• Hey there! Welcome to TFC! View fewer ads on the website just by signing up on TF Community.

Unveiling Hong Kong: Miles, Points, and the Art of Savvy Spending

anirban.choudhury

TF Legend
TF Family
Moderator
VIP Lounge
Chapter 1: A Frugal Prelude - BOB Visa Sapphire Debit Card

Our journey kicked off on a note of financial prudence, with the BOB Visa Sapphire Debit Card providing complimentary airport drop and pickup, an economical start to what would be a journey filled with strategic spending and luxurious indulgence.

Chapter 2: Personalized Welcome - Magnus Card's Meet and Greet

The Magnus Card's meet and greet service at Delhi's IGI Terminal 3 added a personal touch to our arrival and departure ,setting the tone for a meticulously curated expedition.

Chapter 3: Miles High - Cathay Pacific Business Class

Our airborne experience soared to new heights with Cathay Pacific Business Class. The redemption of 150,000 CX miles, converted from 300,000 Amex MR points at a 2:1 ratio, resulted in a journey that would have otherwise set us back a substantial 415,000 INR.

IMG_20231108_012826972_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_013731332_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_014631564.jpg IMG_20231112_181456001~2.jpg IMG_20231112_183519264.jpg IMG_20231112_183532826.jpg

Chapter 4: Macau's Opulence - Sofitel @ Ponte 16 Prestige Suite

Our first night in Macau was marked by opulence as we checked into the Sofitel Prestige Suite. Secured with 20,000 Accor points (equivalent to 37,000 INR), the suite offered more than just accommodation. It provided an experience with lounge access, express check-in, and breathtaking views.

IMG_20231108_170727952_HDR~2.jpg IMG_20231108_170727952_HDR~2.jpg IMG_20231109_095032928.jpg IMG_20231109_095036468_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_160608636_HDR.jpg
View attachment InShot_20231128_001001749.mp4



Chapter 5: Hong Kong Escapades - Novotel City Gate and Novotel Century

The Hong Kong leg of our journey unfolded across three nights. Novotel City Gate impressed with spacious rooms, while Novotel Century, though lacking in room size, still contributed to our memorable stay. Both nights were booked using an Accor Stay Plus voucher, a savvy investment at 23,000 INR, saving us from a 32,000 INR room fare.

IMG_20231110_172738836_HDR.jpg IMG_20231110_201610879.jpg

Chapter 6: Disney Dreams - Explorer's Lodge at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

The grand finale awaited at the Disney Explorer's Lodge. Secured through Amex Plat Charge Concierge at 26,000 INR, inclusive of breakfast and special birthday decorations for our daughter, it proved to be a magical steal compared to the 30,000 INR outside rate. The Lodge's enchanting ambiance, character dining, and Disney-inspired breakfast created moments etched in time.
IMG_20231111_190248968.jpg IMG_20231112_094139022~2.jpg IMG_20231112_101026637_HDR.jpg
View attachment InShot_20231128_002329431.mp4



Chapter 7: The Tapestry Unveiled

From the grandeur of Sofitel to the enchantment of Disney, the tapestry of our journey unfolded seamlessly. Breakfasts echoed international standards, the Novotel duo offered diverse experiences, and Disney Explorer's Lodge stood as a testament to the art of creating memories.

Chapter 8: Beyond Accommodation - Extravagant Expenditures

  • Flight Taxes: 45,000 INR
  • Disney Explorer's Lodge: 26,000 INR
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: 22,000 INR
  • Hotel Dining: 12,000 INR (Paid with approx 6,600 Accor Points)
  • Shopping Splurge: 120,000 INR (Including the purchase of an iPhone 15 Pro at 91,000 INR)
  • Local Commute: 10,000 INR
  • Local Food: 25,000 INR
  • Activities: 50,000 INR ( Earning 3 Accor points against each euro spent through Accor Klook 😉😁
Total INR Spend: 310,000 INR (Including an iPhone Purchase and Accor Plus Membership)

(I Have used Atlas for hotel and airline bookings which gave me 10% returns, BOB Eterna for Forex Spends upto 50k and I have earned extra 5000 RP during promotional offer( Total 12500 RP redeemed against statement credit for 3125 , and forex charges of 1125 net return 3.8%), and DCB with GVP activated , cash withdrawals were handled by Indusind Exclusive DC with no markup and no withdrawal charges across HK and Macau.)

Miles and Points Spend:

  • Cathay Pacific: 150,000 CX miles (300,000 Amex MR points)
  • Accor: 27,000 Accor points
  • Accor Stay Plus Vouchers: 2 bought at 23,000 INR

Epilogue: A Symphony of Miles, Points, and Unbelievable Savings

As the curtains draw on our Hong Kong escapade, the grand total of expenditures unveils a fascinating blend of luxury, strategic spending, and unforgettable experiences. From the unavoidable flight taxes to the exhilarating iPhone purchase, every rupee and every point invested transformed into memories woven with threads of miles, points, and pure magic.

Our journey was not just a testament to the power of savvy planning but a living example of how to turn every expenditure into an investment in the extraordinary.
Untitled_Project_V1.png
InShot_20231127_235622939.jpg
 
Last edited:

Pramtesh

TF Premier
VIP Lounge
Chapter 1: A Frugal Prelude - BOB Visa Sapphire Debit Card

Our journey kicked off on a note of financial prudence, with the BOB Visa Sapphire Debit Card providing complimentary airport drop and pickup, an economical start to what would be a journey filled with strategic spending and luxurious indulgence.

Chapter 2: Personalized Welcome - Magnus Card's Meet and Greet

The Magnus Card's meet and greet service at Delhi's IGI Terminal 3 added a personal touch to our arrival and departure ,setting the tone for a meticulously curated expedition.

Chapter 3: Miles High - Cathay Pacific Business Class

Our airborne experience soared to new heights with Cathay Pacific Business Class. The redemption of 150,000 CX miles, converted from 300,000 Amex MR points at a 2:1 ratio, resulted in a journey that would have otherwise set us back a substantial 415,000 INR.

IMG_20231108_012826972_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_013731332_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_014631564.jpg IMG_20231112_181456001~2.jpg IMG_20231112_183519264.jpg IMG_20231112_183532826.jpg

Chapter 4: Macau's Opulence - Sofitel @ Ponte 16 Prestige Suite

Our first night in Macau was marked by opulence as we checked into the Sofitel Prestige Suite. Secured with 20,000 Accor points (equivalent to 37,000 INR), the suite offered more than just accommodation. It provided an experience with lounge access, express check-in, and breathtaking views.

IMG_20231108_170727952_HDR~2.jpg IMG_20231108_170727952_HDR~2.jpg IMG_20231109_095032928.jpg IMG_20231109_095036468_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_160608636_HDR.jpg
View attachment InShot_20231128_001001749.mp4



Chapter 5: Hong Kong Escapades - Novotel City Gate and Novotel Century

The Hong Kong leg of our journey unfolded across three nights. Novotel City Gate impressed with spacious rooms, while Novotel Century, though lacking in room size, still contributed to our memorable stay. Both nights were booked using an Accor Stay Plus voucher, a savvy investment at 23,000 INR, saving us from a 32,000 INR room fare.

IMG_20231110_172738836_HDR.jpg IMG_20231110_201610879.jpg

Chapter 6: Disney Dreams - Explorer's Lodge at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

The grand finale awaited at the Disney Explorer's Lodge. Secured through Amex Plat Charge Concierge at 26,000 INR, inclusive of breakfast and special birthday decorations for our daughter, it proved to be a magical steal compared to the 30,000 INR outside rate. The Lodge's enchanting ambiance, character dining, and Disney-inspired breakfast created moments etched in time.
IMG_20231111_190248968.jpg IMG_20231112_094139022~2.jpg IMG_20231112_101026637_HDR.jpg
View attachment InShot_20231128_002329431.mp4



Chapter 7: The Tapestry Unveiled

From the grandeur of Sofitel to the enchantment of Disney, the tapestry of our journey unfolded seamlessly. Breakfasts echoed international standards, the Novotel duo offered diverse experiences, and Disney Explorer's Lodge stood as a testament to the art of creating memories.

Chapter 8: Beyond Accommodation - Extravagant Expenditures

  • Flight Taxes: 45,000 INR
  • Disney Explorer's Lodge: 26,000 INR
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: 22,000 INR
  • Hotel Dining: 12,000 INR (Paid with approx 6,600 Accor Points)
  • Shopping Splurge: 120,000 INR (Including the purchase of an iPhone 15 Pro at 91,000 INR)
  • Local Commute: 10,000 INR
  • Local Food: 25,000 INR
  • Activities: 50,000 INR ( Earning 3 Accor points against each euro spent through Accor Klook 😉😁
Total INR Spend: 310,000 INR (Including an iPhone Purchase and Accor Plus Membership)

(I Have used Atlas for hotel and airline bookings which gave me 10% returns, BOB Eterna for Forex Spends upto 50k and I have earned extra 5000 RP during promotional offer( Total 12500 RP redeemed against statement credit for 3125 , and forex charges of 1125 net return 3.8%), and DCB with GVP activated , cash withdrawals were handled by Indusind Exclusive DC with no markup and no withdrawal charges across HK and Macau.)

Miles and Points Spend:

  • Cathay Pacific: 150,000 CX miles (300,000 Amex MR points)
  • Accor: 27,000 Accor points
  • Accor Stay Plus Vouchers: 2 bought at 23,000 INR

Epilogue: A Symphony of Miles, Points, and Unbelievable Savings

As the curtains draw on our Hong Kong escapade, the grand total of expenditures unveils a fascinating blend of luxury, strategic spending, and unforgettable experiences. From the unavoidable flight taxes to the exhilarating iPhone purchase, every rupee and every point invested transformed into memories woven with threads of miles, points, and pure magic.

Our journey was not just a testament to the power of savvy planning but a living example of how to turn every expenditure into an investment in the extraordinary.
Untitled_Project_V1.png
InShot_20231127_235622939.jpg
Chapter 1: A Frugal Prelude - BOB Visa Sapphire Debit Card

Our journey kicked off on a note of financial prudence, with the BOB Visa Sapphire Debit Card providing complimentary airport drop and pickup, an economical start to what would be a journey filled with strategic spending and luxurious indulgence.

Chapter 2: Personalized Welcome - Magnus Card's Meet and Greet

The Magnus Card's meet and greet service at Delhi's IGI Terminal 3 added a personal touch to our arrival and departure ,setting the tone for a meticulously curated expedition.

Chapter 3: Miles High - Cathay Pacific Business Class

Our airborne experience soared to new heights with Cathay Pacific Business Class. The redemption of 150,000 CX miles, converted from 300,000 Amex MR points at a 2:1 ratio, resulted in a journey that would have otherwise set us back a substantial 415,000 INR.

IMG_20231108_012826972_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_013731332_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_014631564.jpg IMG_20231112_181456001~2.jpg IMG_20231112_183519264.jpg IMG_20231112_183532826.jpg

Chapter 4: Macau's Opulence - Sofitel @ Ponte 16 Prestige Suite

Our first night in Macau was marked by opulence as we checked into the Sofitel Prestige Suite. Secured with 20,000 Accor points (equivalent to 37,000 INR), the suite offered more than just accommodation. It provided an experience with lounge access, express check-in, and breathtaking views.

IMG_20231108_170727952_HDR~2.jpg IMG_20231108_170727952_HDR~2.jpg IMG_20231109_095032928.jpg IMG_20231109_095036468_HDR.jpg IMG_20231108_160608636_HDR.jpg
View attachment InShot_20231128_001001749.mp4



Chapter 5: Hong Kong Escapades - Novotel City Gate and Novotel Century

The Hong Kong leg of our journey unfolded across three nights. Novotel City Gate impressed with spacious rooms, while Novotel Century, though lacking in room size, still contributed to our memorable stay. Both nights were booked using an Accor Stay Plus voucher, a savvy investment at 23,000 INR, saving us from a 32,000 INR room fare.

IMG_20231110_172738836_HDR.jpg IMG_20231110_201610879.jpg

Chapter 6: Disney Dreams - Explorer's Lodge at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

The grand finale awaited at the Disney Explorer's Lodge. Secured through Amex Plat Charge Concierge at 26,000 INR, inclusive of breakfast and special birthday decorations for our daughter, it proved to be a magical steal compared to the 30,000 INR outside rate. The Lodge's enchanting ambiance, character dining, and Disney-inspired breakfast created moments etched in time.
IMG_20231111_190248968.jpg IMG_20231112_094139022~2.jpg IMG_20231112_101026637_HDR.jpg
View attachment InShot_20231128_002329431.mp4



Chapter 7: The Tapestry Unveiled

From the grandeur of Sofitel to the enchantment of Disney, the tapestry of our journey unfolded seamlessly. Breakfasts echoed international standards, the Novotel duo offered diverse experiences, and Disney Explorer's Lodge stood as a testament to the art of creating memories.

Chapter 8: Beyond Accommodation - Extravagant Expenditures

  • Flight Taxes: 45,000 INR
  • Disney Explorer's Lodge: 26,000 INR
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: 22,000 INR
  • Hotel Dining: 12,000 INR (Paid with approx 6,600 Accor Points)
  • Shopping Splurge: 120,000 INR (Including the purchase of an iPhone 15 Pro at 91,000 INR)
  • Local Commute: 10,000 INR
  • Local Food: 25,000 INR
  • Activities: 50,000 INR ( Earning 3 Accor points against each euro spent through Accor Klook 😉😁
Total INR Spend: 310,000 INR (Including an iPhone Purchase and Accor Plus Membership)

(I Have used Atlas for hotel and airline bookings which gave me 10% returns, BOB Eterna for Forex Spends upto 50k and I have earned extra 5000 RP during promotional offer( Total 12500 RP redeemed against statement credit for 3125 , and forex charges of 1125 net return 3.8%), and DCB with GVP activated , cash withdrawals were handled by Indusind Exclusive DC with no markup and no withdrawal charges across HK and Macau.)

Miles and Points Spend:

  • Cathay Pacific: 150,000 CX miles (300,000 Amex MR points)
  • Accor: 27,000 Accor points
  • Accor Stay Plus Vouchers: 2 bought at 23,000 INR

Epilogue: A Symphony of Miles, Points, and Unbelievable Savings

As the curtains draw on our Hong Kong escapade, the grand total of expenditures unveils a fascinating blend of luxury, strategic spending, and unforgettable experiences. From the unavoidable flight taxes to the exhilarating iPhone purchase, every rupee and every point invested transformed into memories woven with threads of miles, points, and pure magic.

Our journey was not just a testament to the power of savvy planning but a living example of how to turn every expenditure into an investment in the extraordinary.
Untitled_Project_V1.png
InShot_20231127_235622939.jpg
😁 IMG_20231128_052413.jpg
 

anirban.choudhury

TF Legend
TF Family
Moderator
VIP Lounge
Amazing!

Can you please elaborate on how to earn Accor points for Klook bookings?
Use this link to book your activities through klook


Remember to login to your accor account

Currently the offer is you would get 2 Accor points for every euro spend it can go as high as 3.5
When I booked my activities the offer was of 3 Accor points per euro
 

anirban.choudhury

TF Legend
TF Family
Moderator
VIP Lounge
Loved the write up and all the mind coming to play for one trip. It would have taken a lot of time and patience to build this up.
Thanks
Yeah , but as I already knew about the FFP's and programs so it was a breeze.
CX availability is awesome with around 3-5 J seats available for redemption on most of the days.
Accor also has around 6-7 properties across HK and Macau which covers most of the parts and the Disney land stay was pre-planned as I have stayed in other Disney land hotels earlier and it has always been exciting.
 

thedator

TF Premier
VIP Lounge
Such a great writeup and a great stay!

With 2 kids, did any of the hotels cause issues saying we will only accept 1 kid for free and charge stay for the other or something?

I was speaking to Novotel goa and they flat out said only 1 kid allowed unless you book a suite.
 

anirban.choudhury

TF Legend
TF Family
Moderator
VIP Lounge
Such a great writeup and a great stay!

With 2 kids, did any of the hotels cause issues saying we will only accept 1 kid for free and charge stay for the other or something?

I was speaking to Novotel goa and they flat out said only 1 kid allowed unless you book a suite.
Actually my extended family was with me on this trip , around 10 Pax in total with 3-4 rooms per hotel so there wasn't any issue :D

Only ours was through miles and for everyone else was revenue and i earned quite a good status points and airmiles for their booking :D

But Yes Novotel had one child per room policy and Novotel Century even didnt allow 2 kids in their suite rooms , but Novotel City gate made an exception and allowed 2 kids in their suite room but later we managed with our normal stay plus redeemed rooms only so didn't bothered to upgrade.
 

thedator

TF Premier
VIP Lounge
Actually my extended family was with me on this trip , around 10 Pax in total with 3-4 rooms per hotel so there wasn't any issue :D

Only ours was through miles and for everyone else was revenue and i earned quite a good status points and airmiles for their booking :D

But Yes Novotel had one child per room policy and Novotel Century even didnt allow 2 kids in their suite rooms , but Novotel City gate made an exception and allowed 2 kids in their suite room but later we managed with our normal stay plus redeemed rooms only so didn't bothered to upgrade.
Yeah, thats what I figured. When talking to Novotel Goa, she was like its not enough space for 4 pax. I was like dude, its a 1 year old child, how much space do you thik they take. Didnt budge. I do wonder how other hotel chains are in this regard.

With a big family that gets managed for sure and the points don't hurt 😉
 
Top