This Labor Day weekend (3 nights) I had the pleasure of experiencing my first trip outside of the US. I went to Montego Bay, Jamaica! This was my first international trip and stamp on my passport needless to say I was extremely excited. 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!
One of my greatest credit accomplishments, The Southwest Airlines Companion Pass. I have racked up so many airline points through my Chase Southwest Credit Card that essentially anywhere I travel, is (almost)free. The round trip flight from Chicago, IL to Montego Bay, Jamaica cost me 33,896,212 Southwest rewards points and $135.11. Also, I have a companion pass for Southwest. My special guest flew with me (round trip) for only the $135.11 which covers airport fees and taxes. That’s 2 people round trip for $270! Don’t forget on Southwest 2 bags fly free!
I booked our trip through my Costco membership, which was also the first time using them for a vacation. Once we arrived in Jamaica, we were greeted at the Airport with “Bob Marley’s”, one of the most common drinks in Jamaica. We rode to our resort in a shared shuttle which was provided through the vacation package.
We arrived at Secrets Wild Orchid in Montego Bay, which is an all-inclusive resort. When I say we were VIP. I mean VIP. We were in the Preferred Club Junior Suite Swim out! Check out the website to look at the room. Epic! Along with the room we were also assigned a Butler, “Gary The Butler” which is what he asked us to call him. This man was there whenever we needed him and whatever we needed him for. Definitely felt like the Fresh Prince of Jamaica. This entire trip was awesome. Food, Resort, Guests, Climate, everything was perfect! The trip total was $1848. We also spent about $100 tipping the staff for the entire stay. Not only is that a great deal but included with the Costco package, got a $400 Costco gift card!
TheBlackPointsGuy Expenses:
Flights for 2- $270
Hotel for 2- $1848
Tips- $100
Transportation-$0
TheTypicalGuy Expenses:
Flights for 2- $1500-$2000 depending on dates
Hotel- booking directly with resort, for the same package. $2763 and no $400 Costco gift card.
Tips- You decide
Transportation- You decide