The BoldlyGo Podcast: Revolutionizing Your Journey

Voyascape:Travel Podcasts
Voyascape:Travel Podcasts
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The BoldlyGo Podcast: Revolutionizing Your Journey is your inside pass to traveling better, farther, and more luxuriously using points, miles, and smart travel strategies. Hosted by financial advisor and world traveler DeAndre Coke alongside his wife and travel partner Taryn Gisbert, the show explores how everyday people are unlocking bucket-list experiences around the world—often for a fraction of the normal cost. Each episode features conversations with travelers, creators, families, and industry experts who share practical strategies, unforgettable stories, and the real-world systems they use to maximize travel rewards, airline miles, hotel points, elite status, and credit card perks. From flying international business class and staying in overwater villas in the Maldives to navigating family travel, destination deep dives, and hidden luxury experiences, The BoldlyGo Podcast blends inspiration with actionable advice for travelers at every level. You’ll hear stories from couples who booked five-star honeymoons almost entirely on points, families exploring the world without breaking the bank, and travelers who’ve learned how to turn everyday spending into extraordinary adventures. If you’re just getting started with points & miles or already optimizing complex award travel itineraries, this podcast helps you travel smarter, spend intentionally, and experience more of the world. Subscribe now and join a growing community of travelers learning how to travel well and live boldly.

  1. 15h ago

    Campervan Rental in New Zealand: What You Need to Know [YouTube Bonus]

    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 trade luxury hotels and resorts for a completely different kind of adventure: exploring New Zealand by campervan. As the final chapter of their month-long honeymoon, they take on their first motorhome road trip, discovering the freedom, challenges, and unexpected realities of traveling with their accommodations on wheels. The episode begins with their decision to rent a premium campervan from Wilderness Motorhomes. DeAndre explains why they chose a more comfortable vehicle with a fixed bed, private bathroom, kitchen, plenty of storage, and unlimited Wi-Fi. He also walks through the rental process, vehicle orientation, insurance considerations, and practical details that first time campervan travelers should understand before hitting the road. Once the journey begins, the learning curve becomes real. Driving on the left side of the road, navigating narrow mountain highways, managing roundabouts, and crossing one lane bridges all require extra attention. DeAndre also shares their experience taking the Interislander ferry between New Zealand's islands, along with the importance of booking ferry crossings and campsites well in advance. Beyond the driving, the episode explores what daily campervan life actually looks like, from preparing meals and organizing personal belongings to managing water tanks, electricity, waste disposal, and campground facilities. DeAndre highlights how the CamperMate app made finding campsites and essential services much easier, while their rental company's support helped simplify the experience. Ultimately, the biggest lesson wasn't about operating the campervan. It was about slowing down. Their ambitious itinerary left less time to enjoy certain destinations, but the experience gave them a new appreciation for road trips, flexibility, and traveling at their own pace. By the end, DeAndre explains why campervan travel offered a memorable alternative to traditional hotel stays and became a fitting conclusion to their New Zealand honeymoon. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro: Our New Zealand Campervan Adventure Begins (02:57) Why We Chose Wilderness Motorhomes (03:57) Campervan Rental Costs & What's Included (04:32) Pickup Process & Vehicle Orientation (06:05) Inside Our Campervan: Layout & Features (08:43) Driving on the Left Side of the Road (10:20) Navigating New Zealand's Roads, Parking & Safety (12:47) Driving Times & One-Lane Bridges (14:42) Booking the Interislander Ferry (16:06) Campsites, Freedom Camping & Overnight Stays (18:30) The Best App for Campervan Travel (20:15) Returning the Campervan: What to Expect (21:47) Our Biggest Road Trip Planning Regret (22:56) Final Thoughts: Is Campervan Travel Worth It? Key takeaways: Choose the right campervan: A comfortable layout, fixed bed, bathroom, and adequate storage make a major difference.Prepare for driving challenges: Left side driving, narrow roads, roundabouts, and one lane bridges require extra attention.Allow more travel time: Mountain roads and campervan driving can make journeys longer than navigation apps suggest.Book campsites and ferries early: Popular locations and Interislander crossings require advance planning.CamperMate is essential: The app helps locate campsites, dump stations, facilities, and traveler reviews.Understand daily maintenance: Water refills, waste disposal, electricity, and organizing the vehicle become part of the routine.Don't overpack the itinerary: More time in fewer destinations creates a more relaxed and rewarding road trip.Campervan travel is worth trying: The flexibility, scenery, and shared experience made it a memorable honeymoon adventure. Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads Get a travel insurance quote here Resources: Our Complete 2-Week New Zealand ItineraryCampervan Rental in New Zealand: What You Need to Know (YT vlog)Become a BoldlyGo Member on PatreonDeAndre’s Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook 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 AgainGet Creddy for 50% off the Annual & Lifetime PlansCard 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: BoldlyGoTravels Check out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

  2. 3d ago

    Quick Hits: Amex Platinum's Fine Hotel & Resorts Credit Could Get MUCH Worse & More!

    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 straight from the Admirals Club lounge in Honolulu, where DeAndre Coke is wrapping up an incredible Hawaii anniversary trip before heading to Points Travel Festival Chicago. Before diving into the latest points and miles news, he shares a special shoutout to BoldlyGo listeners Dan and Megan, whom he met at the Grand Hyatt Kauai. Then it's straight into several important credit card, hotel, and airline loyalty updates, starting with an opportunity to earn 15,000 American Airlines miles through the AAdvantage Business program and an extended promotion that could help Citi AAdvantage Business cardholders earn elite status faster. The biggest potential shakeup involves the American Express Platinum Card. Information reportedly discovered on an Amex test server suggests the card could add a $250 Airbnb Experiences credit while introducing a two-night minimum stay requirement for its hotel credit starting in 2027. DeAndre explains why this rumored change could make the benefit significantly harder to maximize, especially for travelers who currently stack credits across multiple cards for single-night hotel stays. Meanwhile, United Airlines is moving toward a spending-focused elite status system by eliminating flight segments as a qualification path, and Chase has clarified that elite night credits from certain IHG credit cards can stack, potentially giving cardholders 35 elite nights annually before checking into a hotel. Other updates include Marriott testing an upgrade waitlist inside its app, Cathay Pacific temporarily suspending Japan Airlines award bookings through Asia Miles, targeted 75,000 point Chase Sapphire Reserve upgrade offers, and reports that Lululemon gift card purchases may no longer trigger the Amex Platinum quarterly credit. DeAndre closes with a preview of the upcoming Chicago conference, the BoldlyGo Miami meetup, and more Hawaii travel content coming soon. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro: Recording From Honolulu and a BoldlyGo Community Shoutout (01:10) Earn 15,000 American Airlines Miles With AAdvantage Business (01:54) Citi AAdvantage Business Cardholders Can Double Up on Loyalty Points (03:03) Marriott Tests an In-App Hotel Upgrade Waitlist (03:17) Cathay Pacific Suspends Japan Airlines Award Bookings (03:27) Targeted 75K Chase Sapphire Reserve Upgrade Offers (04:17) Amex Platinum Rumors: Airbnb Credit and Two-Night Hotel Minimum (05:40) United Airlines Eliminates Flight Segments for Elite Status (06:39) IHG Credit Cards Can Stack Up to 35 Elite Nights Annually (07:24) Amex Lululemon Gift Card Changes and Final Travel Updates Key takeaways: 15,000 Free AAdvantage Business Miles: New members can register for the free AAdvantage Business program using promo code GET15K by October 31 to receive 15,000 bonus miles without additional activity, according to the offer discussed.Citi AAdvantage Business Loyalty Points: An extended targeted promotion through 2028 allows eligible primary cardholders to earn matching Loyalty Points from authorized user spending, while authorized users also earn Loyalty Points.Marriott Tests Upgrade Visibility: Marriott is testing an in-app upgrade list that allows Gold Elite members and above to see their position before arrival, with plans to expand to more properties in the United States and Canada.Cathay Pacific Suspends JAL Awards: Asia Miles redemptions on Japan Airlines have been temporarily suspended, although previously issued award tickets remain valid.75K Chase Sapphire Upgrade Offers: Some Sapphire Preferred cardholders are receiving targeted offers of 75,000 Ultimate Rewards points for upgrading to the Sapphire Reserve and spending $4,000 by December 15.Amex Platinum Changes Are Rumored: The Platinum Card could introduce a $250 Airbnb Experiences credit while requiring a minimum two-night stay for its hotel credit starting in 2027. These changes have not been confirmed.United Changes Elite Status Qualification: United is moving away from flight segment qualification and toward Premier Qualifying Points, making spending an even more important factor in earning elite status.IHG Credit Card Elite Nights Stack: Chase has reportedly clarified that qualifying elite night credits from the IHG Premier Select and IHG Business cards can stack, potentially providing 35 elite nights per year.IHG Milestone Rewards Become More Accessible: Those stacked elite nights can count toward milestone rewards, potentially helping cardholders unlock benefits such as suite upgrades and lounge membership.Lululemon Gift Card Warning: Reports suggest that in-store Lululemon gift card purchases may no longer trigger the Amex Platinum $75 quarterly credit, so cardholders should be cautious about relying on this method. Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads Get a travel insurance quote here Resources: Become a BoldlyGo Member on PatreonRakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook 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 AgainGet Creddy for 50% off the Annual & Lifetime PlansCard 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: BoldlyGoTravels Check out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising...

  3. 5d ago

    How We Used Chase and Aeroplan Points to Visit Malta and Zurich (Ep. 148)

    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 Malta may be small enough to explore by car in just a few hours, but there's a lot more to this Mediterranean destination than its size suggests. In Part 2 of their Turkey, Malta, and Switzerland trip recap, DeAndre and Taryn share everything they learned during four days in Malta, from navigating left-side driving and choosing the right hotel to discovering beautiful beaches, historic cities, incredible restaurants, and some unforgettable experiences on the water. They break down their stay at Hyatt Regency Malta, including how they booked a suite using 54,000 Hyatt points, and explain why the location, dining scene, and easy access to nightlife made it a great base for exploring the island. The adventure continues with a diving trip to Gozo, a private boat excursion to the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon, and visits to Mdina and Valletta. Along the way, DeAndre and Taryn share practical advice on renting a car, using Bolt, avoiding parking fines, planning a shorter private boat tour instead of a crowded group excursion, and making the most of Malta's food and cocktail scene. They also explain why four days felt like enough time for their visit, even though Malta has enough history, beaches, and activities to fill a much longer trip. From Malta, they turn their journey home into a three-night stopover in Zurich using Air Canada Aeroplan, adding the stop for just 5,000 points per person. They stay at the Park Hyatt Zurich with Chase points, take the train to explore Lucerne, enjoy Swiss fondue and Zurich's cocktail bars, and discover firsthand how expensive Switzerland can be. Finally, they share their experience flying SWISS business class back to New York, a redemption worth approximately $13,000 in cash that cost them 140,000 points plus $260. Between the incredible value of their flights, the challenges of navigating unfamiliar destinations, and the experiences they would repeat or skip, this episode is packed with practical advice for planning a memorable multi-country trip using points and miles. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro: Malta Travel Guide and Our 10,000 Point Switzerland Stopover (03:02) Arriving in Malta: First Impressions, Heat and Humidity (05:00) Driving in Malta: Left-Side Traffic, Parking and Using Bolt (11:45) Hyatt Regency Malta: Booking a Suite With Chase Points (16:40) Hyatt Regency vs. Hyatt Centric Malta: Location, Rooms and Benefits (24:15) Visiting Gozo: Ferry Logistics and Scuba Diving (28:10) Private Boat Tour to Malta's Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon (32:10) Exploring Historic Mdina and Valletta (36:15) Malta's Best Cocktail Bars, Restaurants and Nightlife (47:00) How Many Days Do You Actually Need in Malta? (49:00) Adding a Three-Night Zurich Stopover for Just 10K Aeroplan Points (52:00) Park Hyatt Zurich: Points Booking, Globalist Benefits and High Prices (58:00) Lucerne Day Trip, Swiss Fondue and Zurich's Cocktail Scene (68:10) SWISS Business Class: Our $13,000 Flight for 140K Points (74:00) Final Flight Changes and Our Complete Trip Takeaways Key Highlights: Four Days in Malta Worked Well: DeAndre and Taryn found four days sufficient to enjoy several of Malta's highlights, although the island offers enough history and activities for a week or more.Driving Requires Preparation: Malta drives on the left, and narrow roads, roundabouts, parking restrictions, and speed cameras can make renting a car more stressful than expected.Hyatt Regency Malta Offers Great Points Value: Their four-night suite stay would have cost approximately $2,000 but was booked for 54,000 Hyatt points transferred from Chase.Gozo Is Worth Considering for Diving: Their experience with Scuba Kings was positive, although they felt that travelers staying on Malta's main island could find excellent diving options without making the ferry journey.A Private Blue Lagoon Tour Can Be Worth It: Their private boat excursion covered the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon in approximately two hours, avoiding the crowds and longer itineraries of larger group tours.Don't Skip Mdina and Valletta: Mdina offers incredible historic architecture and a medieval atmosphere, while Valletta delivers beautiful streets, waterfront views, and a fantastic cocktail scene.Malta Has an Impressive Food Scene: From Japanese cuisine and mezcal bars to caviar, oysters, and fine dining, Malta exceeded their expectations for food and nightlife.Aeroplan Stopovers Add Incredible Value: They added a three-night Zurich stopover to their journey home for just 10,000 additional Aeroplan points total, making it possible to explore Switzerland without booking a completely separate award itinerary.Zurich Is Extremely Expensive: Dining, drinks, hotels, and everyday purchases were significantly more expensive than in Malta or Turkey, making points bookings and Hyatt Globalist benefits especially useful.Park Hyatt Zurich on Points: Their three-night stay cost 135,000 Hyatt points instead of about $3,268 in cash, though the hotel experience didn't fully meet their expectations.Lucerne Is an Excellent Day Trip: A scenic train journey from Zurich brought them to Lucerne, where they enjoyed beautiful architecture, waterfront scenery, and traditional Swiss fondue.SWISS Business Class Was a Valuable Redemption: Their return flight cost 140,000 points plus $260 for two passengers instead of approximately $13,000 in cash, delivering over nine cents per point in value.Flexibility Matters When Booking Awards: Their return positioning flight plans changed, showing why travelers should understand airline cancellation policies and compare rebooking costs against keeping an existing award. Resources: Blue Lagoon & Crystal Lagoon Boat tourBecome a BoldlyGo Member on PatreonDeAndre’s Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook 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 AgainGet Creddy for 50% off the Annual & Lifetime PlansCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler Premiuma href="https://www.luxtravelhacks.com/aff/boldlygo"...

  4. Oct 9

    Quick Hits: The Creddy App Gets Way Better, Bilt Gets Way Worse & More!

    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 straight from Maui, where DeAndre and Taryn are celebrating their first wedding anniversary at the Andaz Maui at Wailea. Between diving, enjoying their ocean view suite, and preparing for the next stops in Kauai and Oahu, DeAndre catches up on some major developments in the points and miles world. First up is an exciting update to Creddy, the credit card benefits tracking app that the BoldlyGo community helped beta test. Creddy now offers optional Plaid integration that can automatically connect credit cards and track eligible benefits, potentially eliminating much of the manual work involved in managing multiple cards. DeAndre also highlights several October transfer bonuses, including Rove bonuses to Japan Airlines, Flying Blue, and Qatar Airways Avios, along with new American Express transfer promotions. The biggest news is a major change to Bilt Rewards. Starting January 1, Bilt's transfer ratio to World of Hyatt will drop from 1:1 to 4:3, meaning a 60,000 point Hyatt redemption will require 80,000 Bilt points instead of 60,000. DeAndre explains why this is particularly frustrating alongside Hyatt's recent award pricing increases and why Chase may become an even more important source of Hyatt points. On the positive side, Hyatt has returned to Capital One Shopping and Capital One Offers, creating opportunities to earn additional rewards on eligible direct bookings. There is also great news for families using Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards, with a new program offering 20% of points back on eligible award tickets booked for children ages 12 and under. DeAndre wraps up with American Airlines introducing Cash & Miles bookings and two luxury Hilton properties in Mexico transitioning to all-inclusive resorts, potentially creating exciting opportunities for Hilton free night certificate holders. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro: Celebrating Our Anniversary at Andaz Maui (01:38) Hawaii Trip Plans and Points Travel Festival Chicago (02:12) Creddy Adds Automatic Credit Card Benefits Tracking With Plaid (04:14) October Transfer Bonuses From Rove and American Express (05:20) Bilt's Major World of Hyatt Transfer Devaluation (07:10) Hyatt Returns to Capital One Shopping and Offers (07:57) Alaska Atmos Rewards Introduces 20% Back on Kids' Award Flights (08:54) American Airlines Launches Cash & Miles Bookings (09:35) Waldorf Astoria and Conrad in Mexico Go All-Inclusive (10:20) Hawaii Updates and BoldlyGo's Chicago Conference Crew Key takeaways: Creddy Adds Automatic Tracking: Creddy now offers optional Plaid integration to connect credit card accounts and automatically track benefits and credits. BoldlyGo community members can still receive 50% off annual and lifetime plans.Rove Transfer Bonuses: Rove is offering 50% bonus transfers to Japan Airlines, 40% to Air France KLM Flying Blue, and 35% to Qatar Airways Avios through the end of October.Amex Transfer Bonuses: American Express has a 25% transfer bonus to Flying Blue through October 30 and a 20% bonus to Aeromexico through October 31.Bilt Devalues Hyatt Transfers: Starting January 1, Bilt Rewards transfers to World of Hyatt will change from 1:1 to 4:3, reducing the value of Bilt points for Hyatt redemptions.No Exception for Premium Bilt Cards: Unlike Chase's approach, Bilt's new Hyatt transfer ratio will apply even to premium Palladium cardholders.Hyatt Returns to Capital One Shopping: Hyatt bookings are once again available through Capital One Shopping and Capital One Offers, allowing eligible travelers to earn additional rewards while booking directly with Hyatt.Alaska Atmos Rewards Family Benefit: Members of the Families on the Go community can receive 20% of points back on eligible award tickets for children ages 12 and under, including qualifying partner airline redemptions.American Airlines Cash & Miles: American Airlines is introducing flexible Cash & Miles bookings, although DeAndre cautions that these redemptions may not provide the best value.Hilton Goes All-Inclusive in Mexico: Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya and Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya transitioned to all-inclusive resorts on October 1, creating potentially valuable opportunities for Hilton Honors members.BoldlyGo in Hawaii: DeAndre shares a preview of their anniversary stay at Andaz Maui before continuing to Grand Hyatt Kauai, Ritz-Carlton Waikiki, and Points Travel Festival Chicago. Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads Get a travel insurance quote here Resources: Become a BoldlyGo Member on PatreonRakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook 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 AgainGet Creddy for 50% off the Annual & Lifetime PlansCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount! Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels Check out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

  5. Oct 7

    How We Used Points & Amex Credits for an Epic Cappadocia Trip (Ep. 147)

    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 Cappadocia may be famous for its sunrise hot air balloons, but planning the perfect trip takes more strategy than simply booking a flight and showing up. In Part 1 of their Turkey, Malta, and Switzerland trip recap, DeAndre and Taryn break down their entire Cappadocia experience, including how stranded Turkish Airlines miles inspired the trip, how they used points and credit card benefits to save thousands of dollars, and the lessons they learned after weather nearly ruined one of their biggest bucket list experiences. The trip started with Turkish Airlines business class from JFK to Istanbul, followed by an overnight airport stay before continuing to Cappadocia. Once there, DeAndre and Taryn stayed at the incredible Argos in Cappadocia, a cave hotel where Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts credits helped significantly reduce their out-of-pocket cost. They share their thoughts on Turkish food and wine, the hotel's underground caves and spa, the best areas to stay, and the activities that made Cappadocia feel like much more than a destination built around balloons. The biggest lesson came from the hot air balloon experience itself. Their original flight was canceled because of weather, and conditions remained bad the following morning. Because they had intentionally left multiple mornings available, they eventually got the experience they traveled all that way for. They explain why travelers should plan at least three mornings in Cappadocia, why the earliest sunrise flight matters, what the balloon ride actually feels like, and why having backup activities can turn a canceled flight into another memorable day. From horseback riding through Cappadocia's valleys to Turkish Night, shopping, local food, and watching Balloon Fest, this episode is a practical guide to building a Cappadocia itinerary that does not depend on everything going perfectly. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro: The Biggest Mistake You Can Make Planning Cappadocia (03:05) How Turkey, Malta and Switzerland Became One Trip (06:32) The Full Route and Our $27,000 Trip Breakdown (07:40) Using Virgin Atlantic Points for Our Positioning Flight (10:30) Flying Turkish Airlines Business Class From JFK to Istanbul (15:11) Turkish Airlines Baggage Rules and What Caught Us Off Guard (17:07) Overnight at Istanbul Airport and the YOTEL Strategy (22:00) Arriving in Cappadocia and Staying at Argos Cave Hotel (26:18) Turkish Food, Wine and Why Cappadocia Surprised Us (32:18) How to Plan Your Cappadocia Itinerary (36:00) Our Hot Air Balloon Flight Gets Canceled (39:07) Why You Need at Least Three Mornings in Cappadocia (41:00) What Flying in a Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Is Actually Like (45:00) Why You Should Always Book the Sunrise Balloon Flight (50:00) Horseback Riding, Turkish Night, Shopping and More Cappadocia Experiences Key Highlights: Plan Multiple Mornings: DeAndre and Taryn recommend having at least three mornings in Cappadocia if riding in a hot air balloon is a major reason for the trip.Balloon Flights Can Be Canceled: Weather and wind can cancel flights with very little notice, and consecutive cancellation days are absolutely possible.Book the Sunrise Flight: They strongly recommend the earliest balloon departure instead of a later morning flight. The sunrise, colors, and hundreds of balloons in the sky are a huge part of the experience.Stranded Miles Created the Trip: Around 65,000 Turkish Airlines miles from a previous phantom award booking were approaching expiration, giving them the push to finally plan Turkey.$27K Trip for a Fraction of the Cost: The complete Turkey, Malta, and Switzerland itinerary had an estimated cash price of roughly $27,000. They used approximately 518,000 points plus $742 in cash, producing about 5.08 cents per point in value.Positioning With Virgin Atlantic: Their Norfolk to JFK positioning flight cost 12,000 Virgin Atlantic points plus $11 instead of roughly $607 in cash.Turkish Airlines Business Class Delivered: Despite the older 2-3-2 configuration, they enjoyed the food and service and would happily fly the product again.Watch Turkish Baggage Rules: Turkish Airlines was stricter about carry-on weight than they were accustomed to in the United States, resulting in DeAndre having to check his carry-on.Istanbul Airport Strategy Matters: For an overnight connection, they used the landside YOTEL inside Istanbul Airport rather than making the lengthy trip into the city.Amex Credits Saved Hundreds: At Argos in Cappadocia, they stacked Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits across multiple eligible Platinum cards to reduce the cost of their cave hotel stay.Cappadocia Is More Than Balloons: Horseback riding, underground caves, scenic valleys, Turkish Night, shopping, food, wine, and simply watching the balloons from the ground all added to the experience.Have a Backup Plan: When their balloon flight was canceled, they turned the morning into a photoshoot and continued exploring instead of allowing the cancellation to ruin the day.The Balloon Ride Lived Up to the Hype: Despite years of anticipation, the actual flight exceeded expectations and felt like much more than simply checking off a bucket list item. Resources: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon RideCappadocia Airport TransferCappadocia Photoshoot with Flying DressBecome a BoldlyGo Member on PatreonDeAndre’s Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook 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 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.worlda...

  6. Oct 5

    We Spent $900 on Milford Sound’s Fly–Cruise–Fly — Worth It? [YouTube Bonus]

    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 take on one of New Zealand's most iconic experiences: a fly, cruise, fly adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Instead of spending 12 to 13 hours traveling by road, they turn the excursion into an unforgettable five-hour journey across the Southern Alps and through one of the most dramatic landscapes of their entire honeymoon. The experience comes with a premium price tag of around $900 for two people, covering scenic flights in both directions and a two-and-a-half-hour Milford Sound cruise. DeAndre explains why they chose to spend more on the experience, how saving money on flights and luxury hotels with points and miles gave them more room in their travel budget, and why booking several months ahead is especially important during peak season. The adventure begins aboard a small Cessna with individual window seats for every passenger. The 45 minute flight becomes an attraction of its own, offering aerial views of glaciers, alpine lakes, waterfalls, mountain ranges, valleys, and even Lord of the Rings filming locations that would be impossible to experience the same way from the road. Once in Milford Sound, they board the cruise and share practical advice for getting the best views, including heading straight to the upper deck and packing for wind, mist, and rapidly changing conditions. DeAndre also explains why rain isn't necessarily bad news at Milford Sound, since it can create hundreds of temporary waterfalls cascading down the surrounding mountains. By the end, the verdict is clear: the fly, cruise, fly option wasn't simply a faster way to reach Milford Sound. The flights became two of the most memorable parts of the excursion, making the premium price worthwhile and giving them perspectives they could never have experienced by road or water alone. Timestamps: (00:00) Seeing Milford Sound From Above (01:07) Our Fly, Cruise, Fly Plan (01:45) Road Trip vs. Scenic Flight (02:45) Booking the Experience & What It Costs (04:26) Weather, Cancellations & Rescheduling (05:44) Check In & Pre Flight Briefing (06:21) Flying Over the Southern Alps (08:41) Arriving at Milford Sound (09:08) How to Get the Best Cruise Views (09:55) What to Pack for Milford Sound (11:15) Why Rain Can Make Milford Sound Better (12:13) Scenic Return Flight to Queenstown (13:27) Essential Milford Sound Planning Tips (14:24) Final Verdict: Was It Worth $900? Key takeaways: Flying saves major time: The experience takes about five hours compared with a 12 to 13 hour road trip.The flight is part of the adventure: Glaciers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and mountain views make the journey unforgettable.Book early: Scenic flights have limited availability and can fill months ahead during peak season.Weather matters: Flight operations depend heavily on conditions, so itinerary flexibility is important.Head straight to the upper deck: Getting there early provides some of the best unobstructed cruise views.Pack for changing conditions: Wind, rain, waterfall spray, and cooler temperatures can appear quickly.Rain can make Milford Sound better: Wet weather creates dramatic temporary waterfalls throughout the fjord.The $900 price was worth it: The combination of two scenic flights and the cruise delivered one of their favorite honeymoon experiences. Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads Get a travel insurance quote here Resources: We Spent $900 on Milford Sound’s Fly–Cruise–Fly — Worth It? (YT vlog)Best Way to See Milford Sound? Fly Into It (Blog Review)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 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 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: BoldlyGoTravels Check out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

  7. Oct 2

    Quick Hits: Southwest Companion Pass Season Is HERE, New Rumored Chase Partners & More!

    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 kicks off with the Southwest Companion Pass season officially underway, giving travelers a chance to start planning one of the most valuable companion benefits in domestic travel. DeAndre also covers a new Hyatt promotion offering 3,000 bonus points for every three qualifying nights, targeted Southwest members unexpectedly receiving 5,000 Rapid Rewards points, and a useful American Airlines app feature that can automatically move travelers into a preferred window or aisle seat when one becomes available. One of the biggest updates comes from Alaska Airlines and Atmos Rewards. Members can now choose how they want to earn rewards based on miles flown, ticket price, or flight segments for flights beginning January 1. Alaska also announced that eligible Bank of America cardholders will eventually be able to transfer points into Atmos Rewards, with a new debit card and upgrades to the Atmos Rewards Visa Business Card also on the way. Hilton is making news too, with a 10,000 point promotion and rumors of an even higher elite status tier called Black Diamond. The episode wraps with several opportunities for point travelers. Chase may be preparing to add Qantas and Cathay Pacific as 1:1 transfer partners, while some Sapphire Preferred cardholders are seeing targeted 75,000 point offers to upgrade to the Sapphire Reserve. Even bigger for families, Philippine Airlines is showing as many as eight business class award seats on some flights to Manila, while American Airlines has strong award availability to Peru with as many as seven seats on select dates. DeAndre also shares updates on the BoldlyGo community ahead of Points Travel Festival Chicago and previews his upcoming anniversary trip to Hawaii. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro: A Thank You to the BoldlyGo Community (01:05) Southwest Companion Pass Season Is Officially Here (02:13) Hyatt's New 3,000 Point Bonus Promotion (02:59) Southwest Is Giving Some Members 5,000 Free Points (03:39) American Airlines Can Now Automatically Find You a Better Seat (04:52) Major Alaska Airlines and Atmos Rewards Changes (06:09) Hilton Promotion and the Rumored Black Diamond Status Tier (07:45) Chase Could Add Qantas and Cathay Pacific as Transfer Partners (07:58) Targeted 75K Sapphire Reserve Upgrade Offers (08:34) Up to 8 Business Class Award Seats to Asia and 7 Seats to Peru Key takeaways: Southwest Companion Pass Season: Now is the time to start planning a Companion Pass strategy, which lets a designated companion fly for only the applicable taxes and fees.Hyatt Bonus Points: Hyatt is offering 3,000 bonus points for every three qualifying nights, with the opportunity to earn up to 36,000 bonus points.Free Southwest Points: Some Rapid Rewards members have unexpectedly received 5,000 bonus points with no registration, spending, or flight requirement.American's Automatic Seat Changes: AAdvantage members on eligible single passenger reservations can set seat preferences and have the app automatically move them when a qualifying preferred seat becomes available.Big Atmos Rewards Changes: Alaska members can choose to earn based on miles flown, ticket price, or flight segments for eligible flights beginning January 1.Bank of America to Atmos: Eligible Bank of America cardholders are expected to gain the ability to transfer points to Atmos Rewards starting in 2027.Hilton Black Diamond Rumor: Leaked information suggests Hilton could be testing an even more exclusive elite status tier above its existing levels, although Hilton has not officially confirmed it.New Chase Transfer Partners? Reports suggest Qantas and Cathay Pacific could potentially become 1:1 Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners.75K Sapphire Upgrade Offer: Some Sapphire Preferred cardholders are being targeted for 75,000 points to upgrade to the Sapphire Reserve after meeting the required spending.Huge Family Award Availability: Some Philippine Airlines flights are showing up to eight business class award seats to Manila, while select American Airlines flights to Peru are showing as many as seven award seats. Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads Get a travel insurance quote here Resources: Become a BoldlyGo Member on PatreonRakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationPodcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook 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 AgainCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount! Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.worldWebsite: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels Check out all of our other travel podcasts from aroundthe worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network . For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads.

  8. Sep 30

    Can Your Retirement Account Pay for Travel? Meet Silo Markets (Ep. 146)

    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 What if your investment portfolio could earn travel rewards without requiring you to spend another dollar on a credit card? In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast, DeAndre Coke sits down with Harry, co-founder of Silo Markets, a platform that rewards users with credit card style points simply for holding investments or cash. Silo currently offers 0.5 points per dollar of portfolio value annually, meaning a $100,000 portfolio could generate 50,000 points per year while the underlying investments remain invested. DeAndre approaches the conversation from two perspectives, as a points and miles enthusiast and as a financial advisor. Together, they dig into how Silo actually works, its membership tiers, supported investment and retirement accounts, how existing investments can be transferred without liquidating positions, and how Silo plans to fund its rewards program. Harry also explains the relationship with Interactive Brokers, where customer assets are actually held, and what would happen to those assets if Silo itself were to shut down. The conversation gets especially interesting when they explore retirement accounts. Traditional IRAs, rollover IRAs, and Roth IRAs can potentially earn Silo points, creating a way for long-term retirement savings to generate rewards that can be used today without withdrawing the underlying retirement assets. They also discuss Silo's current 1 cent per point cash redemption, travel portal, upcoming transfer partners, break-even points for each membership tier, and why most existing users are currently holding their points in anticipation of airline and hotel transfer partners. DeAndre and Harry also address some of the biggest questions surrounding a newer financial platform, including account protection, fees, investment control, and how Silo differs from platforms like Symphony. Harry ultimately describes Silo's ambition as building a modern version of Vanguard, but with loyalty rewards layered on top of long-term investing. It is a fascinating look at what could happen when two traditionally separate worlds, investing and points and miles, begin to overlap. Timestamps: (00:00) Can Your Retirement Account Earn Travel Points? (02:58) Meet Harry, Co-Founder of Silo Markets (04:27) What Is Silo Markets and How Does It Work? (06:30) How Your Investment Portfolio Earns Silo Points (09:03) Blue, Gold and Platinum Membership Plans Explained (10:29) Moving Investments to Silo and Supported IRA Accounts (12:01) How Points Are Calculated and Redeemed (13:00) Cash Redemptions, Travel Bookings and Upcoming Transfer Partners (14:00) What Can You Actually Invest in Through Silo? (18:28) When Does Paying for Silo Actually Make Financial Sense? (21:23) Where Your Money Is Held and What Happens If Silo Shuts Down (24:00) Silo's Biggest Limitation and the Push for Transfer Partners (26:25) Using Retirement Savings to Generate Travel Rewards Today (30:56) Silo vs. Symphony and Who Controls Your Investments Key Highlights: Earn Points From Investments: Silo currently offers 0.5 points per dollar of portfolio value annually, paid out monthly.$100K Could Earn 50K Points: A $100,000 qualifying portfolio could generate approximately 50,000 Silo points over a year.Three Membership Tiers: Silo offers Blue, Gold, and Platinum plans with points earning caps based on portfolio size, reaching up to $1 million on the Platinum plan.Up to 500K Points Per Year: A qualifying $1 million portfolio on the Platinum plan could generate up to 500,000 points annually at the current earning rate.Retirement Accounts Qualify: Silo supports traditional IRAs, rollover IRAs, and Roth IRAs, along with individual brokerage accounts. Joint and trust accounts can also be supported by contacting Silo.Transfer Existing Investments: ACATS transfers allow eligible stocks and ETFs to move from another brokerage without requiring investors to sell those positions first.Cash and Travel Redemptions: Points can currently be redeemed for cash at 1 cent each or used through Silo's travel portal covering hundreds of airlines and hotel options.Transfer Partners Are Coming: Harry says direct transfer partners are Silo's biggest current priority, with the company targeting several partners before eventually expanding the roster further.Know Your Break-Even Point: According to Harry, the approximate portfolio levels needed to break even on membership fees through points are $20,000 for Blue, $50,000 for Gold, and $200,000 for Platinum at the current redemption value.Most Users Are Saving Their Points: Harry says 82% of points issued have not yet been redeemed and 80% of customers have never redeemed a point, with many waiting for transfer partners.Retirement Savings Can Generate Rewards Today: One of Silo's most interesting concepts is allowing eligible retirement assets to generate points that can be used separately without withdrawing the underlying retirement funds.Silo Is Self Directed: Investors remain responsible for choosing and managing their own investments rather than having Silo actively manage the portfolio. Resources: Become a BoldlyGo Member on PatreonDeAndre’s Rakuten $50 Bonus InviteJoin Symphony todayBoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 RegistrationCheck out our Podcast LibraryBecome a BoldlyGo Blog contributorStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook 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 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:...

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About

The BoldlyGo Podcast: Revolutionizing Your Journey is your inside pass to traveling better, farther, and more luxuriously using points, miles, and smart travel strategies. Hosted by financial advisor and world traveler DeAndre Coke alongside his wife and travel partner Taryn Gisbert, the show explores how everyday people are unlocking bucket-list experiences around the world—often for a fraction of the normal cost. Each episode features conversations with travelers, creators, families, and industry experts who share practical strategies, unforgettable stories, and the real-world systems they use to maximize travel rewards, airline miles, hotel points, elite status, and credit card perks. From flying international business class and staying in overwater villas in the Maldives to navigating family travel, destination deep dives, and hidden luxury experiences, The BoldlyGo Podcast blends inspiration with actionable advice for travelers at every level. You’ll hear stories from couples who booked five-star honeymoons almost entirely on points, families exploring the world without breaking the bank, and travelers who’ve learned how to turn everyday spending into extraordinary adventures. If you’re just getting started with points & miles or already optimizing complex award travel itineraries, this podcast helps you travel smarter, spend intentionally, and experience more of the world. Subscribe now and join a growing community of travelers learning how to travel well and live boldly.

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