One of the best things about the points game is how it allows you to enjoy travel experiences you otherwise would not be able to enjoy.

Sometimes, that is an incredible destination you might not be able to visit without points. Sometimes, it’s a luxury hotel that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Sometimes, it is experiencing a level of service and comfort that you would otherwise miss out on.

When my fiancée Sabrina and I went to Seattle last year for our Alaskan cruise, we were able to take advantage of a deal that allowed us to fly first class for the same price as we would have paid to fly coach.

We got to enjoy nice comfy seats for the long flight from Florida to Washington, easier check-in at the airport, free food and drinks (I certainly enjoyed some Alaskan brews on the trip!) – even waiting in the airport for our flight home was easier thanks to lounge access where we had wifi, more snacks and drinks, and comfortable couches to relax in.

We still got to the same place, but we were able to begin and end our trip in a more relaxed state than we would have scrunched in coach for the 6.5-hour flight (I’m 6’2″, so airplane seats generally aren’t super comfortable for me!). It was something that made the trip extra special for us.

Flying first class is a special experience, and when the opportunity comes up to experience it at effectively no cost – it’s a no-brainer!

Right now there is a combination of things going on that are allowing basically that – the opportunity to fly first class around the world for the same price as coach!

But this probably won’t last long, so you better hurry! [Read more…]