Think of it this way. Hotels know well that savvy people like you know better than to spend that much. You'd be surprised how many people dont know anything about these points programs. If someone like you can go there via points, they still get paid from banks (albeit at a discount) and they get free advertising from you in your blogs. It's a win win if you look at it this way.
Really good breakdown. Like seeing how realistic/what the tradeoffs are on these types of videos that are usually just made to get clicks. Do more please!
Wife and I just sat down and watched this together. Gained more appreciation for the game and how we have been able to travel more for less. A few years ago we did 5 days in Dubai and 5 days in Maldives. Thanks for all the info over the years Sebby.
During the SPG to Marriott switch, there was a window to book St Regis Maldives for a very reasonable amount. Used 5th night benefit there and Grosvenor House in Dubai. The Dubai trip was added to the Maldives since they are so close. Back then you could book Emirates on Alaska with a stop over in Dubai on your way to Male (Maldives). The whole thing was put together because of the deal for St Regis Maldives. It helps being Bonvoy Platinum when you plan this for the breakfast. While in Dubai, I recommend visiting Abu Dhabi.
quite a chunk of change for a trip where it doesn't seem like they did all that much? drove around the island? chilled in the floating hut hammock thing? but the memories last forever no doubt. my friend and I did ~2 weeks in Asia, total cost was maybe $5k? that included balling out on a few hotels and dinners (all the while I billed everything on my CSR for the signup bonus). but every time we hang out, one of us will say something out of the blue like "yo, Osaka was fresh" and we can have a laugh and reminisce. so I hope this couple gets their lifetime of smiles and memories out of this trip, and for that it's well worth it
Thought the same thing, glad they had fun but I had a friend do 3 months around the world and only spend 10k. I think like you pointed out the experience was hopefully worth it for them but it for sure could be done cheaper. Also Im jealous about Osaka, never got to see it because I lost my JR Pass and got stuck on the train the day I was supposed to go. Im sure it was fresh though lol
@@AskSebby I feel like this could replace your monthly, "What's in my wallet segments." I found those very helpful to nuggets of strategy from you. Now it doesn't seem that dynamic in the CC landscape, just who is trying to out do the other! Just a suggestion (or reinforcement to the original idea)
Not shabby, but yeah, if she threw points in the mix, she'd be much better off. For most of the trips I've taken in the last 6 years, I've started with points for the flights and hotels, then throw $20K+ on top of it for room upgrades, activities/diving/spa, and crazy over the top dinners. Our peak dinner was at the Stella Maris Villa (booked via a 3rd party mistake rate), wherin they boated over a chef, assistant, and server, and the cooked the food on the second floor terrace. Completely worth it, but way too much food 😛 We've got the Conrad BB booked for Feb, 7 nights on points, but not certain we'll keep it.
My biggest question from the original video was about her travel rewards strategy. For example, if you spend a third of your monthly budget on travel...is this making points for future travel!?!? But with no mention of status or anything beyond saving (nothing wrong with that), travel credits, and Groupon...it was scary.
I really hate to criticize peoples choices. But if $18500 is 30% of your income. This is a bit crazy. You could have an incredible vacation for half that and invest the rest to maybe have a chance at a future.
That could be a whole car or even a down payment for a house! I can’t even imagine spending that all in such a small amount of time! All I can say is wow!
So true, especially since if they both got the Aspire they couldve spent six of those nights and $700 on the property for just the cost of the card, and had $500 to spend on the airlines on the way over.
I was in Bora Bora this past June, I used Costco but then I saw hotel Award space open up a few weeks before the trip, I got 5 nights at the Conrad and 5 nights at Hilton Moorea using 5th night free benefit twice. Diamond status and free breakfast. It’s worth mentioning that Costco had a great deal in June, it was only $4500 for 2 people for 5 nights and included breakfast and 3-course dinners. Costco has a flexible cancellation policy at the moment so it’s worth locking in a good cash deal while u wait for award space to open up with no risk.
@@AskSebby Hilton Moorea is a solid resort with hospitality equal to the Conrad. Food was average, breakfast not as good as Conrad. but food overall cheaper than Conrad. Prefer the overwater bungalows at the Hilton Moorea mainly because the water is chest to neck high consistently throughout the resort with no deep areas. That makes it easier to get in and out of the water as the current can be strong at the Conrad. We traveled with our 3 year old, at The Conrad most bungalows are over very deep water and it’s difficult to handle a small child in those conditions. Hilton Moorea has better views of landscape. Conrad not so much other than gorgeous blue ocean. But overall I liked the Conrad luxury factor much better. If paying cash and price almost equal. Definitely go with Conrad Bora Bora
@@ja99ha hello, going through Costco, did you have any issues with transfers from hotel to airport or anywhere transfers were needed? Also, did you book excursions there or did you prebook and if so, how?
I spent $0 for my accommodation at a Hilton hotel for my 10-day vacation in Kauai last July which could have been worth $5,000. I used 400k points, all of which I earned from staying at a Hilton hotel for free to quarantine as a nurse last year and early this year. I then used my diamond status to get an upgrade to their larger rooms with the beach views. And my RT flight there was all on points, too! It feels so good to pay so little or next to nothing at all for your vacation. Thanks, Sebby for being instrumental to my points addiction! Haha
@@AskSebby It did! I live in California and the state paid for all my hotel stays for 11 months because I worked as an RN in the COVID isolation unit. I accumulated about 1.1 million points living in a hotel.
@shinymystery You deserve a free vacation as a Covid nurse. As a nurse period. Whether during the pandemic or not. I hope it was relaxing and refreshing. Thanks for all you do!
Thanks Sebby! This video is a great remind on why we are in the points and miles game!!! No way am I paying $18k for that. Nope. Now a "3 month long World Cruise"? Maybe
Paying $18500 for a trip vs maximizing credit card points from normal everyday spending and spending an additional 3000? Sounds like a case study of a Ramsey Solutions fan vs an Ask Sebby Fan.
So not with it!!! We spend 6 nights in Tahiti for FREE!!! Really air Tahiti Nui had a deal for 3 nights free layover when you fly to New Zealand then we used America express credit card points to stay 3 nights in Mo’orea!!!
If I travel somewhere and stay there for several months working remotely, then technically I guess I could spend 18K on a “trip” hahah. Otherwise this would never happen to me!
I watched this video for the commentary despite not giving a hoot about French Polynesia. Thanks for making the video interesting and less painful to watch! A question: With World of Hyatt implementing peak pricing, is it still one of your favorite points programs?
Yes. Their peak pricing is pretty tame compared to everyone else. Factor in that Chase transfers to Hyatt and Bonvoy at a 1:1 rate usually anyways. Hyatt 35k/40k/45k Bonvoy 70k/85k/100k There's an argument that StR/Ritz > Park Hyatt but I'd usually take 2 nights, unless it's a REALLY interesting property (Al Maha, etc.)
Hey Sebby great videos! Curious what you think about Costco price for Conrad bora bora nui in august i was just quoted. $9700 with breakfast and dinner five nights overwater deluxe bungalow (no pool). They also gave $500 resort credit on top of that. That doesn’t include air fare.
With 18,000 I could have used 10,000, bought DWAC today at $11 bucks, turned it into 40k and did the same trip and still have my 18,000+ and then some LOL But who knows maybe that’s where the money came from in years past
for someone who travels as much as she does, you would think she would've been introduced to credit card points a long time ago. maybe it's too much work and too complicated to the point where it's too overwhelming for her. so it's just easier to find and book. and i guess if you have the means to do that then sure. i try to explain to all my one credit card friends and family the reason i have so many is so i dont have to pay 18K to go on vacation.
I think reward points are also a foreign language to a lot of people; much easier to focus on $ and try and find good deals vs. diving into the rabbit hole.
@@AskSebby oh absolutely. I tried explaining to my coworkers why I have 7 cards (which is minuscule compared to the vets lol) and it was too overwhelming for them. They get the concept of making the money you already spend work for you but it’s just too much for them to think about. so I try to at least tell them get one card like a chase or Amex. And just use the points in their respective portals. Still too much for them lol 🤷🏻♂️
I wish I would have found you earlier. Do you analyze these types of trips regularly? My wife and I just returned from 17 days in the Maldives where we stayed on 3 different resorts. I paid for the entire thing. Can you do an analysis of whether I could have been more efficient with my spending or would such an analysis require a donation?
I can already tell you, if you make over 2 million a year, yes it’s worth it. Under it’s not. It’s like someone making 50k a year asking if a 500$ trip is worth it.
Hi, besides the 2 Hilton card you mentioned are there any other ones that can work to combine points? I just received the Hilton Aspire but don't know if I want the Surpass.
Really enjoyed this one. Seems pretty attainable with points. Since you mentioned Hawaii, just wanted to comment that SW flights and rental cars (at least in Maui) have dropped drastically for the next coming months. My trip’s cost has pretty much been cut in half. YMMV but worth looking into anyone’s considering a trip to Hawaii
My wife and I just got back from doing this and we booked through Costco. I think it was a decent deal (relatively speaking of course, it was still expensive) and we really enjoyed it
paid 6K for 5 days in Moorea, Overwater bungalow at the hilton and flew comfort plus from LAX for two of us. The free upgrade is kind of hard to believe because Air Tahiti Nui is hard to get upgrades without paying
Yo seb, I stayed at Waldorf Astoria Maui this August for a week. Booked in January way before the crazy price and points increases. Thanks to points and 2 nights certificates. Appreciate your vids and advice , thanks bro
Basic Economy on United does not allow any free upgrades. I’m United Platinum/Quest & Business cards for years and never got free upgrades. A long flight like that I would book regular economy to be eligible for upgrades.
Same reason I book regular economy as a DL DM (and ex-UA Plat). CPUs are always nice (and actually clear out of SFO for DL). Happy to pop a RUC/GUC when needed as well :)
I’ve noticed that many millennials still have no idea how value credit card points are. That is a lot to spend on one trip. This scenario also allows for a player 2. I’m thinking the max out of pocket should be $2K with points.
I recently took a 2-hour flight to Dallas on American Airlines and rode Basic Economy. The lady checking us in asked me if I was alone and also asked if I wanted to upgrade to First Class -- mind you, this was a small CRJ-175, so it wasn't much of an upgrade, but I still said yes. She then told me she couldn't after all because I was Basic Economy. 😄
I don’t know. I’ve spent more (Let’s not even talk about Amangiri 😂). My big issue with this video is that she says she spends 30% of her income on travel. I’m not sure that this Bora Bora trip itself was 30% of her income, but it seems like it was. It seems like she might have bitten off a little more than she could chew with this cost and I think promoting that like it was a great thing is irresponsible.
Thanks for the outstanding videos. I’ve shared your vids with several people hoping they take advantage of your great information. I use Costco and points often with my travels. A 10 day trip to Italy (Rome & Venice) for a family of four including airfare, hotels w/breakfast and sightseeing cost us around $7500 using Costco (low tourist season). Points used for trips to Fiji have covered upgrades on our flights and the full cost on our six day stay. I suggest comparing both services to get the best from your travels.
Have you reached out to the lady in the video? Does she have Amex Platinum or a similar travel card. Yes, she and her partner would be saving a lot if they use a premium travel card
Just wanted to say that the free certificate night from the aspire might not work at the Conrad Bora Bora anymore. I tried to use one for my vacation this year but was told that none of the rooms counted as a standard room even though the standard garden view room was available. I think the card is still worth it but it seems like Hilton has patched this loophole in getting a free night in bora bora.
Question Sebby. I am paying almost 1k per month for my own medical insurance now. Should I use the Sapphire Reserve or Freedom Unlimited? I’m assuming Freedom Unlimited since it’s 1.5 points per dollar
I like these kind of videos of picking up a trip to anywhere and show how to do it with points and miles. You could do much more better by showing how to book airlines with points and save more. Keep doing these kinds of videos because most people now got a lot of points but they don't know how to put them in good use and save more
Hilton or marriott does not give free breakfast anymore at higher tier hotels for Diamond and Titanium members. Hilton gives a voucher based on the tier of hotel. So disrespectful, I hate that hilton did this temporary but I think they will stick with it moving forward. Hilton will not give you a upgrade to the overwater bungalow as a diamond upgrade. Costco travel is never cheap to me. But Sabby you speak great content just wanted to update you on the breakfast thing. Don't want to mislead people with breakfast
also in my opinion as someone who stays in hotels 250-300 days a year, I can tell you that Hilton is the worst hotel chain when it comes to point redemption. I feel they over value their rooms so that you waste all your points on one or two nights to stay at higher tier hotels. Yes lower tier hotels are more economical but hilton really doesn't want to give away their rooms for free. I feel very undervalued as a 9 year Diamond member with Hilton because they are a money hungry chain. Their hotels are nice internationally though so its very tempting to stay at their property. Just make sure you have some extra dough laying around because you will need it with Hilton.
The trick for airline award ticket is always book a year out. I booked mine in July on Air France for July of next year. Business class round trip 128,000 miles. Currently round trip tix is selling for $4100-$5600. Getting 3-4 cents per mile is pretty good! ;) Paying retail for f or j tix? No thx. I rather spend that cash for a hotel room at a nice resort. Can’t wait to go back to French Polynesia again!
How is your reaction video basically 10 min longer than the original video you are reviewing? Plus the original video is lame, there are way better CNBC videos to review.
I currently have a similar trip booked. 4 nights Hilton Tahiti, 5 nights Hilton Moorea, and 5 nights Conrad bora bora. Business on Air France for 2. All on points 😌
I would never spend that much even if it’s my honeymoon. So would you recommend getting the hotel credit card and pair it with the platinum for maximum benefits?
I would never post a travel video online for fear of these react videos (mainly from Sebby)!!! But great analysis and tips about Bora, Bora. French Polynesia is on my list, but not top 3. Aspire would work great at one of these types of properties and this type of trip though. I am losing interest in the flight incidental credits, because Airlines are cutting some of the fees that trigger them and AMEX is not adding other fee categories to trigger it.
I already know from the title you died a little inside hearing these folks spent all this money for a trip we’ve often gotten nearly for free
Yes, it hurt to hear it 😢
Think of it this way. Hotels know well that savvy people like you know better than to spend that much. You'd be surprised how many people dont know anything about these points programs. If someone like you can go there via points, they still get paid from banks (albeit at a discount) and they get free advertising from you in your blogs. It's a win win if you look at it this way.
Sup Nuance bro. Interesting to see you on here, lol
She’s saying she “did”, I don’t this though
After living in Hawaii for 6 years, their Bora Bora trip looked underwhelming. That is a normal day in Hawaii, only Hawaii has better food :D
Love the React style video!
Thank you!
Really good breakdown. Like seeing how realistic/what the tradeoffs are on these types of videos that are usually just made to get clicks. Do more please!
Wife and I just sat down and watched this together. Gained more appreciation for the game and how we have been able to travel more for less. A few years ago we did 5 days in Dubai and 5 days in Maldives. Thanks for all the info over the years Sebby.
Thanks for watching! :)
I'm trying to line that up for myself next year It's gonna cost me some money but I also have a lot of points saved up
Can you please share how you used points for your Dubai and Maldives trip? Thank you in advance
During the SPG to Marriott switch, there was a window to book St Regis Maldives for a very reasonable amount. Used 5th night benefit there and Grosvenor House in Dubai. The Dubai trip was added to the Maldives since they are so close. Back then you could book Emirates on Alaska with a stop over in Dubai on your way to Male (Maldives). The whole thing was put together because of the deal for St Regis Maldives. It helps being Bonvoy Platinum when you plan this for the breakfast. While in Dubai, I recommend visiting Abu Dhabi.
quite a chunk of change for a trip where it doesn't seem like they did all that much? drove around the island? chilled in the floating hut hammock thing? but the memories last forever no doubt. my friend and I did ~2 weeks in Asia, total cost was maybe $5k? that included balling out on a few hotels and dinners (all the while I billed everything on my CSR for the signup bonus). but every time we hang out, one of us will say something out of the blue like "yo, Osaka was fresh" and we can have a laugh and reminisce. so I hope this couple gets their lifetime of smiles and memories out of this trip, and for that it's well worth it
Thought the same thing, glad they had fun but I had a friend do 3 months around the world and only spend 10k. I think like you pointed out the experience was hopefully worth it for them but it for sure could be done cheaper. Also Im jealous about Osaka, never got to see it because I lost my JR Pass and got stuck on the train the day I was supposed to go. Im sure it was fresh though lol
15 trips in 2019?!? I feel Sebby knew the pandemic was going to happen lol 🧐🔎
RIP 4 cancelled first class flights in 2020
@@AskSebby 💀💀💀
Great reaction video! You definitely need to do more of these!
Thank you! Will do!
@@AskSebby I feel like this could replace your monthly, "What's in my wallet segments." I found those very helpful to nuggets of strategy from you. Now it doesn't seem that dynamic in the CC landscape, just who is trying to out do the other! Just a suggestion (or reinforcement to the original idea)
When I watched this video the other day I thought, "Sebby could have done this cheaper with points." 😆
😆
Me too!
Not shabby, but yeah, if she threw points in the mix, she'd be much better off. For most of the trips I've taken in the last 6 years, I've started with points for the flights and hotels, then throw $20K+ on top of it for room upgrades, activities/diving/spa, and crazy over the top dinners. Our peak dinner was at the Stella Maris Villa (booked via a 3rd party mistake rate), wherin they boated over a chef, assistant, and server, and the cooked the food on the second floor terrace. Completely worth it, but way too much food 😛 We've got the Conrad BB booked for Feb, 7 nights on points, but not certain we'll keep it.
My biggest question from the original video was about her travel rewards strategy. For example, if you spend a third of your monthly budget on travel...is this making points for future travel!?!? But with no mention of status or anything beyond saving (nothing wrong with that), travel credits, and Groupon...it was scary.
Most pre-approved cards are "spray and pray" by issuers vs. on the MC level.
All inclusive in Mexico seems like the way better option!
Sebby..An excellent video. When I saw the CNBC story I questioned if the couple used points and Miles.
Now you can say that you're doing a trip that people pay $18,500 for ;)
I'm curious as to why the word covid was blurred out at 5:18
Love this type of video!
I would definitely use points. I can't see myself paying so much for a trip. Credit card offers so much more savings.
Crazy to think about the experiences points can unlock 🔑
Is it possible to get an over water bungalow upgrade with gold status from an Amex platinum card?
Didn’t you do something like this but spent only like 1,100 a long long time ago? Or was it a tour I don’t remember
Throwing away money is never a good idea. Points is the way to go.
Sebby dropping that knowledge
I wasn't sure if I put too much of my own travel stuff vs. reacting to someone else's trip 🙃
I really hate to criticize peoples choices. But if $18500 is 30% of your income. This is a bit crazy. You could have an incredible vacation for half that and invest the rest to maybe have a chance at a future.
The Apple diet is something I’ve never heard of, it’s genius and stupid lol
🙃 intermittent fasting with free fruits as a snack
Not finished watching, but I'm hoping they at least paid for the trip using travel cards.
Lit!🔥
:)
Yay!!
its beautiful!
Sebby is the #1 person to react to a video like this 😎🏝 We also know you’d spend a lot less than $18,500 if you did this same trip 😄✈️
It was calling my name 😂
This video was awesome. People who are savvy have definitely spent a solid fraction less.
Funny, when I watched that video I immediately thought of you and how you would have used your points to make it more affordable.
:)
Me too
That could be a whole car or even a down payment for a house! I can’t even imagine spending that all in such a small amount of time! All I can say is wow!
Big facts, literally more than my car is worth 😂
@@kubatik1674 I get that completely, I’m in the same boat lol!
Get your money up...
@@devirickwatsonscreentalkme8084 I make good money, just can't justify spending a bunch on a depreciating asset, especially living in the rust belt.
So true, especially since if they both got the Aspire they couldve spent six of those nights and $700 on the property for just the cost of the card, and had $500 to spend on the airlines on the way over.
I was in Bora Bora this past June, I used Costco but then I saw hotel Award space open up a few weeks before the trip, I got 5 nights at the Conrad and 5 nights at Hilton Moorea using 5th night free benefit twice. Diamond status and free breakfast. It’s worth mentioning that Costco had a great deal in June, it was only $4500 for 2 people for 5 nights and included breakfast and 3-course dinners. Costco has a flexible cancellation policy at the moment so it’s worth locking in a good cash deal while u wait for award space to open up with no risk.
Solid deal and glad to know about the Costco cancellation policy! How did you like Hilton Moorea? Worth a visit? :)
@@AskSebby Hilton Moorea is a solid resort with hospitality equal to the Conrad. Food was average, breakfast not as good as Conrad. but food overall cheaper than Conrad. Prefer the overwater bungalows at the Hilton Moorea mainly because the water is chest to neck high consistently throughout the resort with no deep areas. That makes it easier to get in and out of the water as the current can be strong at the Conrad. We traveled with our 3 year old, at The Conrad most bungalows are over very deep water and it’s difficult to handle a small child in those conditions. Hilton Moorea has better views of landscape. Conrad not so much other than gorgeous blue ocean. But overall I liked the Conrad luxury factor much better. If paying cash and price almost equal. Definitely go with Conrad Bora Bora
@@ja99ha hello, going through Costco, did you have any issues with transfers from hotel to airport or anywhere transfers were needed? Also, did you book excursions there or did you prebook and if so, how?
@@mattiegrey5729 the transfers were smooth as a whistle. Didn’t pre- book any excursions. Booked a snorkel tour through Viator the day before the tour
Thank you so much for your feedback!! It’s so informative
I spent $0 for my accommodation at a Hilton hotel for my 10-day vacation in Kauai last July which could have been worth $5,000. I used 400k points, all of which I earned from staying at a Hilton hotel for free to quarantine as a nurse last year and early this year. I then used my diamond status to get an upgrade to their larger rooms with the beach views. And my RT flight there was all on points, too! It feels so good to pay so little or next to nothing at all for your vacation. Thanks, Sebby for being instrumental to my points addiction! Haha
Whoa! Didn't realize the nurse stays earned points -- that's awesome!
@@AskSebby It did! I live in California and the state paid for all my hotel stays for 11 months because I worked as an RN in the COVID isolation unit. I accumulated about 1.1 million points living in a hotel.
@shinymystery You deserve a free vacation as a Covid nurse. As a nurse period. Whether during the pandemic or not. I hope it was relaxing and refreshing. Thanks for all you do!
@@RUclipsMan98 I appreciate that, Will. Thank you very much =) And yes, that vacation was well worth it. Cheers!
Thanks Sebby! This video is a great remind on why we are in the points and miles game!!! No way am I paying $18k for that. Nope. Now a "3 month long World Cruise"? Maybe
I'm like 50/50 on cruises. On one hand, world cruise sounds fun. On the other hand, I think I would go stir crazy on a boat.
I appreciate this reaction video. Keep these going!
Thank you! Will do!
Paying $18500 for a trip vs maximizing credit card points from normal everyday spending and spending an additional 3000? Sounds like a case study of a Ramsey Solutions fan vs an Ask Sebby Fan.
"But credit cards are bad for you" 🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩
So not with it!!! We spend 6 nights in Tahiti for FREE!!! Really air Tahiti Nui had a deal for 3 nights free layover when you fly to New Zealand then we used America express credit card points to stay 3 nights in Mo’orea!!!
😮 at TN's 3 night free layover
If I travel somewhere and stay there for several months working remotely, then technically I guess I could spend 18K on a “trip” hahah. Otherwise this would never happen to me!
$18,500? I would rather invest it!
I watched this video for the commentary despite not giving a hoot about French Polynesia. Thanks for making the video interesting and less painful to watch!
A question: With World of Hyatt implementing peak pricing, is it still one of your favorite points programs?
Yes. Their peak pricing is pretty tame compared to everyone else. Factor in that Chase transfers to Hyatt and Bonvoy at a 1:1 rate usually anyways.
Hyatt 35k/40k/45k
Bonvoy 70k/85k/100k
There's an argument that StR/Ritz > Park Hyatt but I'd usually take 2 nights, unless it's a REALLY interesting property (Al Maha, etc.)
Can you make a video of WoH vs Marriot boundless for international traveling?
Why not both? 🙃 Should still be keepers, even with the "negative" Bonvoy change.
Hey Sebby great videos! Curious what you think about Costco price for Conrad bora bora nui in august i was just quoted. $9700 with breakfast and dinner five nights overwater deluxe bungalow (no pool). They also gave $500 resort credit on top of that. That doesn’t include air fare.
With 18,000 I could have used 10,000, bought DWAC today at $11 bucks, turned it into 40k and did the same trip and still have my 18,000+ and then some LOL
But who knows maybe that’s where the money came from in years past
$65 now 👀
I’d pay $18k for bora bora, that was my honeymoon destination and I actually paid more
What property did you do? :) Four Seasons is on my list, solely because I can't use points in an advantageous way.
for someone who travels as much as she does, you would think she would've been introduced to credit card points a long time ago. maybe it's too much work and too complicated to the point where it's too overwhelming for her. so it's just easier to find and book. and i guess if you have the means to do that then sure. i try to explain to all my one credit card friends and family the reason i have so many is so i dont have to pay 18K to go on vacation.
I think reward points are also a foreign language to a lot of people; much easier to focus on $ and try and find good deals vs. diving into the rabbit hole.
@@AskSebby oh absolutely. I tried explaining to my coworkers why I have 7 cards (which is minuscule compared to the vets lol) and it was too overwhelming for them.
They get the concept of making the money you already spend work for you but it’s just too much for them to think about. so I try to at least tell them get one card like a chase or Amex. And just use the points in their respective portals.
Still too much for them lol 🤷🏻♂️
I wish I would have found you earlier. Do you analyze these types of trips regularly? My wife and I just returned from 17 days in the Maldives where we stayed on 3 different resorts. I paid for the entire thing. Can you do an analysis of whether I could have been more efficient with my spending or would such an analysis require a donation?
I can already tell you, if you make over 2 million a year, yes it’s worth it. Under it’s not. It’s like someone making 50k a year asking if a 500$ trip is worth it.
Tahiti islands is definitely on our bucket list! Thanks for a great recap video
Hi, besides the 2 Hilton card you mentioned are there any other ones that can work to combine points? I just received the Hilton Aspire but don't know if I want the Surpass.
Really enjoyed this one. Seems pretty attainable with points. Since you mentioned Hawaii, just wanted to comment that SW flights and rental cars (at least in Maui) have dropped drastically for the next coming months. My trip’s cost has pretty much been cut in half. YMMV but worth looking into anyone’s considering a trip to Hawaii
Thanks for the heads up! Rental cars prices scared the crap out of me in early 2021.
Who tells on his vacation videos how much they spent??? That couple are trying to fake they are rich, what they are not. 🙈
They could've saved some money also by staying on land for a day or two then staying in the over water bungalow for the remaining days
If you're there, you have to do the canoe breakfast. I loved it. Sure, it doesn't make financial sense, but it's a great bucket list item.
It luckily wasn't on Mandy's bucket list. Swimming with whales is though! ruclips.net/video/Z72rDQqBVpQ/видео.html
Not for $280
My wife and I just got back from doing this and we booked through Costco. I think it was a decent deal (relatively speaking of course, it was still expensive) and we really enjoyed it
No! No it is not worth it!!! What in the world. That 18k in the stock market a year would make me a millionaire easily!
My head exploded when I saw the CNBC video. I instantly thought of your videos.
🤯
I did too.
Sebby calculator breakdown = 🤯
You the man!
I miss the Excel spreadsheets!
One of your best videos sebby. More videos and analysis that break down real world examples are a massive help.
Thanks :)
Seb totally sounds like me when he was calling out the price tags of everything. 😂😂
Tempted to do more reaction videos for the "price is right" aspect!
paid 6K for 5 days in Moorea, Overwater bungalow at the hilton and flew comfort plus from LAX for two of us. The free upgrade is kind of hard to believe because Air Tahiti Nui is hard to get upgrades without paying
My guess is that the plane was THAT empty. The flight crew probably didn't want to service both economy and economy+ so just consolidated everyone.
The humble brags he implements throughout the vid got me ☠️
Yo seb, I stayed at Waldorf Astoria Maui this August for a week. Booked in January way before the crazy price and points increases. Thanks to points and 2 nights certificates. Appreciate your vids and advice , thanks bro
How did you like it?!?
Basic Economy on United does not allow any free upgrades. I’m United Platinum/Quest & Business cards for years and never got free upgrades. A long flight like that I would book regular economy to be eligible for upgrades.
She "upgraded" herself since the flight was empty.
Same reason I book regular economy as a DL DM (and ex-UA Plat). CPUs are always nice (and actually clear out of SFO for DL). Happy to pop a RUC/GUC when needed as well :)
I’ve noticed that many millennials still have no idea how value credit card points are. That is a lot to spend on one trip. This scenario also allows for a player 2. I’m thinking the max out of pocket should be $2K with points.
Food is the biggest question mark. I don't mind dropping money but usually if the value is there.
Ppl like this have nothing, meaning, they aren't wealthy, they don't own a home or their cars.. it's all for show..
Bora Bora is way way overrated. I'd rather go to Southeast Asia.
Why not both? :)
What do you mean by if you have status?
You have to wait til the end to get the Juicy stuff!! 😂
Costco has deal for half the price 😂😂
Getting 1¢ per hilton honors point is like finding gold. All hotels in my area want to give 0.0035 per point or less.
😆
Also, Hilton US is usually pretty meh hard and soft product. Maybe WA Wailea?
Sebby, her video is total lies, she's just trying to build her Instagram page
I recently took a 2-hour flight to Dallas on American Airlines and rode Basic Economy. The lady checking us in asked me if I was alone and also asked if I wanted to upgrade to First Class -- mind you, this was a small CRJ-175, so it wasn't much of an upgrade, but I still said yes. She then told me she couldn't after all because I was Basic Economy. 😄
$18k on travel? jeez
Love when you bring out the calculator. Would love to see more for popular trips utilizing the Amex platinum.
MR transfers to Hilton at 1:2 (100k MR => 200k Hilton). They also have promotions where it's 1:3 (100k=>300k Hilton)
@@AskSebby thank you. Also these promotions. I take it Amex emails you about them? Or do you need to hunt them in the app?
I don’t know. I’ve spent more (Let’s not even talk about Amangiri 😂). My big issue with this video is that she says she spends 30% of her income on travel. I’m not sure that this Bora Bora trip itself was 30% of her income, but it seems like it was. It seems like she might have bitten off a little more than she could chew with this cost and I think promoting that like it was a great thing is irresponsible.
🔥
I recently saw another RUclips video where a couple went to Bora Bora, Moorea, and LA for their anniversary and they paid $25,000 for the trip.
Thanks for the outstanding videos. I’ve shared your vids with several people hoping they take advantage of your great information. I use Costco and points often with my travels. A 10 day trip to Italy (Rome & Venice) for a family of four including airfare, hotels w/breakfast and sightseeing cost us around $7500 using Costco (low tourist season). Points used for trips to Fiji have covered upgrades on our flights and the full cost on our six day stay. I suggest comparing both services to get the best from your travels.
Have you reached out to the lady in the video? Does she have Amex Platinum or a similar travel card. Yes, she and her partner would be saving a lot if they use a premium travel card
18K for 2 weeks. Not sure if it is entirely worth it but if I were to spend 18K it would probably be the same places.
I would have definitely used credit cards. With as much as she travels, she definitely needs a few cards for this.
No thank you
I would never pay actual money to do something like this. I'd do it for the gram for free, though.
First 100 comments - excited to watch this 😁
Just wanted to say that the free certificate night from the aspire might not work at the Conrad Bora Bora anymore. I tried to use one for my vacation this year but was told that none of the rooms counted as a standard room even though the standard garden view room was available. I think the card is still worth it but it seems like Hilton has patched this loophole in getting a free night in bora bora.
Let's how many points Sebby would use for this trip
Question Sebby. I am paying almost 1k per month for my own medical insurance now. Should I use the Sapphire Reserve or Freedom Unlimited? I’m assuming Freedom Unlimited since it’s 1.5 points per dollar
I would hunt for intro bonuses. Or use CFU.
If you want to talk new app strategy: www.asksebby.com/free-card-consultation
Nope
🤭🤯
Great video you should contact her and tell her how to travel, many she will pay you 😉
I doubt I would pay so much, probably with points and dollars, but no more than $10k, absolute maximum.
I like these kind of videos of picking up a trip to anywhere and show how to do it with points and miles. You could do much more better by showing how to book airlines with points and save more. Keep doing these kinds of videos because most people now got a lot of points but they don't know how to put them in good use and save more
Upgrade for free = take an empty seat in business class :-D
Hilton or marriott does not give free breakfast anymore at higher tier hotels for Diamond and Titanium members. Hilton gives a voucher based on the tier of hotel. So disrespectful, I hate that hilton did this temporary but I think they will stick with it moving forward. Hilton will not give you a upgrade to the overwater bungalow as a diamond upgrade. Costco travel is never cheap to me. But Sabby you speak great content just wanted to update you on the breakfast thing. Don't want to mislead people with breakfast
also in my opinion as someone who stays in hotels 250-300 days a year, I can tell you that Hilton is the worst hotel chain when it comes to point redemption. I feel they over value their rooms so that you waste all your points on one or two nights to stay at higher tier hotels. Yes lower tier hotels are more economical but hilton really doesn't want to give away their rooms for free. I feel very undervalued as a 9 year Diamond member with Hilton because they are a money hungry chain. Their hotels are nice internationally though so its very tempting to stay at their property. Just make sure you have some extra dough laying around because you will need it with Hilton.
Wow...that is quite the bill.
The trick for airline award ticket is always book a year out. I booked mine in July on Air France for July of next year. Business class round trip 128,000 miles. Currently round trip tix is selling for $4100-$5600. Getting 3-4 cents per mile is pretty good! ;) Paying retail for f or j tix? No thx. I rather spend that cash for a hotel room at a nice resort. Can’t wait to go back to French Polynesia again!
Thoughts on the AF J product? :)
Which camera do you use? Really professional camera setup!
How is your reaction video basically 10 min longer than the original video you are reviewing? Plus the original video is lame, there are way better CNBC videos to review.
10 extra minutes of adding value at the end 🙃
I love this video sebby! You’re the best my man
I currently have a similar trip booked. 4 nights Hilton Tahiti, 5 nights Hilton Moorea, and 5 nights Conrad bora bora. Business on Air France for 2. All on points 😌
Nice!
You scuba dive? I'm in the process of getting my license. What's your experience been like? Best spots?
On the list T_T Just snorkeling / trying to get better at free diving for now.
One of your best videos!
Thank you! :)
I would never spend that much even if it’s my honeymoon. So would you recommend getting the hotel credit card and pair it with the platinum for maximum benefits?
Depending on your level of spend, I would hunt for intro bonuses.
If you want to application strategy: www.asksebby.com/free-card-consultation
I would never post a travel video online for fear of these react videos (mainly from Sebby)!!! But great analysis and tips about Bora, Bora. French Polynesia is on my list, but not top 3. Aspire would work great at one of these types of properties and this type of trip though. I am losing interest in the flight incidental credits, because Airlines are cutting some of the fees that trigger them and AMEX is not adding other fee categories to trigger it.
I'll be nice in my reaction vid! 😏