How the American Express Platinum Card has revolutionised my travels as a photographer
As a photographer based in Frankfurt and Mallorca, I am constantly on the move. My passion for photography takes me to the most exciting places in the world. I am not only constantly drawn to Mallorca and back, but also to many other great destinations. For me, travelling is more than just a part of my job; it's a way of life. But as much as I love travelling, I also know how stressful and expensive it can be. This is where the American Express Platinum Card into play. When a friend told me about it 3 years ago, I was initially sceptical, but was very easily convinced of the benefits. Not only has it fundamentally changed my travelling experience, but it also offers us an incredible number of advantages in other areas. I am convinced that it is also invaluable for anyone else who enjoys travelling.
What makes the American Express Platinum Card so special?
The American Express Platinum is much more than just a credit card. It offers a wealth of benefits that not only make travelling more enjoyable, but also more cost-effective. Whether for frequent travellers like me or occasional travellers who want to make the most of their holidays, the card has something for everyone. In this post, I would like to share the benefits of this card, especially with regard to hotels, car hire, business class flights and the use of business lounges at airports.
1. exclusive benefits in luxury hotels worldwide
One of the biggest advantages of the Amex Platinum is the access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts Programme. This programme offers an impressive selection of luxury hotels worldwide. The best part is the additional amenities you get when you book through American Express. These include:
- Free breakfast for two peopleA great start to the day without having to pay extra.
- Room upgrades (if available): I personally love being able to upgrade to a better room or even a suite without having to pay extra.
- Guaranteed late check-outThis is particularly practical if my flight doesn't leave until the evening and I want to enjoy the day in peace by the pool or in the city.
- Credit for food and drinksMany hotels also offer a credit for restaurant visits or spa treatments - a nice bonus that I like to take advantage of.
For me as a photographer, this means that I can often stay in the best hotels without breaking the budget. The advantages that the American Express Platinum have sweetened my stay countless times and enhanced my journey.
2. comfort and flexibility with hire cars
Anyone who travels a lot, like me, knows that it is often necessary to spontaneously hire a car. With the Amex Platinum I automatically receive a Status with several major car hire companies such as Hertz, Avis and Sixt. This brings numerous advantages:
- Free upgrades to higher-class vehicles: Especially in foreign countries or on long journeys, I appreciate being able to drive a more comfortable car.
- Preferred service at the hire stations: Less waiting time means more time for me to explore the neighbourhood and find the best photo spots.
- Discounts on the rental prices: The savings add up quickly, especially when travelling frequently.
The combination of these advantages has often saved me from long waiting times and additional costs. I also enjoy the flexibility that the car offers me locally - whether I'm travelling to remote beaches in Mallorca or taking a road trip through Tuscany.
3. business class flights and exclusive lounges
My absolute favourite! Thanks to the option of using the American Express Platinum Card to collect pointsI've already been able to spend some of my trips in the Business Class enjoy. The points I collect through my everyday spending and the many bonus promotions can be redeemed with various airlines. And there's nothing better than travelling with a comfortable lie-flat seat option, especially when I need to be rested for an important photo shoot the next day. As I usually work on my laptop on the plane and have much more space available in Business Class, I always appreciate this option the most.
In addition, the Amex Platinum Access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide through the Priority Pass network. For me as a frequent traveller, this is an absolute luxury:
- Quiet working areasPerfect for getting some work done before I leave or preparing for my next job.
- Free snacks and drinksA small but nice advantage that makes your stay at the airport more pleasant.
- Showers and relaxation zones: I particularly appreciate freshening up and relaxing on long journeys.
4. attractive welcome bonus and collect points
One of the first major advantages that caught my eye at the time was the Amex Platinum welcome bonus. This bonus helped me to collect valuable points right at the start of my membership, which I could immediately redeem for flights, hotels or hire cars.
But it's not just the welcome bonus that is attractive. Every time I use the card, I collect points that I can use for almost any travel expense. Whether it's a domestic flight, a hotel stay in a new city or even an experience like a guided tour - the flexibility is great!
5. travel insurance and other benefits
The Amex Platinum also comes with comprehensive insurance policies that give me an extra sense of security when travelling. These include:
- Travel accident insurance
- Travel cancellation insurance
- Fully comprehensive car hire insurance
This insurance has saved me from unforeseen costs on several occasions and is a huge plus for anyone who does a lot of travelling.
6. exclusive discounts and offers with Amex Offers
Another major advantage of the American Express Platinum Card are the Amex Offers. These exclusive offers are available specifically for cardholders and regularly offer discounts and cashback on purchases from a wide range of partners - both online and in bricks-and-mortar stores.
For me as a photographer, the Amex Offers Amex Offers are particularly interesting because they often offer me attractive discounts with brands that I use anyway. Whether it's a discount on the purchase of photographic equipment, cashback for hotel bookings or discounts with car hire companies - the Amex Offers help me to make additional savings.
- Regular updates and new offersThe Amex Offers are constantly updated and there are always new deals. For example, I recently found a Reimbursement of 100 euros on a hotel booking that I had planned anyway.
- Simple activation and useThe offers are available directly in the American Express app and can be activated with one click. The discounts or cashback are then automatically credited to the card.
- Diverse partnersFrom fashion, restaurants and technology to travel offers - the variety of partners ensures that there is always something suitable.
These benefits quickly add up and offer me numerous opportunities to save money throughout the year. Especially as a frequent traveller with a high travel and spending volume, the Amex Offers a real plus point that always gives me a little something extra in my everyday life.
Why I recommend the American Express Platinum Card to every traveller
The American Express Platinum Card is much more than just a means of payment. It offers numerous benefits that make travelling more pleasant, more comfortable and often cheaper too. From exclusive hotel benefits and car hire upgrades to business class flights and access to lounges - the Amex Platinum simply offers so many conveniences that I wouldn't want to be without it.
Whether you're a photographer like me or just love travelling the world, this card can take your travel experience to the next level. And the best thing is: the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Amex Platinum costs by far.
If you are curious and want to discover the advantages of the Amex Platinum yourself, simply click on the link below to find out more and apply for the card. Your next luxury stay or business class flight could soon be possible for you too!
