Is Your Credit Card Helping You Explore The World

The article is a sponsored feature by American Express

Between weddings and festivals, the close of the calendar year marks the beginning of endless social duties for many Indians, from family commitments to extended holidays. For most of the year, you save and plan so your hard-earned money goes as far as possible. As you scout domestic or international destinations for your next family getaway, there are benefits to making an American Express card your travel partner of choice during peak travel times.

American Express cards come with tailored rewards and membership privileges for jetsetters and casual tourists. The American Express MakeMyTrip Credit Card helps you travel more efficiently, letting you earn two PAYBACK Points for every Rs 100 spent, on top of 5% cash back on MakeMyTrip bookings, discounts on domestic lounges at airports across India and other features.

Members also receive complimentary MakeMyTrip vouchers as a welcome gift when they sign up.

As you narrow down your list of dream destinations, here’s where globetrotting Indians can make the most of festival season:

Hong Kong

Day or night, Hong Kong is abuzz with people who are shopping, eating, or simply on the move. The Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is a mainstay of family vacations, but consider heading to the south of Hong Kong Island to Repulse Bay for a more upmarket experience that both kids and parents will enjoy.

Its sandy beach and numerous shops and restaurants offer a respite from the skyscrapers and chaos further north. The Pulse shopping mall has enough toy stores and activities to distract the kids while you feast on a leisurely brunch or take in sunset by the sea.

If you’re looking to enjoy an ultra-luxe holiday without moving around too much, the American Express Platinum Card includes privileges at some of Hong Kong’s finest hotels, including the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, The Peninsula Hotels, The Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

The American Express Platinum Card allows access to exclusive events such as fashion shows, performances and sporting tournaments. It also comes with complimentary membership to exclusive guest reward programs such as Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts’ Golden Circle and Starwood Preferred Guest, so you can live the high life without leaving your hotel.

Dubai

Dubai is a consumer’s paradise that’s always been popular with Indian families, many of whom make a beeline for its countless malls and theme parks.

Many Indians are starting to venture outside to explore Dubai’s natural beauty. Off-road tours and desert safaris are a nice compromise between the blistering heat and the monotony of an air conditioned vehicle. Jet-ski and yacht rentals are a great way to add some seaside action to your itinerary. The Dubai Creek Marina is dotted with luxurious yachts and is close to the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.

For those looking for a personalized guide to Dubai, the American Express Platinum Reserve Credit Card gives you access to a dedicated, round-the-clock concierge to book your adventures in the desert or on the links.

Before takeoff, enjoy complimentary access to the American Express lounge.

Spain

Spain has become a top destination for Indians over the last few years, and it offers something for everyone, from sports and history to beaches and nightlife.

Soccer fans are in luck, since Spain’s top-flight La Liga will be in full swing this festival season. The hordes of tourists outside Real Madrid’s famed Santiago Bernabeu stadium and popular sightseeing spots such as Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Família church in Barcelona can be intimidating, but if you’re intent on making the trek, you can rest easy knowing that American Express has your back.

The American Express Gold Card and American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card both offer zero lost card liability. If you lose your card, you’re not responsible for any charges on it after reporting the loss. You’re also limited to a maximum liability of Rs 1,000 before reporting your card as lost.

Additionally, the American Express Gold Card offers emergency card replacement in case you do find yourself in the middle of Las Ramblas without your card.

Discovery at your doorstep

There’s no need to leave India for a relaxing, sun-drenched vacation. Festival season coincides with the annual opening of some of Goa’s legendary seaside restaurants, such as Thalassa and La Plage, just in time for the end of the monsoon.

Thanks to the American Express rewards program, a trip to Goa or a hill station such as Shimla is easier than ever.

The Jet Airways American Express Platinum Credit Card helps you earn more JPMiles on almost every purchase - up to 20 JPMiles per Rs 100 spent. As well, you receive 10,000 bonus JPMiles when you sign up and a free one-way domestic ticket upon your first charge.

In addition, holders of the Jet Airways American Express Platinum Credit Card receive a complimentary third and fourth night stay when booking two or three consecutive nights with Oberoi Hotels and Resorts. Cardholders can enjoy access to a dedicated 24/7 Platinum Concierge Service for restaurant bookings and car rentals, or any needs. And if you’re worried about your family missing out on the action, the Jet Airways American Express Platinum Credit Card comes with two supplementary cards at no extra cost. American Express privileges and rewards aren’t just about making better use of your money, because American Express isn’t just a card - it’s a gateway to experiencing the lifestyle you deserve.