World Unlocked: Amex Gold Vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred – Which Is Better?

19 October 2023

International travel is a popular contender in people’s bucket lists. Revenge travel post-pandemic has motivated several individuals to list countries they want to visit before they die. While immersing yourself in a different culture and enriching your wisdom with knowledge from other nations is exciting, it also comes with heavy financial considerations.

Travel expenses transcend flight tickets and hotel accommodations, though these take up a considerable part of the budget. The other crucial concerns that must be prioritized are food expenses, land transportation, activities, and even souvenirs. When traveling interstate, these may require a meager and fixed amount you can easily budget. Traveling to another country with their unique currency is a different story.

Some factors, including conversion rate and transaction fees, must be accounted for, especially when using credit cards. Using credit cards offers convenience, but their foreign transaction fees can eat into your budget, typically charging 3% of the purchase amount in foreign currency. Thus, the best way to optimize your travel expenses is to use credit cards designed for travel. They usually come with zero transaction fees for foreign currencies.

In this article, we will compare the two crème de la crème among all these no foreign transaction fees credit cards – Amex Gold vs Chase Sapphire Preferred – and evaluate how they fare with their overall suitability for international travel.

The American Express Gold Card: A Culinary Approach to Travel

Coming in as a heavyweight contender in the premium credit card arena is the Amex Gold Credit Card. When traveling is a hobby you do only on special occasions, Amex Gold can give you so much more for your ordinary days. It shines with its generous 4x bonus reward points on your restaurant visits, takeout sprees, and everyday groceries.

On your travel days, Amex Gold also proves to be a reliable companion for your travel expenditures – especially for your gastronomic excursions. The whole American Express network has global recognition, with its card widely accepted worldwide. Using your card for your dining will even award you 4x bonus points and a 3x reward for flight tickets.

Beyond the global acceptance and generous award points, this travel credit card also offers a suite of premium travel benefits. From travel insurance, points transfer with their travel partners, and even a $100 credit for a minimum 2-night stay on their hotel collection to having access to their Global Assist® Hotline.

Their Global Assist® Hotline lets you enjoy your travel with peace of mind, knowing you will have safeguards for emergency situations. Their assistance covers a range of needs, including medical referrals, legal aid, and even lost passport replacement.

Here’s a link to a complete guide to all of Amex Gold credit card benefits:

https://fortune.com/recommends/credit-cards/american-express-gold-card-review/

With this solid range of convenience in your hands, it is only fitting that this credit card comes with a hefty annual fee and high APR for a pay-over-time feature. If you look forward to lounge access for your pre-travel experience, you will also be in for a big disappointment, as the Amex Gold card does not provide any lounge access.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: A Versatile Traveler’s Ally

Another premium travel card is the Chase Sapphire Preferred, enjoyed by many cardholders for its flexibility and generous travel rewards program. With their Ultimate Rewards Portal, you can earn 5x bonus points for your flights, hotel rooms, and other travel experiences. On some promotional periods, they even offer 5x bonus points on select theme park tickets available to purchase through the portal, including Universal Studios, Legoland, SeaWorld, etc. This is especially suitable for traveling families or those who enjoy theme park activities.

Nevertheless, on your off-travel days, you can still enjoy other perks, such as their 3x bonus points offer for online grocery purchases, subscriptions to streaming platforms, and even on your restaurant indulgence. Currently, the credit card also offers 5x bonus points on your Lyft rides, so be sure to maximize your commute.

The real perk that comes with the Chase Sapphire is its flexibility with transferring points. Their 1:1 transfer partners make all your earned bonus points worth the incurred expenses. Suppose your favorite hotel line is offering a great deal on premium suites with their hotels on a desired destination. They are offering it for a minimal price of 30,000 points plus applicable taxes and fees. With Chase Sapphire Preferred, you can convert your Ultimate Rewards Points into the rewards program of that hotel line to pounce on that great offer.

Find their comprehensive list of transfer partners in this article.

These great rewards also come with a price of $95 annual fee. They also do not offer any intro APR for new cardholders. Nevertheless, these financial sacrifices can be valuable with all the travel conveniences the card offers, which unfortunately can also be earned only when you book through their portal.

Overall, transaction fee concerns, although entirely erased by these cards, are just one aspect that completes the complexities of international travel. The overall cost-benefit analysis must be made on the basis of the card’s rewards program, annual fees, and other travel-related perks. The choice of a suitable credit card must be weighed on the basis of personal preferences, travel habits, and financial goals.

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Mony Shah

With an adept skill of curating content on multiple genres, Mony has harnessed success as a Content Writer quickly. Find her sharing profound thoughts and opinions on lifestyle, beauty, fashion, pets, and parenting.

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Travel To Birmingham And Explore Second Largest City in The UK

It is curious to think that despite being the second most populated city in the United Kingdom, Birmingham remains a great mystery among foreign tourists in general. Because of this, the experience of wandering its streets can only be even more exciting since nothing can kick off the adventure like the unknown. Traveling to Birmingham is very simple, and it should not cost you anything to find cheap flights that will take you to Birmingham Airport. The city has two faces and the energy beating from its paved streets paint the picture of industrial England with an additional charm found nowhere else. Prepare to fall in love with the heart of the British Islands. Birthplace of Black Sabbath and Industrial England It's no wonder why so many people storm the city center every Christmas in Birmingham. That jolly good spirit wins over you the moment you step out of the plane and you will be amazed by the fact that so many people know so little about the second largest city in all of UK. It is located approximately 200 km away from the capital London or on average an hour and a half by train.Birmingham is not one of the most sought after destinations in the country yet it's bustling inner metropolis: large yet friendly. With more than 1 million inhabitants, Birmingham has a strategic location in the middle of the country, a region called the Midlands. With easy access to several other cities and is privileged by an efficient public transport system which only facilitates the train routes inside and outside the city.The birthplace of musician Ozzy Osbourne, it was Birmingham where he started his career with the formation of the band Black Sabbath in the late '60s. Even today the fact is that the music scene is one of the strong attractions of the city especially during the summer months when the Birmingham Jazz Festival with many free concerts for everyone's excitement. Throughout the year, Symphony Hall hosts musical events with orchestras and famous musicians.Take a walk around Victoria Square, the heart of the city and the area where you can walk to various attractions such as the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Birmingham Cathedral, St. Philip's Cathedral, Birmingham Town Hall, and Council House. This area is also good for those who are looking for a shopping spree. Because many amazing stores are located here and for those who like a mall, the Bullring Shopping Center is the best option.You will be surprised to find out that Birmingham has more kilometers of canals than Venice. They were built in the time of the Industrial Revolution and they were used for charcoal transport, but nowadays they are being used for cruising, a great way to get to know and appreciate the city's landscapes.Birmingham was once the world leader in jewelry production and one of the cradles of the Industrial Revolution, undergoing a revitalization it is now becoming a super fashionable destination. The time will tell us if this city will finally get his deserved fame because, with all this charm and excitement that will never go away, one can only hope that the more visitors could spread the word about all of its riches.Read Also:So Much To See And Do During A Visit To Chicago 4 Best Destinations In Western United States The Top Destinations For New Year Celebrations

Secrets Every Travel Enthusiast Need To Know While Traveling Solo

Solo travel is a unique experience that can teach you much about yourself and the world around you. Perhaps the most valuable lesson is self-reliance.When traveling alone, you have to be self-sufficient and responsible for your safety and well-being. This can help you develop a sense of independence and self-confidence.Additionally, solo travel can teach you to be flexible and adaptable. You may encounter unexpected challenges or opportunities and need to learn to adjust your plans accordingly.Along with flexibility, solo travel can help you develop patience and perseverance. You'll likely encounter obstacles, but learning to overcome them can be incredibly rewarding.Solo travel can also be an excellent way to gain cultural awareness and sensitivity. You'll be able to immerse yourself in new cultures and ways of life, which can broaden your perspective and help you better understand and appreciate diversity.However, while you are traveling solo, you will face many challenges. While some challenges are unavoidable, there are a few you can easily avoid with the help of your travel partners, especially when you travel, including different road trips.You can reduce your stress of managing different travel modes by letting your travel partner take care of it. For instance, let your travel partner decide the route and mode if you are traveling to Abilene. To learn more, visit Abilene - Lexington by car, truck, bike, walk.Let’s look at the secret every solo traveler should know about.Be Open To New ExperiencesYes, being open to new experiences is a great mindset when traveling solo. Solo travel can allow you to push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things. By being open to new experiences, you can have unique and memorable experiences you may not have had if you were traveling with others.Here are some tips for being open to new experiences while traveling solo:Say "Yes" More Often: If someone invites you to join them on an adventure or activity, say "yes" even if it's something you wouldn't normally do. You may end up having a great time and making new friends.Embrace The Unexpected: Traveling solo can be unpredictable, but try to embrace the unexpected. It could be a chance encounter with a friendly local or stumbling upon a hidden gem not in any guidebook.Try New Foods: Food is a big part of the travel experience, so try new foods and flavors you may not have tried before. You might discover a new favorite dish or cuisine.Be Curious: Ask questions and learn about the local culture, history, and traditions. This can help you better appreciate the place you're visiting.Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone: Don't be afraid to try something that scares you. It could be bungee jumping, trying a new language, or simply conversing with a stranger.Remember, solo travel is all about exploring and discovering new things, so embrace the opportunities that come your way and have fun!Keep Cash HandyKeeping cash handy while traveling can be a smart move, especially in places where credit cards may not be widely accepted or in emergencies where you may not have access to ATM machines.While having cash on hand is important, carrying a credit or debit card for larger purchases or emergencies is also a good idea. Just inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your card abroad.Keep your cash and cards in a money belt or pouch close to your body, underneath your clothing. This can help prevent theft and keep your money safe.If possible, exchange some currency before you leave for your trip so that you have cash on hand when you arrive. This can be especially helpful if you're arriving late at night or in a place where ATMs may be limited.Keeping cash handy while traveling can be smart, but always be mindful of your safety and security. By taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip.Learn A Few Basics Of The Local LanguageLearning a few basics of the local language can be incredibly helpful when traveling to a foreign country. Not only can it help you navigate your way around, but it can also help you connect with locals and show them that you're making an effort to understand their culture.Start with the basics!Begin by learning a few basic phrases such as "hello," "goodbye," "please," and "thank you." These phrases can go a long way in showing respect and building rapport with locals.Using language learning apps like Duolingo and Babbel can be a great way to learn the basics of a new language before you travel. These apps are often free and can help you build your vocabulary and pronunciation skills.In addition, carry a phrasebook or translation app with you while traveling to look up words and phrases on the go. This can be especially helpful when you need to communicate with locals but don't have time to prepare beforehand.Remember, learning a few basics of the local language can help you connect with locals, show respect for their culture, and enhance your travel experience. By learning a few key phrases, you can make the most of your trip and have a more fulfilling travel experience.Final secret: Make A Customized Trip That Is More FulfillingMaking a customized trip can be a great way to ensure your travel experience is fulfilling and meets your needs and interests. Start by identifying your goals for the trip.What do you want to accomplish? Are you looking for adventure, relaxation, culture, or something else? Knowing your goals can help you plan a trip that meets your needs.Once you know your goals, research your destination to learn more about the local culture, customs, and attractions. This can help you identify activities and experiences that align with your goals.Addiction:How To Become A Travel NurseThe Dos And Don’ts Of Corporate Travel PlanningTop 7 Trending Men And Women Travel Toiletries For 2022

5 Irresistible Reasons to Embark on a Golden Triangle Tour

The cities that comprise the Golden Triangle tour are worth every penny you intend to spend on your next vacation. The experience and memory you will have afterwards would be invaluable— golden in the true sense, just the way the tour is named. A package for touring Delhi Agra and Jaipur has more than a traveller can encapsulate in a single-trip experience.5 Irresistible Reasons to Embark on a Golden Triangle Tour Here are your unique 5 reasons for picking a Golden Triangle tour.1. To explore what’s ‘golden’ about the ‘triangle Catchy title aside, the tourists may wonder what is so special about Jaipur, Delhi and Agra that tourists are flocking here from every corner of the world. And the answer to the question is everything, be it the art, the culture, the heritage, the myths and legends associated with the places, people, craftworks, markets, festivals and fairs, history, food, and anything that has escaped the list.2. To get immersed soul-deep in history All the three cities, Delhi Agra and Jaipur have the potential to make you forget about yourself while you live their glorious past that has become their identity. Every palace () you visit, every fort () you score through and every museum () you spend your time in would lead to your rendezvous with kings, queens, warriors, politician and strategists that have contributed to architectures and articles you are revelling in.3. To fall in love with the idea of eternal love The Taj Mahal will always have a distinct mention in anything you are going to read about Agra, 7 Wonders of the World or Golden Triangle tour, India. After all, the mausoleum is more than just history or architecture; it stands as the testimony of love as pure as the white colour of the marble it is built from. The characters associated with the Taj belong to the past but the idea of love is eternal, which people come from everywhere to experience.4. To experiment with the flavors of past and present History lives and breathes in the three cities not just in the architecture but also in the food. Tasting the unique and lively flavors of Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra would take you to the popular stories behind most of the dishes. If you are all ears, your taste buds would hold key to entertaining you beyond your imagination. And for those who don’t have that kind of time at their disposal, only food is as good as the act of sightseeing.5. To add nearby tourist destinations to experience more of India And if the cities have only fuelled your hunger for more of India rather than tire you with its immenseness, the nearby tourist destinations can add another dimension to your trip. Wildlife lovers can pick Ranthambhore or Jim Corbett National Park; hill station seekers can choose Shimla, Nainital, Mussoorie and more; spiritual travelers can hope to experience bliss in Haridwar or Amritsar; adventure holidaymakers can thrill and excite themselves in Rishikesh with options for rafting and bungee jumping; opulence appreciators can book a ride in luxury trains or pick their accommodation in heritage hotels of Rajasthan. Must Read: Why Should Ladakh Be Your Next Travel Destination

World Unlocked: Amex Gold Vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred – Which Is Better?

The American Express Gold Card: A Culinary Approach to Travel

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: A Versatile Traveler’s Ally

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Mony Shah

With an adept skill of curating content on multiple genres, Mony has harnessed success as a Content Writer quickly. Find her sharing profound thoughts and opinions on lifestyle, beauty, fashion, pets, and parenting.

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Travel To Birmingham And Explore Second Largest City in The UK

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World Unlocked: Amex Gold Vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred – Which Is Better?

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With an adept skill of curating content on multiple genres, Mony has harnessed success as a Content Writer quickly. Find her sharing profound thoughts and opinions on lifestyle, beauty, fashion, pets, and parenting.

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