The Hidden Costs of ”Cheap” Countries: What $300 a Day in Madagascar Really Buys You

Learn what it really costs to honeymoon in one of the world's least-visited countries and how to get there on points.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French share what it actually costs to honeymoon in one of the world's least-visited countries. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including the new Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits that went live June 15th, a full Wyndham Rewards card family refresh that added a brand-new premium card, why airfares are up more than 26% year-over-year amid broader travel price increases, and highlights from AAA's new Five Diamond Hotels list.

Then, they discuss Sally's Madagascar honeymoon from every angle, with tips on whether a group tour could be the right call for destinations with little tourist infrastructure, why countries with the lowest cost of living can be among the most expensive places to visit, and how to score business class seats on Ethiopian Airlines for 80,000 United miles to one of the farthest destinations from San Francisco on earth. They also feature an interview with Madagascar guide Zu Rakuthu Nirina and answer a listener’s question about using 176,000 United miles for flights from SFO to Singapore.

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Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards
• 5 Things to Know About the Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card
• Wyndham Credit Cards Get a Glow-Up and a New Premium Sibling
• Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Review: Solid Rewards and Perks for Loyalists
• Wyndham Rewards Earner Credit Card Review: Ideal for Frugal Travelers

Resources discussed in this episode:

• PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel. 

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