The BoldlyGo Podcast: Revolutionizing Your Journey

Quick Hits: Delta’s Best Skymiles Deals in a Decade, RIP to Paze + Newegg & More!

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 & 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: BoldlyGoTravelsMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsered content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network

How to Turn Credit Card Points into Business Class Flights with Owen Beiny (Ep. 131)

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 & 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 Owen Beiny: Website: thepointspartner.comInstagram: thepointspartnerMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsered content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network

Fiji Airways Business Class: Amazing Service, Terrible Plane? [YouTube Bonus]

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 & Flight Delay Chaos(02:35) Seat & Hard Product Review(05:33) In Flight Service & 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 & 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: BoldlyGoTravelsMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsered content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network

Quick Hits: Chase & Hyatt Just Love To Hurt Us, Increased Sign Up Bonuses Are Coming & More!

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 & 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: BoldlyGoTravelsMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsered content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network

How Marriott Points Created a Dream Africa Safari with Brian Barlow (Ep. 130)

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 & 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 Brian Barlow: Website: whatsthepointtravel.comInstagram: whatsthepointtravelMentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com. If you are interested in advertising or sponsered content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.Voyascape Podcast Network