Hawaii is known for its idyllic location, stunning sunsets and incredible waters, which all make it an enviable place to visit. But as the state struggles with the effects of over tourism and prices for accommodations that continue to climb, you may be wanting to look elsewhere for your next vacation.
Let’s check out six places like Hawaii to visit, including French Polynesia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and more.
6 Hawaii alternatives
1. French Polynesia
Also located Southwest of California, French Polynesia is a series of islands like Hawaii. This French territory features all the amenities you’d expect from a tropical vacation, with high-end resorts, bucket-list diving sites and unspoiled natural beauty.
French Polynesia especially shines when it comes to photo-worthy vacation spots. Options such as the Conrad Bora Bora and The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort can be booked with points — but even better, they feature overwater villas from which you can dive straight into the ocean.
There are direct flights to Tahiti, the main island, from Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle, making this fairly accessible for U.S. travelers. It’ll take you roughly eight and a half hours to get to Papeete (the capitol); from there, you can either opt to stay in Tahiti or travel onward to islands such as Bora Bora, Moorea or Faa’a.
2. U.S. Virgin Islands
If you’re located on the East Coast, the U.S. Virgin Islands may be appealing for a place similar to Hawaii. Consisting of St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John (plus a multitude of smaller islands), this Hawaii alternative is easily accessed from the U.S. mainland.
You’ll find all types of lodging within the U.S. Virgin Islands, whether you’re looking for a vacation rental or all-inclusive resort.
Its status as a United States territory also leads to a multitude of benefits; the official language is English, U.S. dollars are its currency and as a U.S. citizen you don’t need a passport to visit. How simple is that?
3. Guam
Another far-flung island destination, Guam has probably never been on your travel list — but it ought to be. This U.S. territory features a rich history, including strong military significance during World War II. In terms of location, it’s much nearer to the Philippines than it is to the United States.
That doesn’t mean it’s difficult to get there, however. United Airlines runs the famous ‘Island Hopper’ route from Honolulu, which makes several short-term stops as it delivers supplies to islands. Along with stunning views, having made the Island Hopper run is a feather in any traveler’s cap.
A U.S. territory like the Virgin Islands, you will be using U.S. currency and won’t need a passport to travel. English is also one of the many languages you will hear and use on your trip.
In terms of places similar to Hawaii, Guam offers all the beaches and tropical weather, as well as resorts, but still maintains some uniqueness for its reasonably-priced housing and living.
If you’re looking for a place like Hawaii but cheaper, Guam is a great place to look.
4. Maldives
Maldives is a sprawling archipelago located off the coast of India. Sure, it’s a trek, but the journey is worth the effort once you step foot on the pristine white beaches of this island nation.
Home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the world, the Maldives encompasses the utter relaxation you’ll often find in Hawaii.
🤓Nerdy Tip
The Maldives can be expensive, but hotel chains such as Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott allow you to redeem your points for stays in the Maldives.
Add to this world-class snorkeling and overwater villas galore, and you’ll start to see why so many people make the pilgrimage to the Maldives.
5. Cabo San Lucas
Our only non-island location on the list, we chose Cabo for its proximity to the United States, its weather, its landscape and its infrastructure. Cabo San Lucas is located on the very tip of Baja California’s peninsula and features a wide variety of activities, no matter your vacation style.
When in Cabo you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to where to stay and what to do. You’ll find ultra-high-end resorts such as the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, but it’s equally possible to spend a week in a beachfront Airbnb for just over $100 per night.
Cabo is also very well-connected to the United States, with direct flights to 25 U.S. airports. This includes the West Coast, where a flight to Los Angeles takes just two and half hours, as well as the East Coast, where a flight to New York-EWR will take a little over five hours.
6. Puerto Rico
Both Hawaii and Puerto Rico are popular tropical destinations and have many similarities.
For East Coast-based travelers, traveling here cuts travel time more than half (when comparing flights to Puerto Rico to Honolulu).
Its cost are on par or more affordable than Puerto Rico, and its offerings have a similar range: activities span land and sea, wildlife is abundant and historical tourism is alive and well.
That said, the main difference between Puerto Rico and Hawaii is the culture visitors can experience.
If you want alternatives to Hawaii
We get it — Hawaii is a dream vacation for many reasons, including its verdant forests, immaculate beaches and superb water activities. But if you’re looking to go on vacation, there’s no reason to limit yourself to Hawaii and its islands. Instead, opt for one of these five alternatives to enjoy a similar experience elsewhere.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) is a collective of high-end properties that meet high standards for service and style. There are more than 500 boutique hotels in 90 countries that make the grade.
SLH will not become one of the many Hilton Honors brands, but the strategic partnership between the two unlocks the door to significantly more luxury properties than are currently in the Hilton portfolio.
For now, the details of using Hilton elite status benefits and credit card perks at SLH properties are still being ironed out, but Hilton members will soon be able to earn and redeem points at the participating luxury hotels.
What happens to the World of Hyatt partnership?
As Hilton Honors ramps up its partnership, World of Hyatt will end its connection with SLH. This comes on the heels of Hyatt’s new acquisition of travel club platform Mr. & Mrs. Smith, which gives World of Hyatt members plenty of opportunity to earn and redeem points at more than 1,500 luxury properties. Hilton will have an exclusive partnership with SLH.
9 Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties to look forward to booking with Hilton points
To book these new hotel options, Hilton Honors members can use any of Hilton’s traditional reservations channels to book a stay at participating SLH hotels. This includes earning and redeeming points, which multiply when you use a Hilton Honors co-branded credit card.
Hilton Honors is also a transfer partner of AmEx Membership Rewards. No matter which credit card you use, these are some of the exciting SLH options that may participate in the Hilton Honors partnership.
1. The Principal Hotel, Madrid
Along the famous Gran Via, this hotel is close to popular shopping, theaters, nightlife, dining and tourist attractions like the Prado and Retiro Park.
Be sure to visit the one of the rooftop restaurants and bar for cocktails and tapas before heading out to a night on the town.
2. Inverlochy Castle, Scotland
Want to sleep in a castle? Hilton Honors points could be your chance. The 19th century Inverlochy Castle is in the Scottish Highlands where guests can slumber like royalty.
Other activities include fishing, hiking, mountain biking, golf and even a ride on the Hogwarts Express train of Harry Potter fame.
3. Hotel Excelsior, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Hugging the Adriatic Sea, this year-round hotel provides excellent views of the city’s famous Old Town (which was used for filming King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones”) and the popular island of Lokrum across the bay.
Instead of a traditional sandy beach, guests have a stone-lined deck from which they can take a dip in the water or lay back in the sun. There is a heated indoor pool and spa when the weather is not ideal for sitting by the sea.
4. Nimb Hotel, Copenhagen
Facing Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, this hotel looks like part of a fairytale. Not only is there a convenient rooftop pool and sun deck available for guests, but anyone that stays here enjoys free access to Tivoli Gardens when it is open.
5. Hemingways Nairobi
Hemingways Nairobi is a solid option for visitors either before or after a safari trip because of its location near Nairobi National Park. It has its own gardens offering tranquility from the city of Nairobi, one of East Africa’s bustling downtowns.
An outdoor swimming pool, massive guest rooms and plenty of green space are all less than 30 minutes from the city-center Wilson Airport, where many safari flights depart.
6. The Anam Mui Ne, Vietnam
Along the East Sea, this resort is similar to a Hawaiian getaway with beautiful sea views and two sparkling swimming pools.
The Vietnamese restaurant serves traditional regional recipes from around the country, and don’t miss the evening sundowner music and dance performances.
7. Viceroy Bali
This small, family-owned resort five minutes from Ubud is surrounded by rice fields and lush foliage ideal for guests looking for a wellness vacation, especially one focused on meditation and self-improvement.
Its 40 private villas offer oversized infinity pools, and local experiences include everything from a walk through the rice paddies to Balinese dance lessons and temple offerings.
8. Keswick Hall, Charlottesville, Virginia
This luxury resort overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Virginia countryside boasts renovated interiors, a new spa and a Jean-Georges’ restaurant.
History buffs will appreciate its proximity to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.
9. The Roundtree, Amagansett
In the Hamptons on Long Island, this boutique hotel provides respite from the bustle of New York City and puts visitors within reach of the Atlantic Ocean.
A beach buggy takes guests to the shore during the summer, but back at the property, there is a lot to do, too. This includes popcorn and s’mores by the fire pit, afternoon tea and cookies, biking around the area, golf, baking classes and wine tastings.
The accommodations are made up of rooms, suites and private cottages.
The Hilton Honors and SLH exclusive partnership recapped
Hilton Honors members have another option for earning and redeeming points now that there is an exclusive partnership between Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. As long as you make a reservation through a Hilton channel, SLH hotels now offer Hilton Honors members access to more than 500 boutique hotels around the world.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
The best travel rewards are the ones that get you where you want to go, and some do a better job of that than others. Airline miles can help you book free flights and hotel points can help you book free rooms, but transferable points (like Chase Ultimate Rewards and AmEx Membership Rewards) can do both — and more.
Here are six reasons why transferable points are at the apex of travel rewards, and why you should prioritize earning them over other types of points and miles.
1. Transferable points provide flexibility
Suppose you’re in the market for a new travel credit card and you’ve narrowed your decision to two choices: the first card earns points that can be redeemed with your favorite airline, while the second card earns points that can be redeemed not only with your favorite airline, but also with your favorite hotel chain. The cards are functionally identical otherwise. Which do you choose?
The second card is the obvious answer. The option to redeem with both airline and hotel partners makes the rewards you earn from it more useful, since they can meet a broader range of award travel needs. In short, the rewards earned by the second card are more valuable because they’re more flexible.
Transferable points programs expand on that premise by partnering with a variety of airline and hotel loyalty programs, giving you a diverse range of redemption options instead of just one.
Flexibility isn’t the only ingredient needed to add value, since making points transferable doesn’t necessarily mean transferring them is worthwhile. For example, you can transfer Hilton Honors points to more than two dozen airline partners, but in most cases the transfer ratio is a dismal 10:1 (i.e., 10,000 Hilton points becomes 1,000 airline miles).
That provides marginal value because it’s only useful in marginal situations, like if you urgently need a small number of miles to book a highly valuable award flight. While Hilton Honors points are technically “transferable,” their transferability doesn’t add much.
In contrast, the major transferable points programs generally offer neutral or favorable transfer ratios, as well as transfers that process quickly (or in many cases, instantly). That kind of flexibility adds more clear and consistent value.
2. Transferable points have greater upside
Suppose you’re booking a long weekend trip from Denver to San Francisco in the spring. You’ll be attending a wedding at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco and plan to pay out of pocket for your room there, but you have 60,000 United Airlines MileagePlus miles you can use to book your flight.
You want to arrive Thursday morning and return Sunday evening, so you search United’s website and find an itinerary that suits your needs for 32,200 miles and $11.20 in fees. You compare that with the cash price of $375.72 and calculate a redemption value of 1.13 cents per mile. That’s quite close to NerdWallet’s valuation of1.2 cents per mile, so you’re satisfied.
Now imagine that instead of United miles, you have a reserve of 60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Instead of being able to redeem them solely for United flights, you can transfer those points to 11 airlines and three hotels based on which one suits your needs and offers the best value.
For example, instead of booking with United, you could transfer points to Southwest Airlines and book a comparable (though not identical) itinerary for 27,577 points and $11.20 in fees, versus a cash price of $386.97.
Assuming you’re not bothered by the earlier outbound departure and you don’t have a strong preference for one airline, the ability to choose between them saves you about 4,600 points on your flight.
Alternatively, you could transfer points to Hyatt to book your stay at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco. The award cost is 17,000 points per night, totaling 51,000 points for your three-night visit.
Cash rates start at $323 per night, but the cheapest rates require advance purchase and are nonrefundable, while booking with points generally allows you to cancel with no penalty until two days before arrival.
A cash rate with a comparable cancellation policy totals $1,386.22 after taxes and fees, which yields a redemption value of over 2.7 cents per point (more than double what you’d get by redeeming for the United flights above).
This is just one example about a set itinerary, but it illustrates how the versatility of transferable points provides an upside when you’re not locked into specific travel providers.
Having more redemption options yields more opportunities to use points efficiently, which in turn raises the expected value of each redemption.
3. Transferable points have more favorable expiration policies
Many loyalty programs have expiration policies that can cause your rewards to vanish over time. While you’ll generally have 12 to 36 months to keep rewards active, some points and miles expire in as little as six months.
It’s easy to let rewards lapse and disappear in that timeframe if you’re not a frequent traveler and you don’t monitor your loyalty accounts vigilantly.
In contrast, transferable points generally don’t expire as long as your account remains open and in good standing. That means you won’t have to keep track of when you last logged activity in each loyalty program or take action to keep dormant rewards from expiring.
4. Transferable points offer lucrative transfer bonuses
Most transfers to airline and hotel partners are done at a 1:1 ratio, so transferring typically gets you the same number of rewards you put in.
For example, transferring 1,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points to United Airlines gets you 1,000 United miles, or transferring 1,000 Citi ThankYou Rewards points to Wyndham Hotels gets you 1,000 Wyndham points. While exchange rates vary depending on the loyalty program and credit card you’re using, a 1:1 transfer ratio is the industry standard.
However, transferable points programs offer occasional transfer bonuses that boost the exchange rate, commonly by 20%-50%. Instead of the usual 1:1, every 1,000 points you transfer with a bonus could get you 1,200 to 1,500 points with the partner program (or in some cases, more).
These higher exchange rates can save you points when a transfer bonus aligns with your travel plans, since booking the trip you want requires fewer transferable points than it would normally.
Transfer bonuses also create opportunities to top up your loyalty account balances by sending points to the programs you use most (even if you don’t have immediate plans to redeem them).
5. Transferable points reduce the risk of devaluation
Loyalty programs change over time, and while they sometimes add features, lower award prices or introduce new redemption options that make rewards more valuable, the opposite is more common.
Devaluations are a regular occurrence among airline and hotel programs and sometimes take place with no warning. When your points or miles are suddenly in decline, you have little recourse.
Transferable points programs aren’t immune from devaluations; they add, remove and modify features just like airline and hotel programs.
However, transferable points are insulated from devaluation by the sheer number of available redemption options — when a single airline or hotel program devalues, other transfer partners are unaffected, so transferable points retain the bulk of their worth.
In short, earning transferable points is the award travel equivalent of diversifying investments: By having a share of many loyalty programs, you’re less affected by a downturn in one of them.
6. Transferable points offer alternative redemption options
Transfers to airline and hotel partners tend to be the most valuable use of rewards, but transferable points programs feature a variety of other ways to redeem them.
One is to book flights, hotels or other travel directly through the program’s travel portal, especially with programs that offer added value for travel portal redemptions. For example, Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders get 1.5 cents per point when redeeming through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
NerdWallet Rating
Annual fee
$550
Some programs also offer added value when redeeming for cash equivalents like statement credits or gift cards. For example, the American Express Platinum Card for Schwab lets you redeem Membership Rewards points at 1.1 cents apiece for cash deposits to an eligible Charles Schwab account. Terms apply.
Even though cashing out yields a lower average return than transfers to travel partners, it’s nice to be given the option when you need it, as it’s one you generally don’t have with other points and miles programs.
Why you should be using transferable points
Among travel rewards, transferable points have the best chance to provide useful redemption options, yield a high return and retain their value over time.
That’s why they’re broadly prized above rewards from individual airline and hotel programs, and why earning them should be the focus of your award travel strategy.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Burrell countersued earlier this month, arguing that he shouldn’t have to pay the bank back since it knew he was using the business credit for personal expenses.
The bank has asked an Aspen judge to let it foreclose on six of Burrell’s properties as collateral.
Public records show that the businessman owns two homes in Basalt, Colo. and a 190-acre ranch in New Mexico, valued at $21.1 million, which is currently up for auction.
However, per a report on luxury real estate listings site Mansion Global, only one of Burrell’s five children are still living at home, so Burrell and his wife, Nikola, have decided to downsize.
First Western reportedly wants to foreclose on Burrell’s home in Aspen and ranch near the affluent ski town, as well as a property in Nantucket and land in Vero Beach, Fla., according to The Denver Post.
In his countersuit, Burrell argued that if First Western forecloses on his properties, “Burrell, Burrell’s wife, and Burrell’s minor children are at risk of losing their primary residence and have incurred emotional distress,” according to the countersuit, The Denver Post reported.
In a bizarre twist, Burrell also argued that it was “improper” for the bank to give him business loans when it was well aware most of the funds would be spent on his personal life — such as his divorce payments, buying a yacht and building a house in Basalt, Colo.
“Additionally, First Western did not make a reasonable and good faith determination at or before consummation that Burrell had a reasonable ability to repay,” his countersuit states, per The Denver Post.
The bank also didn’t allow him to refinance, didn’t consistently provide him with paperwork for the loans and wrongly accepted his personal homes as collateral, Burrell alleged, the outlet reported.
Burrell’s counsel, attorneys Sarah Auchterlonie and Courtney Bartkus in the Denver office of Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.
The Post has also sought comment from First Western Bank.
First Western’s CEO Scott Wylie referred to “a client we’ve had since 2018” who is “facing a liquidity crunch and becoming delinquent on their payments,” during an earnings call in October.
He noted that the bank had to declare the loans in default in order to seek the collateral, but assured: “We think we’re going to have a full recovery.
The real estate collateral that we have is in some very desirable markets. It’s in Aspen, it’s in Nantucket, it’s in (Florida),” he said.
Though Wylie didn’t name the borrower, Burrell argued that analysts listening to the call were able to figure it out, according to The Denver Post.
Burrell said that one listener even called him to ask about his personal finances.
This has caused Burrell and his investment company “reputational harm and public disgrace,” he argued.
Last month, Burrell and his second wife opened an auction for an 8,400-square-foot estate located on Aspen’s Red Mountain — the Burrell family’s “primary home,” according to Mansion Global — and a nearby, 4,200-acre ranch in Carbondale as part of an $86.5 million package.
Two of his children from his first marriage with Australian jewelry magnate Katherine Jetter are in college, while his third child with Jetter is set to head off to college next year.
Burrell also has two kids with Nikola — one of which is at a boarding school in Boston, leaving just one at home, according to Mansion Global.
Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions led the bidding, and has since marked the ranch on its website as “sale pending,” while the Red Mountain home’s bid deadline has been extended to Feb. 15.
Burrell, the founder of investment firm The Burrell Group, claimed that First Western’s lawsuit violates federal lending laws as it interferes with the auction of his Red Mountain estate, a property valued at $38.5 million.
He is also seeking damages for what he claims was an invasion of privacy and public outing of his financial situation by First Western, The Denver Post reported.
Chase is offering a bonus of up to 65,000 points on the Chase Hyatt card. Broken down as follows:
35,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
Plus, up to 30,000 more Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent
Card Basics
This product is available to you if you do not have this card and have not received a new cardmember bonus for this card in the past 24 months
Annual fee of $95
Card earns at the following rates:
4x points per $1 spent on Hyatt hotels (they advertise this as 9x, but it’s 4x plus the 5x you normally get anyway)
2x points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting (including taxis, mass transit, tolls and ride-share serivces)
2x points per $1 spent on restaurants, cafes and coffee shops
2x points per $1 spent on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines
2x points per $1 spent on fitness clubs and gym memberships
1x points per $1 spent on all other purchases
Receive up to two free nights annually:
One free night at any category 1-4 Hyatt property every year after your card member anniversary
An additional free night at any category 1-4 Hyatt property if you spend $15,000 during your card member anniversary year
Status:
World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as the card is open
5 qualifying night credits towards your next tier status every year
An additional 2 qualifying night credits towards your next tier every time you spend $5,000 on the card (no limit)
Our Verdict
We’ve previously seen a 60,000 offer that only required $6,000 in total spend, whereas this new offer requires $15,000. It is slightly better than the 60,000 point bonus we saw recently. You can also usually get 50,000 points via referral after only $6,000 in total spend. Because of that reason I won’t add this to the best credit card bonuses.
The surge in inflation may have slowed, but the cost of everyday items is still high enough to put a strain on your travel budget. If winter already has you dreaming of a luxury beach vacation, it’s worth finding a destination where the U.S. dollar delivers more bang for your buck. Fortunately, there are several options around the world where five-star accommodations are surprisingly affordable, even without using travel rewards.
Travel search engines Skyscanner and Kayak both analyzed data on their platforms to rank the cities where you can book the cheapest five-star hotels. How cheap are we talking? All of the cities in this combined list feature five-star hotels for less than $200 per night.
Skyscanner looked at the average price per night for a five-star hotel room booked on its portal from January through June 2023. Kayak looked at average prices based on searches conducted across all its portfolio domains from July 2022 through June 2023 for travel from November 2022 through October 2023.
Here are the top five cities to consider for your next luxury getaway.
1. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Malaysian capital topped Skyscanner’s list at $102 a night for five-star accommodation and came in second on Kayak’s list at $175 a night. Five-star hotels in the city include chains such as Hyatt and Hilton, as well as high-end properties such as the St. Regis and Banyan Tree.
Known for its delicious cuisine, cultural attractions, street food markets, shopping, nightlife, skyscrapers and theme parks, Kuala Lumpur offers a mix of luxury and budget-friendly activities for all travelers.
2. Hoi An, Vietnam
This ancient port city on Vietnam’s central coast offers five-star luxury for $117 per night, according to Skyscanner data. Boutique luxury hotels include Little Riverside, Anantara and Amina Lantana.
Because of its trading history, Hoi An has a unique blend of Japanese, Chinese and European influences. At this offbeat Vietnam destination, you can enjoy everything from beautiful architecture in the Old Town neighborhood to seventh-century temples, farm-fresh cuisine, lush countryside and pristine beaches.
3. Tirana, Albania
The Albanian capital comes in third on Skyscanner’s list, with five-star accommodations available for $140 per night. Although not as popular as its European neighbor Greece, Albania is slowly opening up to more tourism.
Tirana, the largest city, is a haven for art and history lovers, featuring a bustling town square, an underground Cold War bunker converted into an art museum, mosques, palaces and fortresses.
Although it has a few big hotel chains, including a Marriott and a Radisson, most of Tirana’s five-star hotels are lesser-known, such as the Xheko Imperial and Mak Albania.
4. Chiang Mai, Thailand
It’s no surprise that Thailand is a popular destination for travelers looking for both luxury and affordability. At $146 per night according to Skyscanner data, Chiang Mai boasts a large collection of five-star properties.
Marriott, InterContinental and Shangri-La are a few of the big hotel chains with locations in the northern Thai city. High-end boutique hotels include Chala Number 6, Cross Chiang Mai Riverside and Villa Mahabhirom.
The mountainous city of Chiang Mai offers a different landscape from Thailand’s famous beach destinations. Attractions include the country’s highest peak at Doi Inthanon National Park, Buddhist temples, botanical gardens and traditional villages against a backdrop of rice fields.
5. Hammamet, Tunisia
Kayak’s top affordable five-star destination is Hammamet, a beach town in the African country of Tunisia. A luxury stay here will set you back $151 a night, according to Skyscanner data.
Sheraton and Radisson Blu are two of the only chain hotels in this town. Luxury properties include The Sindbad, Medina Solaria & Thalasso, La Badira and Les Orangers.
Located about 40 miles from the capital of Tunis, Hammamet’s namesake beach features sparkling blue waters suitable for snorkeling and diving. History lovers can soak in cultural attractions from the ancient medina, a maze of alleyways bustling with shops and Islamic architecture, to fortresses and mosques. There’s even something for amusement park enthusiasts: Carthageland, a theme park inspired by the Carthage empire.
Other cities where you can find affordable luxury
Here are the other destinations that made it into Kayak’s top five:
Bogotá, Colombia: $192 per night.
Colombo, Sri Lanka: $210 per night.
Side, Turkey: $212 per night.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card is best known for its unique standout feature: the ability to earn rewards with no transaction fee when paying rent. Indeed, the Bilt credit card is a game-changer for renters. Beyond rent, though, how does Bilt compare with a more traditional general-purpose credit card like the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card?
Both cards carry no annual fee. They both earn 3 points per $1 spent on dining, offer cell phone protection and certain travel protections, plus charge no foreign transaction fees. But in most other respects, the benefits of these two cards couldn’t be more different.
The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card offers a compelling sign-up bonus and introductory APR, while the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card offers neither. But the Bilt credit card, along with its most obvious benefit for renters, earns points that can be transferred to various hotel and airline travel partners, giving the potential for outsize value. Currently, the Autograph offers no such transfers.
Let’s dig into the specifics of each card so you can make the right pick for your lifestyle.
Who doesn’t want to be rewarded?
Create a NerdWallet account for personalized recommendations, and find the card that rewards you the most for your spending.
How the cards compare
Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card
Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
Annual fee
Sign-up bonus
Limited Time Offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $300 cash redemption value.
Rewards
3 points per $1 spent on dining.
2 points per $1 spent on travel.
1 point per $1 spent on rent (up to 100,000 points annually).
1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
3 points per $1 spent on restaurants.
3 points per $1 spent on travel, transit, gas stations and EV charging stations.
3 points per $1 spent on popular streaming services and select phone plans.
1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
APR
See Terms.
0% intro APR on Purchases for 12 months from account opening, and then the ongoing APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR .
Foreign transaction fee
Still not sure?
Why the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card is better for renters and travelers
Pay rent with a credit card
The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card‘s standout feature is its ability to earn rewards on rent payments without any transaction fees. That’s a unicorn in the credit card world, as most cards can’t be used directly toward rent payments without such fees. Previously, renters looking to pile up credit card rewards relied on intermediary services like Plastiq, whose high fees cut into any rewards earned.
Though the benefit caps out at 100,000 points per year, this still makes the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card the obvious choice for renters looking to get more out of their biggest monthly expense. Even if you don’t live in a property that’s part of the Bilt network, you can still charge rent on the card (with no transaction fees) and they’ll mail a check to your landlord.
Transfer to travel partners
Both cards earn points, but only points earned from the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card have the potential for higher value toward travel. Points earned from the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card are worth 1 cent each and can be redeemed for travel, gift cards or statement credits — or when checking out online with PayPal.
Bilt Points are also versatile and can be used toward rent, fitness classes, home decor and even a home downpayment, for varying value. But as a card with no annual fee, the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card stands out for its ability to transfer points at a 1:1 ratio to a wide range of travel partners. Travelers often find greater value than 1 cent each for their points when they transfer this way.
This is a rare perk among no-fee cards, most of which require pairing with a higher-fee card to transfer points. For example, Chase Freedom Flex℠ cardholders can transfer points to travel partners only if they also carry a higher fee card like the $95-annual-fee Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
Plus, Bilt’s list of travel partners is excellent, including American Airlines, United, Hyatt and IHG. In fact, despite American Airlines issuing co-branded credit cards with both Citibank and Barclays, neither issuer allows transfers of its points to the airline. Here’s a look at the full list of available transfers:
Full list of Bilt transfer partners
Aer Lingus (1:1 ratio).
Air Canada (1:1 ratio).
Air France (1:1 ratio).
American Airlines (1:1 ratio).
British Airways (1:1 ratio).
Cathay Pacific (1:1 ratio).
Emirates (1:1 ratio).
Hawaiian Airlines (1:1 ratio).
Hyatt (1:1 ratio).
Iberia Airlines (1:1 ratio).
IHG (1:1 ratio).
Marriott (1:1 ratio).
Turkish Airlines (1:1 ratio).
United (1:1 ratio).
Virgin Atlantic (1:1 ratio).
Bonus points in several categories, with an extra boost on “Rent Day”
Beyond rent payments, the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card earns solid rewards on a variety of everyday expenses. That includes 5x points on Lyft rides, 3x points on dining, 2x points on travel and 1x on all other purchases.
But Bilt’s biggest benefit to cardholders comes on the first day of each month, when point values double for all nonrent categories, up to a cap of 10,000 bonus points per month. On that day, Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card holders earn 6x points on dining, 4x on travel purchases and 2x on everything else.
Why you may prefer the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
Snag a sign-up bonus
Like many more traditional rewards credit cards, the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card greets new users with an attractive new cardholder bonus: Limited Time Offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $300 cash redemption value.
The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card, on the other hand, offers no bonus for new cardholders, meaning it will take longer to rack up the same level of rewards.
Pay over time with 0% introductory APR
The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is also the better pick for cardholders who need to finance purchases over time. Currently, new cardholders will get 0% intro APR on Purchases for 12 months from account opening, and then the ongoing APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR .
Since the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card doesn’t offer an introductory interest rate, it’s a less attractive choice for cardholders who need some breathing room on interest.
Earn higher rewards on travel, gas stations and streaming services
Both cards earn 3x points at restaurants, but the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card wins by a nose on travel purchases, earning 3x points per $1 spent compared with 2x with Bilt.
The Autograph also earns 3x points on certain popular streaming services and phone plans. Bilt’s baseline earnings rate for these categories is just 1 point per $1 spent — but you can bump that up to 2x points per dollar by setting these recurring bills to be charged on the first of every month.
When it comes to fueling your vehicle, though, the Autograph really races ahead on rewards, earning 3x points at gas stations and EV charging stations. For comparison, the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card earns a modest 1 point per dollar spent in these categories.
Potential tie-breakers
Still can’t decide which card is right for you? Here are a few minor points of distinction to consider.
Simplicity of earning rewards
A major downside of the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card is its transaction requirement. According to the card’s terms, you must complete five transactions per billing period to earn any rewards. That means if you only make four transactions on the card one month, you won’t earn rewards on any of those purchases. There’s no minimum spend per transaction, but this does present an extra hoop to make sure you maximize your rewards.
The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card won’t earn you rewards on rent, but it also doesn’t include any such complicated requirements.
Metal vs. plastic
If you have strong preferences about the feel of the card, it’s worth noting that the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card comes in a sleek metal design, adding some sophistication to your wallet. The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is plastic, making it a lighter weight to carry.
Which card should you get?
The distinction here is pretty clear. If you’re a renter, the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card is the obvious choice. No other card offers comparable rewards on rent payments, and the card’s additional rewards plus travel partners make it a good value on everyday spending as well.
Not a renter? The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card will provide more overall value on everyday spending.
Then again, given that both cards carry no annual fee, renters with good credit may choose to pick up one of each. Use the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card for rent, Lyft rides and to pick up extra rewards on the first day of each month. For the rest of the month, the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card will earn you higher rewards in most categories, along with a strong intro APR and sign-up bonus.
Bilt Rewards is a unique credit card rewards program that allows members to earn points on rent payments without paying transaction fees. Members with the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card can also earn Bilt Points on non-rent spending, including bonuses on dining and travel purchases.
One way to redeem these points for travel expenses is to transfer Bilt Rewards points to airline and hotel loyalty programs. Prominent Bilt transfer partners include American Airlines AAdvantage, United MileagePlus, Emirates Skywards, World of Hyatt and the company’s newest transfer partner: Marriott Bonvoy.
Bilt airline transfer partners
Bilt Rewards members can transfer their points to 12 airline frequent flyer programs. Notably, that includes the American Airlines AAdvantage program — which is exclusive to Bilt.
Bilt members can transfer points to the following airline loyalty programs at a rate of 1:1 (1 Bilt point will become 1 airline mile).
Bilt Rewards hotel transfer partners
Bilt Rewards members can transfer to three hotel partners at a rate of 1:1.
Marriott Bonvoy is the newest transfer partner for Bilt Rewards. Members can transfer points to Marriott Bonvoy at a rate of 1:1. Plus, for every 20,000 points transferred to Marriott in a single transaction, Bilt Rewards members will receive an additional 5,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
How to earn Bilt Rewards points
With a $0 annual fee, cardholders earn 1 Bilt Rewards point per dollar spent on rent (up to 100,000 points in a calendar year) without paying any extra transaction fees. If necessary, Bilt will charge you for your rent and then send a check to your landlord on your behalf.
Bilt cardholders also earn:
3 points per dollar on dining.
2 points per dollar on travel booked directly through a hotel, airline, or car rental agency.
1 point per dollar on all other purchases.
Members must use the card on five transactions within each statement period to earn points.
On the first of the month — which the company calls “Rent Day” — Bilt cardmembers earn double points on non-rent categories, including 6 points per dollar on restaurants, 4 points per dollar on travel and 2 points per dollar on other purchases. There are usually other promotions as well on Rent Day.
How to transfer Bilt Rewards
The easiest way to transfer Bilt Rewards points to partner loyalty programs is in the Bilt Rewards app.
After logging in, navigate to the “Travel” tab.
From there, select “Flights” or “Hotels.” Then scroll down and select a specific loyalty program. At that point, you’ll be able to enter your partner loyalty number to link your loyalty account with your Bilt Rewards account. You’ll get 100 Bilt points for each loyalty program you link.
Then you can enter however many points you’d like to transfer.
🤓Nerdy Tip
In some cases, the app cautions that transfers may not happen instantaneously. For instance, the app specifics that American Airlines AAdvantage transfers may take up to 72 hours to complete.
Which Bilt transfer partners are best?
NerdWallet values Bilt Rewards points at 2 cents per point. Here is how NerdWallet values some of the top transfer partners when you redeem these programs’ points or miles for flights or hotel stays:
Transfer partner
Estimated value
American Airlines AAdvantage
1.7 cents.
Air France/KLM Flying Blue
1.2 cents.
Air Canada Aeroplan
1.4 cents.
British Airways Avios
Emirates Skywards
Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles
1.2 cents.
IHG One Rewards
Marriott Bonvoy
United MIleagePlus
1.2 cents.
World of Hyatt
2.3 cents.
The best Bilt transfer partners are generally the highest valued ones: World of Hyatt and American Airlines. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ever transfer to other partners, especially if you need to top off your account to be able to book a trip or if you find a surprisingly good redemption rate with one of the other loyalty programs.
Is transferring your Bilt Rewards worth it?
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
As Maui continues to recover from devastating wildfires in August, the Hawaii island is reopening hotels and welcoming visitors, looking for an influx of tourism dollars to help support the local economy.
Maui Mayor Richard Bissen sped up the island’s phased reopening plan, which allowed almost the entire west coast of Maui, from Ka’anapali to Kapalua, to host visitors starting Nov. 1.
The Hawai’i Tourism Authority encourages visitors to support Maui businesses, but to stay away from the town of Lahaina, which was destroyed in the wildfires.
Here’s a look at the top properties on the island where you can earn or redeem points in the coming months. Keep in mind that even when a hotel is open, some amenities may have limited availability or could still be closed.
Hilton Honors
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
This property is open and welcoming visitors with close to full operations. As part of the Hilton Honors portfolio, guests can earn or redeem Hilton Honors points. For those with a Hilton Honors-affiliated credit card, they can earn bonus points for their spending. The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card grants cardholders top-tier Diamond status, which can help visitors get upgrades and other perks at this property. Terms apply. All information about the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by NerdWallet. The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is no longer available through NerdWallet.
Grand Wailea is undergoing a significant renovation to add new guest rooms and dining options. The 50,000-square-foot spa is closed for refurbishment, too; it is scheduled to reopen by March.
I Prefer Hotel Rewards
Montage Kapalua Bay
Marriott Bonvoy
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
This popular luxury hotel has reopened with full operations. Like other Marriott Bonvoy properties, it operates on a dynamic pricing model. Visitors can earn points for staying here as well as redeem as few as 80,000 points per night. The number of points needed can change based on the rate required.
Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
This vacation rental resort is open and fully operational again.
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
This Marriott resort reopened to people with new and existing reservations on Oct. 29.
Wailea Beach Resort-Marriott
This property is fully operational and back to normal operations.
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali
This property is scheduled to reopen on Dec. 1.
The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas North and The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas
This vacation rental property is operational, but some amenities are closed, including the kids’ club and fitness classes. Some of the on-site restaurants have limited operating hours.
The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas
The vacation rental resort has reopened, but some amenities are still on hiatus. The retail stores, beach services, restaurant, jogging path and kids’ club are closed. Some family activities, pools, concierge and housekeeping services are running with limited availability or hours. Housekeeping includes one midweek cleaning.
World of Hyatt
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, also located in the Ka’anapali resort area and on 15 beachfront acres, is open with full operation. Visitors can earn points for their stay as well as redeem as few as 35,000 points per night. Those with the World of Hyatt Credit Card are also eligible to earn bonus points on their spending at the resort.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
Other loyalty programs
Outrigger Kāʻanapali Beach Resort, which is part of the Discovery loyalty program, reopened on Oct. 8 and is fully operational.
For Accor All Live Limitless members, the Fairmont Kea Lani is also open following a significant update to its guest rooms. Some renovations are still taking place, including a redesign of the lobby, which is now in a temporary space.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is also open and fully operational.
An ever-changing situation on Maui
As Maui slowly recovers from the wildfire disaster, its hotels and resorts are reopening.
Not all are opening at the same pace, and this is an ever-changing situation. The safest bet before traveling: call the hotel to check on the status of your reservation and the hotel’s amenities.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:
Inside: Are you unsure about how much to tip your valet? This guide will help you understand valet parking tips and the dollar amount for tipping at hotels and restaurants.
Navigating the ins and outs of tipping etiquette can be daunting, particularly when it comes to highly personalized services such as valet at five-star hotels.
You certainly want to show appreciation and respect for the quality service they provide, while inherently being cognizant of not going over the top. From the length of your stay to the level of service rendered, the cost of parking, and even the locale, several factors can sway this figure.
Parking can be a hassle, and that’s where valets step in. They’ve got your back, navigating tight spaces and dodging traffic to park your vehicle. But what do you owe them in return for their hard work and risk?
Honestly, this is a similar question of wondering how much to give for high school graduation.
This guide dissects the intricacies surrounding valet tipping, helping you confidently reward exceptional services without breaking any unwritten societal norms.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
How much should you be tipping your valet?
The rule of thumb for tipping valets is $3 to $5 when dropping off and picking up your vehicle.
This is your baseline, but don’t hesitate to scale up if your driver impresses you with their service. If you’re staying at a place just for a night, a tip of $5 to $10 is seen as appropriate. For multiple nights, you may tip more generously on your first and last night.
Always remember, that your generosity reflects the level of service you’ve received.
The average tipping amount will vary in areas like New York City, Boston, Chicago, anywhere in California, or even Aspen, Colorado as these areas demand a higher tip.
What is proper etiquette for tipping valet?
Proper etiquette for tipping valet is about communication, patience, and gratitude. Ease into the drop-off zone without creating chaos, let your valet know about any special needs or quirks about your car, and stay patient. Afterward, express your thanks with a tip.
Yes, that means you need to have cash on hand.
It’s no crime to ask your valet what’s common for a tip if you’re not sure. This opens up a dialogue and they’ll understand you’re considering their efforts. Whether you tip before or after is wholly your call, but keep in mind that a tip at the start might earn you that extra mile of service.
Be generous, but fair. If you’re pulling up in a more luxurious car, consider a higher tip. The value of your vehicle is a good indicator of your tipping ability.
That said, only tip if you want to and think the service merits it. If your experience was less than satisfactory, bring it up to management instead of slipping a bill. Not tipping isn’t rudeness on your part if the service didn’t meet your standards. But if it did, good etiquette is acknowledging that quality service with a tip.
Valet Parking 101
Valet parking is an efficient service often offered in high-end restaurants and accommodations, providing a hassle-free parking experience, especially in areas that are limited in parking space.
The basics to avail of these services is to drive into the drop-off zone and hand over your vehicle to the attendant, ensuring you’ve removed any personal items and communicated any particularities about the car.
Valet parking etiquette isn’t complex. However, if you are well prepared, it makes the experience more delightful.
Be Alert at Drop-off. Drive with care into the drop-off zone and follow any directions from the valet. Don’t be in a hurry!
Prepare Your Vehicle. Have your car ready for valet parking by removing all personal and valuable items before arrival.
Communicate. Brief the valet about your vehicle’s quirks and intricacies, like touchy brakes or an alarm system.
Show Patience. Give the valet time to park, retrieve, and return your vehicle. They could be overwhelmed with multiple tasks during peak hours, so don’t rush them.
Show Gratitude. Beyond tipping your valet, express your gratitude verbally. A simple ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ can make their day.
Keep the Ticket Safe. You don’t want to hold up the process because you misplaced the claim ticket.
Respect the Flow. Respect the orderliness at the vehicle drop-off zone. The valets have an efficient system for quick drop-offs and pick-ups.
Prep for the Evening. Make sure you have everything you need for your event or stay. The valet can retrieve items from your car, but it’s best to avoid extra trips.
Remember, these simple considerations can greatly affect the smoothness of your valet experience.
An important note – if the driver who retrieves your car is not the same one you gave it to, you might want to tip both.
To Tip or Not To Tip? The Valet Parking Conundrum
With tip-flation out of control in the United States, you may be wondering if tipping your valid is worth it.
Sometimes, tipping can get situational. Let’s consider times when you might tweak the ‘usual’ amounts.
If you’re arriving during peak hours or on a busy weekend, tip more generously. Your valet is juggling a higher volume of cars and more stress, so your tip is a recognition of that hard work. On the other hand, slower hours might warrant a more modest tip.
Your vehicle type should also influence your tip. Driving a luxury or high-end car? That’s a premium charge for your valet, too. Running a more modest set of wheels doesn’t demand the same generosity.
Did your valet go above and beyond? Offering assistance with bags, driving directions or just a friendly demeanor might earn them a little extra.
Forget something in your car? Ask your valet to bring it back, but remember to compensate for their time. If you’re accessing your vehicle multiple times in a single day, consider an additional tip for the added service.
And finally, if you want to ensure your car gets a prime spot, or preferential service, tipping more upfront can help.
All in all, pay attention to how much to tip a valet given the situation. Tip when you feel the service warrants it and remember, it’s not just about the money – the thought counts too!
Should service quality affect your tip?
Absolutely! Service quality is a big factor in how much to tip a valet. Just like you might adjust a restaurant tip based on service quality, you should do the same with valet parking.
For example, if the valet is unfriendly, rude, or handles your vehicle poorly, they shouldn’t expect a hefty tip. At its core, the tip signifies gratitude for good service. Do keep in mind that errors happen, though. If a mishap occurs, such as a delay or a minor mistake, consider informing the manager rather than taking it out on the tip.
Conversely, if your valet provides outstanding service, they should be rewarded appropriately. So, if they treat your vehicle with care, offer assistance with luggage, close your trunk, or provide useful information about the locale, you might want to tip more.
Remember: Adjusting your tip based on the quality of service is not being stingy or overly generous; it’s fair compensation for service rendered.
Do you tip valet before or after?
Tipping before or after for valet service is rather circumstantial and both have their merits.
Tipping upfront might ensure your valet goes the extra mile for you.
Whereas, tipping at the end allows you to assess the service quality first.
The choice is entirely up to your discretion and how you feel about the service!
The misconception is you can get away with not tipping at all.
How much do you tip a valet at a hotel?
The standard courtesy tip for a hotel valet hovers around $5 per car. But hold on, as these aren’t hard-set.
Staying the night? Then consider a tip of $5 to $10; more if it’s for multiple nights.
Meanwhile, high-end hotels usually see higher tip values. A $5 to $10 tip per vehicle is considered suitable given the upscale services rendered.
Remember, the situation might vary depending on a gazillion factors like the destination, hotel class, length of stay, and level of service received. So equip yourself with a tipping strategy best suited for your specific scenario.
When they retrieve your car after your meal, how much should the valet parking tip be?
The baseline remains the same, you’re looking at a minimum of $3 to $5 per car.
But say the meal was special, the night was beautiful, or maybe you’re just in a good mood. Feel free to upgrade a little more to that tip. After all, it’s a token of appreciation for the valet who’s been managing your car while you dined in comfort.
In contrast, suppose their service was not up to your expectations. Maybe they made you wait too long or were discourteous. You then have a valid reason to tip less.
What if you don’t have enough cash?
If you are like me and find yourself without enough cash, there are still a few options to consider.
Ask if their valet services allow tipping through a credit or debit card or even Venmo, although cash is generally preferred.
Give a larger dollar bill when you are leaving the restaurant or checking out of the hotel.
When trying to determine how much cash should I have in my wallet, remember what you may need for tipping your valet.
Regardless, it’s always a good idea to keep some cash on hand for gratuities, to avoid inconvenience or potential embarrassment.
Hospitality Valet Expert Speaks
Jorge, a seasoned valet from the Grand Hyatt Vail, shared some fascinating insights into his job.
Despite the physical demands, Jorge takes pride in delivering exceptional service, swiftly handling numerous vehicles, and making guests’ transitions as smooth as possible. He underlined that gratuity is a crucial appreciation of this labor-intensive service.
Much like the data-driven research suggests, Jorge finds that guests who tip considerably when dropping their car off often get retrieval of faster service.
Also, he noted that tips are shared each day among the valets. This was to ensure there wasn’t favoritism and that all guests received the same service.
Why tip valets?
Valets offer a luxury service. They work hard to save you the hassle of parking, allow you to directly access your venue of choice, and take care of your vehicle in the process.
Valets are also part of the service industry, which means their income often depends heavily on the tips they receive. They brave the elements, handle the stress of navigating unaccustomed vehicles through tight spots, and often do so with a smile on their faces.
Not to mention, they’re on their feet for entire shifts, often dealing with demanding clientele and long working hours. By tipping your valet, you show appreciation for their hard work and encourage them to keep up the high level of service.
Why not show your gratitude with a few extra bucks? It’s a small price to pay for convenience and quality service. So, the next time you pull up to the drop-off zone, remember, your valet deserves that tip.
What do valets expect?
Valets, like other service industry professionals, expect respect and decent compensation for their hard work. This not only includes a fair hourly wage but also tips for the service they provide.
Valets typically expect a tip of around $3 to $5 per vehicle, although this can vary based on location, type of establishment, and how busy it is. In upscale areas, tips can range from $5 to $10 per car.
Additionally, valets appreciate when customers are understanding and patient, especially during peak hours. They also value clear communication about any special requirements or characteristics of your vehicle.
What’s considered a “good” tip?
A “good” tip for a valet typically starts at $5 per vehicle. This is generally considered the norm at most establishments.
However, a “good” tip can depend on several factors, like the establishment and service quality. At high-end hotels or restaurants, or in more upscale locations, a “good” tip might start around $10 or even $15.
With that in mind, treat your personable, hard-working valets to a good tip when they provide a great service. After all, a good tip results in good karma!
FAQs
Yes, you should still tip even if the valet service is complimentary. The valet is parking your car, often in the tight valet lot. Their service saves you time and stress, and that’s worth a tip.
Remember, many valets earn a small hourly base pay and rely heavily on tips. Their pay may not correlate with the price you pay or don’t pay, for the service.
A $20 tip for valet is usually seen as generous. It’s well above the typical range of $3 to $5. However, if you feel the service was exceptional, you have a high-end vehicle, or if the valet went above and beyond, such a tip could be appropriate.
Tipping valets at 5-star hotels usually follow a higher standard. Considering the upscale locale and high level of service, a good starting point is around $5 to $10 per vehicle. So, yes, $20 is a good tip for valet.
Furthermore, if the service exceeded your expectations, or if the valet provided additional help like carrying your baggage, a tip on the more generous side might be appropriate
Now, How Much to Tip Valet Driver?
In the United States, tipping is very much a part of our culture and how many people make their living.
Tipping valet can seem intricate, but it’s straightforward once you know the ground rules: anticipate, be kind, respect the service, and tip accordingly. It all comes down to recognition of the efforts your valet puts in to make your experience easier and classier.
The takeaways are the general tip range ($3 to $5).
However, you need to base your tip on the type of establishment, time of day, and quality of service. Be aware of the situation and tip accordingly. But, above all, remember to appreciate good service and acknowledge it accordingly.
Now, be careful, you need to know how much cash can you fly with.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.