Business Class Query to Europe - Recommendations?

[Sprucegoose]

I have no idea what we'll do in Jakarta?

There are some great hotels. What level of luxury are you looking for? Look at Tri[advisor - the reviews are generally faithful.

NYC to Sydney hopefully on points.

What airline frequent flyer or credit card programs are you members of, and what level of status? Some have the option of purchasing points.

I also found travel insurance via a group called Insure and Go for $1151 for the whole trip, covering unlimited medical expenses and cancellations and holdups. I didn't want to go to that extra expense, but given my husband's situation it seemed like a wise idea. What do you think? I haven't committed yet? The Qantas Insurance was much more expensive.

Considering the importance of insurance, especially if age and pre-existing medical conditions could be a factor, I suggest you act prudently. It might be beneficial to consult an insurance broker or conduct some research. Choice.com.au could be a good starting point. You don't need to make a decision right now.

Insurance is usually a product you get what you pay for and the choice of underwriter is important.

Research, research and research!

 

[FlyingFiona]

I'm looking at air bnb's for accomodation in Europe which I'm thinking will be cheaper than hotels.

Not necessarily, and often, not at all. Depends on where you are and for how long. Explore both options

Interestingly, it seems that flying between places in Europe is cheaper than the train, which is weird?

Trains are an excellent way of travelling in Europe though and may be more comfortable given your situation. They are city centre to city centre, spacious, and (depending on where in Europe you are) the fast trains are usually very efficiently run. I wouldn't discount them. I doubt they are always more expensive - flying around Europe has become a bit of a no-no locally as environmental concerns lift and so train travel is promoted through price as well as conscience and convenience. The earlier you book typically the cheaper the price.

 

[equus]

perhaps buying wine with a good dash of bonus points might be a good strategy to compensate for having to purchase the whole 50k points.

If you do need to purchase points - an excellent strategy - buying top up points from Qantas costs in excess of 3c per point - getting the right bonus point deals (ignore the wine, just look at the bonus points), depending on your points earn on the actual purchase itself can come out at just over 2c per point - and that includes "free" wine.

 

[Duffa]

With that budget I’m gravitating towards Oman Air fares to Europe. Historically around the 5.5K to 6K return mark. Australia to Asia on one of their partners (Thai, Malaysian), then via Oman to Europe. It’s two stops, but their product is very good apparently.

Oman "cheap" fares seem to have disappeared but good lucking your quest

 

[Flyfrequently]

Not necessarily, and often, not at all. Depends on where you are and for how long. Explore both options


Trains are an excellent way of travelling in Europe though and may be more comfortable given your situation. They are city centre to city centre, spacious, and (depending on where in Europe you are) the fast trains are usually very efficiently run. I wouldn't discount them. I doubt they are always more expensive - flying around Europe has become a bit of a no-no locally as environmental concerns lift and so train travel is promoted through price as well as conscience and convenience. The earlier you book typically the cheaper the price.

Agree with FlyingFiona @Becc re train travel (especially France) less hassle, centre of city, only downside for me is lugging suitcases - have learned to travel/pack more efficiently now!

Good site for researching trains is The Man in Seat 61. Bookings open 60 - 90 days so now is the time to get a feel for what can work for you. Checking out train journeys on YouTube can give you insight as well.

In relation to Airbnb's, my preference is for hotels as they have English speaking staff on hand if you need assistance ie travel, health etc.

With travel insurance - reading the PDS thoroughly is absolutely essential, particularly re pre existing medical and how you are covered when using points for travel.
Have been looking for CR NYC back home have only seen economy in October.

Keep looking though!