64. Jess's Luxurious Trip to Japan: Travel On Points to The Land of the Rising Sun

Ever wonder how a journey to Japan, packed with adventure and luxury, can be almost free? Well, buckle up, because Jess's recent trip to the Land of the Rising Sun is nothing short of a travel masterpiece. Imagine scoring business class flights worth over $20,000 for a mere $1,000 in taxes and fees, and luxuriating in nine nights at opulent Hyatt hotels for less than $300. Sounds like a dream, right? But it's exactly what Jess did, and she's spilling all the secrets. With a whirlwind of strategic planning and a dash of spontaneity, Jess and her stepdaughters flew from Chicago to Tokyo on a deal too good to pass up. From the moment they landed, Tokyo welcomed them with its bustling charm and endless explorations. Staying at the Andaz Tokyo, they were treated to breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, and a taste of Japanese culture that's hard to come by. But it wasn't just about the destinations; it was about embracing the beauty of travel, from the exhilaration of flying business class to the serenity of Kyoto's historical sites. This is a vivid reminder of the joys of exploring new cultures, the thrill of luxury travel made accessible through savvy spending, points, and the unforgettable memories created along the way. We explore their journey through Tokyo and Kyoto, showcasing the best of Japan, from the futuristic vibes of teamLab Planets to the timeless beauty of Kyoto's temples and the Park Hyatt's serene luxury. This experience is all about the power of points and miles, turning a dream into an affordable reality. So, whether you're dreaming of neon-lit Tokyo streets or the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, Jess's story proves that with a little know-how and some credit card points, these dreams can become reality. Ready to embark on your own journey of nearly-free travel and create stories to tell for a lifetime? Hit play to listen to the full episode and dive deep into the world of savvy award travel. Your adventure awaits!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links From This Episode: Andaz Tokyo: https://www.hyatt.com/andaz/tyoaz-andaz-tokyo-toranomon-hills?src=corp_lclb_gmb_seo_tyoaz  Park Hyatt Kyoto: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/japan/park-hyatt-kyoto/itmph  SmartEx App (for Shinkansen tickets): https://smart-ex.jp/en/app/download/index.html  Voice Map app: https://voicemap.me/walking-tour-app  Kamakura History Walk: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/658965    Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Jess's Japan Trip 00:58 The Journey Begins: Flight to Japan 13:38 Navigating Tokyo: Public Transportation and Accommodation 18:59 Exploring Tokyo: Food, Culture, and Attractions 32:45 Transition to Kyoto: Bullet Train Experience 35:03 Discovering Kyoto: Accommodation and Local Experiences 41:42 Day Trips from Kyoto: Nara and Osaka 41:51 Wrapping Up the Japan Adventure: Final Night in Tokyo 44:31 Reflections and Takeaways from the Japan Trip