American Express Travel: Your Ultimate Guide to Booking Flights and Hotels

American Express Travel is a comprehensive travel service that offers a wide range of benefits to its members. As a frequent traveler, I have found American Express Travel to be a valuable resource for booking flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. In this article, I will provide an overview of American Express Travel, including its benefits, rewards, and partnerships.

One of the standout features of American Express Travel is its Membership Rewards program. This program allows members to earn points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases, which can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, and more. Additionally, American Express offers a variety of credit cards that provide exclusive travel benefits, such as complimentary hotel stays, airport lounge access, and travel credits.

American Express Travel has partnerships with a number of leading hotel chains, including Marriott, Hilton, and InterContinental. These partnerships allow members to enjoy exclusive benefits, such as room upgrades, late checkouts, and complimentary breakfast. In addition to hotels, American Express Travel also offers a range of travel benefits, such as travel insurance, 24/7 customer service, and a best price guarantee.

Key Takeaways

  • American Express Travel offers a comprehensive travel service with a wide range of benefits and rewards.
  • The Membership Rewards program allows members to earn points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases.
  • American Express has partnerships with leading hotels and travel providers, offering exclusive benefits to its members.

American Express Travel Overview

As an American Express cardholder, I have access to American Express Travel, which is an online booking portal for flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages. I appreciate that the platform is easy to navigate and allows me to book travel with confidence, knowing that American Express has my back if anything goes wrong.

One of the benefits of using American Express Travel is that I can earn Membership Rewards® points for eligible purchases charged on my American Express Card. For example, I can earn three points per dollar spent on eligible travel purchases, including airfare, hotels, cruises, tours, car rentals, campgrounds, and travel purchases on third-party travel websites. This is a great way to earn points towards future travel or to redeem for other rewards.

Another benefit of using American Express Travel is that I can take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts. For example, I can book Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel and receive a $200 hotel credit each year. I can also book discounted premium tickets and receive a 35% points rebate on certain bookings.

I appreciate that American Express Travel provides 24/7 customer service and travel assistance. If I have any issues with my booking or need help while traveling, I can contact American Express Travel for support. Overall, I find American Express Travel to be a convenient and reliable way to book travel and earn rewards.

Membership Rewards

As an American Express cardholder, I have access to the Membership Rewards program, which allows me to earn points on most everyday purchases. These points can then be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including gift cards, travel rewards, immersive experiences, or even to cover recent Card charges.

One of the benefits of the Membership Rewards program is the ability to pay with points. This means that I can use my Membership Rewards points to pay for eligible purchases directly at checkout with select merchants. This is a great way to use my points to save money on everyday purchases.

Another great feature of the Membership Rewards program is the ability to transfer points to travel partners. This allows me to transfer my points to a variety of airlines and hotels, giving me even more options for redeeming my points for travel rewards.

I also appreciate the flexibility of the Membership Rewards program. There are no blackout dates or restrictions on when I can redeem my points, and I can use my points to cover all or part of my travel expenses. This makes it easy to use my points to get the rewards that matter most to me.

Overall, I find the Membership Rewards program to be a valuable benefit of my American Express card. The ability to earn points on everyday purchases and redeem them for a variety of rewards makes it easy to get the most out of my card.

American Express Cards

As an American Express cardholder, I have access to a wide range of benefits and rewards, including those specifically related to travel. The following are some of the top American Express cards that offer travel perks:

Platinum Card

The Platinum Card from American Express is a premium card that offers a range of travel benefits. As a basic card member, I have access to the following:

  • $200 airline fee credit per year
  • Access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide through the American Express Global Lounge Collection
  • Complimentary benefits at over 1,000 luxury hotels and resorts around the world through the Fine Hotels & Resorts program
  • Up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue
  • No foreign transaction fees

Business Platinum Card

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is similar to the personal Platinum Card, but with additional benefits tailored to business owners. As an eligible card member, I have access to the following:

  • $200 airline fee credit per year
  • Access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide through the American Express Global Lounge Collection
  • Complimentary benefits at over 1,000 luxury hotels and resorts around the world through the Fine Hotels & Resorts program
  • 35% airline bonus when using Membership Rewards Pay with Points
  • 1.5x Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on purchases of $5,000 or more

Gold Card

The Gold Card from American Express is a mid-tier card that offers a range of travel benefits. As a basic card member, I have access to the following:

  • $100 airline fee credit per year
  • Access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide through the American Express Global Lounge Collection (enrollment required)
  • Complimentary benefits at over 1,000 luxury hotels and resorts around the world through the Hotel Collection
  • No foreign transaction fees

Additional Card Members

As an American Express cardholder, I can also add additional card members to my account. Additional card members can enjoy many of the same benefits as the basic card member, depending on the card type and specific benefits offered. For example, additional card members on the Platinum Card have access to the Global Lounge Collection, while additional card members on the Gold Card have access to the Hotel Collection.

Overall, American Express offers a range of cards that are tailored to different types of travelers and offer a variety of travel benefits. Whether you are a frequent traveler or just looking for a card that offers some travel perks, American Express has a card that may be right for you.

Hotel Partnerships

As an American Express Travel member, I have access to some of the most luxurious hotels worldwide. American Express has partnerships with several fine hotels and resorts that offer exclusive benefits to their cardholders. In this section, I will highlight two of these partnerships: Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection.

Fine Hotels + Resorts

The Fine Hotels + Resorts program is an exclusive program that offers American Express Platinum Card Members access to over 1,000 of the world’s most luxurious hotels. When I book my stay through American Express Travel, I can enjoy exclusive benefits such as noon check-in, room upgrade, daily breakfast, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, I receive a $200 hotel credit for each booking made with my Platinum Card.

The Fine Hotels + Resorts program partners with several hotels worldwide, including Alila Ventana Big Sur. As a Fine Hotels + Resorts property, Alila Ventana Big Sur offers exclusive benefits to American Express Platinum Card Members. These benefits include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade upon arrival (when available), and a $200 hotel credit to spend on-site.

The Hotel Collection

The Hotel Collection is another exclusive program offered by American Express that provides access to over 600 hotels worldwide. When I book my stay through American Express Travel, I can enjoy exclusive benefits such as room upgrade, daily breakfast, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, I receive a $100 hotel credit for each booking made with my American Express card.

The Hotel Collection program partners with several hotels worldwide, including the Alila Ventana Big Sur. As a Hotel Collection property, Alila Ventana Big Sur offers exclusive benefits to American Express cardholders. These benefits include room upgrade upon arrival (when available), a $100 hotel credit to spend on-site, and daily breakfast for two.

Overall, American Express Travel’s partnerships with Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection provide me with exclusive benefits and access to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels.

Travel Benefits

As an American Express cardmember, I have access to a variety of travel benefits that make my trips more enjoyable and stress-free. Here are some of the benefits that I find most useful:

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

One of the biggest concerns when planning a trip is the possibility of having to cancel or interrupt it due to unforeseen circumstances. With American Express, I have access to Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance, which can provide reimbursement for non-refundable travel expenses if I have to cancel or interrupt my trip due to a covered reason such as illness, injury, or severe weather. This benefit can give me peace of mind and help me avoid losing money on a trip I can no longer take.

The Hotel Collection Benefits

When booking a stay at a hotel in The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel, I can enjoy a variety of benefits such as a $100 hotel credit to spend on qualifying dining, spa, and resort activities, room upgrades when available, and late checkout. These benefits can enhance my overall hotel experience and make my stay more comfortable and enjoyable.

Experience Credit

With the Experience Credit benefit, I can receive up to $200 in statement credits per year for eligible purchases made through American Express Travel. This credit can be used towards things like tours, activities, and excursions, which can help me make the most of my travels and create unforgettable memories.

Overall, the travel benefits offered by American Express can make a big difference in my travel experience. From providing insurance for unexpected cancellations to enhancing my hotel stays and helping me create unforgettable experiences, these benefits can help me travel with confidence and ease.

Booking and Itinerary

Booking a trip with American Express Travel is a straightforward process. I can book flights, hotels, cars, cruises, and more through their website. As a business traveler, I appreciate the convenience of being able to book all aspects of my trip in one place.

When I book a scheduled flight, I can choose from a variety of airlines and flight times. American Express Travel also offers optional trip protections, such as travel insurance, to give me peace of mind in case of unexpected events.

If I’m planning a vacation, I can combine flight and hotel bookings to save money with American Express Travel vacation packages. I can also choose from a wide range of tours and activities to enhance my vacation experience.

Once I’ve made a booking, I can view my itinerary on the American Express Travel website. The itinerary includes all the details of my trip, such as flight times, hotel reservations, and rental car information. I appreciate having all this information in one place, so I don’t have to search through emails or paper documents to find what I need.

Overall, I find the American Express Travel booking and itinerary process to be reliable and convenient. Whether I’m traveling for business or pleasure, I trust American Express Travel to help me plan and book my trip.

Prepaid Services

As an American Express card member, I have access to a variety of prepaid services that can make my travel experience more convenient and secure. Here are some of the prepaid services that American Express offers:

Prepaid Hotel Bookings

American Express offers prepaid hotel bookings through its Fine Hotels + Resorts program and The Hotel Collection program. By booking through these programs, I can enjoy exclusive benefits such as room upgrades, free breakfast, and late check-out. Plus, I can use my American Express card to pay for my stay in advance, which can help me avoid surprises at check-out and keep my travel budget on track.

Prepaid Car Rentals

American Express also offers prepaid car rentals through its car rental partners. By prepaying for my car rental with my American Express card, I can save time at the rental counter and avoid any unexpected fees or charges. Plus, I can earn rewards points on my prepaid car rental, which can help me save money on future travel.

Prepaid Cards

In addition to prepaid travel services, American Express also offers a variety of prepaid cards that I can use to manage my travel budget. For example, the American Express Serve® card allows me to load funds onto the card and use it like a debit card to make purchases and withdraw cash at ATMs. Plus, the card comes with features such as free online bill pay and fraud protection, which can give me peace of mind while I’m on the go.

Overall, American Express offers a range of prepaid services that can help me manage my travel budget and make my travel experience more enjoyable. By taking advantage of these services, I can travel with confidence and peace of mind.

Payment and Purchases

As an American Express card member, I have access to a variety of payment and purchase options through American Express Travel. I can use my Membership Rewards points to pay for eligible flights, hotels, car rentals, and cruises. At checkout, I simply select “Use Only Points” or “Use Points + Card” and apply my points to the booking. If I don’t have enough points to cover the full cost, I can pay the remaining balance with my American Express card.

In addition to using Membership Rewards points, I can also pay for my travel purchases with cash. American Express Travel accepts all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. I can also split the cost of my trip into equal monthly installments with Plan It, a feature that allows me to pace out my payments for purchases of $100 or more.

When I make eligible purchases with my American Express card, I earn rewards points that can be redeemed for travel and other rewards. For example, with the American Express Green Card, I earn one Membership Rewards point for each dollar of eligible purchases charged in each billing period. Additionally, when I make eligible travel purchases, such as airfare, hotels, and car rentals, I earn two additional points (for a total of three points) for each dollar charged.

American Express Travel also offers statement credits for eligible purchases. For example, I can receive up to $200 in statement credits each year for eligible incidental fees at one selected airline, such as baggage fees or in-flight purchases, with the American Express Platinum Card.

Overall, American Express Travel offers a variety of payment and purchase options for card members, including the use of Membership Rewards points, cash, and eligible purchases that earn rewards points and statement credits.

Car Rentals

As an American Express Travel member, I have access to a wide range of car rental options for my travel needs. Whether I need a car for a business trip or a family vacation, American Express Travel has me covered.

Through American Express Travel, I can browse and book car rentals from top car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Budget. I can choose from a variety of car types, from economy cars to luxury vehicles, and can even book one-way rentals if needed.

One of the great benefits of booking a car rental through American Express Travel is that I can earn rewards points on my rental. Depending on the type of card I have, I can earn up to 2x rewards points on my rental. Plus, I can use my rewards points to pay for all or part of my rental if I choose.

Another benefit of booking a car rental through American Express Travel is that I can take advantage of special offers and discounts. American Express Travel often has exclusive deals with car rental companies, so I can save money on my rental.

When booking a car rental through American Express Travel, I can also rest assured that I am getting a great deal. American Express Travel offers a Best Price Guarantee, so if I find a lower price on my rental elsewhere, they will match it or refund the difference.

Overall, booking a car rental through American Express Travel is a convenient and cost-effective way to get around during my travels. With access to top car rental companies, rewards points, special offers, and a Best Price Guarantee, I can be confident that I am getting the best deal possible.

Parking

In addition to car rentals, American Express Travel also offers a variety of parking options for those who prefer to drive their own car. Through American Express Travel, I can search and book parking at airports, hotels, and other locations around the world.

Booking parking through American Express Travel is easy and convenient. I can compare prices and options from multiple parking providers, and can even book valet parking or covered parking if needed. Plus, I can earn rewards points on my parking reservation, depending on the type of card I have.

Whether I need short-term or long-term parking, American Express Travel has me covered. With access to a wide range of parking options and the ability to earn rewards points, booking parking through American Express Travel is a smart choice for any traveler.

Flights and Airlines

American Express Travel offers a wide range of flight options for domestic and international travel. You can book flights directly with passenger airlines or through American Express Travel by calling 1-800-525-3355 or visiting AmexTravel.com.

To find flights on American Express Travel, simply enter your departure and destination cities in the search box. The flight booking process is similar to other popular travel sites like Kayak and Orbitz.

If you book a flight through the Amex portal, you’ll pay a fee of $6.99 for domestic flights and $10.99 for international flights. However, these fees are waived if you have the Amex Platinum card and are logged into your account.

American Express Travel also offers an International Airline Program, which provides exclusive access to lower fares for international premium class tickets. Insider Fares are also available for select airlines, offering discounted rates for certain routes and destinations.

As a frequent traveler, I appreciate the flexibility and convenience of booking flights through American Express Travel. The website is easy to use and offers competitive pricing for a variety of airlines. Plus, the added benefits of waived fees and access to insider fares make it a great option for those looking to save money on travel expenses.

Cruises

As an avid traveler, I have always been fascinated by the idea of taking a cruise. And with American Express Travel, booking a cruise has never been easier.

American Express Travel offers an extensive collection of cruises to destinations all around the world. Whether you’re looking for a tropical getaway, an adventurous expedition, or a luxurious ocean voyage, American Express Travel has something for everyone.

One of the benefits of booking a cruise through American Express Travel is the ability to earn Membership Rewards® points. For each dollar of eligible purchases charged in each billing period on the American Express® Green Card, you will earn one Membership Rewards® point. Additionally, you can earn 2 additional points (for a total of 3 points) for each dollar charged on eligible travel purchases including airfare, hotels, cruises, tours, car rentals, campgrounds, travel purchases on third party travel websites, and more.

American Express Travel also offers exclusive offers and amenities from participating cruise partners. These can include complimentary shore excursions, onboard credits, and more.

When booking a cruise, it’s important to consider the type of cruise you want to take. American Express Travel offers a variety of cruises, including:

  • River cruises
  • Ocean cruises
  • Expedition cruises
  • Luxury cruises

Each type of cruise offers its own unique experience, so it’s important to do your research and choose the one that’s right for you.

Overall, booking a cruise through American Express Travel is a great way to explore the world while earning rewards and taking advantage of exclusive offers and amenities.

Small Business Services

As a small business owner, I understand how important it is to have access to corporate travel services that are tailored to meet my unique needs. American Express Global Business Travel offers a range of services that are specifically designed for small businesses, including managed travel programs and a Business Travel Account (BTA).

With a managed travel program, small businesses can enjoy the same benefits as larger companies, including access to negotiated rates, travel policy compliance, and 24/7 customer support. American Express Global Business Travel’s managed travel program is designed to help small businesses save time and money, while providing a hassle-free travel experience for employees.

The Business Travel Account (BTA) is an easy-to-use tool for managing corporate travel expenses. With the BTA, small businesses can charge T&E expenses for infrequent travelers, consultants, job candidates, and even large groups traveling on company business. The BTA can be used by any travel agency that your company designates, making it a versatile and flexible solution for small businesses.

In addition to these services, American Express Global Business Travel offers a range of traveler services that are designed to help small businesses manage their travel needs. With our travel technology, small businesses can plan their global travel with around-the-clock support for a stress-free business travel experience.

At American Express Global Business Travel, we understand the unique needs of small businesses and are committed to providing the services and support they need to succeed. Whether you’re looking for a managed travel program or a Business Travel Account, we have the solutions you need to take your business to the next level.

Restrictions and Prohibited Actions

As a cardholder of American Express Travel, I understand that there are certain restrictions and prohibited actions that I must adhere to. These restrictions are in place to ensure that all card members have a fair and enjoyable experience when using the service.

One of the restrictions that I must be aware of is the mandatory property fee. When booking a hotel through American Express Travel, there may be a mandatory property fee that I am required to pay. This fee is not included in the room rate and must be paid separately. It is important that I read the terms and conditions carefully before booking to avoid any surprises.

Another restriction that I must be aware of is back-to-back stays. This refers to booking multiple reservations for consecutive nights at the same hotel. American Express Travel prohibits this practice, and if I am found to be doing so, my reservation may be canceled without a refund.

In addition to these restrictions, there are also prohibited actions that I must avoid. These include abuse, misuse, and gaming of the system. American Express Travel reserves the right to cancel any reservation and revoke my eligibility for future bookings if I am found to be engaging in any of these actions.

It is important that I use American Express Travel responsibly and follow all restrictions and guidelines. By doing so, I can ensure that I have a positive experience and can continue to enjoy the benefits of being a card member.

Miscellaneous Services

I want to mention a few miscellaneous services that American Express Travel offers. These services can be useful to you depending on your needs and preferences.

Gift Cards

American Express Travel offers gift cards that can be used to book travel. You can purchase a gift card online and choose the amount you want to load onto it. Gift cards can be used to book flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. They can be a great gift for someone who loves to travel, or they can be a convenient way to pay for your own travel expenses.

Cash Equivalents

If you have American Express Membership Rewards points, you can use them to pay for travel expenses. Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for cash equivalents, such as statement credits or prepaid cards, which can be used to pay for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. This can be a great way to save money on travel if you have a lot of Membership Rewards points.

Vacation Packages

American Express Travel offers vacation packages that include flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. Vacation packages can be a convenient way to book all of your travel arrangements at once, and they can often save you money compared to booking everything separately. You can search for vacation packages on the American Express Travel website and find one that fits your needs and budget.

Corporate Cards

If you have a corporate card from American Express, you can use it to book travel for business purposes. American Express Travel offers a range of services for corporate travelers, including access to a dedicated travel counselor, 24/7 assistance, and tools to help you manage your travel expenses. If you travel frequently for business, a corporate card from American Express can be a great way to simplify your travel arrangements and manage your expenses more efficiently.

In conclusion, American Express Travel offers a range of miscellaneous services that can be useful to you depending on your needs and preferences. Whether you want to purchase a gift card, use your Membership Rewards points to pay for travel expenses, book a vacation package, or manage your travel expenses with a corporate card, American Express Travel has you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I log in to American Express Travel?

To log in to American Express Travel, go to the American Express website and click on the “Travel” tab. From there, you can log in to your account by entering your username and password.

What services does American Express Travel offer?

American Express Travel offers a range of services, including flight bookings, hotel bookings, car rentals, and travel planning resources. With American Express Travel, you can book travel all in one place and enjoy exclusive benefits as an American Express cardholder.

What is American Express Travel Related Services Company?

American Express Travel Related Services Company is a subsidiary of American Express Company that provides travel-related services to American Express cardholders. This includes booking travel, providing travel-related resources, and offering exclusive benefits to cardholders.

What are the benefits of American Express Platinum Travel?

American Express Platinum Travel offers a range of benefits to cardholders, including access to exclusive travel offers, upgrades, and perks. Cardholders can also earn rewards points on travel purchases, which can be redeemed for future travel.

How can I contact American Express Travel customer service?

To contact American Express Travel customer service, you can call the number on the back of your American Express card or visit the American Express website for more information.

Do American Express card holders receive travel insurance benefits?

Yes, American Express cardholders can receive travel insurance benefits, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage insurance, and travel accident insurance. The specific benefits available will depend on the type of card you have and the terms and conditions of your card agreement.

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