Dunkin’ Donuts Made Me Book a Flight

I was in Seattle last weekend for the First2Board Seattle Sessions, and I had a blast meeting new friends and reconnecting with old ones. I’m already looking forward to the Phoenix sessions next summer, and I’m proud to sponsor another year.

While there, my good friend Bonnie, Frugal Travel Lawyer, casually mentioned that she would be in Savannah next month and invited me to come out. With so much going on for me, it pretty much remained a loose thought in my head until yesterday.

She texted me yesterday encouraging me to at least price it out, so I did. I was shocked that the prices were so low (about ~$160ish round trip for a nonstop flight from JFK). Seeing that the fares were doable, I was more intrigued. This could possibly be a fun and extremely inexpensive trip after all.

But I’ll admit that I hesitated a bit before booking. The factors that stopped me from immediately pulling the trigger were: 1.) I hate being away from my kiddo, 2.) I hate flying out of JFK, and 3.) Since I’m all about status and miles lately, I haven’t flown JetBlue in over 5 years.

I’m so used to chasing miles on United (and now American), that I’ve pretty much ignored everyone else.

Then I connected the dots… it’s been a while since my mom and I have been away together, the price was right, I forgot that had JetBlue Mosaic status, I like Kimpton, and I like saving money.

First, since I am addicted to Dunkin’ Donuts iced teas, I immediately remembered that they had a promotion where you can get a 20% off JetBlue coupon simply by buying an $8.99 bag of coffee. I personally do not drink coffee, but I knew that bag would put money in my pocket (and make both my mother and mother-in-law happy).

That coupon pretty much convinced me to book the flights (just like Avios make me do silly things).

After the coupon was applied, my new total was $275.24 for two non-stop flights to SAV. I’m also bringing baby points traveler since he did so well on his first flights.

I continued to connect the dots. I applied for a status match with JetBlue back in March using my United 1K status, so I now have their top-tier Mosaic status until the end of the year. At the very least, we will at least get to sit towards the front of the plane and possibly check a bag for free if we need to.

What even sweetens the deal a little more is the fact that I to utilize my favorite Kimpton Inner circle perk – the free room offer + $50 dining credit.

Savannah has a new Kimpton property, The Brice Hotel. Since we will be in town for 2 nights, I booked the first night at the Brice for a $106 AAA rate, and the second night is free – can’t beat 2 nights at a brand-new hotel for a little over $50 a night!

So… I am going to Savannah…

It’ll be my first time down there, does anyone have any must-see attractions or food recommendations?