. Along the way, he shares practical lessons on credit management, approval strategies, and the mindset shifts that helped him move forward with confidence.

This episode is a reminder that points and miles don’t require perfection or expert status. With patience, focus, and the right community, even complete beginners can build sustainable strategies that lead to meaningful travel.

Key Highlights:

1. Starting small works: Focusing on a few core cards made the learning curve manageable.
2. Community accelerates learning: Asking questions and learning from others reduces costly mistakes.
3. Jargon gets easier over time: Transfer partners, portals, and redemptions click with repetition.
4. Confidence grows quickly: Momentum builds once the first successful booking happens.
5. Spouse buy-in matters: Open conversations helped align travel and card strategies at home.
6. Credit strategy is foundational: Freezing credit and planning applications improves approval odds.
7. Travel goals shape strategy: Destination dreams helped guide which points ecosystems mattered most.
8. Analysis paralysis is real: Progress comes faster with action over endless research.
9. Points evolve constantly: Devaluations and changes make flexibility essential.
10. Giving back multiplies impact: Sharing knowledge helps strengthen the entire community.

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
3. Sign up for our newsletter!
4. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

Connect with Lane - The Points Rookie:

1. Instagram: pointsrookie
2. Website: thepointsrookie.com
3. YouTube: ThePointsRookie

Mentioned in this episode:

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Everyone dreams of the Maldives, but very few travelers understand the real costs that show up after they book. In this YouTube bonus episode, DeAndre breaks down the five biggest hidden expenses that can quietly turn a “bucket list” trip into a budget shock—and shares firsthand lessons from multiple extended stays across resorts, islands, and liveaboards.

You’ll learn why landing in Malé is only the beginning, how mandatory resort transfers like seaplanes and speedboats can add hundreds or thousands to your total, and why food and drinks on private islands are often far more expensive than travelers expect. DeAndre also explains that even award stays booked with points still incur unavoidable taxes, service charges, and upgrade costs that can dramatically change your final bill.

Beyond lodging and meals, the episode dives into activity pricing, spa services, and excursions such as diving, sunset cruises, and whale shark tours—highlighting how quickly daily expenses can add up. A bonus section covers one of the most overlooked costs: time. From late arrivals that force overnight airport stays to uncomfortable departure-day waits in Malé, DeAndre shares smart strategies to protect both your schedule and your sanity.

This episode is essential viewing for anyone planning a trip to the Maldives who wants to enjoy luxury without checkout-day surprises. With the right planning, the Maldives can still deliver incredible value—it just rewards travelers who do their homework.

Key Highlights:

1. Resort transfers add up fast: Seaplanes and boats are rarely included and can cost $400–$800 per person.
2. Food pricing is a shock: Every item is imported, making meals and drinks far more expensive than expected.
3. Meal plans matter: Full board and all-inclusive plans vary widely and often exclude drinks or specialty dining.
4. Points don’t cover everything: Award stays still require cash for transfers, taxes, fees, and upgrades.
5. Taxes stack quickly: Service charges, GST, and green taxes can add roughly 25% to your total spend.
6. Excursions aren’t cheap: Diving, cruises, and spa treatments can quietly double daily costs.
7. Status helps—but isn’t magic: Elite benefits like free breakfast can save real money, but don’t erase fees.
8. Local islands cost less: Guesthouses and local operators can significantly reduce activity and food expenses.
9. Time has a price: Late transfers and airport waits can impact comfort if not planned for in advance.
10. Preparation changes everything: Knowing the real numbers upfront prevents surprise bills at checkout.

Resources:

1. DON'T Book The Maldives Until You Know These 5 Hidden Costs (YT video)
2. The Hidden Costs of a Maldives Trip (And How To Plan For Them)
3. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
4. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
5. Sign up for our newsletter!
6. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre returns with a packed update after wrapping up a 33-day honeymoon and dives straight into the most relevant developments in points, miles, and travel. He opens by spotlighting the strength of the Boldly Go community, sharing how members helped unlock one of the most valuable short-term earning opportunities tied to the new Bilt Palladium card, specifically the limited-time 5x points offer in the first five days.

From there, the episode breaks down key Bilt updates that matter right now, including waived transaction requirements for February rent payments, the upcoming Rent Day transfer bonus to Accor, and the final opportunity for existing Bilt Mastercard holders to earn double points on Rent Day. DeAndre explains what’s worth paying attention to—and what isn’t—without getting lost in speculation.

The episode also covers several timely opportunities and changes across major programs: a new World of Hyatt extended-stay promotion at Hyatt House and Hyatt Studios, a historically strong IHG Premier Card welcome offer, and a wave of negative changes affecting Emirates First Class bookings through Qantas. Practical alternatives are discussed for travelers still hoping to experience Emirates First.

Additional updates include a reminder of how underrated Mobile Passport Control can be for families and infrequent international travelers, plus a major win from Europe: London Heathrow officially removes carry-on liquid restrictions. DeAndre wraps by highlighting upcoming points-focused conferences, reinforcing the podcast’s commitment to transparency, and reiterating that Boldly Go exists to serve the community, not an agenda.

Key takeaways:

1. Bilt 5x boost: Many listeners successfully added the 5x points promo (up to 50k points) thanks to community-shared tactics.
2. February rent rules: The five-transaction requirement is waived for Bilt rent earnings during the transition month.
3. Rent Day transfer bonus: February’s Rent Day offers a strong Accor bonus, delivering a solid floor value for Bilt points.
4. Last double-points Rent Day: Existing Bilt Mastercard holders get one final shot at double points on Rent Day.
5. Hyatt extended-stay promo: Five-night stays at Hyatt House or Studios can net 5k bonus points, even on award bookings.
6. IHG card standout: The 175k-point IHG Premier offer remains one of the best long-term keeper cards at a low annual fee.
7. Emirates devaluation: Qantas bookings for Emirates First Class are getting more expensive and more restricted.
8. Alternative Emirates paths: Aeroplan, JAL, or day-of-departure upgrades remain viable—but shrinking—options.
9. Mobile Passport Control: A free, family-friendly way to speed up U.S. customs without Global Entry.
10. Heathrow upgrade: London Heathrow scrapping liquid limits is a major quality-of-life improvement for travelers.

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Resources:

1. Get your ticket for Pediatric CEO Conference 2026 (use coupon code COKE10)
2. Points Travel Festival Toronto 2026
3. IHG One Rewards Credit Card
4. Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
5. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
6. Sign up for our newsletter!
7. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre and Taryn break down their stay at Secrets Tulum, a resort that quietly rewrites what an adults-only all-inclusive experience can look like in Tulum. Far from the beachfront mega-resort mold, Secrets Tulum leans into jungle immersion, cenote-inspired architecture, rooftop pools, and a layout that feels more like a hidden compound than a traditional resort.

They unpack what makes this property genuinely different: a maze-like design that prioritizes privacy, elevated Preferred Club suites that unlock quieter spaces and premium service, and an atmosphere that unexpectedly shifts from serene to energetic with foam parties and lively rooftop scenes. DeAndre and Taryn share practical tips for navigating the property, choosing the right room category, and deciding if the Preferred Club upgrade is worth it.

Beyond the resort, the conversation expands into Tulum itself, highlighting standout dining experiences, vibrant nightlife, like full-moon parties, and why staying slightly removed from the beach can actually enhance the overall experience. The episode balances luxury review with real-world insight, helping listeners decide if Secrets Tulum fits their travel style and how to avoid missing the details that truly elevate the stay.

Key Highlights:

1. Secrets Tulum’s concept: This property delivers a boutique, jungle-forward experience that feels nothing like a typical Secrets resort.
2. Design & layout: Cenote-inspired architecture and rooftop pools create privacy, but first-time guests should expect a learning curve.
3. Preferred Club value: Upgraded access unlocks quieter pools, private bars, and noticeably more personalized service.
4. Room selection matters: Suite location impacts noise levels, convenience, and overall enjoyment of the resort.
5. Atmosphere shift: The resort blends calm daytime energy with unexpectedly lively events like foam parties.
6. Dining on property: Food is solid and convenient, though the true standouts are found off-resort in Tulum.
7. Local food scene: Restaurants like Arca and Mestiza deliver memorable meals worth leaving the resort for.
8. Beach club access: The affiliated beach club adds a social, high-energy contrast to the jungle setting.
9. Staff impact: Exceptional team members elevate the experience through proactive, personal service.
10. Overall experience: Secrets Tulum succeeds by combining privacy, culture, and fun without feeling cookie-cutter.

Resources:

1. Secrets Tulum Bottom Line Review (blog post)
2. Secrets Tulum All Inclusive Review: Worth It? (YT vlog)
3. Airbnb in Tulum we always stay at
4. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
5. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
6. Sign up for our newsletter!
7. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

In this Quick Hits episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre returns after a 33-day honeymoon across Hong Kong, Fiji, and New Zealand to break down one of the most chaotic news cycles in recent points and miles history. The episode focuses on real-world implications of Bilt’s rapidly evolving 2.x updates, including the new Palladium card, surprise promos tied to The Points Guy, expanded Bilt Cash use cases, and newly added earning exclusions that caught many by surprise.

DeAndre shares his personal decision-making process around applying for the Palladium card, navigating the limited-time 5x promo, and evaluating whether Bilt can realistically replace other “catch-all” cards. He also covers important reminders about Capital One Venture X lounge access changes, a new free tool to maximize Chase’s Edit hotel credits, and why tax payments and resale marketplaces are now off the table for Bilt rewards.

The episode closes with a deeper look at buying hotel points during 100% bonus sales, how the community is using tools like Zil Money and Hilton transfer bonuses, and why staying plugged into an active points-and-miles community can be the difference between missing out and maximizing value.

Key takeaways:

1. Bilt 2.x changes: Rapid updates make it essential to focus on real usage decisions instead of chasing every announcement.
2. Palladium card strategy: Applying early may unlock valuable promos, including limited 5x earning windows.
3. TPG promo workaround: Some listeners successfully had the 5x Palladium offer added via Bilt chat support.
4. Major exclusions added: Tax payments and online resale marketplaces no longer earn Bilt rewards.
5. Venture X lounge changes: Authorized users lose free access starting February 1 unless they add paid access.
6. Edit Maxer tool: A new free resource simplifies finding Chase Edit hotel credit opportunities.
7. Buying points still works: 100% bonuses on Hilton and IHG points can unlock outsized value when used correctly.
8. Transferable points win: Flexibility often beats fixed hotel multipliers when bonuses are in play.

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Resources:

1. Buying Hotel Points & Airline Miles: When, Why, and How It Makes Sense for Smarter Travel
2. Buying IHG Points: Unlock Luxury Stays at a Fraction of the Cost
3. Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
4. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
5. Sign up for our newsletter!
6. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this special guest appearance, DeAndre Coke joins Ross Alcorn on the World Travel Made Easy podcast to break down the real-world systems behind luxury travel using points and miles. Recorded during DeAndre and Taryn’s month-long honeymoon, the conversation pulls back the curtain on how they manage credit cards across multiple businesses, align spending with travel goals, and consistently unlock outsized value from points.

DeAndre shares how his background as a financial advisor shaped a more analytical approach to travel rewards, emphasizing strategy over hype. The discussion dives deep into paying transaction fees intentionally, opening business cards on a structured cadence, and understanding redemption math instead of avoiding fees by default. Ross and DeAndre also explore airline status strategy, shopping portals, and how transferable points ecosystems work together.

The episode wraps with a detailed breakdown of one of DeAndre and Taryn’s most aspirational trips to the Maldives, including Emirates First Class and Qatar Qsuites, showing how advanced redemptions are built over time through patience, flexibility, and strong fundamentals. This conversation highlights what’s possible when points and miles are treated as part of a broader financial and lifestyle system.

Key Highlights:

1. Points require strategy: Long-term systems matter more than chasing one-off redemptions.
2. Transaction fees can make sense: Paying a 3% fee is often worth it when redemption value exceeds the cost.
3. Business cards are powerful: Staggered business card openings help unlock large welcome offers without heavy credit impact.
4. Redemption value matters: Transferring points to airline and hotel partners consistently beats cash-back redemptions.
5. Player two multiplies value: Coordinated card strategies with a partner dramatically increase earning power.
6. Status can stack: Airline status, hotel status, and alliances can work together when planned intentionally.
7. Flexibility unlocks luxury: Positioning flights and longer itineraries create access to better award space.
8. Not one-size-fits-all: The best strategy depends on family size, time flexibility, and travel goals.
9. Credibility builds confidence: Responsible card use and transparency help remove fear around points.
10. Start small, then scale: Advanced redemptions come after mastering the basics.

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
3. Sign up for our newsletter!
4. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

Connect with Ross Alcorn:

1. Instagram: itineraryboss
2. LinkedIn: Ross Alcorn
3. YouTube: Itinerary Boss
4. Website: itineraryboss.com
5. Podcast: World Travel Made Easy

In this YouTube bonus episode, DeAndre shares a full, real-world review of the Hyatt Regency JFK, breaking down whether it’s actually worth using points or paying cash. After spending two nights at the property, he walks through what makes this airport hotel stand out—large rooms, quiet sleep, solid service, and direct access to Resorts World Casino—along with the trade-offs travelers should know before booking.

The episode covers transportation logistics from JFK, the true value of Regency Club lounge access, and how elite status plays into the experience. DeAndre also recounts an unusual check-in mistake that tested the hotel’s service recovery, ultimately highlighting how quickly the staff handled the situation. The review wraps with a clear verdict on when points deliver strong value, when cash can make sense, and which travelers will benefit most from choosing this hotel over closer airport options.

Key Highlights:

1. Airport hotel value: Hyatt Regency JFK delivers more space, comfort, and quiet than most airport hotels, making it a solid option after long flights.
2. Points sweet spot: Award nights around 15,000 World of Hyatt points can significantly outperform cash rates on busy dates.
3. Lounge access matters: Regency Club access can cover breakfast and light meals, reducing overall out-of-pocket costs.
4. Transportation trade-off: There’s no direct airport shuttle, so rideshare or taxi is the most practical way to get there.
5. Service recovery test: A rare check-in mistake showed strong, fast service recovery from the hotel team.
6. Casino proximity: Direct access to Resorts World adds dining and entertainment value without impacting room quiet.
7. Cash vs points math: Cash rates often feel high at airport hotels, making points or free-night certificates more attractive.
8. Not for ultra-short layovers: Travelers landing late and leaving early may be overpaying for amenities they won’t use.
9. Family-friendly space: Larger rooms and suites are ideal for families or travelers who need extra space.

Resources:

1. Hyatt Regency JFK Review: Is This the Best Hotel Near JFK Airport? (blog post)
2. Hyatt Regency JFK: Is It Worth Your Points or Cash? Full Review (YT video)
3. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
4. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
5. Sign up for our newsletter!
6. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke checks in mid-flight on the journey home from a 33-day honeymoon spanning Hong Kong, Fiji, and New Zealand. Recorded aboard an American Airlines Dreamliner en route from Auckland to Dallas, DeAndre shares reflections from the trip, including standout flights, destinations, and booking strategies used along the way.

He highlights flying long-haul business class booked via Qantas using transferred American Express points, offers first impressions of the American Airlines 787 Dreamliner experience, and previews deeper trip breakdowns coming soon. The episode also touches on the official launch of the new Bilt credit cards, noting active discussion and real-time data already surfacing within the community.

As regular programming resumes, DeAndre emphasizes the value of the WhatsApp community, now expanded with a new award-gifting channel designed to help members support one another ethically and in accordance with program rules. The episode closes with gratitude for the community’s support during the honeymoon stretch and excitement for what’s ahead in the new year.

Key takeaways:

1. Honeymoon wrap-up: The 33-day journey across Hong Kong, Fiji, and New Zealand is coming to a close.
2. Smart redemption: Long-haul business class was booked through Qantas using transferred American Express points.
3. Flight experience: American Airlines’ 787 Dreamliner business class delivered a strong premium product overall.
4. Milford Sound moment: Flying into Milford Sound via small aircraft was one of the most memorable highlights of the trip.
5. Bilt cards go live: New Bilt cards are officially launching, with early data and strategies already circulating.
6. Community-first insights: The WhatsApp group remains the fastest source of real-time updates and discussion.
7. Award gifting channel: A new, rules-compliant space was created for members to give or request awards responsibly.
8. 
   

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
3. Sign up for our newsletter!
4. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this special guest appearance, DeAndre Coke joins the Your Peak Life Podcast for an in-depth conversation on how an intentional credit card strategy can unlock life-changing travel experiences. Recorded in person with the full panel, the discussion blends real-world financial discipline with advanced points-and-miles tactics that turn everyday spending into luxury travel.

DeAndre breaks down how transferable points outperform booking through card portals, why annual fees are often misunderstood, and how responsible credit card usage can dramatically expand travel possibilities without carrying debt. The conversation goes beyond travel mechanics, touching on business expenses, tax efficiency, protection benefits, and why mindset and intentionality matter just as much as strategy.

The episode also explores DeAndre’s personal journey: from early career struggles to building a lifestyle centered on travel, alongside unforgettable redemptions, such as business-class long-haul flights, Park Hyatt stays, and a proposal planned in the Maldives. From favorite destinations to long-term lifestyle design, this conversation reinforces the core idea behind Revolutionizing Your Journey: travel isn’t about spending more, it’s about thinking differently.

Key Highlights:

1. Transferable points unlock outsized value: Booking directly with airline and hotel partners beats using credit card travel portals.
2. Annual fees aren’t the enemy: Fees make sense when perks and redemptions exceed the cost.
3. Debt-free discipline matters: Points only work when balances are paid in full every month.
4. Business expenses are powerful: Strategic card use can turn routine business spending into premium travel.
5. Tax efficiency counts: Earning points instead of cash back preserves deductions in many business cases.
6. Intentionality is the edge: Planning spend around known expenses accelerates rewards.
7. Player two multiplies value: Partners, spouses, or business collaborators expand earning potential.
8. Portals are the trap: Transfer partners consistently deliver better redemption math.

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
3. Sign up for our newsletter!
4. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre shares a honeymoon-focused update as he and Taryn move into week three of their month-long journey through Hong Kong, Fiji, and New Zealand. With regular points-and-miles news temporarily on pause, this episode centers on real-time travel experiences, lessons learned on the road, and what listeners can expect in upcoming deep-dive episodes.

DeAndre briefly touches on early rumors around new Bilt card tiers, noting that details are still unconfirmed and will be covered more thoroughly once officially released. He also highlights ongoing discussions inside the community WhatsApp group, where members are already breaking down potential implications.

The bulk of the episode focuses on New Zealand, including a challenging baggage situation during a small regional flight out of Fiji, followed by an excellent reset stay at the Park Hyatt Auckland. From there, DeAndre shares first impressions of Queenstown, recording this episode from The Spire boutique hotel, and describes unforgettable experiences, such as flying directly into Milford Sound and exploring iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations near Glenorchy.

The episode wraps with a look ahead to the final leg of the honeymoon: a luxury RV road trip from Christchurch back to Auckland, a visit to Hobbiton, and a long-haul business class return flight booked with Qantas points. More detailed breakdowns of bookings, point strategies, and trip missteps will be available soon once regular programming resumes.

Key takeaways:

1. Bilt card rumors: New Bilt card tiers are circulating, but details remain unconfirmed and will be covered once officially announced.
2. Community insights: The WhatsApp community continues to surface early discussion and analysis on emerging travel and credit card news.
3. Real travel challenges: A short regional flight in Fiji caused baggage delays, underscoring the unpredictability of long international trips.
4. Service makes a difference: The Park Hyatt Auckland delivered excellent service and acted as a key reset stop after a stressful travel day.
5. Queenstown standout: Queenstown quickly proved why it’s considered one of New Zealand’s most vibrant and scenic destinations.
6. Milford Sound highlight: A scenic flight into Milford Sound revealed one of the most visually striking places on the trip so far.
7. Flexibility matters: Month-long travel requires built-in buffer time to handle delays and unexpected changes.
8. More to come: A dedicated multi-part honeymoon series will break down bookings, redemptions, and lessons learned.
9. Points payoff: The return journey includes a long-haul business-class flight booked with transferred Qantas points.

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
3. Sign up for our newsletter!
4. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

1. Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
2. Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
3. Travel Freely
4. Point.me
5. FlightConnections.com
6. Thrifty Traveler Premium
7. LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
8. Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

1. Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
2. TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
3. Website: BoldlyGo.world
4. YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
5. YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels