How I Flew Business Class to France for Just $227.50 (one way)+ 50K Points …and how YOU can do it too!

Can you imagine sipping champagne at 30,000 feet on your way to France… without spending thousands of dollars? Because that’s exactly what I did. In January, I flew business class to Paris (one way) for just $227.50 in taxes and 50,000 points—and I’m here to show you how you can too.

If you’re ready to stop scrolling travel reels and start living them—keep reading.

Why France in January?

Let’s be honest—France is stunning year-round, but January has some underrated perks:

✅ Fewer tourists
✅ Cozy cafés and crisp winter vibes
✅ Major shopping deals (Les Soldes)
✅ And more award seat availability for points bookings!

It was peaceful, romantic, and totally worth bundling up for.

The Points Strategy

This trip wasn’t sponsored. No influencer deals. Just smart travel hacking.

Here’s what I used:

• 50,000 Amex Membership Rewards® Points

• $227.50 in taxes and fees

• Earned points from:

  • ex Platinum welcome bonus

  • Everyday spending

  • Shopping online with Rakuten (hello, free points!) Here is my referral code to earn $30 after qualifying purchases.  RAKUTEN

  • Pro tip: Don’t sleep on Rakuten. I’ve earned thousands of points by shopping for things I already needed.

How I Snagged a Business Class Seat

Here’s where the magic happened:

✨ I transferred my Amex points to Flying Blue (Air France/KLM’s rewards program).
✨ Flying Blue regularly offers Promo Rewards, and I scored one at just 50K points.
✨ My total out of pocket? $227.50 in taxes and fees.

And yes, I got:

• A lie-flat seat

• Lounge access

• Delicious meals

• And that “I’m flying business class to Paris” feeling!

🧳 How You Can Do It Too

If you’re ready to book your own dreamy trip to France (or anywhere!), here’s what to do next:

1. Open a travel rewards credit card.
   (I love  Captital One Venture preferred for starters.)

2. Start earning points through everyday spending, referrals, and Rakuten.

3. Track airline promos. Flying Blue is amazing for France flights!

4. Use flexible travel dates to increase your chances of finding award availability.

5. Sign up for travel alerts or tools like Point.me and Seats.aero.

💬 Final Thoughts

Booking this trip with points wasn’t just a travel win—it was a life win. I got to experience a destination I love, in total comfort, while sticking to a budget.

💡 And if I can do it, so can you.

✨ Ready to start traveling smarter and finally use those points?

Follow me on Instagram @lets_talkmiles_andtravel for travel hacks, card tips, and real-time inspiration.