Yesterday, I got an e-mail from American Express. The subject? Amex increases the Hotel Collection credit.
The American Express Gold and Platinum cards come with some great perks. And one of those perks is access to the Amex Hotel Collection. Booking your stay through the Hotel Collection means you'll earn 2x points when using your Gold Card or 5x points with your Platinum Card. Alternatively, you can pay for your stay with points. And, of course, you'll receive space-available room upgrades and hotel credits.
Hotel Credit
The Amex Hotel Collection credit was, until recently, $75. That credit may be used on qualifying dining, spa, and resort charges. But, now, Amex has increased the hotel credit to $100! Ok, so that's only $25 more than the old credit, but an increase is an increase. It is worth noting, though, that you do need to stay at least two nights to receive the credit.
Hotel Collection in Hawaii
Unfortunately, there are only five Amex Hotel Collection properties in Hawaii. And those properties are:
- Hilton Waikoloa Village - Big Island
- Hyatt Regency Maui - Maui
- Ko'a Kea Hotel & Resort - Kauai
- Mauna Kea Beach Hotel - Big Island
- Marriott Wailea Beach Resort - Maui
As you can see, there aren't any hotels on Oahu in this collection. For that, you'll have to book through the Amex Platinum's Fine Hotels & Resorts Collection.
How far will the credit get you in Hawaii? At the Ko'a Kea Hotel, most entrees are $39 and up. And over at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, breakfast items average around $25. So, as you can see, the credit is good for just one or two meals for two at both of these properties.
Amex Increases the Hotel Collection Credit, Final Thoughts
I've never used the Amex Hotel Collection or Fine Hotels & Resorts. And it doesn't look like I'll be using either benefit anytime soon. But hey, if and when I do end up using this feature, I'm glad the hotel credit is higher, even if the increase is a minor one.