Sunday, August 31, 2025

Atmos Rewards Summit Card Review 2025: Maximize Alaska & Hawaiian Air Perks

Atmos Rewards Summit Card Review 2025: Maximize Alaska & Hawaiian Air Perks

Atmos Rewards Premier Card Review 2025: Maximize Alaska & Hawaiian Air Perks

Dreaming of tropical getaways in Hawaii, delicious foodie adventures through Asia, or an incredible architectual tour of Europe? The Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite credit card might be your golden ticket to premium travel experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why this card deserves a spot in your wallet, especially if you frequently fly with Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines.

The Jet Set Wannabe Rating

4.5/5

Excellent premium travel card with valuable benefits for just about any style of traveller

Stand-Out Features of the Atmos Rewards Summit Card

In a crowded market of travel credit cards, the Atmos Rewards Summit card distinguishes itself with generous rewards structures, valuable travel benefits, and exceptional flexibility. Whether you're a frequent jetsetter or an occasional traveler looking to maximize your experiences, this card offers something for everyone.

Atmos Rewards Summit Card Details

  • Annual Fee: $395
  • Welcome Bonus: 100,000 points and a 25,000 point global companion certificate after spending $6,000 in the first 90 days
  • Rewards Rate: 3x points on Alaska and Hawaiian Airline purchases, 3x on dining and restaurants, 3x on all foreign purchases, 1x everything else
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees: No fees and 3x points on foreign purchases, cha-ching
  • Visa Infinite Network: Access to premium travel and lifestyle perks such as the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection, Baggage Insurance, and other useful perks
Photo by RDNE Stock project

Atmos Rewards Summit Key Benefits

  • Annual 25,000 point global companion certificate
  • 100,000 point global companion certificate after $60,000 in spend
  • Annual 10,000 status point boost
  • Earn 1 status point for every $2 of spend
  • 8 complimentary Alaska Lounge access passes
  • 8 annual Alaska inflight Wi-Fi passes
  • Free checked bag for you and companions on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines flights
  • Upgrade priority on Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines flights
  • Preferred boarding on Alaska Airlines flights
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Pro Tip
The annual 25,000 point global companion can be topped up, and can be used on partner airlines throughout the oneworld® Alliance.

Understanding the Rewards Structure

The Atmos Rewards Premier card features a straightforward but lucrative rewards system. Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, or transferred to numerous hotel partners (though not recommended).

What sets this card apart is the flexibility in redemption options. Unlike some co-branded airline cards that restrict you to one airline's rewards program, the Atmos Rewards Premier allows you to transfer points to multiple partners at a 1:1 ratio, giving you unparalleled flexibility in how you use your hard-earned points.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Transfer Partners

Rewards Program Transfer Ration (Atmos:Partner)
Marriott Bonvoy 1:1
IHG One Rewards 1:1 (available through early November)
Wyndham Rewards 1:1
Preferred Hotels 1:2
Shangri-la Circle 8:1
Shangri-La Chiang Mai
Pro Tip
It is generally not recommended to transfer airline or credit card points to hotel points. The only acception is a bonus that makes the value of the transfer close to or above 2 cents per point.

Is the Atmos Rewards Premier Card Right for You?

While the Atmos Rewards Summit card comes with a $395 annual fee, the benefits easily outweigh the cost if you travel regularly, particularly with Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines. The free checked bag benefit alone can save a family hundreds of dollars on a single round trip.

You Should Consider This Card If:

  • You fly with Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines multiple times a year
  • You value Alaska Airlines airport lounge access
  • You frequently dine out or do foreign travel more than once per year
  • You want flexibility in redeeming your rewards through airline and hotel partners
  • You want to avoid foreign transaction fees while racking up 3x points for every dollar with foreign purchases
Photo by Sora Shimazaki

Final Thoughts

The Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite card offers exceptional value for travelers, particularly those who frequently fly with Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. With its generous rewards structure, valuable travel benefits, and flexible redemption options, this card can significantly enhance your travel experience while saving you money on fees and purchases.

If you're ready to take your travel rewards to the next level, the Atmos Rewards Premier card deserves serious consideration. The combination of airline-specific benefits and general travel perks creates a powerful tool for any jetset wannabe looking to travel smarter and more luxuriously.

Photo by Omar Tapia

Thanks again Jet Setters for joining us on yet another post. We've been finding ourselves talking more about the credit card side of travel hacking as it's becoming more prevelent for getting us, but especially you, our loyal readers to be where you wannabe. If you want to learn more about a card that directly transfers points to the Atmos program and to 21 other travel programs, check out our post on the Bilt World Elite Mastercard. If you are interested in the Atmos Summit card and want to get that 100,000 point offer along with a 25,000 point global companion certificate, please feel free to checkout the Atmos Summit Visa Infinite Card site.

If you are interested in bolstering your portfolio and earning you up to 3x Atmos points just for paying your rent checkout out and/or feel free to apply to the Bilt Mastercard using my link provided, this really helps our blog.

Happy Travels!
Jet Set Wannabes Team

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you use our links, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our blog and allows us to continue providing content like this. All opinions are our own.

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

AMEX Centurion Lounge: Full Guide to Locations, Access & Luxury Perks

AMEX Centurion Lounge: Full Guide to Locations, Access & Luxury Perks

American Express Centurion Lounges are among the most exclusive airport lounges in the world, offering premium amenities, gourmet dining, and luxurious relaxation spaces. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about AMEX Centurion Lounge locations, access requirements, and what makes these lounges stand out from standard airport lounges.

LAX Centurion Lounge (Entrance)

What is the AMEX Centurion Lounge?

The AMEX Centurion Lounge network represents American Express's premium airport lounge offering, providing cardmembers with upscale amenities, chef-inspired cuisine, premium beverages, and serene workspaces. These lounges consistently rank among the best airport lounges in North America.

ATL Centurion Lounge

Current AMEX Centurion Lounge Locations (2025)

As of 2025, American Express operates Centurion Lounges in these major airports:

United States Locations

  • Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) - Concourse E, near gate E11.
  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) - Main Terminal, between Concourse D & E
  • Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) - Terminal D, across from Gate D12.
  • Denver International Airport (DEN) - Concourse C, near Gate C46
  • Houston - George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) - Terminal D, near Gate D12, mezzanine level.
  • Las Vegas - Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) - Concourse D, across from Gate D1.
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) - Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT), level 2.
  • Miami International Airport (MIA) - North terminal, level 4, across from Gate D14
  • New York - John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) - Terminal 4, level 4.
  • New York - LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Terminal B, level 4, near the entrance to the Eastern Concourse Pedestrian Bridge.
  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) - Terminal A - West, near Gate A14.
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) - Terminal 4, Level 3, across from Gate B22.
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - Terminal 2, Concourse D*
  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) - Central Terminal, on the mezzanine above the food court.
  • Washington D.C. (DCA) - Terminal 2, level 2, opposite the information desk after the South Security Checkpoint.

* The AMEX Centurion Lounge at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is currently under renovation and has been relocated from Terminal 3 to Terminal 2.

LGA Centurion Lounge

International Locations

  • Hanade Airport (HND) - Terminal 3, near Gate 114
  • Monterrey International Airport (MTY) - Terminal A, near Gate 4
  • Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) - Terminal 3
  • London Heathrow Airport (LHR) - Terminal 3
  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) - Terminal 1, near Gate 60
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) - Terminal 2, level 3, across from Burger King.
  • Melbourne Airport (MEL) - Terminal 2, near Gate 9
  • Mexico City International Airport (MEX) - Terminal 2, Mezzanine
  • Ezeiza Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE) - Terminal B, near Gate 15
  • Sydney Airport (SYD) - Terminal 1, near Gates 50 - 63
  • Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) - Terminal 5, across from La Girafe by Pontus Frithiof near the E gates.
HND Centurion Lounge (Entrance)
Pro Tip
AMEX frequently expands its Centurion Lounge network. Check the official American Express website for the most current list of locations and any temporary closures.

Which AMEX Cards Get You into Centurion Lounges?

Access to Centurion Lounges depends on your American Express card type. Here's the complete breakdown:

Card Access Policy Guest Policy
Platinum Card® Complimentary access $50 per guest (or free for 2 guests after $75K annual spend)
Centurion® (Black) Card Complimentary access + 2 guests Additional guests at $50 each
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card Access only when flying Delta Additional guests at $50 each (limit 2 guests)
Business Platinum Card® Complimentary access $50 per guest (or free for 2 guests after $75K annual spend)
Important Note
All cardmembers must present their valid American Express Card, boarding pass, and government-issued photo ID for lounge access. Access is limited to 3 hours before scheduled flight departure.

AMEX Centurion Lounge Amenities and Features

Centurion Lounges offer significantly upgraded amenities compared to standard airport lounges. Here's what you can expect:

Premium Food & Beverage

  • Chef-inspired seasonal menus created by top culinary talent
  • Locally sourced ingredients and regional specialties
  • Full-service bars with premium spirits, wines, and craft cocktails
  • Barista-prepared specialty coffee
  • Buffet-style dining with hot and cold options
  • Made-to-order food stations at select locations
SEA Centurion Lounge (Bar)
Photo by AFAR

Relaxation & Workspaces

  • Comfortable lounge seating with ample power outlets
  • Private workspaces with desks
  • Quiet rooms at select locations
  • Shower suites with luxury toiletries
  • Spa services (varies by location; select locations; some offer complimentary treatments)
LAX Centurion Lounge (Moonrise Room)

Business & Technology Amenities

  • High-speed Wi-Fi (typically faster than airport Wi-Fi)
  • Ample charging stations and USB ports
  • Printers and business services
  • Conference rooms at some locations
  • Flight information displays
LHR Centurion Lounge

Family & Special Needs

  • Family rooms at select locations
  • Children's play areas
  • Accessible facilities
  • Nursing rooms
LAS Centurion Lounge (Family Room)
Photo by Trips + Giggles

Tips for Visiting AMEX Centurion Lounges

  • Arrive early: Lounges can get crowded, especially during peak travel times
  • Check for updates: Some locations may have temporary capacity restrictions
  • Take advantage of spa services: Book complimentary treatments upon arrival as slots fill quickly
  • Know the alcohol policy: Some locations limit alcohol service during certain hours
  • Combine lounge benefits: Many airports have multiple lounges you can access with your AMEX card
Photo by Anna Shvets

How Centurion Lounges Compare to Other Airport Lounges

AMEX Centurion Lounges stand out from standard airline lounges in several key ways:

  • Higher quality food: While airline lounges typically offer basic snacks, Centurion Lounges provide restaurant-quality meals
  • Premium beverage programs: Full cocktail bars with top-shelf liquor selections
  • Thoughtful design: Lounges are designed by notable architects and interior designers
  • Fewer crowds: Restricted access means less congestion than airline-operated lounges
  • Consistent experience: Standardized amenities across locations
Photo by cottonbro studios

Future AMEX Centurion Lounge Locations

American Express has announced plans to expand the Centurion Lounge network. Upcoming locations include:

  • Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - 2025 - Concourse B
  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) - 2026 - Terminal A
  • Las Vegas - Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) - Sidecar by Centurion Lounge - 2026 - Location not announced
  • Boston - Logan International Airport (BOS) - 2027 - Terminal C, near Gate C10
AMEX Sidecar Centurion Lounge (Concept)
Final Thoughts
American Express Centurion Lounges offer one of the most premium airport lounge experiences available to credit cardholders. With exceptional dining, luxurious amenities, and serene environments, they can transform your travel experience. If you're a frequent traveler, the lounge access alone can justify the annual fee on an American Express Platinum or Centurion card.

Thank you again for joining us on another blog, jetsetters. We enjoy sharing our tips and tricks to elevate your travel and helping our readers be where they wannabe. If you want to help this blog grow, or are looking to access the Centurion Lounge network and over 1,200 lounges internationally with Priority Pass, feel free to use my referral link. This really helps the blog and could also earn you up to 175,000 AMEX Membership Rewards Points! If you are looking for another great lounge card that gives you access to the Chase Lounge Network, check out this post where we share a deep dive into the new Chase Sapphire Reserve card revamp.

Happy Lounging,
The Jet Set Wannabes Team

Photo by Uhlikova

Question of the Post: What's your favorite Centurion Lounge and why? Share your experience in the comments below!

Monday, August 11, 2025

Marriott Bonvoy Program Guide: Benefits, Points, and Credit Card Strategies

Marriott Bonvoy Program Guide: Benefits, Points, and Credit Card Strategies

If you love staying at Marriott's vast portfolio of hotels, including luxury brands like The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis as well as more affordable options like Courtyard and Fairfield, the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program is a must-join. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about elite status benefits, free night awards, and the best credit cards to maximize your rewards.

Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status Tiers & Benefits

Marriott's elite status program offers increasingly valuable perks as you move up the tiers. Here's what you can expect at each level:

Tier Elite Night Requirement Key Benefits
Member 0+ nights Free Wi-Fi, Member Rates, Mobile Check-In
Silver Elite 10+ nights 10% Bonus Points, Late Checkout (Upon Availability)
Gold Elite 25+ nights 25% Bonus Points, Room Upgrades (Upon Availability), Free Breakfast (Select Brands)
Platinum Elite 50+ nights 50% Bonus Points, Suite Upgrades (Upon Availability), Guaranteed Late Checkout, Annual Choice Benefit
Titanium Elite 75+ nights 75% Bonus Points, Enhanced Room Upgrades, 48-Hour Guaranteed Availability, Annual Choice Benefit
Ambassador Elite 100+ nights + $23K spend Dedicated Ambassador, Personalized Service, Highest Upgrade Priority

Pro Tip
You can earn elite nights faster by holding certain Marriott credit cards that offer automatic elite night credits each year.

Photo by freepik

Free Night Awards Explained

One of the most valuable benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy program are Free Night Awards:

Types of Free Night Awards

  • Anniversary Free Nights: Earned annually with certain credit cards (e.g. 85k-point certificate with the AMEX Bonvoy Brilliant card)
  • Elite Status Rewards: Platinum (and above) members can select Free Night Awards as part of their Annual Choice Benefit
  • Promotions: Look out for Marriott's frequent promotions offer bonus points or extra elite night credits
  • Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses: Many cards can offer free night certificates as part of their welcome offer
Photo by freepik

Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards Compared

Chase Marriott Cards

Card Annual Fee Key Benefits
Marriott Bonvoy Bold $0 3X at Marriott, 5 Elite Night Credits, Silver Elite status
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless $95 6X at Marriott, Free Anniversary Night (up to 35k points), 15 Elite Night Credits, Silver Elite status
Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful $250 6X at Marriott, Free Night Award (up to 50k points) after $15,000 in spend, 15 Elite Night Credits, Gold Elite Status
Ritz-Carlton Card $450 $300 travel credit, Priority Pass, 85k Free Night Certificate, Platinum Elite status
Pro Tip
The Chase Ritz-Carlton Card can only be upgraded to from another Chase Marriott family card meaning, you can't directly apply for this card, but must have held a Chase Marriott card for at least a year. You can then call Chase to inquire about the upgrade, reminder this is a Visa Infinite so having a credit line of at least $10,000 is recommended.

American Express Marriott Cards

Card Annual Fee Key Benefits
Bonvoy Brilliant $650 $300 Marriott credit, Free Night Award (up to 85k points), Priority Pass Select, Platinum Elite status
Bonvoy Bevy $250 Free Night Award (up to 50k points), $100 property credit, Gold Elite status, 15 Elite Night Credits
Bonvoy Business $125 Free Night Award (up to 35k points), 15 Elite Night Credits, 6X at Marriott
Pro Tip
The AMEX Bonvoy Brilliant and Bonvoy Business can be stacked to give you 40 elite night credits per year. This is great for those who want to reach Titanium Elite status faster, and an extra free night (up to 40k points) reward at 50 elite nights.

Which Card is Right For You?

  • Luxury Travelers: Ritz-Carlton Card or Bonvoy Brilliant (best for premium perks and status)
  • Frequent Business Travelers: Bonvoy Business (great value with low annual fee)
  • Mid-Tier Travelers: Bonvoy Bevy (good balance of benefits and cost)
  • Budget-Conscious: Bonvoy Boundless (solid rewards with reasonable fee)
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Final Thoughts

The Marriott Bonvoy program offers tremendous value for all types of travelers. Whether you're staying at budget-friendly Fairfield Inns or luxurious Ritz-Carlton properties, understanding the elite status tiers and credit card benefits can help you maximize every stay.

Have a Marriott success story? Share it in the comments below! For more insider tips on turning your travel dreams into reality, keep exploring Jetset Wannabes.

Photo by Samson Katt

Thank you again for joining us on our guide through the Marriot Bonvoy program, we're passionate about helping you travel smarter. Whether you're dreaming of luxury getaways or budget-friendly adventures, our guides break down complex loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy into simple, actionable tips. We believe everyone deserves to experience the joy of travel, and you just need the right strategies to get there.

If you would like to support this blog or are looking to signup for one of my favorite Marriott Bonvoy cards to get started on your Marriott journey, feel free to use my referral link this really helps our blog. If Marriott isn't really your cup-of-tea, or you simply are a Hyatt fan, check out our blog post on the World of Hyatt, where it goes through a similar breakdown of their program as well.

Travel Smart Jetsetters,
The Jet Set Wannabes Team

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

World of Hyatt Points vs. Cash: When to Book with Points (Best Value Guide)

World of Hyatt Points vs. Cash: When to Book with Points (Best Value Guide)

As one of the most rewarding hotel loyalty programs, World of Hyatt offers exceptional value for travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury stays or budget-friendly options, understanding the program's nuances can help you maximize the value of your points and status.

Exceptional Hyatt Redemptions

Hyatt's award chart provides some of the best value in the points world, with properties ranging from Category 1 (3,500 points/night off-peak) to Category 8 (45,000 points/night peak). Some standout redemptions include:

Best Value Redemptions

  • Park Hyatt properties: Often priced at just 30,000 points for $1,000+ nightly rates
  • Hyatt Ziva/Zilara all-inclusives: Includes food, drinks, and amenities for around 25,000-45,000 points/night
  • Hyatt House/Hyatt Place: Perfect for budget travel, usually just 3,500-8,000 points/night
  • Mr and Mrs Smith properties: Unique boutique hotels available through Hyatt, though dynamically priced, redemptions are usually about 1.3 - 1.5 cents per point
Photo by Masood Aslami

Points vs. Cash Value

Hyatt points are consistently valued at around 1.7-2.0 cents per point, making them some of the most valuable hotel points. Here's when to use points vs. cash:

Situation Recommendation
High-category luxury properties Almost always use points
Standard rooms at mid-range properties Compare cash rate to 1.7cpp
During peak season with inflated rates Points often provide outsized value
Pro Tip
Always check both the standard and premium redemption rates, sometimes the premium room is only slightly more points but offers significantly better value!

Photo by Hyatt

World of Hyatt Elite Status Benefits Breakdown

Hyatt's elite status program offers increasingly valuable perks at each tier. Here's what you can expect at every level:

Benefit Member (Base) Discoverist
(Cardholders)
Explorist
(30 Nights)
Globalist
(60 Nights)
Bonus Points - 10% 20% 30%
Late Checkout Upon Request 2 PM Guaranteed 2 PM Guaranteed 4 PM Guaranteed
Room Upgrades - Preferred
(Subject to Availability)
Standard Suite
(Subject to Availability)
Best Available
(Incl. Standard Suites)
Free Breakfast - - - Yes (Full Breakfast)
Club Lounge Access - - - Yes (When Available)
Waived Resort Fees - - - Yes (On Award Stays)
Free Night Certificates - - 1x Cat 1-7
(After 50 Nights)
1x Cat 1-7
(After 60 Nights)
Status Fast Track
The World of Hyatt Credit Card gives you 5 elite night credits annually and 2 more for every $5,000 spent. Business cardholders can earn additional elite nights through spending. Though this isn't recommended to do purely through spend, mixing this with your free night certificates and point redemptions can help boost you quickly to Globalist.
Photo by Pet Moto

Key Takeaways

  • Discoverist (automatic with Hyatt credit card) provides 10% bonus points and guaranteed late checkout
  • Explorist unlocks potential suite upgrades and a Category 1-7 Free Night Award after 50 nights
  • Globalist is the ultimate status with free breakfast, waived resort fees, best room upgrades, and lounge access
Photo by Julian Jagtenberg

The Chase World of Hyatt Credit Cards

Hyatt offers two excellent credit card options through Chase:

World of Hyatt Personal Card

  • Sign-up bonus: Typically 30,000-60,000 points after meeting spend
  • Annual free night: Category 1-4 property after card anniversary
  • Second free night: Category 1-4 when you spend $15,000 annually
  • Automatic Discoverist status with path to Explorist via spending (though not recommended)
  • 9x points on Hyatt purchases (5x being a World of Hyatt member, 4x being a cardholder)
  • 2x points on dining, airline tickets, and gym memberships
  • 1x points on everything else
Photo by Chase

World of Hyatt Business Card

  • Sign-up bonus: Typically 60,000 points after meeting spend
  • Annual free night: Category 1-4 property after $15,000 spend
  • Second free night: Category 1-4 when you spend $60,000 annually
  • 9x points on Hyatt purchases (5x being a World of Hyatt member, 4x being a cardholder)
  • 2x points on top 3 categories (gas stations, airline tickets, dining, local transit), and fitness clubs/gym memberships
  • 1x points on everything else
Photo by Hyatt

Additional Card Benefits

Beyond the obvious points earnings, Hyatt cards offer several valuable perks:

  • 10% point rebate: Only on the business card, and if you spend over $50,000 in the year
  • Elite night credits: 5 nights annually with the personal card, plus 2 more for every $5,000 spent
  • No foreign transaction fees: on either card
  • Secondary rental car coverage: a great beneit to have, but primary is always better like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
  • Purchase protection: covers eligible new purchases against damage or theft for 120 days from the date of purchase.
Photo by Markus Winkler
Strategy Corner
Pairing both personal and business Hyatt cards can accelerate your elite status while providing multiple free night certificates. The business card's additional spending categories make it easier to earn points for your next redemption.

Maximizing Your Hyatt Experience

To get the most from World of Hyatt:

  1. Use points for high-value redemptions at luxury properties
  2. Combine free night certificates with points for longer stays
  3. Stack elite benefits with credit card perks
  4. Transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points or Bilt points during promotions
  5. Take advantage of Hyatt's generous elite status benefits
Photo by Pixabay
Pro Tip
With strategic use of Hyatt points and the right credit card combination, you can enjoy world-class hotel experiences at a fraction of the cash price.

Thank you again for joining us and learning more about the World of Hyatt program. Our goal is to make sure you be where you wannabe! If you're interested in earning points that can transfer easily to Hyatt, checkout the Chase Sapphire cards through my referral link. If you're interested in another card that can help you earn a ton of transferrable points to Hyatt through paying your rent, checkout this post here.

Safe Travels!

The Jet Set Wannabes Team

Saturday, August 2, 2025

From Citi Streets to AA Seats - Citi's New Transfer Partner, American Airlines

From Citi Streets to AA Seats - Citi's New Transfer Partner, American Airlines

Big news for Citi points holders: Citi has just added American Airlines as a transfer partner, opening up exciting new redemption opportunities. American Airlines AAdvantage miles are among the most valuable in the travel rewards space, particularly for premium international travel, with redemptions such as 60,000 AA points for business class to Tokyo, and many more. Let’s dive into why AA miles are so powerful and how you can make the most of them.

Photo by Alfred GF

Why American Airlines Miles Are So Valuable

American Airlines AAdvantage miles stand out for several key reasons:

  • Sweet spot redemptions: AA's award chart has incredible value, especially for business and first class to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East
  • Generous stopover rules: You can add free stopovers on one-way awards, effectively getting two vacations for the price of one
  • No fuel surcharges: Unlike some programs, AA doesn't pass on massive carrier-imposed fees
  • Oneworld alliance: Access to premium partners like Qatar Airways Qsuites, Cathay Pacific, and Japan Airlines
Pro Tip
  • The best value comes from using AA miles for international business/first class.
  • Domestic flights can be good value too when saver awards are available.

Photo by Kaboompics.com

Best Ways to Use American Airlines Miles

1. Premium Cabin International Awards

AA miles shine brightest for long-haul premium cabins. Some standout redemptions:

Route Class Miles Required Cash Value CPM
USA to Japan (JAL) Business 60,000 $4,500+ 7.5¢+
USA to Middle East (Qatar) Qsuites 70,000 $6,000+ 8.5¢+
USA to Europe (AA) Business 57,500 $3,000+ 5.2¢+
Photo by JMarc Sire

2. Domestic Flights (When Priced Right)

While not always the best value, AA miles can work well for domestic flights when:

  • Saver awards are available (7,500 - 12,500 miles on average one-way)
  • Flying to Hawaii (22,500 miles each way in economy)
  • During peak travel periods when cash prices are high
Photo by Jess Loiterton

American Airlines' Best International Partners

AA's Oneworld and other partners provide access to some of the world's best airlines:

Top AA Partners for Premium Travel

  • Qatar Airways: Legendary Qsuites business class
  • Japan Airlines: Excellent first and business class products
  • Cathay Pacific: Great premium cabins to Asia
  • Etihad: "The Residence:" amazing first-class room
  • Finnair: Good Europe options with reasonable fees
Photo by Jeffry S.S.

How to Earn AA Miles with Citi

With AA now a Citi transfer partner, you can convert ThankYou® Points to AAdvantage miles at a 1:1 ratio. This opens up new earning potential through cards like:

  • Citi Strata® Card
  • Citi Strata Premier® Card
  • Citi Strata Elite® Card
  • Citi Double Cash Card*
  • Citi Custom Cash Card*
Photo by Citi Bank

*The Citi Double Cash and Custom Cash cards will only earn points if you have a ThankYou® Points earning card, such as any within the Strata® ecosystem.

Important Note
  • Transfers from Citi to AA are instant, but always confirm availability before transferring.
  • Award space can be limited, especially on premium partners.

Photo by Julio Lopez

Bottom Line

American Airlines miles are now more accessible than ever thanks to Citi's new transfer partnership. With excellent sweet spots for premium international travel and access to world-class partners, AA miles deserve a place in every points enthusiast's strategy. Start planning those Qsuites flights to the Middle East or JAL first class to Tokyo!

Photo by Guohua Song
Have you transferred Citi points to American Airlines yet? What redemption are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments!

Thank you again for joining us through another post, we look forward to continuing to help you be where you wannabe. If you wish to support this blog or are a big fan of the Oneworld Alliance, then check out our article on Alaska Airlines miles, where we explain the power of Alaska Airlines Miles and redemption options through them. Otherwise, if you're interested in Citi credit cards, please follow the link here.

Happy Travels!

The Jet Set Wannabes Team

Photo by KoolShooters

Is The AMEX Delta Gold Card Worth It in 2025? (My 91,200 Point Redemption)

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