Ep #81 - Forever episode: Traveling the World Affordably by Optimizing Credit Card Points with Ricky Zhang

beyond MD with Dr. Yatin Chadha

Hey gang - this is a re-release of one of the most popular episodes ever.
Not out of laziness, but because several listeners have reached out to ask about which credit cards will allow them to elevate their travel game.
There's no better time than the start of the new year to talk travel :)
I interviewed my guest, Ricky Zhang (founder of Prince of Travel), in the summer of 2023. Most of what's discussed here is still very relevant today.
CRITICAL: In the conclusion I summarize key changes you will want to know before you sign up any cards.
Summary:
Ricky's background & the origin of Prince of Travel (5:05)
How does the points system work? (8:27)
Earning points rapidly through credit cards (12:34)
Credit score fundamentals (20:27)
Should we keep our credit cards for the long term? (24:00)
The credit card game isn't for everyone - who should avoid it? (28:14)
Other ways to rack up points at a faster pace (33:00)
The best credit card for Canadians: Amex Cobalt (34:07)
Credit cards for small business owners, why Amex points are so versatile (35:05)
Understanding the RBC Avion point system (38:24)
Redeeming points efficiently, dynamic pricing, ideal booking windows (41:07)
Example of redeeming points - Toronto to Portugal (46:46)
Prince of Travel Concierge services (51:27)
Aeroplan elite status (53:35)
How to get started (55:00)
Rapid fire, including a strong credit card portfolio (56:39)
How many credit cards does Ricky have? (60:18)
Closing thoughts (61:40)
CRITICAL - updates on rewards (62:49)
Credit card links (cards I use & benefit from):
Amex Business Platinum:
https://americanexpress.com/en-ca/referral/business-platinum?ref=yATINC7UzU&CPID=100560249
Amex Cobalt:
https://americanexpress.com/en-ca/referral/cobalt?ref=yATINCYEoc&CPID=100560249
Social media links & email:
Yatin:
[e-mail]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yatin-chadha/
Ricky:
https://princeoftravel.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@PrinceofTravel