Staying at a hotel so famous that it’s printed on a country’s currency isn’t something that was on my travel bucket list. In fact, I didn’t even know that such a hotel existed. But it turns out that the Grand Pacific Hotel in the capital of Fiji is famous enough to earn that honor.
While it’s no longer the most luxurious hotel in the country, the Grand Pacific Hotel is still the go-to hotel for celebrities, politicians and business travelers when visiting the Fijian capital of Suva. Here’s what it’s like to stay at this historic hotel.
During my stay in April 2023, the Grand Pacific Hotel still operated as an independent IHG hotel — not flagged as any particular IHG brand. However, the hotel is in the process of joining the InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand.
At the time my wife and I booked our stay, award nights at the Grand Pacific Hotel cost a steady 30,000 IHG One Rewards points per night. As an IHG® One Rewards Premier Credit Card holder, I received a fourth night free on this stay.
That means my four-night stay only cost 90,000 IHG points. At NerdWallet’s valuation of 0.7 cent per IHG One Rewards point, that’s approximately $630 worth of points.
An equivalent cash booking cost $1,006 total at the time we booked. That means this fourth-night free award booking netted around 1.1 cents per point in value.
The Grand Pacific Hotel is located on harborfront land in the Fijian capital of Suva, surrounded by some of the nation’s most important sites. The hotel is just a few minutes walk from the nation’s seat of power, historic Thurston Gardens and the Fiji Museum.
Directly in front of the hotel, you’ll find Albert Park. This expansive park has hosted dignitaries throughout the years, was the site of the unveiling of the new Fijian flag when the archipelago gained independence from the British and remains a center of Fijian culture.
During our stay, Albert Park constantly bustled with life — from soccer and rugby practices to a cricket tournament featuring teams from all across the island nation.
The Grand Pacific Hotel is located just south of other Suva highlights. The bustling Suva Municipal Market, historic Carnegie Library and shopping streets are all located within a mile.
The Grand Pacific Hotel is the most storied hotel in the country of Fiji — so much so that the hotel is featured on the back of the Fiji $10 bill. Originally opened in 1914, this fittingly named grand hotel has hosted a long list of celebrities. Among the most famous are Queen Elizabeth II during several visits to the once-British colony and Charles Kingsford Smith in his famous “Southern Cross” flight from the U.S. to Australia in 1928.
A display case near the entrance to the hotel displays memoirs of the hotel’s past.
Photos of the hotel’s history line the walls of the original building, with plenty of photos of Queen Elizabeth’s multiple visits fittingly surrounding the so-called Queen Elizabeth Suite.
The hotel maintains a “Wall of Fame” with the many politicians and celebrities who have stayed at the hotel. Next to the Wall of Fame, the hotel hangs a mirror with the label “our most important guest of all.”
Accommodation
The original Grand Pacific Hotel building hosts just 10 so-called “heritage rooms” and suites. These are the classic rooms originally built in 1914 but updated in a 2014 remodel.
However, there’s much more to the Grand Pacific Hotel than just these 10 rooms and suites. A 2014 expansion added the Harbour and Kingsford Smith Wings to the hotel — adding over 100 new rooms. Most of the rooms in the Harbour Wing offer a balcony with an angled view over the pool or harbor.
At the far end of the Harbour Wing are 16 harborfront rooms and suites — eight standard rooms plus eight so-called “Grand Pacific Club” corner rooms.
As a Diamond Elite, I received an upgrade to one of these harborfront rooms, which was dubbed “Daveta” per a sign next to our door.
This harborfront room offered an expansive view of the beautiful — but surprisingly quiet — Suva harbor.
The nice — if a bit plain at first glance — room offered all of the standard amenities you might expect from a hotel room. The king-size bed visibly consisted of two twin beds but was plenty comfortable.
The 42-inch flat-screen TV offered only around a dozen mostly sports-related channels.
A minibar fridge came stocked with around a dozen self-serve drinks. As is customary in Fiji hotels and resorts, the fridge had a carton of complimentary fresh milk for your coffee or tea.
Tucked away in drawers, the hotel provided complimentary teas, French press coffee and even “drinking chocolate” packets.
The closet housed staples such as a blow dryer, safe, laundry bags, hangers, an iron and an ironing board — as well as luxury items, including robes and InterContinental-branded slippers.
The open-design bathroom offered a partially walled shower and refillable Pure Fiji-branded white gingerlily-scented amenity bottles.
Food and beverage
Guests have two options for breakfast: a la carte or a breakfast buffet costing around $20 ($45 Fijian dollars) per person. As an IHG One Rewards Diamond Elite member, I opted for the daily breakfast as my welcome amenity.
Each morning, the buffet breakfast spread was a bit different. However, the expansive buffet always offered more than a half-dozen main dishes — including a couple of vegetarian options and one vegan option — plus fruits, deli meats, cereals, breads, baked goods, salads and juices.
If you want something fresh, you can order from a menu of custom-made egg dishes.
I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the eggs Benedict I ordered a couple of mornings.
On Thursday and Friday evenings, the Grand Pacific Hotel offers tapas complete with a live band out on the veranda.
Thankfully, our stay overlapped with the events and we could enjoy a selection of reasonably priced tapas and local Fijian beer.
Our appetite not quite suppressed, my wife and I split a bowl of kokoda — the Fijian national dish.
Pool
The Grand Pacific Hotel pool is located adjacent to the Heritage and Harbour Wings. This long but rather simple pool is open from dawn to dusk.
Fitness center
The Grand Pacific Hotel fitness center was located next to the spa. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., the fitness center has several stationary bikes, treadmills, a rowing machine, free weights and various weight machines.
Spa
The Grand Pacific has a full-service Bliss Spa on-site. During our visit, the spa offered reasonably priced specials including:
60-minute table massage: around $54 ($120 Fijian dollars).
45-minute hot stone therapy: around $61 ($135 Fijian dollars).
30-minute foot massage: around $20 ($45 Fijian dollars).
50-minute pedicure or manicure: around $27 ($60 Fijian dollars).
After a long day of walking around Suva (and then a shower), my wife and I opted for one of the 30-minute foot massages. The therapists adapted to our pressure preferences and provided a wonderful massage.
🤓Nerdy Tip
You cannot charge gratuities to the room. While tips generally aren’t expected in Fiji, you might want to have cash on hand in case you want to tip your therapist.
Wi-Fi
Located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the internet in Fiji can understandably be spotty — even at some of the top resorts on the islands.
Thankfully, Wi-Fi was not an issue at the Grand Pacific Hotel. While not particularly speedy, the Wi-Fi was solid throughout our stay. A Wi-Fi speed test reflected download and upload speeds of around 10 Mbps.
Business center
Need a place to get some work done? The Grand Pacific Hotel offers a business center on the ground floor of the heritage building with a couple of computers, a printer, magazines and newspapers.
If you’re considering staying at the Grand Pacific Hotel
Many foreign tourists stick to Fiji’s excellent resorts when visiting the island nation — as my wife and I did on a previous trip and much of this trip.
However, if you want a true taste of Fijian culture, I recommend basing your visit to the Fijian capital at the Grand Pacific Hotel.
(Top photo by JT Genter)
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:
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to pay annual fees topping $550 to get the best travel credit card. If you don’t travel enough to use all the benefits that come with a top-tier card — or simply don’t have room in your budget to justify these fees each year — there are still plenty of no-annual-fee cards to choose from.
When it comes to hotel credit cards, the good news is that a no-annual-fee card can offer you more benefits than you might expect. From complimentary (or a pathway to) elite status to earning hotel points on your everyday purchases, you’ll only gain from owning these cards instead of worrying about outsizing the value from cards with no annual fees.
While the best hotel card for you will depend on which hotel chain you prefer, the best options of the bunch are the Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Card. Both brands are widely prevalent, meaning you have more opportunities to earn and redeem points at properties worldwide.
The best no-annual-fee hotel credit cards
The information for the Best Western Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Comparing the best no-annual-fee hotel credit cards
Card
Rewards rate
Intro bonus
Marriott Bonvoy Bold
3 points per dollar at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 2 points per dollar on other travel purchases and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases
Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in your first six months from account opening; plus earn an additional 50,000 bonus points after you stay six eligible paid nights at Marriott Bonvoy through Jan. 31, 2024. Offer ends Aug. 10.
Hilton Honors American Express Card
7 points per dollar on eligible purchases directly with hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio, 5 points per dollar at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets and at U.S. gas stations and 3 point per dollar on other eligible purchases.
Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on the card within your first three months of card membership.
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
5 points per dollar at IHG Hotels & Resorts, 3 points per dollar on utilities, internet, cable, phone services and select streaming services, gas station and restaurant purchases and 2 points per dollar on everything else.
Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $2,000 in purchases in the first three months of account opening and up to $50 in IHG statement credits on purchases at IHG Hotels & Resorts during the first 12 months from account opening.
Choice Privileges Mastercard
5 points per dollar at eligible Choice Hotels, 3 points per dollar at gas stations, grocery stores, home improvement stores and phone plan services, and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 in purchases within three months of card membership.
Best Western Rewards Mastercard
13 points per dollar on Best Western purchases and 2 points per dollar on everything else.
Earn 40,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 within the first three months after account opening.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Card
1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases
Earn a bonus of 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.
The best no-annual-fee hotel credit cards
Marriott Bonvoy Bold Card: Best card for Marriott
Current sign-up bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in your first six months from account opening; plus earn an additional 50,000 bonus points after staying six eligible paid nights at Marriott Bonvoy hotels through Jan. 31, 2024. Offer ends Aug. 10.
Rewards rate: Earn 3 points per dollar at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 2 points per dollar on other travel purchases and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
Other benefits: You’ll become an automatic Silver Elite member as a cardholder, which gets you perks such as priority late checkout and 10% bonus points on stays. Therefore, you’ll have the ability to earn up to 14 points per dollar on eligible Marriott stays (3 points per dollar with this card, 10 points per dollar for being a Marriott Bonvoy member and 1 point per dollar for Silver Elite). Plus, earn 2 points per dollar on all travel purchases.
You’ll also have the opportunity to improve your elite status the more you stay with Marriott. This card comes with an impressive number of travel and purchase protections, including baggage loss and delay insurance and more. To top it all off, there’s no annual fee (and no foreign transaction fees).
Analysis: As you build up your credit card portfolio, you’ll eventually want to have a card that earns transferable points, along with an airline card and a hotel card. If Marriott is your hotel chain of choice (we don’t blame you since there are more than 7,000 properties worldwide), the Bold is the perfect place to start. With a complimentary jump-start to Silver Elite status, the possibilities of reaching higher tiers of Marriott elite status are endless.
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Further reading: Marriott Bonvoy Bold card review
Apply here: Marriott Bonvoy Bold
Hilton Honors American Express Card: Best card for Hilton
Current welcome offer: Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after you spend $1,000 in purchases on the card within your first three months of card membership
Rewards rate: Earn 7 points per dollar on eligible Hilton hotel and resorts purchases, 5 points per dollar at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations, plus 3 point per dollar on other eligible purchases.
Other benefits: It’s not often that a no-annual-fee card (see rates & fees) provides you with as many perks as the Hilton Honors Amex card does. For starters, enjoy complimentary Silver Elite status to get 20% bonus points on stays and a fifth free night benefit. In addition to a lucrative rewards rate on Hilton and everyday purchases, you’ll have secondary rental car coverage and no foreign transaction fees (see rates & fees).
Analysis: The Hilton Honors Amex proves you don’t have to pay an annual fee to get top-notch perks. Its welcome bonus offers a healthy stash of Hilton Honors points and ample ways to continue earning on your everyday spending. We recommend this card for those who enjoy staying at Hilton properties but want to keep costs as low as possible.
Further reading: Hilton Honors American Express card review
Apply here: Hilton Honors American Express
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card: Best no-annual-fee card for IHG Hotels
Current sign-up bonus: Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $2,000 in purchases in the first three months of account opening and up to $50 in IHG statement credits on purchases at IHG Hotels and Resorts during the first 12 months from account opening.
Rewards rate: 5 points per dollar at IHG Hotels & Resorts, 3 points per dollar on utilities, internet, cable, phone services and select streaming services, gas station and restaurant purchases and 2 points per dollar on everything else.
Other benefits: This hotel card comes with the unique benefit of a fourth-night reward, meaning you’ll pay the price of three nights to stay for a total of four nights. Plus, you’ll get a 20% discount on points purchases when you pay for those points with your card.
Analysis: By being strategic with this card, you can get a ton of value without ever paying an annual fee.
Further reading: IHG One Rewards Traveler card review
Apply here:IHG One Rewards Traveler card
Choice Privileges Mastercard: Best for Choice Hotels
Current bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 in purchases within the first three months of card membership.
Rewards rate: 5 points per dollar at eligible Choice Hotels, 3 points per dollar at gas stations, grocery stores, home improvement stores and on phone plan services and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
Other benefits: You’ll get automatic Gold Elite status, which unlocks benefits such as an elite welcome gift, early check-in and late checkout. You’ll also get up to $800 of cellphone protection against damage or theft when you pay your monthly bill with this card (subject to a $25 deductible) as well as Mastercard World Elite benefits.
Analysis: Being a Choice Hotels elite member will enhance your hotel experience, and with this card, you’ll be granted this status for free. While not the most lucrative no-annual-fee hotel card out there, this card offers simplicity — a reason to keep it in your wallet each year with the opportunity to earn anniversary points.
Further reading: 2 new Choice Privileges credit cards are now open to new applicants
Apply here: Choice Privileges Mastercard
Best Western Rewards Mastercard: Best for Best Western
Current bonus: Earn 40,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 within the first three billing cycles after account opening.
Rewards rate: 13 points per dollar on Best Western purchases and 2 points per dollar on everything else.
Other benefits: With this card, you’ll enjoy no foreign transaction fees, exclusive member room rates and complimentary Gold status, which guarantees you 10% bonus points for your eligible stays and early check-in and late checkout.
Analysis: For a card with no annual fee, those who stay at Best Western properties regularly can get considerable value from the welcome bonus and ongoing Gold elite status.
Further reading: Your ultimate guide to Best Western Rewards
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Card: Best for all hotels
Current bonus: Earn a bonus of 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.
Other benefits: While the hotel cards above can get you elite perks or other exclusive benefits, sometimes limiting yourself to one brand doesn’t make sense. That’s why the VentureOne is our favorite for all hotel stays, as it offers a simple earning scheme (unlimited 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases) plus an even simpler way to redeem. You can redeem your miles at 1 cent each for any hotel (or other travel) charges on your card. If you’re an advanced award traveler, you’ll be happy to know that you can transfer your Capital One miles to airline and hotel partners like Air Canada Aeroplan and Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer to find even more potential value.
Analysis: We like the flexibility that the VentureOne offers. You won’t get hotel elite status with this card, but you can use this card to pay for hotels from any brand. If all you’re looking for is a way to earn and redeem your travel rewards, this is a good card for you. Plus, with no foreign transaction fees, you can take the VentureOne with you anywhere.
Further reading: Capital One VentureOne review
Apply here: Capital One VentureOne
Bottom line
Almost all of the no-annual-fee hotel cards in this guide get you automatic elite status, plus a pathway to the next level for even better benefits. The best pick for you will first depend on the hotel chain you prefer, but take a deeper look at the ongoing rewards rate and any additional benefits you can get from the card (such as no foreign transaction fees or any travel and purchase protections).
And remember: Since you’re not paying an annual fee on any of these cards, you won’t have to worry about if you’re stretching enough value to justify the cost each year.
Additional reporting by Emily Thompson.
For rates and fees of the Hilton Amex card, click here.
Whether looking for summertime adventures or a winter escape, hitting the beach is a great way to make incredible memories.
Because of their popularity and ease of booking flights, two destinations stand out among vacationers: Hawaii and the Bahamas. However, when comparing the Bahamas to Hawaii, there are many differences that you need to know.
The main differences between the Bahamas versus Hawaii are the need for a passport and distance. Hawaii is part of the United States, while the Bahamas is not. West Coast travelers often prefer Hawaii, while the Bahamas is easier to get to from the East Coast.
Let’s see what sets these two paradise locations apart.
How to get to Hawaii vs. the Bahamas
Most major domestic airlines offer flights to these popular destinations. However, one option may be much closer and easier, depending on where you live. You may also have to contend with airline routes and time zones that will affect flight options.
Flights to Hawaii
If you live on the West Coast, deciding between vacationing in the Bahamas versus Hawaii may be easy. Hawaii and the Bahamas are about the same distance from California, but the flight options to Hawaii may make it much more desirable.
With Southwest Airlines entering the market, many airlines lowered their cash prices to compete. Southwest offers flights starting at $124 each way from Los Angeles.
Once in Hawaii, you can easily hop between the islands with cheap flights on Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines and others. Southwest offers flights starting at just $39 each way.
Flights to the Bahamas
Flying to the Bahamas is harder for West Coast residents but much easier for those living on the East Coast. There are many flight deals and the cost is much less versus Hawaii.
Award flights to the Bahamas start at just 10,000 miles in Economy or 20,000 miles in First Class on American Airlines. This makes the Bahamas and other Caribbean destinations a popular winter escape.
The downside of the Bahamas is that you need a passport to get there. It is more difficult to arrange a last-minute vacation if you don’t have a passport because passport applications can take several months to process.
Where to stay for your Bahamas vs. Hawaii vacation
When weighing the Bahamas versus Hawaii, choosing between hotels might be difficult because there are many fantastic options. Depending on the length of your stay, the cost of your accommodations may be greater than the cost of the flight. However, you can save a lot of money on your vacation using hotel points. Let’s look at some popular choices.
Hotels in Hawaii
There are six major Hawaiian islands, each with its own unique attractions and experiences. Hotel options vary based on which island you choose. However, most major hotel brands are available on each of these islands.
In Honolulu, for example, you can book any of these hotels using points:
Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach — from 15,000 World of Hyatt points (or use a Hyatt credit card annual free night certificate).
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort — from 70,000 Hilton Honors points.
The Laylow, Autograph Collection — from 58,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Holiday Inn Express Waikiki — from 34,000 points (or use an IHG credit card annual free night certificate).
Hotels in the Bahamas
There are fewer options for redeeming hotel points in the Bahamas versus Hawaii. The major tourist destination in the Bahamas is Nassau. This is also where you’ll find popular hotels where you can redeem points.
Atlantis — several buildings available, with rates starting at 44,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar — from 21,000 World of Hyatt points.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nassau — from 32,000 points (or use an IHG credit card annual free night certificate).
Hilton at Resorts World Bimini — from 60,000 points per night.
The best time to visit Hawaii vs. the Bahamas
Travel dates can help you decide between Hawaii versus the Bahamas. These islands are similar distances from the equator, so their weather and seasons are similar. However, there are some significant differences.
Hawaii weather and terrain
Although Hawaii offers primarily tropical weather, its terrain offers multiple climate options. Hawaii features numerous mountains formed by volcanoes, some almost 14,000 feet tall. Its lush landscape and natural canopies also provide an escape from the tropical heat.
On average, Hawaiian temperatures only vary about six degrees throughout the year. The range from a low in the mid-70s during the winter to a peak in the low-80s in September. However, the tallest mountain peaks experience significant weather events, including temperatures in the 90s, winter blizzards and thunderstorms.
Hawaii is rarely affected by hurricanes in the Pacific Ocean. It rains an average of 25 to 30 inches annually, with the heaviest rains occurring from October to April.
Weather in the Bahamas
Located in the Caribbean, the Bahamas has fairly consistent weather throughout the year. Its peak temperatures of the upper-80s occur from early June to early October. Winter temperatures drop to highs in the upper-70s. January is the coldest month of the year, with lows of 70 degrees and highs of 79.
It doesn’t rain that often in the Bahamas. October is its rainiest month, with an average of seven days of rain, while December is the driest, with just two days of rain.
The Bahamas faces extreme seasonality with its humidity. From June to October, the humidity can be described as “oppressive” or “miserable,” affecting how much you enjoy your vacation. However, spending time in the pool or ocean can minimize the impact.
The Bahamas vs. Hawaii honeymoon destination
Both destinations have natural beauty, gorgeous beaches and amazing hotels. It’s no wonder that many couples consider the Bahamas versus Hawaii for their honeymoon celebration. Whether you want to explore the island or relax on the beach, each destination is ideal for a honeymoon.
Because the climate is more reliable throughout the year, Hawaii may be a better honeymoon destination than the Bahamas. Many weddings occur over the summer, peak hurricane season in the Atlantic. You wouldn’t want the stress of a hurricane impacting your honeymoon.
Winter is a much better time to visit the Caribbean if that matches your wedding planning.
Hawaii vs. the Bahamas: Which is the better choice?
Choosing between the Bahamas versus Hawaii is a tough choice for many travelers. While both islands offer many appealing features, your decision is often based on where you live and if you have a passport.
Hawaii is a U.S. state which does not require a passport for travel, while you must have a passport to visit the Bahamas. Traveling to Hawaii is much easier from the West Coast, and many East Coast travelers can get to the Bahamas easily.
Hawaii offers more hotel redemption options and multiple climates among its numerous islands versus the Bahamas. The U.S. dollar is the primary currency, and amenities such as roads, restaurants and hospitals are up to U.S. standards.
The Bahamas has its currency, but prices are pegged to the U.S. dollar, so prices are the same in both currencies. While the Bahamas has many modern conveniences, you may not have the same choices for dining, attractions or medical needs during your visit.
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:
Open a BMO Harris Premier™ Account online and get a $500 cash bonus when you have a total of at least $7,500 in qualifying direct deposits within the first 90 days of account opening. Expires 9/15. Conditions Apply.
The content related to the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card has been collected by Money Crashers and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.
If your business activities regularly take you on the road, it makes sense to use a credit card that offers the most possible rewards towards a free night’s stay.
The IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card does just that — earning as much as 26 points per $1 spent at IHG hotels across 18 brands, including Intercontinental, Crowne Plaza, and Holiday Inn. It also packs valuable non-rewards benefits that help you make the most of your hotel stays.
Intrigued? See what you can expect from the IHG One Rewards Premier Business card, and where it falls short.
What Is the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card?
Chase’s IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card from Chase is a hotel credit card for small-business owners who frequently stay at IHG hotels and resorts.
The fun begins with an excellent sign-up bonus: Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.
Moving forward, the IHG One Rewards Premier Business card earns a whopping 26 points per $1 spent on IHG hotels and resorts. This is broken down as follows:
10x points on eligible card spending
10x points for being an IHG One Rewards Member
6x points from your status as a Platinum Elite member — a key benefit of this card
The card also offers 5x points on eligible spending in several broad spending categories:
Travel
Dining, including eligible takeout and delivery
Gas stations
Social media advertising
Search engine advertising
Office supply stores
On all other purchases, you earn 3 points per $1 spent. You can redeem your points at eligible IHG hotels and resorts.
This card is quite helpful if you value elite status and free night stays. The card comes with automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain an IHG One Rewards Premier Business Cardmember. Platinum Elite benefits include promotional discounts on reward nights, guaranteed room availability with adequate advance booking, complimentary room upgrades where available, and early check-in where available.
There’s a $99 annual fee for this card but no foreign transaction fees.
What Sets the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card Apart?
This card has several features that set it apart from other hotel business credit cards.
Up to 26x points on eligible purchases. The IHG One Rewards Premier Business card earns a whopping 26 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases at IHG hotels and resorts. This is one of the highest rewards rates of any hotel credit card.
Excellent sign-up bonus. This card has one of the best sign-up bonuses in its category, even accounting for IHG One points’ lower redemption values.
Fourth night free on award redemptions. When you redeem your IHG One points for three consecutive award nights and book an extra night, you get that fourth night free. This can be used an unlimited number of times, which makes this benefit very valuable if you frequently stay four nights or longer at IHG properties.
IHG One Rewards Platinum Status. The card comes with complimentary Platinum Elite status in the IHG One Rewards program. Notable benefits include priority check-in, complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability), late check-out (also subject to availability), and 60% bonus points on eligible hotel and resort bookings.
Key Features of the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card has a high sign-up bonus, a very generous rewards program, and some clutch additional benefits for frequent business travelers.
Sign-Up Bonus
Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.
Earning Rewards
This card earns a whopping 26x points on eligible spending at IHG hotels and resorts. That’s 10x points earned from the card itself, 10x earned as an IHG One Rewards member, and 6x points earned as a Platinum Elite statusholder.
The card also earns 5x points on travel, gas stations, social media and search engine advertising, office supply stores, and dining (including takeout and eligible delivery). On all other eligible purchases, it earns 3x points.
Redeeming Rewards
You can redeem your points at eligible IHG hotels and resorts, including Regent, Intercontinental, Kimpton, Even, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Six Senses, Vignette, Hotel Indigo, Voco, Hualuxe, Crowne Plaza, Iberostar, Avid, Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations and Candlewood Suites.
Anniversary Free Night & Fourth Night Free
Each account anniversary year, you earn one anniversary free night, with a current point redemption cap of 40,000 points. You can also use existing points from your IHG One Rewards account to redeem your anniversary night at hotels above the 40,000 point redemption level.
Separately but relatedly, you get the fourth night free when you redeem your points for three consecutive award nights and stay an additional night at the same property.
Spending Benefits
The IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card is quite beneficial for businesses with higher spending requirements. There are three spending thresholds worth noting:
If you spend $20,000 in a calendar year, you earn a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points.
If you spend $40,000 in a calendar year, you qualify for Diamond Elite Status, which includes free breakfast, through December 31st of the following year.
If you spend $60,000 in a calendar year, you earn an additional free night with a current point redemption cap of 40,000 points.
Important Fees
This card charges a balance transfer fee of $5 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, a cash advance fee of $15 or 5% of the amount of each transaction. There is a $40 late payment fee and a $40 return payment fee.
This $99 annual fee is not waived for the first year. There is no foreign transaction fee.
Additional Benefits
This card’s additional benefits include:
20% off when you purchase IHG One points with your card
Purchase protection on eligible items up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account
Up to $50 in United TravelBank Cash each calendar year
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS statement credit up to $100 every four years
Trip cancellation and interruption insurance, with reimbursement up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable passenger fares on trips canceled or cut short due to sickness, severe weather, and other covered situations
Credit Required
This card requires good or better credit to qualify. If your FICO score is much below 700, or your personal credit history is limited, then you’ll likely have trouble being approved. However, this is pretty standard for a premium business travel credit card.
Pros & Cons
As with any rewards card, the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card has plenty of advantages and a few drawbacks.
Pros
This card is the complete package. It has a generous rewards program and plenty of benefits for stays at IHG hotels and resorts.
Earn 26x points on IHG hotel stays. Because this card comes with complimentary Platinum Elite status, it really pays to use it at IHG properties. It offers an extremely high rate of return that’s not matched by other hotel credit cards.
Receive a free night stay certificate each year. This card offers you a free night stay certificate each year on stays up to 40,000 points. In almost all instances, this certificate is worth much more than the card’s annual fee of $99.
Get instant Platinum Elite Status. Many hotel credit cards offer basic loyalty status with only a chance to earn higher levels after reaching a certain spending threshold. In contrast, the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card comes with Platinum Elite status as long as your account remains open and in good standing. That’s just below IHG’s top-tier Diamond Elite status.
Cons
The drawbacks of this card are really just things that you might find in other cards that this one lacks. It’s up to you to decide whether they’re deal-breakers.
No promotional financing offer. Some travel cards have 0% APR financing on new purchases, balance transfers, or both. This one doesn’t. This won’t be an issue for everyone, but it’s worth noting if you have high-interest business credit card debt already.
Cap on the value of the anniversary free night award. This card offers you a free night certificate each year, but caps its value at 40,000 points. That’s about enough for a mid-tier hotel in a mid-sized city, but excludes their most expensive properties. Thankfully, you can still apply this certificate to properties that require more points, and just redeem additional points to pay the difference.
IHG points aren’t worth as much as some other points. Just like visiting a country with a less valuable currency, it’s easy to misjudge the value of IHG points. These points are worth about a half a cent each, which is far below the value of World of Hyatt points or most airline miles. It’s not a big problem, but you shouldn’t get too excited to earn a lot of these points.
How the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card Stacks Up
This card’s closest competitor is probably the Marriott Bonvoy Business Card from American Express. Here’s how the two cards compare.
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Amex Marriott Bonvoy Business Card
Annual Fee
$99
$125
Sign-Up Bonus
Excellent
Very good
Rewards Rate
Up to 26x points
Up to 6x points
Foreign Transaction Fee
None
None
Credit Needed
Good or better
Good or better
Final Word
As with many hotel rewards cards, the IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card is a great choice for small business owners who plan to stay at IHG properties. More so than most cards, this card treats you to a barrage of bonus points and plenty of nonrewards perks when you stay at IHG properties. And when you consider the free night certificate that you receive each year on your account anniversary, it’s clear this card’s benefits easily exceed its nominal cost.
The Verdict
Our rating
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card has a generous rewards program and boasts complimentary Platinum Elite status, which includes room upgrades, award night discounts and early check-ins. It’s a must for business travelers who regularly stay at IHG properties, and the $99 annual fee is more than fair in light of what you get.
Editorial Note:
The editorial content on this page is not provided by any bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, and has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of the bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
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Jason Steele is one of the nation’s leading experts in credit cards and travel rewards since 2008. Jason is also the founder and producer of CardCon, which is The Conference for Credit Card Media. Jason lives in Denver, Colorado where he enjoys bicycling, snowboarding and piloting small airplanes.
“Where are you from?” It’s a common question when you meet someone new while traveling. And it’s an easy question for most people. But for me, it’s complicated if I want to give more details than “the United States.”
After all, my husband and I gave up our Austin, Texas, apartment in June 2017, sold or donated most of our belongings and then set out as digital nomads on July 2, 2017. So, excluding some extended time living with family early in the coronavirus pandemic, we’ve traveled full time while working remotely for the last six years.
In 2020, I wrote about my first three years as a digital nomad. But in this story, I’ll look back at the past six years. In doing so, I’ll discuss how I became a digital nomad, some of my travel statistics and how travel has changed for me during the past six years.
How I became a digital nomad
On a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu in Peru in 2013, I first heard of a gap year or sabbatical year. I hadn’t gotten into points and miles yet, but my husband and I loved the idea of taking a year off to travel after I finished graduate school. Well, fast forward four years to 2017, when it was time to leave on our “gap year.” By this time, we were already working as writers in the award travel space.
So, we hit the road as digital nomads instead of taking a gap year. And we quickly fell in love with the freedom and flexibility of the lifestyle. I appreciate experiencing different cultures, landscapes, experiences and cuisines daily. And I’ve found that frequently visiting new destinations inspires me.
I also enjoy using the topics I write about — points, miles, credit cards and elite status — on a daily basis. We make award redemptions most weeks (and often multiple times a week), and we’re constantly traveling. So, I know many of the airline, hotel and credit card programs I write about from personal experience. And I’m personally invested when these programs change or devalue their rewards.
Points and miles certainly fuel some of our travel. But we also book paid flights and nights when it makes sense. After all, we only have a finite amount of points and miles, and we’ve found that paid partner-operated premium-cabin flights are often the best way to earn airline elite status.
Related: 6 ways award travel and elite status pair well with my digital nomad life
1,121,959 miles on 575 flights
Over the last six years, I’ve taken 575 flights on 62 airlines to 180 airports in 58 countries. I’ve taken so many flights in the last six years that my flight map is difficult to read.
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I flew 1,121,959 direct flight miles in the last six years, with an average flight distance of 1,951 miles (about the distance from Atlanta to Los Angeles). My longest flight was 9,532 miles, from New York to Singapore. And my shortest flight was just 11 miles from Tahiti to Moorea in French Polynesia.
But my most memorable flight was on Sri Lanka’s Cinnamon Air from Polgolla Reservoir Aerodrome (KDZ) to Koggala Airport (KCT) on a Cessna 208 amphibious caravan.
I frequently fly American Airlines and often use Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) when visiting family. So, it’s not surprising that my three most frequent routes by flight segments are between American Airlines’ hubs and Atlanta. Here’s a look at my top 10 most frequent flight segments over the last six years:
New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to/from ATL: 15 flights
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) to/from ATL: 11 flights
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) to/from ATL: 10 flights
Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to/from Kualanamu International Airport (KNO): 10 flights while I earned Malaysia Airlines Enrich Gold status in 2019
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to/from ATL: Nine flights
Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) to/from LAX: Eight flights
DFW to/from LGA: Six flights
London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) to/from LAX: Six flights
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to/from Da Nang International Airport (DAD): Six flights booked during Cathay Pacific’s New Year’s deal in 2019
DFW to/from LAS: Five flights
And my loyalty to American Airlines AAdvantage and its Oneworld partners shows when you look at the airlines I flew most by flight segments:
American Airlines: 224 flights, including reviews of American’s A321T business class, 787-9 business class, 777-200 business class with B/E Aerospace Super Diamond seats, 787-8 Main Cabin Extra, 757-200 Main Cabin Extra and 757-200 business class
United Airlines: 31 flights, including reviews of United’s 787-8 economy class and 757-200 economy class
Southwest Airlines: 29 flights, including a review of Southwest’s 737-800 from Oakland, California, to Newark
Malaysia Airlines: 26 flights
Qatar Airways: 23 flights, including reviews of Qatar Qsuite on a 777-300ER and Qatar Qsuite on an A350-1000
Delta Air Lines: 22 flights, including when I was one of the first American tourists to fly to Italy on a COVID-19-tested flight
British Airways: 20 flights, including a review of British Airways’ A380 economy class
Cathay Pacific: 17 flights
Japan Airlines: 14 flights, including a review of Japan Airlines’ 777-300ER premium economy
Qantas: 12 flights
However, if you look at the airlines on which I flew the most mileage, the ranking is a bit different due to some mileage runs:
American Airlines: 404,296 miles
Cathay Pacific: 104,481 miles
Qatar Airways: 89,630 miles
British Airways: 53,357 miles
Delta Air Lines: 49,603 miles
United Airlines: 42,237 miles
Singapore Airlines: 36,176 miles, including a review of Singapore Airlines’ A350-900ULR premium economy
Japan Airlines: 33,756 miles
Air Canada: 30,792 miles
All Nippon Airways: 28,938 miles
I track all my flights in OpenFlights. So, although it’s relatively easy for me to gather statistics on my flights, I don’t have a simple way to determine the amount I paid in points and cash for my 575 flights during the last six years.
Related: The best credit cards for booking flights
1,103 nights in hotels
I’ve spent over half of the last six years living out of hotel rooms. In particular, I’ve spent 894 nights at 75 major hotel brands within the last six years. And I’ve spent 209 nights at other brands and independent hotels.
Here’s the breakdown of my stays by loyalty program and brand over the last six years, including notes about my favorite programs.
390 nights at 15 IHG brands
Holiday Inn Express: 120 nights
Holiday Inn: 66 nights
InterContinental Hotels & Resorts: 51 nights, including five nights at the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort in Australia, four nights at the InterContinental Phuket Resort in Thailand, four nights at the InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort in Vietnam, three nights at the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort in Vietnam, three nights at the InterContinental New York Times Square in New York and two nights at the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa in Fiji
Candlewood Suites: 28 nights
Hotel Indigo: 26 nights, including five nights at the Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown-University in Texas and four nights at the Hotel Indigo Birmingham Five Points South – UAB in Alabama
Staybridge Suites: 22 nights
Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts: 19 nights, including three nights at the Crowne Plaza Beijing Wangfujing in China and three nights at the Crowne Plaza Times Square in New York
Holiday Inn Resort: 19 nights, including 10 nights at the Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives in the Maldives
Voco: 11 nights, including six nights at Voco Gold Coast in Australia
Regent: Nine nights
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants: Eight nights
Six Senses: Six nights, including four nights at Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives and two nights at Six Senses Yao Noi in Thailand
Atwell Suites: Two nights at Atwell Suites Miami Brickell in Florida
Avid: Two nights at Avid hotel Oklahoma City — Quail Springs in Oklahoma
Even: One night
Over the last six years, I’ve stayed 161 paid nights at IHG properties for an average of $152 per night. The least I paid was $48 per night at the Holiday Inn Express Berlin — Alexanderplatz in Germany. And the most I paid was $1,564 per night during a review of the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort in the Maldives.
Meanwhile, we redeemed IHG points for 209 nights over the last six years, including 36 fourth-night-free rewards. On average, we redeemed 15,591 IHG points per night. We also redeemed 20 anniversary nights over the last six years, including at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa in French Polynesia and the Kimpton De Witt Amsterdam in the Netherlands.
You might wonder how we earned so many IHG points and anniversary nights. We maximize IHG promotions to earn points on stays. And we often buy points during IHG points sales with a 100% bonus when we can do so for 0.5 cents per point. As for the anniversary night certificates, we both have multiple IHG credit cards, so we’ve each earned two anniversary nights for most of the last six years.
We frequently stay at IHG One Rewards hotels and resorts due to the high value we often get when redeeming IHG points. But, with the launch of the new IHG One Rewards program last year, we are also getting good value from the annual lounge membership you can select through IHG’s Milestone Rewards program after staying 40 nights in a year.
Related: 9 budget strategies for getting the most out of your points and miles
209 nights at other brands and independent hotels
These days, we usually stay at major hotel brands to earn and use elite status perks and benefit from the consistency provided by these brands. But we often stayed at independent hotels when we first hit the road as digital nomads in 2017. And even now, we sometimes find ourselves in a destination without major hotel brands or where staying at a property outside our brand loyalties makes the most sense.
For example, we couldn’t pass up staying in a twin cell at YHA Fremantle Prison in Australia and a robot hotel in Japan. Likewise, staying within Addo Elephant and Kruger national parks in South Africa let us maximize our time seeing wildlife in these parks.
We often book these stays through online travel agencies since we don’t have to worry about missing out on elite status benefits and earnings while staying at properties outside our primary brands. For example, we’ll sometimes book through credit card portals to use credits, like the $50 hotel credit each account anniversary year on the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. And we’ll occasionally book through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts to snag extra perks and use the prepaid hotel credit we get each calendar year as a perk of The Platinum Card® from American Express. We’ll also sometimes use Rocketmiles to earn American Airlines miles and Loyalty Points on our stays.
On average, I paid $83 per night on these stays. But, my least expensive night was $18 per night for a private room with a shared bathroom at Stella Di Notte in Belgrade, Serbia. And my most expensive night was $235 per night at the RLJ Kendeja Resort & Villas in Liberia during PeaceJam.
203 nights at 21 Marriott brands
Over the last six years, I’ve stayed 140 paid nights at Marriott properties for an average of $121 per night. The least I paid was $44 per night at the Four Points by Sheraton Bogota in Colombia. And the most I paid was $350 per night during a review of the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Hawaii.
Meanwhile, we redeemed Marriott points for 49 nights over the last six years, including six fifth-night-free benefits. On average, we redeemed 16,167 points per night on Marriott award stays. We also redeemed 14 free night awards we earned through Marriott credit cards and promotions over the last six years.
Related: Here’s why you need both a personal and business Marriott Bonvoy credit card
115 nights at 6 Choice brands
Ascend Hotel Collection: 54 nights, including 28 nights at Emotions All Inclusive Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, nine nights at Gowanus Inn & Yard in New York (no longer bookable through Choice Hotels) and three nights at Bluegreen Vacations Fountains in Florida
Comfort: 37 nights, including 19 nights in Japan
Quality Inn: 13 nights
Cambria Hotels: Four nights
Rodeway Inn: Four nights
Clarion: Three nights
Over the last six years, I’ve stayed 34 paid nights at Choice Privileges properties for an average of $93 per night. The least I paid was $54 per night at the Comfort Hotel Airport CDG in France. And the most I paid was $239 per night at Cambria Hotel New York — Times Square in New York.
Meanwhile, we redeemed Choice points for 81 nights over the last six years. On average, we redeemed 9,531 Choice points per night. I’ve found I can get excellent value when redeeming Choice points for unique redemptions and for stays in Japan, Europe and destinations that typically feature high paid hotel rates. So, as with IHG, we often buy Choice points during sales or through Daily Getaways promotions.
87 nights at 11 Hyatt brands and partners
I didn’t stay much with World of Hyatt until the program offered reduced qualification requirements and double elite night credits in early 2021. I earned Globalist status in 2021 for far fewer nights than is usually required, but I’ve prioritized maintaining it due to the on-site perks it provides.
I’ve stayed 53 paid nights at Hyatt properties for an average of $139 per night over the last six years. The least I paid was $24 per night at the Excalibur Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. And the most I paid was $353 per night at Hyatt House New York/Chelsea in New York.
Meanwhile, I redeemed Hyatt points for 27 free nights over the last six years. I’ve found some excellent Category 1 Hyatt hotels that provide wonderful value on award stays. So, it isn’t surprising that I’ve redeemed 5,563 points per night on average and just 3,500 points per night for nine nights. Additionally, I redeemed seven free night certificates that I earned through Hyatt credit cards, Hyatt Milestone Rewards and the Hyatt Brand Explorer promotion over the last six years.
40 nights at 10 Wyndham brands
Days Inn: 10 nights
Ramada: Nine nights
Ramada Encore: Five nights
Microtel: Five nights
Club Wyndham: Three nights
Super 8: Three nights
Viva Wyndham: Two nights at Viva Wyndham Azteca — All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico
Baymont: One night
Howard Johnson: One night
Travelodge: One night
Over the last six years, I’ve stayed 29 paid nights at Wyndham properties for an average of $103 per night. The least I paid was $48 per night at the Days Inn Guam-Tamuning in Guam. And the most I paid was $200 per night during a review of the Viva Wyndham Azteca — All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico.
Meanwhile, we redeemed Wyndham points for 11 nights over the last six years. On average, we redeemed 9,068 points per night on Wyndham award stays. And we love getting a 10% redemption discount when we redeem Wyndham points as a benefit of our Wyndham Rewards credit card, as this brings an award night that would typically cost 7,500 points down to just 6,750 points.
32 nights at 6 Hilton brands
Over the last six years, I’ve stayed 18 paid nights at Hilton properties for an average of $130 per night. The least I’ve paid was $58 per night at the Hilton Jaipur in India. And the most I paid was $168 per night at the Hilton Niseko Village in Japan.
Meanwhile, we redeemed Hilton points for eight nights over the last six years, including one fifth-night-free benefit. On average, we redeemed 46,250 points per night on Hilton award stays. We also redeemed six Hilton free night certificates that we earned through Hilton credit cards over the last six years for excellent value at the Conrad New York Midtown, the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and the Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa.
The average amount we redeemed per night with Hilton Honors is significantly higher than with other hotel loyalty programs. This, combined with my struggle to get more than TPG’s valuation (0.6 cents per point) when redeeming Hilton points, is why I don’t frequently stay at Hilton brands despite having Hilton Diamond status through a Hilton credit card.
19 nights at 4 Accor brands
Ibis: 12 nights
Mercure: Four nights
Grand Mercure: Two nights
Ibis Budget: One night
Over the last six years, I’ve stayed 19 nights at Accor properties for an average of $56 per night. The least I paid was $36 per night at the Ibis Muenchen City Nord in Germany. And the most I paid was $84 per night at the Ibis Madrid Alcobendas in Spain.
8 nights at 2 Best Western brands
Best Western: Six nights
Best Western Plus: Two nights
Over the last six years, I’ve stayed eight nights at Best Western properties for an average of $78 per night. The least I paid was $57 per night at the Best Western Amsterdam Airport Hotel in the Netherlands. And the most I paid was $147 per night at the Best Western Plus Mountain View Auburn Inn in Washington.
452 nights camping
When I became a digital nomad in 2017, I didn’t think there was any chance I’d camp 452 nights in the next six years. And even three years ago, I’d only spent three nights tent camping for a concert at The Gorge in Washington state and three nights in a rental RV doing a relocation from Las Vegas to Denver.
But, as it became apparent the coronavirus pandemic would affect international travel for more than just a few months, my husband and I tried out a six-night RV relocation rental in July 2020. Then in August 2020, we decided to buy the same RV model we’d relocated.
When we bought our Class C RV, we expected we’d sell it as soon as international travel to most destinations became relatively simple again. But, we discovered we enjoy working remotely from our RV while in the U.S. We’ve now spent 440 nights camping in our RV since buying it — 97 nights in 2020, 234 nights in 2021, 80 nights in 2022 and 29 nights so far in 2023.
Nineteen nights in our RV have been free at locations (like select Walmarts, select Cracker Barrels and businesses that participate in Harvest Hosts) that allow RVers to stay overnight upon asking permission. We’ve also spent 37 nights sleeping in the driveways of friends and family while visiting them.
But we usually find paid RV campsites with power and water. We’ve paid for campsites on 393 nights as follows:
171 nights at city and county campgrounds ($32 per night on average)
133 nights at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds ($27 per night on average)
66 nights at state park campgrounds ($34 per night on average)
37 nights at private campgrounds ($52 per night on average)
Four nights at national park campgrounds ($48 per night on average)
On average, we’ve paid $33 per night for our RV campsites. The highest we paid was $104 per night at Orlando / Kissimmee KOA Holiday in Florida. And the least we paid was $17 per night at Shady Grove Campground in Cumming, Georgia, during a half-off promotion.
Related: The cheapest place to stay at Disney World is a tent — so I tried it
443 nights with family and friends
One aspect my husband and I appreciate about being digital nomads is seeing our family more than when we lived in one place. Here’s a breakdown of our nights with friends and family over the last six years:
July 2 to the end of 2017: 32 nights
2018: 90 nights
2019: 83 nights
2020: 167 nights
2021: 29 nights
2022: 27 nights
So far in 2023: 15 nights
We spent significant time with each of our parents in March through August of 2020 as much of the world locked down. However, the nights since August 2020 are lower than pre-pandemic since we now stay in our RV (either in the driveway or a nearby campground) while visiting most friends and family members.
Related: 43 real-world family travel tips that actually work
104 nights in transit
Over the past six years, I’ve spent 101 nights in flight or sleeping in airports. I typically avoid overnight flights, but sometimes overnight flights are unavoidable (and they’re enjoyable if I book a lie-flat seat or luck into a row to myself in economy).
If I have an overnight layover at an airport, I’ll book a hotel if the layover is long enough and I can find a modestly priced hotel on-site or with a free shuttle. But sometimes the layover is too short, or it just doesn’t make sense to get a hotel. In these cases, I’ll usually sleep in a lounge — ideally one with a sleeping area or at least lounge chairs — or in a Minute Suites (or a similar type of space) that participates in Priority Pass.
I’ve also spent three nights on trains, including two on the Amtrak Empire Builder from Portland, Oregon, to Chicago and one on a Trans-Mongolian train from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to Hohhot, China. I thoroughly enjoyed both experiences, so it’s surprising that I haven’t taken any other overnight trains in the last six years. However, low-cost flights on many routes served by overnight trains often make flying a more convenient and less expensive alternative.
Related: 11 of the most scenic train rides on Earth
90 nights in vacation rentals
Vacation rentals are the accommodation of choice for many digital nomads, especially those who stay in each location for at least a month and appreciate having their own kitchen. And I spent 39 nights in vacation rentals in 2017 after becoming nomadic July 2.
However, one particularly bad Airbnb experience in 2018 and an increasing interest in hotel elite status caused me to switch most of my nights to hotels instead of vacation rentals. I stayed in vacation rentals for 17 nights in 2018 and 20 nights in 2019. I only stayed in one vacation rental each in 2020 (for three nights), 2021 (for two nights) and 2022 (for two nights). And so far, I’ve only stayed in one vacation rental (for seven nights) in 2023.
On average, I paid $53 per night for vacation rentals across my six years as a digital nomad. My least expensive vacation rental was $17 per night for a private studio apartment in Da Nang, Vietnam, that I booked through Airbnb. And my most expensive vacation rental was $129 per night for a waterfront apartment in Auckland, New Zealand, through Hotels.com.
I’ll still stay in vacation rentals when they’re my best option. But I generally prefer to stay at hotels for consistency and to earn and use my elite status perks.
Related: When a vacation rental makes more sense than a hotel
259 cities in 52 countries and territories
Finally, let’s talk about destinations. Over the last six years, I’ve visited 259 cities in 52 countries and territories. Here’s a look at the number of nights I stayed in each:
1,253 nights: United States of America (including 318 nights in hotels or vacation rentals)
88 nights: Germany
69 nights: Japan
56 nights: Australia
54 nights: South Africa (including 32 nights in or near South African national parks)
36 nights: Dominican Republic
27 nights: Maldives, Thailand
24 nights: Spain
22 nights: Hong Kong, Malaysia
21 nights: New Zealand, Serbia, Vietnam
20 nights: Canada, Colombia, Italy
19 nights: India
18 nights: Netherlands, United Arab Emirates
16 nights: Singapore
14 nights: Bahamas, French Polynesia, Indonesia
13 nights: Fiji, South Korea
11 nights: Brazil, Mongolia
10 nights: China
Nine nights: Bulgaria, England, France, Pakistan
Eight nights: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Latvia, Liberia, Mexico, Sri Lanka
Seven nights: Greece, Guam
Six nights: Turkey
Five nights: Belgium, Marshall Islands
Four nights: Sweden
Three nights: Argentina, Chile
Two nights: Panama
One night: Ethiopia, Finland, Ireland, Northern Mariana Islands, Taiwan
As you can see, I would have spent the most time in the U.S. even if the coronavirus pandemic hadn’t kept me in the country for much of 2020 and 2021. And interestingly, even my most visited country outside the U.S. (Germany) accounted for just 88 nights across the last six years.
I also visited 14 other countries and territories before becoming a digital nomad. So, although I’m not striving to visit every country in the world, I’ve visited 66 different countries and territories so far. My husband and I are trying to visit a few new-to-us countries each year while also returning to some of our favorite destinations like Germany, Japan, South Africa, Australia and Hong Kong.
Related: The 18 best places to travel in 2023
Bottom line
I feel incredibly thankful for the last six years I’ve spent as a digital nomad. I’ve grown significantly as a person and content creator while traveling full-time.
And I’ve had some amazing experiences, including swimming with manta rays in French Polynesia and the Maldives, watching a sea turtle dig a nest and lay her eggs on a Florida beach, staying at some awesome resorts (Six Senses Laamu, Six Senses Yao Noi and Alila Fort Bishangarh immediately come to mind), and overnighting in second-class hard bunks on a Trans-Mongolian train.
But it’s not these epic experiences that keep me on the road. After all, I could enjoy many of these experiences on vacation. Instead, the daily things like being surrounded by languages I don’t know, enjoying delicious local foods and exploring new cities and neighborhoods on foot keep me attached to the digital nomad lifestyle.
Believe it or not, you can go to Disneyland when it’s not crowded.
If you’ve been there, this may not seem possible — especially if you’ve visited only on the weekend or during summer. But there are ebbs and flows to crowds at Disney parks. Depending on how you like to travel, whom you’re traveling with and what your budget is, the best time to go to Disneyland will differ.
Let’s look at when’s best for you, no matter your travel situation.
For first-timers
As you may expect, Disneyland Park is the original; it opened in 1955. The park contains Sleeping Beauty Castle and fan favorites such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain and Haunted Mansion.
Disney California Adventure Park, meanwhile, opened in 2001. Originally modeled after the various landscapes you’d find within California, the park has since seen significant retheming and now contains a land dedicated to the “Cars” movie, one focused on Marvel movies and a pier based on Pixar’s films.
If this is your first visit, you’ll want to do your best to experience everything. We recommend a minimum of two days: one for each park.
You’ll want to consider nonpeak periods when the resort is less crowded to maximize your time. Generally, Disney is extra busy and crowded during the following periods:
Spring break: typically late March and April.
Holiday weekends: Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Summer: mid-June to the end of August.
Halloween and weekends in October.
Thanksgiving week.
Winter break: second half of December through New Year’s Day.
Though you may find periods that are busy outside these windows, these are the big ones you’ll want to avoid. It will be difficult to deal with the crowds, and you’ll probably pay a premium for hotels and accommodations.
For families
If your children are school age, you may be limited as to when you can visit Disneyland. This means you may end up at the parks during peak periods.
Though it’s not possible to avoid crowds, there are still times that can be better than others.
This is thanks to some of the special events Disneyland puts on. These include Princess Nite and the Oogie Boogie Bash, both of which take place after the park closes (the park closes early to accommodate these parties).
The Oogie Boogie Bash is especially popular for kids because of the unlimited trick-or-treating. There are also character meet-and-greets, a special parade and the ability to ride all the standard rides.
For crowd-haters
Listen, we dislike crowds, too. There’s a reason entire websites are dedicated to figuring out when Disneyland will be crowded. If this is you, do yourself a favor and visit only during the offseason.
Though it isn’t often that you’ll find hardly anyone at the Disneyland Resort, there are some times when it will be as close to empty as possible.
This includes many weekdays throughout the year, especially during January, February and March.
It’s also relatively empty at the end of August before Labor Day weekend brings huge crowds. September as a whole is also empty, as is the two-week period after Thanksgiving before winter break starts.
For the frugal traveler
A visit to Disneyland can be pricey, especially if you need to travel in from out of town. Disneyland operates a dynamic pricing structure that’ll charge you from $104 to $179 for a one-day ticket.
To find the cheapest days, you’ll want to check out the price calendar. Typically, periods of least demand — those with the lowest ticket prices — also coincide with the lowest cash prices for flights and hotels.
You may also want to consider using points and miles to keep costs down. Several chain hotels are within walking distance of Disneyland, including Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and IHG, which makes redeeming your points easy.
Disneyland is near six airports in Southern California, making it easier to find flights on all major airlines. With so many options, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a way to redeem your miles.
For adults
Disneyland isn’t just for children. Though many of its attractions are meant to appeal to little ones, Disneyland also has adult-oriented activities. Disney California Adventure is a great example, with refined eateries and plenty of different drinks to sample.
The park also offers a rotating selection of festivals throughout the year, featuring pop-up pavilions. These pavilions provide limited-time food and drink offerings and are popular with adult parties.
Disneyland also offers nighttime events that are great for adults, including Sweethearts’ Nite, Throwback Nite, Pride Nite and Star Wars Nite.
The best time to visit Disneyland, recapped
The best time to visit Disneyland will depend on whom you’re traveling with, your preferred travel style and your budget. After all, you’re not going to be looking for the same entertainment options with your adult friends as you would if you’re traveling with your children.
No matter when you decide to travel to Disneyland, you’ll be in good company. Just don’t forget to grab yourself a churro.
(Top photo courtesy of Disneyland Resort)
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:
Chase is offering a bonus of 140,000 points after $3,000 in purchases within the first 3 months + $100 statement credit on purchases at IHG properties within the first year on the IHG premier card
Card Details
Annual fee of $99 (not waived the first year)
Card earns at the following rates:
26x points per $1 spent on IHG properties (10x from the card + 15x from status and club membership)
5x points per dollar spent on travel, dining & gas
3x points per $1 spent on all other purchases
Free night certificate on card anniversary (worth 40,000 toward a stay)
Automatic Platinum elite status
Fourth Reward Night Free on any stay of 4 or more nights
20% discount when purchasing points
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit
Earn a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points once you spend $20,000 in a calendar year.
When you spend $40,000 in a calendar year, you will qualify for Diamond Elite Status through December 31st of the following year.
Receive up to $50 United TravelBank Cash each calendar year after registering your IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card with your MileagePlus account.
This product is available to you if you do not have a current IHG® Rewards Credit Card (any IHG personal card) and have not received a new Cardmember bonus within the last 24 months (onany IHG personal card). This restriction does not apply to Business Card Credit Card products.
Chase 5/24 rule applies to this card
Our Verdict
Best bonus was 175,000 points, this is 35,000 less but comes with the $100 statement credit. We have also seen 140,000 points + free night certificate. I think those were better offers than this, but some might prefer this offer.
Founded in 1981, the Kimpton brand quickly became one of the largest boutique hotel chains in the United States.
Inspired by the artistic flair of small European hotels, founder Bill Kimpton was an early adopter of a locally focused hotel experience, creating a brand known for its eclectic style tied to the culture and vibe of the surrounding neighborhood.
Today, there are Kimpton properties in 52 cities across the world, with over 20 new properties slated to debut over the coming years.
When IHG acquired the Kimpton brand in 2014, the hotel’s portfolio grew in value, too. IHG loyalists were finally able to earn and redeem points for boutique hotel stays, which had been historically a tricky proposition, not only within IHG but with any of the major hotel points programs.
With so many appealing hotels to pick from in some of TPG’s top travel destinations, choosing favorites is never easy. But, from Asheville, North Carolina, to London, England, here are some of TPG’s most loved Kimpton Hotels.
Kimpton Fitzroy London
Bloomsbury, London, England, United Kingdom
KIMPTON FITZROY LONDON/FACEBOOK
Best for: Travelers who want a hotel with the personality of a grande dame without any stuffiness.
Why stay here: This stunning building inspired by a 16th-century chateau delivers all the modern amenities you could need — and you can even book it with points.
Located in the leafy, residential enclave of Bloomsbury, home to the British Museum and multiple universities, the Kimpton Fitzroy London is widely considered to be one of London’s finest hotels — and something of a local institution.
From the jaw-dropping marble lobby filled with life-size statues of British monarchs to the impeccable service from the gracious staff, this century-old property is steeped in history and tradition.
Architect Charles Fitzroy Doll is said to have used the property’s dining room as inspiration for another of his famous design projects, the ill-fated Titanic’s first-class dining room.
Related: The complete guide to flying to London on points and miles
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The 334 accommodations range from standard guest rooms to specialty suites and pay homage to the hotel’s glamorous 1920s heyday without sacrificing modern amenities. Expect a soothing neutral color scheme and elegant styling with occasional dashes of British whimsy (pillows detailing “Lucky George,” the hotel’s so-called resident dragon, for instance), a Nespresso coffee machine, luxurious Azzi Glasser toiletries, rainfall showers and heated bathroom floors.
Make time for a delightful afternoon tea in the Palm Court, and for a perfect preamble to a night on the tiles, slink into a velour sofa at Fitz’s and order a Burnt Ice cocktail.
Rates at the Kimpton Fitzroy London start at $261 or 55,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton Canary
Santa Barbara, California, USA
KIMPTON CANARY HOTEL/FACEBOOK
Best for: Bringing your dog along to explore this city and its surroundings without sacrificing luxury.
Why stay here: For a heart-of-town location with Spanish Colonial-inspired rooms, friendly service and a sweet little rooftop pool, not to mention Kimpton hallmarks like nightly wine hour.
The 97-key Kimpton Canary Hotel is in downtown Santa Barbara, a 6-minute drive from West Beach. Recently renovated, the property’s charming Mediterranean design runs through the public spaces with original terra cotta floors, exposed wooden beams, wrought-iron fittings and brass fixtures.
Up in the guest rooms (which start at 300 square feet), the Spanish theme continues with luxe touches, including romantic four-poster canopy beds dressed with Italian linens, dark wood floors, and beautifully tiled bathrooms with Atelier Bloem bath amenities. Yogis will also appreciate Kimpton’s complimentary yoga mat for practicing their sun salutations.
Related: The best hotels in Santa Barbara
Besides the prime location, thoughtful amenities and warm design, the Kimpton Canary’s main calling card is its rooftop pool — the only one in the city. The hotel’s farm-to-table restaurant, Finch & Fork, is also a relaxed spot for dinner after spending a day out on the Urban Wine Trail.
While there is no spa directly on the property, the hotel partners with Float Luxury Spa, which offers experiences ranging from massages to a multitude of body treatments.
Rates at the Kimpton Canary Hotel start at $360 or 60,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton St Honoré Paris
Second Arrondissement, Paris, France
JEROME GALLAND/KIMPTON ST. HONORE/FACEBOOK
Best for: IHG One Rewards members who want to earn or redeem points for a unique stay in Paris.
Why stay here: Take advantage of Kimpton’s quick European expansion to book this luxury-adjacent property near many of Paris’ most exciting sights.
Located in the central Second Arrondissement, Kimpton’s flagship Paris property, the St Honoré, is the definition of chic. A francophile’s dream, the 149 guest rooms range between 200 and 300 square feet (typical dimensions in this neighborhood) and are designed to resemble stylish Parisian apartments, with high ceilings, hardwood floors, art deco accents, plush cream-colored drapes, and a soothing white and beige color palette with pops of pink and red.
Related: The best hotels in Paris
After a day exploring the city, unwind at the on-site spa, which offers custom massages and treatments that incorporate products from French skincare brand Codage. The spa also has a small indoor heated pool and sauna, and there’s a fitness center with treadmills, ellipticals and free weights.
Guests can also make use of complimentary bespoke Infine Cycles bicycles to explore the neighborhood. Kimpton brand devotees will be pleased to know that its customary drinks reception and social hour is hosted in the lobby daily.
Don’t miss a ride in the wrought-iron elevator up to the California-inspired Sequoia Rooftop bar, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the City of Light while sipping on a glass of rose.
Rates at the Kimpton St Honoré Paris start at $509 or 74,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton Angler’s Hotel South Beach
South Beach, Miami, USA
KIMPTON ANGLER’S SOUTH BEACH MIAMI
Best for: Travelers looking for a carefree stay in South Beach.
Why stay here: An art deco-inspired resort on the beach with a rooftop pool and sun deck — what more could you ask for from a South Beach hotel?
There are a few things that aren’t negotiable if you want to be considered one of the best hotels in Miami: a rooftop pool, beach access and an effortless mix of relaxation and upbeat vibes. Kimpton Angler’s Hotel South Beach checks off all three in a setting fit for everything from a quick weekend getaway to a posh stay with a side of soaking up the rays.
Redesigned in 2019 with a Mediterranean inspiration, this South Beach hideaway has a plethora of amenities that give any stay a glow-up. The rooftop pool and bar area is strictly adults-only, and venues like Minnow Bar and Seawell Fish N’ Oyster feature locally sourced seafood and refreshing cocktails.
If you want to step things up for a truly memorable stay, there are a few private villas and bungalows that come with secluded rooftop terraces or private outdoor hot tubs. You don’t have to worry about missing out on cardio while here, as the hotel offers guests complimentary bicycles to pedal around the beach. You’ll even find yoga mats in every guest room and suite for morning or sundown stretching.
Not ready to check out? We love how the hotel offers complimentary 2 p.m. late checkout to anyone who is a member of the IHG One Rewards program.
Rates at the Kimpton Angler’s Hotel South Beach start at $130 or 28,500 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton DeWitt
Amsterdam, Netherlands
KIMPTON DEWITT, AMSTERDAM/IHG.COM
Best for: Solo travelers or vacations with friends for a quick weekend getaway.
Why stay here: Take advantage of this hotel’s location — close to the Anne Frank House and Royal Palace.
Do being the first and being the best go hand in hand? The Kimpton De Witt Hotel certainly has a strong case. The hotel was Kimpton’s first foray into the European boutique hotel market after opening its doors in 2017.
This 274-room hotel in Amsterdam’s City Centre manages to feel like a more intimate boutique hotel thanks to its attention to detail and amenities like Frette bathrobes, an evening wine reception and blue-and-white-tiled bathrooms with rainfall shower heads. Don’t forget to say hello to Max, the hotel’s adorable four-legged director of pets, but be careful if you’re carrying food: He’s a fan of cheese and always welcomes a shared nibble with guests!
With minimalist modern decor throughout the hotel, including tiles inspired by Dutch florals and brass finishings, there’s a refined elegance and sophistication that pervades the public spaces.
When checking in, you really can’t miss the neon-lit Super Lyan cocktail bar, which is a concept by noted nightlife maven Ryan Chetiyawardana. For those looking for a more laid-back night out, Celia, the hotel’s California-inspired restaurant, is an inviting space with special events like Margarita Monday and Taco Tuesday.
Rates at the Kimpton De Witt Hotel start at $300 or 59,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
KIMPTON SEAFIRE GRAND CAYMAN/DON RIDDLE/FACEBOOK
Best for: Families, thanks to a kids club with lots of programming, an action-packed water park and special family suites complete with bunk beds.
Why stay here: The cuisine is farm-to-table at all three of the resort’s restaurants — and kids younger than 5 eat for free.
The Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa was Kimpton’s first true Caribbean resort property, and it remains one of our favorites in the entire brand portfolio thanks to its personalized service and postcard-worthy beachfront location. Complete with two pools, a host of restaurants and the Spa at Seafire, there is a wide array of ways to unwind and relax during your stay.
From the minute they step on the property, guests are enveloped in tranquil blue Caribbean waters. If the warm weather and beckoning sea aren’t inviting enough, your guest room or suite will surely do the trick. Every accommodation has its own private balcony, and almost all come with a beachfront view. With all it has to offer, the Kimpton Seafire is ideal for anything from family vacations to romantic honeymoons or solo spa trips.
For those looking for the ultimate decadence, some suites are far larger than the average home: The more-than-4,200-square-foot 2-Bedroom Presidential Suite Oceanfront comes with a private wraparound balcony and an outdoor kitchen to dine alfresco from your top-of-the-hotel perch.
Downstairs, combine a love of books with a love of a great cocktail at Library by the Sea. We especially appreciate the Agatha Christie-inspired, Champagne-based Murder in the Afternoon, a sultry sip fit for the Orient Express (just hold the murder, please). Coccoloba is the hub of beachfront dining with plenty of delicacies to dabble in after splashing in the waves: chips and salsa, ceviche and a healthy lineup of tacos (the charred octopus ones are scrumptious) amid a wide range of Mexican street food.
Avecita is the hotel’s formal Spanish tapas-style restaurant and is great for date night with dishes like grilled branzino and crab claws.
Rates at the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa start at $522 or 70,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton Margot Sydney
Sydney, Australia
ANDREW J LOITERTON/KIMPTON MARGOT SYDNEY/IHG.COM
Best for: Kimpton devotees looking for classy lodgings Down Under.
Why stay here: One of Sydney’s newest hotels is actually in a historic building with all kinds of art deco flourishes, not to mention one of the city’s best cocktail bars.
The only Kimpton Down Under, and a rather new one to boot, the Kimpton Margot Sydney takes up space in a 1939 art deco building that used to be the Sydney Water Head Office in the Central Business District (often referred to as the CBD).
There’s lot to enjoy at this CBD Kimpton, like a stunning lobby full of seating vignettes and soaring columns, and an eclectic mix of art, knickknacks, patterns and designs.
One major highlight is the hotel’s food and beverage scene, which is especially exciting due to the presence of Luke’s Kitchen from celebrated Australian chef Luke Mangan. Throw in a chic art deco lobby bar and a rooftop pool bar, and it’s guaranteed you won’t go hungry or thirsty.
Related: The best ways to use points and miles to fly from the US to Australia
In the rooms, guests will find large accommodations with high ceilings, big windows, touchscreen buttons to control the lights, USB chargers, Nespresso machines and minibars stocked with Australian favorites. And though this hotel might not be near the waters of Bondi Beach, a quick trip from the guest room to the rooftop pool is surely the next best thing.
Rates at the Kimpton Margot Sydney start at $190 or 32,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton Hotel Arras
Asheville, North Carolina, USA
KIMPTON HOTEL ARRAS/FACEBOOK
Best for: Art aficionados who love high-end design touches.
Why stay here: You can’t beat this hotel’s proximity to Asheville’s thriving craft beer scene and the arts district.
In bohemian, craft-beer-loving Asheville, no hotel stands taller, literally, than the Kimpton Hotel Arras, which happens to be the highest building in town and all of Western North Carolina. It’s also one of the city’s most popular hotels thanks to gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a downtown location near great restaurants, bars, breweries and shopping, not to mention its own North Carolina-infused Mediterranean restaurant, Bargello.
In the rooms, guests will find art from local artist Catherine Murphy, floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light, large desks and Kimpton’s signature yoga mats. In the accommodations and throughout the hotel, more local artworks abound, and the reception desk can even provide a detailed brochure about all of the pieces.
After an art crawl through the property, be sure to stop by District 42 for a craft cocktail like the Sage of 6 Paths ($18) that’s made up of sage-infused Altos Reposado, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, Licor 43, lime juice, simple syrup and egg whites, plus a hearth-fired pizza to round it out.
Rates at the Kimpton Hotel Arras start at $275 or 42,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton Hotel Eventi
Chelsea, New York City, New York, USA
KIMPTON HOTEL EVENTI/FACEBOOK
Best for: IHG loyalists who want great value thanks to Kimpton’s cool amenities.
Why stay here: Kimpton’s complimentary wine hour is just one more way a stay here can help you save on a pricey New York City trip.
With a handful of Kimpton hotels in New York City, it’s tricky to know which one to pick, but our top choice is the Kimpton Hotel Eventi in Chelsea, near major attractions like the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden and Penn Station. Its central location also makes it a breeze to get across the city.
Inside the hotel, which takes up an entire city block, guests will find calming neutral colors and inviting velvet furniture, which is only enhanced by the natural sunlight pouring in from the floor-to-ceiling windows, in addition to a small fitness center, bikes to explore the city and a daily happy hour in the lobby.
Related: The best hotels in New York City, from luxury stays to points properties
Dining is an event at Eventi thanks to a slew of bars and restaurants, including the all-new steakhouse Skirt Steak, an Italian restaurant from Laurent Tourondel and American food with international influences at The Vine. Combine that with all the dining options that make up New York City and, no matter what you eat, your head will hit the pillow with a full stomach.
Rates at Kimpton Hotel Eventi start at $206 or 40,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Kimpton Clocktower Hotel
Manchester, England, United Kingdom
KIMPTON CLOCKTOWER, MANCHESTER, UK/IHG.COM
Best for: Travelers who appreciate a hotel filled with history.
Why stay here: Get fantastic value from this historic hotel with Victorian-inspired rooms in central Manchester.
Housed in a magnificent Victorian-era building in the heart of Manchester, this welcoming Kimpton retains a down-to-earth vibe despite its imposing public spaces.
The property’s thoughtfully designed rooms and ornate spaces stay true to Manchester’s industrial roots while reflecting the city’s two-decade-long evolution from gritty industrial center into a cutting-edge hub of art, culture and music.
The 281 loft-style guest rooms (including 11 suites) channel a warehouse-chic aesthetic and are stylishly appointed with soaring ceilings, cushy headboards, embroidered throw pillows, exposed tiles and gleaming bathrooms with white subway-style tiles and deep soaking tubs.
There’s a surfeit of excellent bars a short walk away on Canal Street, as well as myriad dining options nearby, but the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar, Refuge, is one of the best in town, serving a crowd-pleasing menu of light bites and entrees that take inspiration from the culinary heritage of Manchester’s multicultural denizens.
Amenities include a fitness center equipped with a range of cardiovascular and resistance training equipment, a yoga mat in every guest room, complimentary bikes to explore the city and, best of all, a new tailor-made Music Concierge service: Guests choose their own soundtrack in advance of their stay, and a record player and selection of vinyl will be delivered to their room on arrival.
Rates at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel start at $196 or 36,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
For years, the unquestionable leaders of the premium card market were The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve.
That all changed when Capital One shook up the industry with its debut of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees) in late 2021 — undercutting both of its rivals by offering competitive perks at a lower $395 annual fee.
Perhaps you’re one of the many Sapphire Reserve cardmembers who’ve questioned your loyalty to Chase with the launch of the Venture X. Or, maybe you’re on the hunt for your first premium travel rewards card.
Today, we’ll help you decide whether the Capital One Venture X or the Chase Sapphire Reserve is the better card for you.
Comparing the Capital One Venture X and the Chase Sapphire Reserve
Feature
Capital One Venture X
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Annual fee
$395.
$550.
Welcome bonus
Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.
Earning rate
10 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel.
2 miles per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
5 points per dollar on flights through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining.
1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.
Statement credits
Up to $300 in annual statement credit toward travel booked through Capital One Travel.
Up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, every four years.
Up to $300 in annual statement credit toward travel purchases.
Up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/Nexus credit, every four years.
Other card benefits
Priority Pass lounge access for the primary cardholder and complimentary access for two guests.
Capital One lounge access for the primary cardholder and up to two guests.
10,000 bonus miles received every card anniversary.
Complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status*.
Travel and purchase protections.
No foreign transaction fees.
Priority Pass lounge access for the primary cardholder and up to two guests.
Chase lounge access for the primary cardholder and up to two guests.
Complimentary car rental elite status with National Car Rental, Avis and Silvercar.
Partner benefits like a DoorDash DashPass membership (through 2024).
Travel and purchase protections.
No foreign transaction fees.
*Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.
Annual fee
The annual fee on the the Sapphire Reserve is $550. Note that it costs an additional $75 to add an authorized user.
At $395 per year, the Capital One Venture X is one of the most affordable premium cards. Best of all, you can add up to four authorized users for no additional cost.
Winner: The Capital One Venture X for its lower annual fee for the primary cardholder and no additional cost for up to four authorized users.
Welcome bonus
Both cards require the same amount of spend in a given time frame ($4,000 in the first three months of account opening) to unlock their introductory offers.
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TPG values Chase Ultimate Rewards points slightly higher than Capital One miles due to its superior transfer partners — we estimate that Ultimate Rewards points are worth 2 cents apiece while Capital One miles are worth 1.85 cents apiece.
The Capital One Venture X’s welcome bonus of 75,000 miles is worth about $1,388, while the Sapphire Reserve’s bonus of 60,000 points is worth $1,200.
Winner: Capital One Venture X.
Earning
Which premium card will offer better returns in the long run? For this analysis, we factored in the value of each currency to their rewards rates:
Capital One Venture X
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Earning rate
10 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel (18.5% return).
5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel (9.25% return).
2 miles per dollar on all other eligible purchases (3.7% return).
10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Ultimate Rewards (20% return).
5 points per dollar on flights booked through Ultimate Rewards (10% return).
3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining purchases (6% return).
1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases (2% return).
Both the Venture X and the Sapphire Reserve offer fantastic returns for travel purchased through their respective portals.
While the Venture X offers simplicity, with 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases, the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers higher returns for two lucrative bonus categories — travel (booked outside of Ultimate Rewards) and dining purchases.
Chase defines travel as a broad category, including everything from rental homes and buses to rideshares and parking fees. Similarly, dining purchases include takeout and delivery services, widening the spectrum for what falls under this category.
Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve, as it offers bonus categories beyond travel portal bookings. However, non-bonus purchases only garner 1 point per dollar. If you’re the type of consumer who has a ton of varied spend outside of travel and dining, then the Venture X may be a better card for you for its simple earning rate.
Redeeming
With both of these programs, transferring your points to travel partners is the most rewarding way to redeem your points and miles.
The Chase Ultimate Rewards program is a long-time crowd favorite. You can transfer your Ultimate Rewards points at a simple, 1:1 ratio (so every 1,000 Chase points equates to 1,000 points or miles in a Chase transfer partner program).
On the other hand, the Capital One miles program has partners that transfer at a 1:1 ratio for the most part, but there are a few exceptions that transfer at a less favorable ratio.
Let’s compare the partners side-by-side (all transfer at a 1:1 ratio unless otherwise stated).
Capital One miles
Chase Ultimate Rewards
Aeromexico Club Premier.
Air Canada Aeroplan.
Air France-KLM Flying Blue.
ALL Accor Live Limitless (2:1).
Avianca LifeMiles.
British Airways Executive Club.
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles.
Choice Privileges.
Emirates Skywards.
Etihad Guest.
EVA Infinity MileageLands (2:1.5).
Finnair Plus.
Qantas Frequent Flyer.
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer.
TAP Portugal Miles&Go.
Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles.
Virgin Red.
Wyndham Rewards.
Aer Lingus AerClub.
Air Canada Aeroplan.
Air France-KLM Flying Blue.
British Airways Executive Club.
Emirates Skywards.
Iberia Plus.
IHG Rewards.
JetBlue TrueBlue.
Marriott Bonvoy.
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer.
Southwest Rapid Rewards.
United MileagePlus.
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.
World of Hyatt.
As you can see, there are quite a few overlaps. While Capital One offers more loyalty partners, there are no domestic airlines (after it lost JetBlue TrueBlue as a partner).
Meanwhile, Chase offers three domestic airlines — JetBlue, Southwest and United — as well as one particularly lucrative hotel program, World of Hyatt.
Of course, both the Venture X and Sapphire Reserve offer other (less lucrative) redemption options, such as gift cards and cash back.
However, with the Sapphire Reserve, your points are worth 50% more toward any travel booked through the Ultimate Rewards portal, making your points worth 1.5 cents apiece. While this isn’t as rewarding as transferring your points to Chase’s transfer partners, this redemption option is useful if you are having trouble finding award space.
Meanwhile, the Venture X offers fixed-rate travel redemptions at just 1 cent per mile — and while this can be applied to any travel purchase you charge to the card, it’s still notably lower.
Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve. More partners doesn’t necessarily equate to more value, which is why we peg Ultimate Rewards points at a higher value than Capital One miles. And even the fixed-value redemption option is 50% more lucrative.
Other benefits
Let’s talk about what makes these cards truly premium.
For starters, there’s an up to $300 annual travel statement credit on both cards. However, the Venture X’s travel credit is less flexible since you’ll have to book all travel on the Capital One portal in order to receive reimbursement. Meanwhile, the Sapphire Reserve will automatically reimburse for any purchases under the “travel” umbrella up to the $300 limit — and they don’t necessarily have to be booked directly with Chase.
As for lounge access, both cards offer Priority Pass membership, giving you access to 1,300-plus lounges worldwide.
On the one hand, the Venture X gets you Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests, whereas the Sapphire Reserve limits to you to two free guests (and then $27 each for additional guests.) Where the Sapphire Reserve fights back is that you can visit Priority Pass restaurants and spas, whereas you’re limited to lounges with the Venture X.
Both issuers are getting into the lounge game themselves, with Capital One’s first lounge open at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and more to come. The Venture X gets you access.
Chase has its first U.S. lounge open in Boston and the Sapphire Reserve card will get you access.
Finally, both are Visa Infinite cards, giving you high-level travel and purchase protections. Both also come with ancillary benefits that won’t necessarily move the needle for prospective applicants (such as the 10,000-mile anniversary bonus on the Venture X and partner benefits with the Sapphire Reserve), but these perks are all worth taking advantage of if you decide to apply for either card.
Winner: Tie. While the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s $300 travel credit is much more flexible, the Capital One Venture X comes with 10,000 bonus anniversary miles. They’re very similar on lounges.
Bottom line
Both the Venture X and the Sapphire Reserve have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s impossible to generalize which card comes out on top.
However, for a much more manageable annual fee, the Venture X is a fantastic offering — if you don’t mind using the travel portal to unlock many of the benefits on the card.
For those who prefer to book directly with travel providers, the Sapphire Reserve is likely the better option for you — but at the cost of a higher $550 annual fee.
Official application link: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Official application link: Chase Sapphire Reserve
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
“How can I travel on a budget?” is one of the top questions we receive at TPG.
There’s no question that travel is expensive right now as millions satisfy the itch to travel more. Demand has been through the roof. Inflation and correspondingly high hotel, rental car and airline ticket costs have many would-be travelers throwing up their hands in frustration.
However, there are still many ways to save. In addition to using reserves of points and miles to book hotels and airfare, TPGers have many budget travel tips to help stretch your dollars when traveling.
Here are 22 ways to travel on a budget.
Use membership codes to save on car rentals
If you’re a member of AAA or AARP, have a Costco membership, are a veteran or work for a large company with a car rental discount code, pull all of these levers. You might be eligible for discount codes you didn’t even know about. A few examples from AARP include 30% off a car rental at Budget or Avis.
Related: How to never pay full price for a rental car
Look beyond traditional car rental companies and locations
Most people search for rentals at the airport with standard companies like Hertz and Avis. If you don’t find good results, consider off-airport locations or try alternatives like Kyte, Turo and Silvercar.
Related: Delta and Turo launch partnership, allowing travelers to earn 2,000 SkyMiles on 1st rental
Check credit card merchant offers
Before booking your trip, review your credit cards’ special merchant offers. Multiple issuers offer this option (although American Express is a leader in the category).
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Every program works similarly: Log in to your card account online or through your banking app, review the offers available to you, add the ones you want and make a qualifying purchase using the card for which the offer is registered.
There are no promo codes to enter at online checkout or coupons to print to take to the register. There are likely offers you can activate that will provide discounts on dining, gas and entertainment.
Related: How credit card merchant offers can save you hundreds of dollars every year
Take advantage of free days at national parks
Every year the U.S. National Park Service sets aside several days when entry is completely free; options include Martin Luther King Jr. Day in January, the first day of National Park Week in April, National Public Lands Day in September and Veterans Day in November.
Visiting a national park on one of the NPS’ free-entry days can save you up to $35 per vehicle at some of the most popular national parks, such as Glacier National Park and the Grand Canyon.
Stay outside the national parks
You might dream of a night in a rustic cabin inside a national park, but getting that reservation could be challenging or costly — especially if you can’t pay for it with points.
However, just beyond the park, there’s probably a hotel you can book with points. For example, you could stay at the Holiday Inn in West Yellowstone with IHG One Rewards points; the SpringHill Suites just outside of Zion National Park is a great property if you have Marriott Bonvoy points to spend.
Related: The best campgrounds, hotels and lodges near Yellowstone National Park
Download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app
If you’re a T-Mobile user, you’re in luck: This app is a major perk that will put money in your pocket just for checking your phone on Tuesdays.
To participate, download the T-Mobile Tuesdays app, check the app on Tuesday and claim your discount code. We’ve seen weekly discounts on everything from rental cars to gas, hotels and theme park tickets.
Get discounted gas at Shell through the Fuel Rewards app
At TPG, we love to stack savings. The Shell Fuel Rewards app is a good one to pile on the discounts.
You can link it to other loyalty programs — including American Airlines AAdvantage, Giant Food, Stop & Shop, Advance Auto and more — to receive extra discounts. Also, if you purchase through Fuel Rewards, link to partner retailers such as Petco, Bed Bath & Beyond, Office Depot/OfficeMax and many others to save even more.
Don’t forget to use a credit card that gives bonus points or discounts at gas stations for even more savings. TPG likes the Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees), which awards 3 ThankYou points per dollar at gas stations, and the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, which also gives 3% back at U.S. gas stations.
Related: These are the best credit cards for gas purchases
Save on theater tickets in New York and London
Check TodayTix for cheap Broadway and West End tickets if traveling to New York City or London.
The TodayTix app has discounted tickets to various shows available. Prices vary, but most of the top shows currently playing are available on the site and the app.
While not all shows are hugely discounted, TodayTix often runs no-fee promotions. Keep in mind that for some shows, you won’t be able to choose your precise ticket location. Instead, you will pick a section you’d like to sit in.
Related: On with the show! How to get a great deal on Broadway tickets
Save on entrance fees with Bank of America
Bank of America cardholders can enjoy free general admission to more than 225 cultural institutions in dozens of U.S. cities on the first weekend of every month just by showing their cards. It’s through the Museums on Us program that’s been going on for 25 years. It’s open to Bank of America, Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank (U.S. Trust) credit or debit card holders.
Related: 5 reasons to get the Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card
Use your library card for museum entry
Another way to get free museum admission is with a library “lending ticket” — a program where libraries will lend museum passes for a set amount of time.
Also, check if your local museum’s membership comes with ROAM (a reciprocity program across North America). It’s an easy way to get maximum value from a regional (and usually less expensive) membership.
Take a free walking tour
Sign up for a free walking tour on your first day in a new city. It’s an inexpensive way to learn about the city and orient yourself.
Look online for options before traveling and sign up in advance if necessary. Then, all you need to do is show up with comfortable shoes and enjoy your free tour.
Although tipping is suggested, you’ll spend much less, even after generously tipping your guide, than you would with a standard tour option. You will likely also meet other like-minded travelers, which can be welcome if you’re traveling alone or looking to make new friends.
If you’re interested in seeing what’s available on your next trip, Google the city you’ll visit and the phrase “free walking tour” to see what comes up.
Dine on the cheap with Seated
Here’s a fun one: The Seated app allows you to dine out and get paid for it.
The app rewards diners who sign up and eat at designated restaurants with cash they can redeem through gift cards. All you have to do is let the app know you’ll be dining at a location before you take a seat. You can also get gift cards for Uber, Amazon and Starbucks.
Fly on weekdays
Flexibility on which days you fly is one of the keys to getting the best airfare prices. Leisure travelers most commonly book weekend flights, while many business travelers fly on Monday. So, the midweek days — Tuesday and Wednesday — have lower demand and are often the best days to travel for lower prices.
Related: When is the best time to book airfare?
Book vacation packages
Airlines that bundle airfare and hotels as vacation packages can offer better deals thanks to their vast buying power and inventory. These bundles can offer savings of up to 40% off. Savings on business-class plane tickets and high-end hotels can offer some of the best deals.
Also, purchasing directly from the airline gives you a one-stop shopping experience. You can even add a car and activities to your trip at the same time. Plus, you’ll often be able to take advantage of special sales and bonus points and miles offers.
Related: Everything you need to know about saving money with vacation packages
Use a price monitoring tool
Airline fare monitoring sites such as Hopper and Google Flights ensure you get notifications when your trip’s best and lowest prices become available. Set up as many combinations as you’re considering, including different departure and return dates, so that you can get alerts for all possible fare reductions.
Be flexible on destination
If you’re not locked into a fall or winter vacation location (like you would be for a destination wedding or family reunion that you can’t change), try an alternative to find better prices. For example, consider subbing Quebec City in for Paris if you want Old World charm. For scuba diving enthusiasts, skip the expensive long-haul flight to Australia and the Great Barrier Reef and instead head to the second-largest barrier reef in the world in easy-to-access Belize.
Related: 5 key tools and tips for cheap airfare
Hold your deal
If you see a great deal but are not yet ready to book, hold it. For example, Hopper’s Price Freeze allows you to lock in the price of a flight for up to seven days to take more time to finalize plans before you book. Some airlines will also let you hold flights for a small fee. (Remember that all U.S. airlines, by law, allow you to hold and cancel a flight booking within 24 hours without penalty as long as you book more than seven days in advance.)
Re-price your flights and hotels
As long as you’ve booked a hotel, car or flight that can be canceled without penalty, you should make it part of your weekly routine to check for price drops. If you find a lower price, rebook. You can use these same rebooking strategies with points to make dynamic pricing work in your favor for hotel stays so you can save on award nights.
Related: How I saved 33,500 points on upcoming hotel stays
Consider alternative airports
With prices high, now is the time to be flexible and check all nearby airports. For example, Houston and Chicago have two airports, while the New York City area has three, including Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey. In Southern Florida, you could easily fly to West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale or Miami. It works internationally too: Try Gatwick Airport (LGW) instead of Heathrow Airport (LHR) when flying to London.
It may even make sense to get to one city by flying to another city and then taking a short train ride for the rest of the journey. For instance, you could fly into Philadelphia and catch a train to New York. Strategies like this can help you get to your destination on a flight with better pricing or award availability.
Use positioning flights
Positioning flights are unrealistic for every situation or trip, but they can often offer better award availability or pricing than those from your home airport. Can you reach your destination for a lot less by starting in Seattle or Chicago? Would adding another flight to a different airport save you money or miles? Just ensure you leave enough time between flights to avoid unnecessary travel headaches.
Related: Use positioning flights to get amazing deals
Use points and miles when appropriate
Since you are reading TPG, you may also want to earn points or miles through your everyday spending that you can use to pay for part of your trip. Some credit cards — like the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card — can help you earn airline miles or hotel points that you can redeem directly with the airline or hotel. Cards such as the American Express® Gold Card earn transferable points you can redeem for travel or transfer to various travel partners.
If you have a stash of points and cash fares are high, it makes a lot of sense to use those points instead. For example, I recently priced a trip to San Francisco and found a flight over the Fourth of July weekend; it should normally cost about $400, but for this particular weekend, it was going to cost me at least $621. I used 46,000 Delta SkyMiles instead. While it wasn’t the best redemption in the world, it was better than shelling out all that cash. Most of those SkyMiles came from credit card spending on my Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.
Related: Why I’m keeping my Delta Reserve card even when I’m flying less
There are many strategies for getting the most out of your credit card. You’ll generally get the most value when redeeming for premium-cabin flights or luxury hotel stays. However, you may prefer to book economy award flights or lower-category hotel stays using your points to stretch your points further.
Join AARP
You can join AARP for discounts even if you are not retired. The advocacy group for older adults offers all kinds of cool discounts, including $60 to $200 off British Airways flights and 10% off Hilton hotels.
Related: How to use AARP discounts on travel
Bottom line
Spending a small amount of time researching the best ways to travel on a budget could easily make a dream trip, like a Paris vacation, more attainable.
It’s possible to take an excellent vacation on a budget. You just need to put in the time to plan your trip, budget your expenses, download a virtual wallet of money-saving apps and consider using points and miles to decrease your out-of-pocket costs.
Some of our top budget travel tips include shopping around, signing up for deal alerts through websites like TPG and using points and miles. Opening a credit card or two for the sign-up bonus once or twice every few years could make your trips even cheaper. Don’t forget to sign up for our daily newsletter, where we teach you how to travel better for less. At TPG, we make traveling on a budget easy.