This weekend (2 nights) I had the pleasure of visiting the Historic District of Charleston, South Carolina. I visited to participate in the wedding of one of my best friends I graduated with from Morehouse College ‘07. As always, my goal while traveling was to enjoy a luxury vacation, without spending the money typically needed to do so. Here is how I did it!
I have racked up so many airline points through my Chase Southwest Credit Card that essentially anywhere I travel, is free. The round trip flight from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC cost me 17,212 Southwest rewards points and $11.20. Also, I have a companion pass for Southwest. One of my guys flew with me (round trip) for $11.20. That’s 2 people round trip for $22.40! Don’t forget on Southwest 2 bags fly free!
Once we arrived in Charleston, we were greeted by a snowy winter not seen since 1989. The snow on all the roof tops of the historic buildings made for great selfies and snapchat stories. The groom picked us up from the airport, so no money spent there! Although, I did treat him to Zaxby’s. Spent about $15 for the both of us.
I arrived at the Embassy Suites right in the heart of the Historic District. I must say I always enjoy staying at the Embassy Suites. This Hotel had a Happy Hour open bar with food from 5:30pm-7pm every night as well as a breakfast buffet 7am-10am every morning. Needless to say, we took advantage of both. We stayed in the best suite in the hotel. The 2-bedroom meeting suite on the top floor. We had more than enough room. The suite would have been perfect for some type of “pre game” because it held up to 15 guests for a meeting. Only 5 can stay overnight. The room rate was $599 a night for this suite. However, I booked super early so we got a deal for $299 a night. We split that cost in half. My guy paid his half in cash and I used my Hilton Honors rewards points that I received from my AMEX Hilton Honors card.The hotel cost me roughly 48,345 points total for the two nights. $0!
I didn’t need a rental car in Charleston, SC because I knew I wouldn’t be able to do a lot of exploring with the wedding going on. However, I did spend about $20 on Ubers while there. Although I do receive $15 a month in uber credits from AMEX. Roughly $6 a trip.
I had some other expenses here and there which I will list below, some I will not list (Bachelor Party). But other than that, this was an affordable trip for me! Definitely Ball’d on a budget.
TheBlackPointsGuy Expenses:
Flights for 2- $22.40
Hotel- $0
Food and Drink- $100
Transportation-$20
TheTypicalGuy Expenses:
Flights for 2- $750-$1000 depending on dates
Hotel- $599 a night, roughly $1200
Food and Drink- You decide
Transportation- You decide