I recently checked off another bucket list vacation with a trip to Bali, and the experience was nothing short of amazing! Here’s how we managed to fly roundtrip in business class for just $104 and enjoyed luxurious accommodations without breaking the bank.

Flights: Business Class Comfort for a Fraction of the Price

We flew roundtrip business class on one of the world’s best airlines, Singapore Airlines, making our 20+ hour flights comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s how we did it using some of our favorite credit card points:

• Outbound Flight (EWR to DPS): We booked directly with Singapore Airlines using 110,000 points and paid only $12.40 in taxes and fees.
• Return Flight (DPS to JFK): We used 73,000 points via AirCanada, one of Singapore Airlines’ alliance partners, and paid $91.76 in taxes and fees. The flight would have required 87,500 points, but thanks to a 20% transfer bonus promotion, we only needed 73,000 points.

Even though we booked a bit later than most and could have gotten a better redemption using less points, the cash price for these flights would have been over $11,000 per person!

Layover in Singapore: A Luxurious Pause

During our 5-hour layover in Singapore, we took full advantage of our benefits as Business Class flyers and went straight to the SilverKris Lounge. We showered, grabbed a bite to eat, and enjoyed a nap in their cozy nap room, which had lounge chairs, blankets, pillows, and eye masks.

Final Leg to Bali

From Singapore to Bali, we continued our journey in business class with lie-flat seats and full service, ensuring we arrived well-rested and ready to explore.

Repositioning to NYC and Return

To reposition to NYC, I used 7,000 AA miles for an economy flight on American Airlines from ORD to NYC. As an Executive Platinum member, I received a complimentary business class upgrade, getting even more value from my miles. The cash price would have been a little over $300 at the time of booking for the economy seats and over $800 for business.

For our return from LGA to MDW, we booked with Southwest Airlines for roughly $150. Thanks to vouchers from previous delayed flights, my out-of-pocket expense was $0.

Luxurious Hotel Stays: Maximizing Points and Status Benefits

As a Globalist member with Hyatt, I always prioritize Hyatt properties for the best redemption value and benefits. Here’s where we stayed:

• Dreams New York: $204 cash (better value than using points, using my Hyatt Leverage discount from the Founders Card).
• Hyatt Regency Bali: 13,000 points per night for a Family Suite with two full bathrooms.
• Andaz Bali: 20,000 points per night (cash price $678). We were upgraded to a suite due to my status (check out our room tour here)
• Alila Seminyak: 20,000 points per night, upgraded to an Ocean View suite (cash price $605).
• Andaz Singapore: 25,000 points per night, upgraded to a Suite (cash price $700).
• Hyatt Centric Times Square NYC: 25,000 points (cash price $800 cash).

Globalist benefits saved us hundreds of dollars, including free parking on award stays, 4 pm check-out, early check-in (subject to availability), club access, free breakfast, and suite upgrades (subject to availability).

We split the cost of rooms using the Hyatt Points Combining form, with my best friend transferring her points to me for more perks and benefits.

Celebrating in Style

We celebrated my best friend’s birthday, and each property left welcome notes and gifts for me as a Globalist, along with decorations, cake, and a card for her. I coordinated with the properties in advance to make the occasion special.

The Infamous Flower Pool

For the last two nights, we stayed at a 2-bedroom, 2-bath villa booked via Airbnb for $243, which we split. To maximize my earnings for the Airbnb stays, I used the British Airways portal for 2 Avios per $1 spent and then my favorite business travel card for an additional 3x back, earning 5 points per $1 on that stay. Maximizing every dollar spent! Check out our blog post here on maximizing Airbnb and Vrbo stays.

While the villa was beautiful, I would prefer staying at resorts for future trips to Bali.

Total Out-of-Pocket Cost: Just $341 Per Person

Our total out-of-pocket cost for flights and accommodations for a 10-night stay in Bali, Singapore, and NYC was only $341 per person! The experiences? Priceless! Learning how to maximize points and benefits through everyday spending allowed us to enjoy a trip valued at over $27,000.

Check out my room tours and more travel tips on our Instagram and TikTok @journeywithreesej. Don’t miss out on the incredible deals and experiences that award travel can offer!