A couple of years ago, I promised myself that I would do my best always to welcome the new year somewhere new and warm. So for 2022, I planned a three-night, four-day trip to Nassau, The Bahamas, for $475.71.
Transportation
I booked separate one-way tickets. It was considerably cheaper to fly to Nassau than to return. I departed from Boston (I was visiting my family for Christmas) and landed in Nassau on December 29th. The first leg of my trip cost $109.70 flying United Airlines.
In Nassau, I rented a car and split costs with my companion. I decided this would give us the independence to travel the island without relying on taxis. So I used Budget to rent the car from the airport for a total of $241.92, or $120.96 per person.
The return flight was a bit more complicated, and I had to be more creative to book a flight. Most return flights from Nassau to Dallas were $400 or more due to new year’s demand falling on a weekend.
Since it was two of us, we decided to maximize the Southwest companion pass. We used 46,314 Southwest Rewards points and paid $116.47 in fees each for the return flight to Dallas. Even though 46,314 Southwest Rewards points are a lot, the companion pass effectively divides the total in two, about 23,000 points each.
Lodging
I found a studio on Airbnb in Nassau for $256.76 for three nights. The studio was small but enough for two, in a central location, and it had a parking spot. It worked out great for us.
Perks Used
Chase Southwest Credit Card: Back in 2021, Chase had a fantastic promotion that included a Companion Pass as a welcome offer in addition to 30,000 points. That offer is no longer available, and the current requirement to qualify for the Companion Pass is to earn 125,000 Southwest Rewards points. Credit card spending and bonuses count toward qualification.
If Southwest promotes another Companion Pass welcome offer, I highly encourage you to apply for it. The value I received from the Companion Pass on this trip was at least $400, making this credit card a fantastic deal for the annual fee.
Annual fee: $99
The Platinum Card from Amex: This credit card has one of the highest public annual fees, $695. It’s not a good fit for everyone; however, you can undoubtedly maximize its value if you are a frequent traveler. Centurion lounge access and Priority Pass enhance your airport experience. We visited two airport lounges on our return. At $30 per person per visit, I got $120 of value from this card on the lounges. Also, this card provides Clear, Global Entry, and Pre-Check. I skipped all lines thanks to these perks, and I value that at $20 per trip.
Annual fee: $695
Conclusion
It’s difficult to beat a trip to the Caribbean for $475.71, and if it was to welcome 2022, even better.
If you still need help maximizing your points and miles and planning your trips, you can contact me at consulting@culturaiq.com.