This weekend (2 nights) I had the pleasure of visiting the City that never sleeps New York, New York. I visited just because I found a super cheap flight and hotel, it was also NY fashion week so I was bound to get into something. 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 New York, NY cost me 3,454 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 I arrived in New York, I was greeted by a great weather considering it was the middle winter. 40 degrees the entire time! I was brave enough to take the subway from LaGuardia Airport to Grand Central Station for about $4. If you’re not that brave or accustomed to the subway, an Uber would run you about $40. It reminded me so much of the CTA here in Chicago. Once at Grand Central I was able to do a bit of sight-seeing on the walk to my Hotel.
I arrived at the Double Tree Metropolitan which is located in Midtown, which is pretty much in the middle of everything. I must say I always enjoy staying at the Double Tree, free cookies! I actually found this deal on Groupon. Queen room for $260 for 2 nights. However, I also had a 10% coupon so it came out to $240. Upon Check-in, the front desk noticed I was a Hilton Honors Gold member because of my American Express Platinum Card. I was upgraded at no additional cost to a King Deluxe room!
I had some other expenses here and there(UBERS) which I will list below, some I will not. Definitely Ball’d on a budget.
TheBlackPointsGuy Expenses:
Flights for 2- $22.40
Hotel- My Split $120
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