You must call UBS or contact your UBS Financial Advisor to apply for the card. In February 2020, Nilson reported that Visa and Mastercard swipe fees had a weighted average of 2.26% compared to American Expresss average fee of 2.3% making this only a 0.04% difference. Winner: Platinum Card Concierge knocked it out of the park with a reasonable phone hold time (just 14 minutes) and my full request was fulfilled within five days! As luck would have it, my own laziness created the perfect opening. The Gold Card is especially beneficial if you dine at restaurants or order takeout meals frequently. The Visa Platinum is the second tier of the four Visa credit card types. For instance, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card, which has a $95 fee, is a Visa Signature card; the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card, with a $550 fee, is a Visa Infinite card. I cover all of this and more in this Reflex Mastercard review. All this with a first-year annual fee rebate! Most Visa Platinum cards require a credit score in the 600s. I called the Chase, Amex and Citi concierges roughly three weeks before my departure and asked them for help with five relatively simple questions: While I ended up getting a lot of useful information for my trip, each of the three responses had some serious pluses and minuses. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). They provided tons of options that made me want to turn my layover into a full-blown trip to Athens. Outstanding design services at affordable price without compromising on quality, Helps You to establish a market presence, or to enhance an existing market position, by providing a cheaper and more efficient ecommerce website, Our quality-driven web development approach arrange for all the practices at the time of design & development, Leverage the power of open source software's with our expertise. Flights booked directly with the airlines and flights and hotel stays booked directly with Amex Travel earn 5x points. Both Visa Paywave and Mastercard Tap & Go work at contactless terminals, as well as mobile wallets. But can Reflex compete with other top cards from Capital One, Indigo, or Chime? I finally got a reply with all the answers on June 18 -- nine days later -- but it's unclear whether Citi would have responded if it weren't for my follow-up email. First introduced overseas, Visa Infinite came to the U.S. around 2016 and remains relatively uncommon. It will NOT be published. That being said, the sign-up bonus, lack of income requirement, and ability to get up to a 3% return on your rewards can make this $120 annual fee worth it for some. Thats significantly lower than the Amex Platinum offer, though the spending requirement to earn the bonus is also lower. Best Alternatives to American Express Platinum, 3. Instead, youd contact the credit card company that issued the card, like Bank of America, Chase, etc. Platinum Card Concierge was the only one that responded to my request within the week (five days) with all of the information that I had requested in one email. Terms Apply. As of this writing, theres also a $10 per month in credits at participating restaurants when you pay with the Gold Card. For example, Chase credit issues cards with Visa will have both the Chase and Visa logos on them. But first, below are the highlights of each respective cards and then provided my commentary on some of the key factors to compare. All this with a first-year annual fee rebate! The American Express Global Lounge Collection can provide an escape at the airport. Christy was born in St. Louis, Missouri, but lived in Texas for the majority of her life. Editorial Disclosure:The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced, provided, or reviewed by the credit card companies mentioned. I needed a request that would give each concierge a chance to show some creativity. 6. After that, she knew that she was destined to travel as much as possible. Visa Infinite vs. Other benefits include Global Entry or TSA Precheck credit of up to $100 every four years. The RBC Visa Platinum Avion ($120 annual fee) lets you earn 1 RBC Rewards. While this is great for simple requests like restaurant reservations, I wanted to speak to a human for a more complicated request. Hot Tip: Just in the last year, almost a million new U.S. locations began accepting American Express. You might be able to qualify for some with a score in the very high 500s. Over the last few years, the explosion of premium credit cards, such as The Platinum Card from American Express, the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Citi Prestige Card, has made several luxury travel perks readily available to most consumers. This is especially true if you like to travel frequently and enjoy the finer things in terms of dining, accommodations, and other travel expenses. However, if you plan to travel internationally, a Visa or Mastercard may be a better option for you. Offers. This is a huge change from 5 years ago when American Express was only accepted at 3.7 million. The RBC Visa Platinum Avion ($120 annual fee) lets you earn 1 RBC Rewards point per $1 spent on the card and comes with a 15,000-point credit card sign-up bonus. When the travel credit is netted against the annual fee, we can think of the Platinum Card as having an effective annual fee of $499, which is more favourable than what the premium Aeroplan cards are charging. It has also done well consistently year over year. It's better than a Visa Classic but less luxurious than a Visa Signature or Visa Infinite. The 15 Best First Class Lounges in the World [2023], The 5 Best Ways To Find Cheap Flights in 2022 [Detailed Guide], , cash-back potential, interest rates, and more, Quick Facts Comparing Visa, MasterCard & American Express, American Express has an excellent reputation when it comes to customer service. Traveling for spring break? Card members also receive luxury gifts from iconic name brands, although Mastercard doesnt specify what those gifts might be. What are the rewards on the U.S. Bank Platinum card? Most Visa Platinum cards require a credit score in the 600s. In the U.S., American Express has virtually the same network size as Mastercard or Visa. If you travel oversea every year, this card is worth the money because it comes with medical insurance and travel insurance lounge access. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card Full Review [2023], Credit One Bank Platinum X5 Visa - Review [2023], Amazon Rewards Visa Signature Credit Card - Full Review [2023], The Amex EveryDay Credit Card Full Review [2023]. They also offer financial planning, such as a Retirement Planning Tool that can tell you if you're on track to retire when you want. A Clear membership gets you through select airport and stadium security checkpoints faster with its biometric touchless ID feature. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit. Now that the Citi Prestige card program is no longer accepting new applicants, youll have to look to other options if you like using Citi cards. However, there are two different phone numbers one dedicated for Visa Signature cardholders and another for Visa Infinite cardholders. Global ATM network. The UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card currently offers a welcome bonus of 25,000 points when you make $3,000 in eligible purchases during the first three months from card account approval. Verdict: Once the $200 travel credit is taken into account, the Platinum Cards price point is more favourable. Full Review The Capital One Platinum Credit Card is a solid option for those with average credit. The Altitude Reserve card also offers cardmembers 24/7 service to the Visa Infinite Concierge, and you wont pay any foreign transaction fees when you use your card abroad. However, the American Express Gold Card is a great card for lighter travelers who want attractive rewards points benefits on everyday purchases. And theres no cap to the number of AAdvantage miles you can earn. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Disclaimer:Upgraded Points, LLC and its website, UpgradedPoints.com, provides information on credit cards, reward programs, travel information and ancillary information concerning travel and credit cards. With Avion, you earn 1 RBC Rewards point for every $1 CAD you spend with your credit card~ plus 25% more when you use your card to book and pay for travel. I could see how useful consulting a concierge service is, especially regarding the ever-changing requirements for vaccinated travelers and international travel. At first, they suggested that I take an Uber and recommended that I use the Amex Platinum's $15 monthly Uber Cash credit. If anyone on our team wouldnt recommend it to a friend or a family member, we wouldnt recommend it on The Points Guy either. With Visa Infinite Privilege, you can enjoy Global Airport Lounge Access with 6 complimentary passes, and other great benefits at select airports in Canada. It's better than a Visa Classic but less luxurious than a Visa Signature or Visa Infinite. International, land and ferry travel requirements. When you pay for your Global Entry fee with your Black Card, youll get a $100 statement credit. 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Here's the rundown. Does refinancing lower your house payment? The Global Lounge Collection membership gives you access to over 1,300 lounges in over 500 airports, and 140 countries around the world. Therefore, you will get more points with it than with the 1.5 points of the TD card. The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Card offers several great travel benefits and a lower annual fee. Offers. Email needed if you'd like comment updates. American Express processes transactions for both its own American Express cards and cards from other issuers that use the American Express network. In addition, theres a (up to) $325 reimbursement per year on eligible travel purchases and takeout food, dining food, and food delivery. An up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years, Up to $400 annual credit for eligible U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required), Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels (enrollment required), Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection, International Airline Program and Cruise Privileges Program, Difficulty meeting $15,000 welcome offer for smaller businesses, Limited high-bonus categories outside of travel. These fees do have to be charged to your Platinum card, and the credits only apply to your pre-selected airline. Lets start by recapping what benefits the Platinum Card by American Express has to offer as well as what it will cost you. I had had an Avion visa infinite privilege for many years. Unlock over $1,000 in value per year for statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless with the Business Platinum Card. WebWinner: Platinum Card Concierge wins even if they provided the same number of recommendations as Visa Infinite Concierge. It's free. 4. Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Today, I will be comparing the American Express AeroplanPlus Platinum Card, CIBC Aerogold Visa Infinite Privilege and TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card. Priority Pass Select is included, which means youll have access to over 1,300 lounges in over 500 cities worldwide. However, the credit card information that we publish has been written by experts who know these products inside out, and what we recommend is what we would (or already) use ourselves. But first, below are the highlights of each respective cards and then provided my commentary on some of the key factors to compare. Youll also get a $300 statement credit for eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program. Visit www.rbc.com/rewardsapp today. The annual fee is $650 per year. While on the American Express Aeroplan * Card, you could earn 50,000 points after six months by spending $3,000. We briefly discussed the benefits above, but you need to decide what you are looking to get back from a credit card. Score: 4.4/5 ( 20 votes ) The RBC Visa Platinum Avion ($120 annual fee) lets you earn 1 RBC Rewards point per $1 spent on the card and comes with a 15,000-point credit card sign-up bonus. Now, there are platinum credit cards offered for every level of creditworthiness, from bad to excellent, and the word platinum has more to do with marketing than a card's benefits and features. by J.D. In February 2020, Nilson reported that Visa and Mastercard swipe fees had a weighted average of 2.26% compared to American Expresss average fee of 2.3% making this only a 0.04% difference. Add that to the 10 types of purchase and travel insurance that are included, and this card is definitely worth considering. Millionaires use credit cards like the Centurion Card from American Express, the J.P. Morgan Reserve Credit Card, and The Platinum Card from American Express. With the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite* Card, you could earn 40,000 points after six months by spending $5,000. There are a few cards that can be counted as competitors to the Platinum card. Most Visa Platinum cards require a credit score in the 600s. The same thing goes for travel itineraries unless you're going to a remote island in a far corner of the world, all concierges should have access to the same flight options for you. Visa is only a payment network and has cards issued by other banks, like Chase, Bank of America, etc. How does this compare to the American Express Platinum card? Platinum Card Concierge also included contact information for tourist offices in case of an emergency. The annual fee is $400 per year and includes some attractive benefits that are fairly competitive. The UBS Visa Infinite Credit Card * offers a solid but lesser-known premium travel rewards card. Many of the Visa Infinite perks offer higher levels of protection compared to the Visa Signature version of the benefits. There are a host of benefits geared toward taking your stay at Marriott properties to the next level. Greece has recently reopened to travelers. How does this compare to the American Express Platinum card? There is a chance that I could receive a follow-up email from them in the near future. These high-end credit cards are available only to people who receive an invitation to apply, which millionaires have the best chance of getting. The Visa Platinum is the second tier of the four Visa credit card types. The "up to" is key here. How can I pay my mortgage off without refinancing? It seems likely that a huge reason for this increase is due to the fees between the networks becoming closer aligned. Most Visa Platinum cards require a credit score in the 600s. Does refinancing lower your house payment? The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Express card is a great choice for frequent/luxury travelers that prefer to stay at Marriott-owner properties when they travel. However, the biggest budget items like groceries, gas and travel (hotels, etc) are at 1.5 points for the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege* Credit Card. Score: 4.4/5 ( 20 votes ) The RBC Visa Platinum Avion ($120 annual fee) lets you earn 1 RBC Rewards point per $1 spent on the card and comes with a 15,000-point credit card sign-up bonus. American Express is both a card issuer AND a payment network. For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here. You might be able to qualify for some with a score in the very high 500s. Winner: The clear winner here is Platinum Card Concierge. For Visa Infinite Privilege, the income requirements are $200,000 for either personal or household, at least double the Visa Infinite requirements. With a $495 annual fee, this card comes with plenty of statement credits, including a $250 annual airline fee credit and a $500 dining and airport club statement credit. The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection benefit provides for additional benefits at select hotels and resorts, such as early check-in and late check-out. The American Express Platinum card has several attractive alternatives. In short, it wont do much good to have a credit card if its not accepted at the retailers you plan to visit. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at roughly the same number of retailers domestically (99% for both) and internationally (210+ countries and territories for Visa vs. 200+ for Mastercard). Just to be safe, the bestbet when traveling abroad is to have a Visa or Mastercard in your wallet. Winner: I was beyond impressed with Citi Concierge. To see the rates and fees for the American Express cards featured, please visit the following links: Platinum Card from American Express: See Rates and Fees. We decided to put them to the test and see which concierge service is best equipped to handle your needs. Contact: 800-953-7392. Fulton, MD 20759, 2023 Best Wallet Hacks All rights reserved. Score: 4.4/5 ( 20 votes ) The RBC Visa Platinum Avion ($120 annual fee) lets you earn 1 RBC Rewards point per $1 spent on the card and comes with a 15,000-point credit card sign-up bonus. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank or financial institution. Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard, our full review of the Platinum Card by American Express goes into great detail on this too, Learn more about the Mastercard Black Card, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. Click here to see a list of advertisers that we work with. Terms apply to offers below. Avion is a bank-specific frequent flyer program operated by the Royal Bank of Canada (one of Canada's Big Five banks). And youll earn unlimited 2x miles on every purchase, every day. While there were so many options to choose from, I appreciated that each description was concise yet informative. We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. Sign up for our daily newsletter! As mentioned, the annual fee for the Amex Platinum card is $695. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. But in terms of comparing eligibility requirements for Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, American Express may be the hardest issuer to qualify for as most cards require applicants to have a good credit score of at least 670 to qualify. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author's alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities. Platinum cards also charge higher annual fees than gold cards offered by the same provider, and offer more perks. Visa Platinum Visa Platinum is a card full of potential, with higher spending limits and greater purchasing power. My favorite part, though, was the inclusion of tips and resources. I did receive information about the suburban railroad as another option into the city. But it comes with cell phone insurance, a minor perk. U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card, 8. The Capital One Venture Rewards card doesnt have the high-end benefits that the Platinum card does. He has also been fortunate to have appeared in the New York Times, Baltimore Sun, Entrepreneur, and Marketplace Money. The content on this site is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as professional financial advice. Visa offers 3 levels of benefits for its cards. Youll also get a $300 annual travel credit and $120 in partner benefits, which rotate often and include Peloton as of this writing. However, out of the three concierge services, Visa Infinite Concierge serviced my request best as it did something the others failed to do -- offer a pricing estimate. Your status as a cardmember gets you a 25% discount on inflight food and drinks as well. Let's start with the options that Platinum Card Concierge provided. AMEX Points vs. Chase Points: Which is Better? For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards,Capital One Miles, Citi ThankYou Rewards, andAmex Membership Rewards each have different transfer partners. Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Two of the most popular credit card families are AMEX and Chase, and both are known for their reward points. Terms Apply. If youre a heavy traveler, youll want the Platinum card. It's better than a Visa Classic but less luxurious than a Visa Signature or Visa Infinite. The "up to" is key here. They even gave us a heads-up that one of the restaurants gets booked up quickly, so reservations are recommended. Good for traveller oversea. is a former TPG writer. Theres no traditional welcome bonus offered with this card. So what does that mean for you? In this Indigo Platinum Mastercard review, I cover the card's features, including the positives and negatives, and share some Indigo Mastercard alternatives. The "up to" is key here. This card is similar to the consumer version that Amex offers, but with more business-oriented perks around statement credits and earning rates that are a better fit for business owners. Where would you recommend I eat in order to experience authentic and local cuisine? The credit applies to both Uber rides and UberEats purchases. Youll also get your first bag checked for free (for yourself and up to four companions) when traveling domestically with American Airlines on the same reservation.