Looking at an American Express Platinum card? I will admit, I have one myself. After becoming a travel agent, I ask myself do I still need an American Express Platinum card? Do I still need to pay $695 a year for the travel perks?
How do you get travel perks without an American Express Platinum ?
Talk to a travel agent like me. Travel agents like me, have access to the same perks as an American Express Platinum holder. The benefits of an American Express Platinum card member when booking travel for their "fine hotels" collection receive the following:
Room upgrade on arrival, where available.
Early check-in, late check-out. (This is a great perk, if you have a late flight to catch).
Complimentary wifi
Hotel credits to be used at a restaurant, spa, or bar.
Daily breakfast for two
Yes, I can offer the same perks at the same hotels. Yes, it's true it can be a $600 value, if you just use it once. That itself will pay for the membership fees, however, what if you dont travel? Why not save yourself the $695 fee and use a travel agent like me.
You do not get the travel perks with all hotels, it's only certain hotels, so it's not a special thing that is offered to American Express Platinum card members. Most of these hotels are luxury to ultra luxury hotels. If you are not traveling and staying at those hotels it might not be worth it. Let me find you a suitable hotel and see if I can add perks.
American Express Platinum card has a really high APR. I never carry a balance on my Amex Platinum. So if you plan to pay over time for your big vacations, you might want to think twice. A travel agent like me may be able to find suppliers that will allow you to pay over time or simply use a different credit card and still get the travel perks.
There are still some great benefits with an American Express Platinum card such as the uber credits, access to the Centurion Platinum Lounge (that is another story), Gold status at Bonvoy hotels - that doesnt really get you much, and more. Do these justify the fees?
Next are thinking about applying for an American Express Platinum card, think about what you will actually use it for. If you just want to get travel perks without an American Express Platinum, contact me and I will check on the perks for you.
Check out my home page on why you should use a travel agent, we can save you on time, money, and stress.
Comments