One Year with American Express Platinum Card (US)

One Year with American Express Platinum Card : Step into this ongoing series as we delve into the realm of credit cards. If you’ve been following along, you’ll recall our exploration of the American Express Gold Card (UK) and the Marriott Bonvoy Premium Card (Japan) in previous articles. Today, our spotlight is on the American Express Platinum Card (US). Join me as I discuss the highlights, drawbacks, and my experiences after a year of owning this card. Additionally, I’ll share insights on navigating the application process as a non-US citizen.

Pros:

1.The Most Economical American Express Platinum Worldwide

Among its global counterparts, the American Express Platinum Card issued in the US shines as the most economically advantageous choice.

Here’s a breakdown of Platinum Cards issued in other countries:

• UK 🇬🇧: £575
• Austria 🇦🇹: €53 per month / €636 per year
• France 🇫🇷: €55 per month / €660 per year
• Germany 🇩🇪, Italy 🇮🇹: €60 per month / €720 per year
• Benelux 🇧🇪🇳🇱🇱🇺, Spain 🇪🇸: €65 per month / €780 per year
• Japan 🇯🇵: ¥165,000
• Hong Kong 🇭🇰: HK$9,500
• Singapore 🇸🇬: S$1,728

Not only does the US variant come at a more affordable price point, but its point system is also more rewarding, with the UK Platinum offering 1 Amex point per 1 pound. Considering the generally higher value of the pound compared to the USD, the US version offers superior value.

Furthermore, unlike Platinum cards issued by other countries, the US version imposes no foreign transaction fees, making it the premier choice for international travelers like myself who frequently cross borders.

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2.American Express Travel and Fine Hotels and Resorts (FHR)

Booking through American Express Travel rewards cardholders with a generous 5x points return on all reservations. The card extends a plethora of travel perks, including an annual $200 airline credit and a $200 hotel credit, making it an invaluable asset for frequent travelers. Within the Luxury Hotel Collection, cardholders can indulge in suite upgrades, receive a $100 property credit, and earn 5x points. Certain hotels even offer a complimentary night when booking stays of 3 or 4 nights. These benefits not only elevate the travel experience with luxury but also offer practical advantages, enhancing every journey.

Below are the guaranteed benefits for stays booked through FHR:

• Check-in at 12 pm, subject to availability
• Room upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability
• Complimentary daily breakfast for two
• $100 experience credit unique to each property
• Guaranteed 4 pm late check-out
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access

Here are a couple of my personal experiences with bookings made through FHR:

1. Mandarin Oriental Jakarta

During a promotion offering a free night for every 3-night stay booked through FHR, I indulged in a luxurious experience at the Mandarin Oriental Jakarta. Opting for one of their finest one-bedroom suites, I found that while Mandarin Oriental does offer its own loyalty program called MO, the perks are limited to a few options upon check-in. For avid fans of Mandarin Oriental, booking through FHR proves to be the optimal choice.

2. Four Seasons Hangzhou

The Four Seasons is another boutique hotel group without a membership program. Utilizing FHR, I enjoyed all the aforementioned benefits such as room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and property credit during my stay at Four Seasons Hangzhou. Conversely, had I booked directly with them, none of these perks would have been extended—truly remarkable.

3. Concierge Service

One of the most distinctive aspects of the American Express Platinum Card is its exceptional Concierge Service. Picture having access to a personal assistant combined with the intuitive understanding and expertise of a human version of Chat GPT, but with a customized, personal touch. This service elevates the card beyond a mere financial instrument, turning it into a portal to tailored experiences and convenience.

Whether you’re in search of the ideal restaurant for a crucial business rendezvous, seeking a cozy café for a relaxed date, or yearning to explore the city’s liveliest bars, the Concierge Service is at your service. Its meticulous attention to detail and personalized recommendations demonstrate an understanding of your preferences and requirements, ensuring that each suggestion aligns perfectly with your expectations.

Beyond dining, this service extends to assisting with travel arrangements, procuring tickets to exclusive events, and even accommodating unique requests ranging from the ordinary to the extraordinary. It’s akin to having a knowledgeable local guide wherever you go, providing insights and access that would otherwise be challenging to obtain independently.

The Concierge Service epitomizes luxury and convenience, offering American Express Platinum Cardholders not just a card, but a gateway to a refined lifestyle. This feature underscores the card’s dedication to delivering unparalleled support and experiences to its users, ensuring that no matter the need, a trusted advisor is always on hand to assist.

4. Unlimited Credit Limit

Owning a credit card with an unlimited credit limit represents a notable financial advantage, providing unprecedented financial flexibility and facilitating substantial purchases. This feature is especially beneficial for individuals facing significant or unforeseen expenses, offering a sophisticated means of optimizing cash flow. It proves particularly advantageous for entities or individuals with fluctuating income streams, enabling them to address sizable expenditures during periods of reduced income.

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Cons:

1.Limited Acceptance of Amex:

One drawback of the American Express Platinum Card is its restricted acceptance in certain foreign countries. Despite its prestige and range of benefits, Amex cards are not as universally accepted outside the United States compared to Visa or Mastercard. This can inconvenience travelers who find themselves in locations where Amex is not accepted, necessitating alternative payment methods. Such limitations may require cardholders to carry backup credit cards or cash, particularly when traveling to less urbanized areas or countries with more restrictive payment networks. This consideration is significant for those relying on the Platinum Card as their primary payment method abroad, affecting the seamless experience one might expect from a premium credit card.

2.US-Centric Offers:

Another downside of the American Express Platinum Card is its emphasis on US-centric offers and benefits, which can pose challenges for individuals who frequently travel or reside outside the United States. The card’s perks, heavily tailored towards US consumers—such as exclusive deals with American retailers and dining credits at US restaurants—may not hold as much value for global nomads. This geographic bias limits the card’s utility and appeal for international cardholders, making it less advantageous for those seeking to maximize benefits on a global scale. Prospective and existing cardholders should consider this limitation, especially if they spend a significant amount of time abroad, potentially necessitating a more internationally flexible credit card solution to fully enjoy premium benefits worldwide.

As you may be aware, I am based in the UK or Japan and have no connections to the US, having never lived or worked there. So, how did I manage to obtain this Amex Platinum US card? Below are the steps for foreigners to acquire one:

• Build your Amex credit score with an Amex card (green, gold, or platinum) issued by your country.
• Prepare a US phone number, a US address, and proof of address (such as a mobile bill invoice sent to your US address).
• Apply for the Amex Platinum US card.
• If approved, your Amex Platinum card will be mailed to your US address. The initial card must be sent to your US address, but you can request subsequent cards to be shipped abroad (where you are based) by contacting American Express.

FAQ -One Year with American Express Platinum Card (US)