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**Comparing Travel Rewards: Is the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card the Best Option for Frequent Travelers?**
In the realm of travel rewards, the options available to frequent travelers can be overwhelming. Among those vying for attention is the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, which promises a suite of benefits designed to enhance the travel experience and maximize rewards. But is it truly the best option for frequent travelers? This article delves into the key features and benefits of the card, helping travelers decide if it meets their needs.
### Earning Points and Bonuses
One of the standout features of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card is its generous welcome offer. New cardholders can earn up to 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points — 100,000 points after spending $6,000 within the first three months, and an additional 50,000 points after spending an extra $2,000 in the following three months. For frequent travelers, this is a substantial boost toward a free night or other rewards.
The card also allows users to earn points at an impressive rate. Cardholders can earn 6X points for eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3X points at restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines, and 2X points on all other eligible purchases. This tiered earning structure ensures that travelers can accumulate points efficiently across various spending categories.
### Travel Perks and Benefits
Beyond points accumulation, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card is packed with travel benefits that can significantly enhance the travel experience:
– **Dining Credit**: Each calendar year, cardholders receive up to $300 in statement credits for eligible dining purchases worldwide, providing a nice incentive to explore local cuisines during travels.
– **Free Night Award**: Each year after renewing the card, users receive one Free Night Award, redeemable at hotels with a value of up to 85,000 points. This benefit alone can justify the annual fee for frequent visitors to Marriott properties.
– **Elite Status**: Cardholders enjoy Platinum Elite Status, which offers room upgrades and additional perks, such as priority late checkout and bonus points for eligible stays. This status can elevate the overall hotel experience, making stays more enjoyable.
– **Airport Lounge Access**: Enrolling in Priority Pass Select allows cardholders access to over 1,200 airport lounges globally, adding a level of comfort and convenience to travel days.
– **Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® Fee Credit**: A statement credit for applying for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® (up to $120 or $85 respectively) can streamline the travel process, saving both time and hassle at airports.
### Additional Features
The card also boasts several additional features that enhance its appeal:
– **No Foreign Transaction Fees**: This benefit is crucial for international travelers, allowing them to make purchases abroad without incurring additional costs.
– **Cell Phone Protection**: Cardholders can receive reimbursement for damage or theft of their cell phone, providing peace of mind while traveling.
– **Annual Fee**: The card comes with a $650 annual fee, which may be off-putting for some. However, when considering the extensive benefits and potential savings, frequent travelers might find this fee justified.
### Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card offers a robust array of benefits tailored for frequent travelers, from significant points earning potential to luxury travel perks. However, the decision to apply ultimately hinges on individual travel habits and preferences. For those who frequently stay at Marriott properties, dine out often, and travel internationally, the benefits may far outweigh the annual fee.
Travelers should carefully assess their spending habits, travel frequency, and loyalty to Marriott when considering the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card. In a competitive landscape of travel rewards cards, it stands out as a strong contender, particularly for those who prioritize hotel rewards and premium travel experiences.
Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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