Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast

This 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 Podcast

In 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 Optional

Key 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 Invite
• Join the Mile Protection Waitlist
• Join Symphony today
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Check out our Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo Blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Thoughts

Key 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 Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

Resources:

• Rakuten $50 Bonus Invite
• Join the Mile Protection Waitlist
• Join Symphony today
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

In 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 Thoughts

Key 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 Invite
• DeAndre’s Rakuten $50 Bonus Invite
• Join the Mile Protection Waitlist
• Join Symphony today
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Check out our Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo Blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

Connect with Erin Lynch:

• Instagram: intheairwitherin

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

In 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 Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

Resources:

• 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 Registration
• Check out our Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo Blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Thoughts

Key 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 Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

Resources:

• Win 1 Million Atmos™ Rewards Points
• Join Symphony today
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

In 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 World

Key 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 Waitlist
• Join Symphony today
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Check out our Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo Blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

Connect with Stefan Krasowski:

• Instagram: rapidtravelchai
• Website: rapidtravelchai.boardingarea.com

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Next

Key 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 Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

Resources:

• Join Symphony today
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

In 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 Tips

Key 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 Waitlist
• Join Symphony today
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Check out our Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo Blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

Connect with Moli:

• Instagram: anmolezz
• Maple Miles at TravelUpdate.com

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

In 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 & Arrival

(01:17) Our Four-Day Queenstown Plan

(02:17) Exploring Lake Wakatipu & 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 & 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 Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

Resources:

• Is Queenstown, New Zealand Worth the Hype? Our Ultimate 4-Day Guide (YT Vlog)
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Check out our Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo Blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Podcast

This 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 Hurt

Key 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 Nomads

• Get a travel insurance quote here

Resources:

• Join Symphony today
• BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
• Podcast Library
• Become a BoldlyGo blog contributor
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

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

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
• Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
• Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
• Travel Freely
• Point.me
• FlightConnections.com
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
• LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
• Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!

Connect with DeAndre Coke:

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

This 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.