So my 2017 birthday trip almost didn’t happen. I was so indecisive as to where I wanted to go that I contemplated staying home. ? Then I decided to be “budget” traveler for this trip.
Anywho, I found a deal for 8 days in Morrocco that included 5 cities, accommodations, meals, and a desert camp experience (you know I need that adventure) for $850.
Well, the flight out of the States was acting oh so wrong. The ticket prices were between $1100 to $1400. I couldn’t see myself paying that kind of money for airfare and then not get points or mileage. So I started stalking Delta. I found a roundtrip ticket to Brussels from FLL with a connection in ATL for $430. Then a ticket from Brussels to Casablanca and Marrakesh to Brussels for $480. I would get my points, mileage, and status. #winning Just remember it takes patience to be a stalker (lol).
After such a huge win, I needed to get a good savings on hotel rates. Then, I used my points with Marriott. My extra hotel stays were basically free. I have to pay the hotel taxes. Not a bad deal. However, I am paying for an overnight layover in Amsterdam. I found a deal with a hotel that is inside AMS airport. My flight from Marrakech to Brussels had a 5 hour layover in the middle of night. I do not feel comfortable sleeping in an airport. So I extended my layover to explore Netherlands or sleep in.
Normally, I would hire private transportation or take a cab from the airport to the hotel. For this trip, I said no. Also, I was not feeling the $60 cost. So I let my fingers hit the keys and found out Brussels has a train station within the aiport. All I need to know is which stop is my hotel. So I contacted the hotel and ta dah I was set. As soon as I arrived at BRU, I purchased my ticket with a day pass for 13,30€ ($15). When I got to the station, I paid for a taxi to the hotel for 7,60€ ($9). So I ended up with a saving of $40 on just transportation.
After that I ended up learning the metro system and touring the city on the Hop On Hop Off bus. So for Day 1, my meals and activities were $80.
Now the downside of this is when I arrived to Brussels, the temperature was 57°F/13°C and it was raining. I ended up buying my souvenir sweatshirt sooner than later lol.
Anywho, I made the most of it and still explored. Below are several memorable photos I was able to capture.
You know I couldn’t leave Brussels without have a Belgian waffle and frites.
Next stop is Casabalanca.
I also always go for a trip to celebrate my birthday!!! And Morocco would be… wow! You got a great deal for that price but just like you, I often have to work so hard to find a matching flight deal, ugh!
You absolutely nailed this trip! Great work on finding the perfect deals! It can be tough but you must be so glad that you stuck with it. Enjoy the waffles and chocolate and happy birthday!!
The train station looks so familiar. Great pics!
Yay, good job on finding those flight deals! Can’t wait to read the Casablanca post!
I really like Brussels! Been there last year. And you’ll have so much fun in Morocco. Enjoy!
Winning for sure. Great deals! Birthday girl is on point.
Such a fun way to celebrate your birthday. Loved the pictures and the visual experience through them. Thanks for sharing.