How to Find Hidden Gem Destinations Using Points and Miles

The allure of discovering hidden gems is one of the greatest joys of travel. While iconic cities like Paris and Tokyo will always have their appeal, uncovering lesser-known destinations can offer a deeper connection to culture, fewer crowds, and a more rewarding experience. The best part? You can use points and miles to get there without straining your wallet. Here’s how to find and enjoy these hidden treasures using the power of travel rewards.

Think Beyond Major Hubs

When planning your trip, consider flying into smaller regional airports instead of major international hubs. Many hidden gems are located just beyond these bustling metropolises. For example, instead of landing in Rome, consider Bari or Lecce in Puglia, Italy’s heel, where you’ll find charming coastal towns and exquisite cuisine. Similarly, instead of Reykjavik, Iceland’s lesser-known Akureyri in the north provides stunning landscapes with fewer tourists.

Smaller cities often have better availability for award seats, as they’re less likely to be crowded with international travelers. Using tools like Google Flights or award search platforms, you can uncover routes to these overlooked airports while spending fewer miles.

Leverage Airline Alliances and Partnerships

Airline alliances and transferable points programs can be your best allies when venturing off the beaten path. For instance, Oneworld partners like Iberia and Finnair serve smaller European cities that showcase unique cultural experiences. Consider using American Airlines AAdvantage miles to reach destinations such as Rovaniemi, Finland, the gateway to Lapland, or Granada, Spain, home to the magnificent Alhambra.

Star Alliance carriers such as Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines connect travelers to picturesque towns like Salzburg, Austria, or Split, Croatia. Similarly, SkyTeam’s Air France and KLM offer great routes to secondary cities like Toulouse or Rotterdam. The key is to explore these alliances and utilize programs with low redemption thresholds, such as Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles or Avianca’s LifeMiles.

Maximize Sweet Spots in Award Charts

Award charts are your gateway to maximizing the value of your points. Programs like ANA Mileage Club, for example, allow you to fly round-trip in business class between the U.S. and Japan for just 75,000 miles. While Tokyo remains a popular destination, venturing into cities like Fukuoka or Sapporo opens the door to hidden treasures within Japan.

Avianca LifeMiles often has excellent deals for intra-Europe flights, while Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan offers incredible value for Cathay Pacific redemptions to less-visited Asian destinations like Cebu in the Philippines. By researching and identifying sweet spots, you can stretch your miles and uncover hidden gems worldwide.

Explore Regional Connections with Points

Once you’ve arrived in a major hub, use points for regional flights to reach smaller destinations. British Airways Avios, for instance, are perfect for short-haul flights within Europe, where you can fly routes like Madrid to Mallorca or London to Inverness for as few as 4,000 Avios. Similarly, Flying Blue’s dynamic pricing often yields affordable options for routes within Europe and Africa.

Many airlines also partner with local carriers to serve regional airports, making it easier to book those hidden gems as part of your main award ticket. Be flexible with dates and routes to uncover the best opportunities.

Combine Land and Air Travel

Europe’s rail network and Asia’s extensive bus systems make combining land and air travel a seamless option. Fly into a major city using miles and then connect to smaller towns via train or bus. For example, landing in Zurich and taking a scenic train ride to Interlaken can offer some of the most breathtaking views in Switzerland. Similarly, fly to Athens and hop on a ferry to lesser-known Greek islands like Naxos or Milos, where you’ll find pristine beaches and authentic villages.

Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards allow you to use points for train bookings or travel expenses, further extending the reach of your rewards.

Consider Boutique Hotel Rewards

Accommodations in hidden gem destinations often include charming boutique hotels or family-run guesthouses. Hotel loyalty programs can be just as valuable in these locations. World of Hyatt, for example, partners with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), giving you access to unique properties like a historic manor in the French countryside or a boutique villa in Luang Prabang, Laos.

Marriott Bonvoy offers an extensive range of properties, including those in off-the-beaten-path destinations like Ghent, Belgium, or Porto, Portugal. Using hotel points not only saves money but also enhances your stay with perks like complimentary breakfast or upgraded rooms.

Conclusion: Unlocking Hidden Gems with Points and Miles

Discovering hidden gem destinations is all about looking beyond the obvious and using your points and miles strategically. By leveraging airline alliances, award chart sweet spots, and regional connections, you can explore these lesser-known locales without overspending. Combine air travel with rail or ferries and utilize boutique hotel rewards to create a truly unforgettable journey.

What hidden gem destinations have you discovered using points and miles? Share your stories in the comments, or tag us in your travel photos on Instagram at @roaming.cactus. Let’s inspire each other to explore the road less traveled and make the most of our adventures!