🎁 Earn a Welcome Bonus of 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points
For Canadian travelers who frequently stay at Marriott properties, the American Express Marriott Bonvoy card stands out as a notable choice. As one of the few hotel co-branded credit cards available in Canada, it has garnered attention for its unique perks and benefits. Let’s explore what makes this card a fan favorite among frequent flyers and travel enthusiasts.
Understanding the Earn Rates
The earn rates on the American Express Marriott Bonvoy card are straightforward yet tailored to those who frequently stay at Marriott properties. Cardholders earn:
- 5 Bonvoy points per dollar spent at Marriott properties.
- 2 points per dollar spent on travel.
- 1 point per dollar spent everywhere else.
While these rates might not be the highest compared to other cards, they are specifically designed for Marriott loyalists. It’s crucial to note that Bonvoy points are valued at approximately one cent each, translating to a 5% return at Marriott, 2% on travel, and 1% on other purchases.
Exploring Card Benefits
The American Express Marriott Bonvoy card offers several enticing benefits that enhance the travel experience. Here’s what cardholders can expect:
Welcome Bonus and Status Upgrades
The card’s welcome bonus is substantial, offering up to 85,000 Bonvoy points. Initially, 50,000 points are awarded after spending $3,000 in the first three months, with an additional 10,000 points after a qualifying purchase.
Cardholders automatically receive Silver Elite status, which can be upgraded to Gold Elite by spending $30,000 within the first year or through a combination of elite night credits and paid nights. Gold status includes a 25% bonus on stays, 2 PM checkout, and potential room upgrades.
Annual Free Night Award
One of the most significant perks is the annual free night award, valued at up to 35,000 Bonvoy points. This certificate can be topped with 15,000 points for stays at luxury properties like the Ritz Carlton, making the $120 annual fee a worthwhile investment for many.
Insurance and Peace of Mind
The card also provides a comprehensive insurance suite, including coverage for lost or stolen items, trip cancellations, and medical emergencies, offering peace of mind during travels.
Maximizing Bonvoy Points
Bonvoy points offer flexibility in offsetting travel costs. Here’s how you can make the most of them:
Hotel Bookings
With over 8,000 hotels in 131 countries, Bonvoy points are ideal for booking stays. Despite a shift to dynamic pricing, the program remains a top choice for Canadian travelers, offering redemption rates from 0.85 to 2 cents per point.
Fifth Night Free
Bonvoy members enjoy a fifth night free on award stays of five nights or more, potentially saving hundreds of dollars at luxury properties.
Airline Transfers
Points can be transferred to various airline partners, useful for accessing programs like KrisFlyer and Emirates Skywards. Transfers occur at a 3:1 ratio, with a bonus of 5,000 miles for every 60,000 points transferred, effectively a 2.4:1 ratio.
Unique Experiences
The Bonvoy Moments program allows points to be used for exclusive experiences, such as VIP concert tickets and behind-the-scenes tours, adding unique value to the program.
Potential Drawbacks
Despite its benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider:
Annual Fee and Limited Acceptance
The $120 annual fee may not be justifiable for those who don’t travel frequently. Additionally, as an American Express card, acceptance can be limited, especially in regions like Europe and South America.
Competing Cards
While the Bonvoy card is strong, alternatives like the American Express Cobalt offer better earn rates on everyday spending, making them more attractive for those who spend less at Marriott properties.
Redundancy with Other Amex Cards
If you already hold an Amex Platinum or Business Platinum card, many of the Bonvoy card’s perks, such as Gold Elite status, may be redundant.
Who Should Apply?
This card is ideal for those who frequently stay at Marriott properties and can fully utilize the annual free night award. The 85,000-point bonus further enhances its appeal for frequent travelers.