Source: "This TikTok Hack Can Help You Book a $22,000 African Safari for Less Than $3,000" - Travel + Leisure (August 20, 2024)

Main Theme: Leveraging credit card points, specifically Chase and Marriott Bonvoy, to drastically reduce the cost of a luxurious African safari.

Key Takeaways:

• Significant Savings: TikToker David Shae demonstrates how to book a safari at the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in Kenya, typically costing $22,000, for the equivalent of $2,900 using points.
• Chase Transfer Bonus: The strategy hinges on a 70% transfer bonus offered by Chase for transferring points to Marriott Bonvoy. This means transferring 100,000 Chase points yields 170,000 Marriott points.
• Marriott Bonvoy Redemption: Shae identifies a five-night stay at the lodge for under 500,000 Marriott points, including a fifth night free – a perk of using Marriott points.
• Point Acquisition: Shae advises linking Chase and Marriott Bonvoy accounts to facilitate point transfer. He suggests transferring 290,000 Chase points (yielding 492,000 Marriott points after the bonus) to cover the cost.
• Alternative for Insufficient Points: For those lacking enough points, Marriott allows purchasing points at a rate of $1,250 for 100,000 points.
• Value Proposition: "If you were to trade these points in for gift cards, that would only be $2,900. You're getting a $22,000 vacation for the equivalent of $2,900 dollars," states Shae.

Important Notes:

• Availability for booking with points may vary.
• This strategy requires a significant amount of credit card points.
• It is crucial to compare the value of redeeming points for travel versus other redemption options.

Quote: "This is how you can book a $22,000 all-inclusive African safari using only your Chase, Amex, or Marriott points," - David Shae

Overall: The article highlights a valuable travel hack for those seeking affordable luxury experiences. By utilizing credit card rewards programs strategically, travelers can unlock significant savings on dream vacations like an African safari.

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