If you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram images of overwater bungalows or hotel rooms with stunning ocean views, you may have thought, “I could never afford that!” Many of the world’s best hotels charge $1,000 or more per night. However, these properties are more attainable for the average traveler than one might expect. By leveraging points, you can stay at these luxurious properties for just a fraction of the cost.
It won’t be entirely free, as some hotels impose resort fees and earning points comes at a cost (i.e., annual fees). Nevertheless, by utilizing the right rewards programs, you can enjoy stays at these hotels for the same price as budget accommodations. Below are ten amazing hotels around the world you can book using points.
Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa, Maldives
The Hilton Amingiri Resort is an excellent choice for travelers looking to book with points. For just 110,000 Hilton points per night, you can stay in a beach villa with a private pool, where standard rates typically exceed $1,000. This spacious room accommodates up to three guests and offers a reasonable boat transfer fee, making it a fantastic value.
You can cover up to two free nights at this hotel with one or more of the following Hilton credit cards:
- Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card: Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after spending $3,000 in your first 6 months.
- Hilton Honors American Express Business Card: Earn 175,000 Bonus Points after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months.
- Hilton Honors American Express Card: Earn 100,000 bonus Points after spending $2,000 in your first 6 months.
Calala Island, Nicaragua
Calala Island stands out as a unique Hyatt hotel that provides an all-inclusive experience. Award nights can be hard to find due to limited availability, but for just 35,000-45,000 points per night, you can enjoy a stay that includes transportation.
Hyatt points are easily accumulated through partnerships with credit card rewards programs such as Chase Ultimate Rewards. Moreover, to maximize your points, consider these Hyatt credit cards:
- World of Hyatt Credit Card: Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 in your first 3 months.
- World of Hyatt Business Credit Card: Earn 60,000 Bonus Points after spending $5,000 in your first 3 months.
Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE
Located just outside Dubai, the Al Maha Resort offers an all-inclusive luxury suite experience. While free nights typically start around 85,000 points, it is a solid value considering that paid nights can cost over $1,000. Additionally, booking five consecutive nights earns a free night, providing further savings.
Marriott’s credit cards allow for easy accumulation of points to cover your stay:
- Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card: Earn 185,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in your first 6 months.
- Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express Card: Earn 155,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in your first 6 months.
- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card: Earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in your first 3 months.
Hotel Indigo Galápagos, San Cristobal, Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are known for their biodiversity, and there are limited luxury accommodations. However, the Hotel Indigo offers a unique experience with award nights priced around 95,000 points, while paid rates frequently exceed $500.
If you need more points, consider the following IHG credit cards:
- IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card: Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 in your first 3 months.
- IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card: Earn 80,000 Bonus Points after spending $2,000 in your first 3 months.
Park Hyatt Sydney, Australia
Situated on the iconic Sydney Harbour facing the Opera House, the Park Hyatt Sydney is a masterpiece of luxury. A night at this hotel can be booked for 35,000-45,000 points. Even without the view, guests enjoy high-end amenities and access to breathtaking sights.
Mango House Seychelles, Mahe, Seychelles
While not all hotels publish an award chart, booking a deluxe room at the Mango House typically costs 110,000 points. This exclusive resort features only 41 rooms, and considering rates go over $1,000 during peak season, points redemption here is very beneficial.
The Gritti Palace Venice, Italy
For those seeking historic luxury, the Gritti Palace in Venice is perfect. Although typical paid rates exceed $1,500 during summer, you can often find award nights available for just 92,000 points. This makes booking with points incredibly appealing.
Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay, Greece
The Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay offers spectacular views and amenities at a competitive rate, charging only 30,000 Wyndham points per night. Plus, complimentary breakfast and parking enhance your stay as a family or group traveler.
Wyndham Rewards Earner Card: Earn 45,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Card: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
