(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) How do you pay and how much do you pay for your personal travel and holidays say a lot about your relationship with your money and bank account. Do you know that with the right set of plastic and spending behaviour you can actually travel first or business class with an economy class budget?
At least, that's what I have been successfully doing for the last three years. My husband and I rarely use cash and swipe our credit cards for almost all purchases. We pay back in time without shelling anything extra on interest and accumulate reward points in return, which are redeemed for five-star stays at hotels around the world. For instance, this year we enjoyed a four-day retreat at the amazing Taj Fort Aguada - an upscale beachfront resort in Goa, India. The stay was fully sponsored by our credit card points.
So, how do we do it?
We identified our spending pattern and signed up for the cards that give us the best return. It is as simple as that. With the vast choice available in the UAE, all you have to do is put in a few hours of research to identify offers and rewards that align with your likes.
For instance, the ADIB Etihad Guest Card allows you to accumulate air miles and redeem it for Etihad flights. You are also entitled to a free companion ticket and complimentary lounge access, if minimum spends are met. HSBC's Air Miles too has incredible tie-ups that let you enjoy the comforts of premium hospitality and flying for free.
Traveller International, on the other hand, is a mobile application developed by IMC Middle East. It works well on iOS and Android mobile devices and brings amazing experiences under one roof. These include dining, lifestyle, entertainment, etc. Customers can discover two-for-one deals, discounts and unique offers, which help them save money. The app works well in the UAE, Oman and Qatar.
How can you do it?
It's simple. Get online and look for the best deals. Better still, read blogs of famous travellers who travel in style on an affordable budget. Some of the popular ones include Top Miles, a website that features experiences of Sam, an intrepid traveller who also informs readers about the changes in the aviation sector and suggests on how to get the most of their money.
Another gem in the blogosphere is the website of Nomadic Matt, author of the New York Times best-selling book, How to Travel the World on $50 a Day. Suggestions and advice from these two bloggers is worth their weight in gold. Read and see if it connects with you too.
We hope you travel and gather experiences that make your life and bank account happier. We would love to hear your story and know how you made the best of your money and vacation. Do write!
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