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<br /> With corporate companies shifting their base to Noida, thanks to its booming real estate and SEZs, the NCR region is becoming hot hub for flourishing businesses. Corporate parks and industrial regions reflect classy infrastructure, and can give its foreign counterparts a run for their money. At such a time, how could luxury hotels stay behind? <keyword id="6419653" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Radisson-Blu">Radisson Blu</keyword> MBD Hotel is setting a new benchmark for the hotel industry to follow, by introducing its MBD Privé Collection for its guests to enjoy a luxury experience.<br />
<br />
Here’s how the premium business hotel is offering lavishness:

Check out the Prive Collection suites
of this Noida-based premium business hotel <b></b>

New Delhi, Feb 23 () Global hospitality major Radisson Hotel Group is looking to add around 30 operating hotels in its portfolio by 2023 as part of its expansion plans in the country, a top company official has said.<p>The company currently has 94 operating hotels in India. It has been signing around 12 to 15 hotels every year and opening about 8 to 10 hotels on an average.</p><p>"We plan to add about 30 more operating hotels by end of 2023 as part of our expansion plans in India. So, we would have around 125 to 130 operating hotels by then," Radisson Hotel Group, South Asia, Managing Director &amp; VP Operations, Zubin Saxena told .</p><p>This a part of the company's strategy to cross 200 hotel-mark, both operational and in the pipeline, in India by 2023 and it is on target to achieve this, he added.</p><p>On being asked about the growth roadmap for the company, Saxena said: "It is all dependent on the market. I think India as a market is going to be a mid market growth story as the country grows in tier II and tier III locations. So, the brands in these segments are expected to have some movement".</p><p>But in tier I cities, the company will also be launching Radisson Collection, which is our luxury brand in India. The company is also launching a Radisson RED in Mohali later this year, he added.</p><p>On the initiatives undertaken by the company to streamline operations and to ramp up operational profitability, Saxena said: "In 2019, we launched 'India Unification Plan' which was built around unlocking the synergies of our portfolio in India. We would like to say that the plan has been a success".</p><p>India unification strategy is premised on five critical areas: people, procurement, food and beverage, operations and commercial, he noted.</p><p>When asked about the business model the company follows, he said: "We are largely doing management agreements with selective franchising".</p><p>Another successful initiative undertaken by the company is that it has clustered the hotels in its portfolio in India. Right now it has 6 operating clusters, he added.</p><p>Radisson Hotel Group is one of the world's largest hotel firms with seven distinctive hotel brands, and more than 1,400 hotels in operation and under development around the world.</p>The company's portfolio includes Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson and Country Inn &amp; Suites by Radisson.  AKT  BAL

Radisson Hotel Group to add 30 operating hotels in India by 2023

<p><div class="image-container float_right click-to-enlarge"><div class="image"><a title_source="Dylan Love" title_caption="" class="zoomin" href="http://static2.businessinsider.com/image/51fbc88e6bb3f7ee47000005-960/moscow-radisson-hotel-tour.jpg"><span class="click-to-enlarge-icon" title="Click to enlarge"></span></a><p class="source">Dylan Love</p></div></div>When I saw where I'd be staying for the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/international-conference-on-quantum-technologies-2013-7">International Conference on Quantum Technologies in Moscow</a>, I didn't even think it was a hotel.</p>
<p>The Radisson Royal Hotel is located on the bank of the <keyword id="6356806" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Moscow">Moscow</keyword> River and it's a downright imposing building, looking more like a house of worship than a place for tourists to sleep off their vodka hangovers.</p>
<p>Formerly called the Hotel Ukraina, it's one of Moscow's "Seven Sisters," a collection of seven majestic buildings constructed between 1947 and 1953.</p>
<p>The locals call them <em>Stalinskie Vysotki,</em> or "Stalinist Skyscrapers."</p>
<p>At 650 feet tall, the Radisson is the second-largest of the seven and it's home to 34 stories of luxury. It boasts 505 single bedrooms and 38 suites.</p>
<p>Here's what it looks like inside.</p>

Tour The Gorgeous Radisson Royal Hotel In Moscow, Where The International Quantum Computing Conference Was Held

The <keyword id="5160877" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="american-express-platinum-card" source="Orion">American Express Platinum Card</keyword> provides powerful backing to People Going Places with a Purpose. It’s meant for people who want to follow their passions, make an impact on the world, and have strong passion-points which find expression in the way they lead their lives. <a href="https://www.americanexpress.com/in/charge-cards/platinum-card/?linknav=in-amex-cardshop-allcards-learn-AmericanExpressPlatinum-fc">Amex Platinum</a> is a multifaceted Card which opens a world of platinum privileges for the consumers. <br /><br />So why is the <em><keyword id="15595211" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="amex-platinum-card" source="Orion">Amex Platinum Card</keyword> </em>different from the rest? Here’s what sets it apart.<br />Besides no pre-set spending limit<sup>1</sup>, Amex Platinum Card includes privileges that are designed to complement every aspect of your jetsetter life, such as air miles, hotel accommodation, and shopping vouchers. It also offers complimentary elite tier membership, <a href="https://www.americanexpress.com/in/articles/life-with-amex/travel/hotel-room-upgrade.html?intlink=in-acq-chargecards-hotelroomupgrade">hotel room upgrades</a>, access to exclusive <a href="https://www.americanexpress.com/in/benefits/the-platinum-card/?hub=in_card_benefits_platinum">benefits</a>, and more.<br /><br /><strong>Benefits from the very start</strong><br />The benefits begin from the moment one signs up for the Amex Platinum Card. Welcome gifts for Cardmembers come in the form of stay vouchers at the most luxurious hotels and resorts, and they can avail extra benefits at every property they choose to stay at.<br /><br />Welcome bonuses are given to customers after they pay the annual fee and have spent predetermined amounts for their cards.<br /><br />What’s more? The Amex Platinum Card gives Cardmembers 3x reward points for everything they spent abroad, and one reward point for every<sup>2</sup> ₹40 spent. You can earn 5x rewards by buying items or booking tickets through the Amex Reward Multiplier program as well. And the best part of all, your reward points never expire!<br /><br /><strong>Your platinum world of privileges</strong><br />We all know how boring the endless waiting for the flight can get, whether you are at airport food courts or a waiting lounge? But the next time you’re at the airport, you can enjoy a premium airport lounge experience. <br /><br />The Amex Platinum Card gives members access to over 1300 exclusive VIP airport lounges not just in India, but across 130 countries across the world, irrespective of the airlines or class they’re travelling in and that too for a nominal fee.<br /><br />For instance, you can access Priority Pass lounges all over the world, along with The Centurion Lounge, American Express Proprietary Lounges, Lufthansa Lounges, Delta Sky Club and many more.<br />      <div type="image" title="Your platinum world of privileges" msid="95709563" hostid="261"></div><br />It doesn’t end here; Amex Platinum Card holders can also avail the ‘Do Anything’ Platinum Concierge service. As the name says you can do anything with this service to create memorable moments with your loved ones – be it booking tickets, getting flowers delivered to a loved one, or even make reservations for dinner on the fly. And yes, the service is available 24x7. Who doesn’t like a concierge of their own, right?<br /><br />And if that wasn’t enough, Amex Platinum Cardmembers also enjoy complimentary memberships to guest loyalty programs at some of the top hotel brands across the world, including the likes of Marriott Bonvoy, Taj, Radisson Rewards, and Hilton-Honors.<br />      <div type="image" title="Top hotel brands across the world" msid="95709619" hostid="261"></div><br /><strong>Everyone makes mistakes, here you may have to pay none for yours.<br /></strong><br />What if you lost your Card while travelling?<br />Among the many benefits of Amex Platinum is ‘zero lost Card liability’. For Platinum card holders, the liability is ‘nil’ if they report a Card lost or stolen within three days of an incident. Even if one can’t report in the given time, the liability is limited to a maximum of ₹1000 for Amex Platinum customers.<br /><br />Along with zero liability, the Platinum Card Services Helpline run by Amex also facilitates emergency card replacement for cardmembers. Amex will deliver a replacement Card free of charge, usually within two business days.<br /><br /><strong>Exclusive offers from the best of brands</strong><br />If all that wasn’t enough, the Amex Platinum customers can also avail special discounts and offers on brands all over the world. This includes e-commerce stores, fashion brands, boutiques, flower delivery networks, hotels, airlines and much more.<br /><br />For instance, Amex Platinum Cardholders can get discounts of 15%* on Tata Cliq Luxury till April 30, 2023. Amex’s <a href="https://www.americanexpress.com/in/benefits/the-platinum-card/golf.html?linknav=en-IN-oneAmex-axpSearchResults-1&amp;searchresult=Golf%20">Golf program</a> gives Cardmembers access to best of international and domestic golf courses with complimentary gold lessons from professionals. Amex Platinum also brings elevated dining experiences for making special moments of the Cardmembers more special.<br />      <div type="image" title="Elevated dining experiences" msid="95709666" hostid="261"></div><br />If you are looking for a Card which complements your lifestyle and is designed to suit your preferences and spending needs, then American Express Platinum Card should definitely be in your shortlist. <a href="https://www.americanexpress.com/en-in/charge-cards/apply/personal/platinum?intlink=in-amex-cardshop-details-apply-AmericanExpressPlatinum">Apply now</a> and simply choose to live the American Express way and enjoy the platinum world of privileges it offers.<br /><em>* </em><a href="https://www.americanexpress.com/content/dam/amex/in/benefits/tatacliqluxe_plat_tc.pdf"><em>T&amp;Cs apply</em></a><br /> <em>1.This means that your charges are approved basis your spending pattern, financials, credit record and account history. Please note that ‘no pre-set limit’ does not mean your spending is unlimited.<br />2. Except for Insurance and Utilities.<br />Disclaimer: This article is generated and published by the Insider Studios team. You can get in touch with them on insiderstudios@businessinsider.in</em><br />

Live your life American Express’ Platinum way: Exceptional privileges, rewards and experiences

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Your island escape to <keyword id="12737119" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="aruba" source="Orion">Aruba</keyword> begins with fi<strong>nding the best place to stay.</strong></li><li>Choose from family-friendly resorts, adults-only hotels, name brands, and luxe villa rentals.</li></ul><p>Choosing where to stay in Aruba depends on your preferred vibe and style. Whether you're looking for a place that's family-friendly, adults-only, suitable for gatherings, or best for business <keyword id="11896628" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="travel" source="Orion">travel</keyword>, there's worthy lodging. </p><p>While Eagle Beach is laid-back and soothing, Palm Beach and Oranjestad are more action-packed. </p><p>There are many well-known branded hotels like <a href="https://www.hyatt.com/search/aruba" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored nofollow sponsored">Hyatt</a>, <a href="https://www.hiltonaruba.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Hilton</a>, <a href="https://www.holidayarubaresort.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Holiday Inn</a>, <a href="https://www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-aruba" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Radisson Blu</a>, and Marriott, which owns the standout <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.marriott.com%2Fhotels%2Ftravel%2Fauabr-renaissance-wind-creek-aruba-resort%2F" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Renaissance Windcreek Aruba</a> sister resorts, among <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.marriott.com%2Fen%2Fdestinations%2Faruba.mi" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">other hotels and timeshares</a>. And for ultimate luxury, there's the <a href="https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/caribbean/aruba" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Ritz-Carlton Aruba</a>. </p><p>There are also deluxe private-villa rentals and you might even consider splitting your stay at two places to experience different styles.</p><p>Here are a few of our top picks to meet different desires. Want more? Here's an in-depth breakdown of the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-hotels-aruba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">best hotels in Aruba</a>.</p><div type="image" title="A view of the beach and hotel at Divi Beach All Inclusive in Aruba." height="847" width="1130" msid="88283091" hostid="261"></div><p><strong>For families and groups: Divi Resorts</strong></p><p>Set right on, or just behind a glorious half-mile of Druif Beach, you have a choice of four different Divi stays. Sister resorts <a href="https://www.diviaruba.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Divi Aruba All Inclusive</a> and <a href="https://www.tamarijnaruba.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive</a> are right on the beach, and guests can take advantage of both resorts' food and beverage offerings as part of their plan.</p><p><a href="https://www.diviresorts.com/divi-dutch-village-beach-resort.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Divi Dutch Village</a> is right behind them and has larger suites and full kitchens, so guests can self-cater. They can also opt for an all-inclusive plan that includes dining at the two beachfront resorts. </p><p><a href="https://www.diviresorts.com/divi-village-golf-beach-resort.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Divi Village Golf &amp; Beach Resort</a> is across the street on its own golf course with the choice of a <a href="https://www.tripsavvy.com/choosing-a-caribbean-resort-meal-plan-4099014" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">European Plan</a> (food and drink are not included in the cost, however, all suites have kitchens) or all-inclusive, which includes on-site perk options, as well as all food and beverage selections at the other three resorts.</p><p>The entire community of resorts is connected by free shuttles to wherever you want to go on their properties, including the <a href="https://www.casinoalhambra.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Alhambra Casino</a> and the Shops at Alhambra.</p><p>The only one out of the shuttle loop is <a href="https://www.diviresorts.com/divi-aruba-phoenix-beach-resort-aruba.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort</a>, as it towers on its own stunning stretch of Palm Beach, offering a higher-end experience. </p><div type="image" title="The beach with chairs and umbrellas at Bucuti &amp; Tara Beach Resort in Aruba" height="900" width="1200" msid="88283092" hostid="261"></div><p><strong>For eco-conscious adult travelers:</strong> <strong>Bucuti &amp; Tara Beach Resort</strong></p><p>Internationally recognized as the Caribbean's most eco-certified hotel, with multiple <a href="https://unfccc.int/climate-action/momentum-for-change/climate-neutral-now/bucuti-and-tara-beach-resort" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">prestigious awards</a> to prove it, <a href="https://www.bucuti.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Bucuti &amp; Tara Beach Resort</a> is strictly an adults-only oasis. Located on a picturesque, broad stretch of Eagle Beach, the elegant boutique property is known for its elevated level of personal service and privacy. It's also a favorite nesting spot of leatherback sea turtles.</p><p>Please keep in mind that as of December 23, all Bucuti &amp; Tara guests must provide proof of vaccination, as well as non-guests who want to visit any dining spots, such as <a href="https://www.elementsaruba.com/menu" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Elements Restaurant</a> and <a href="https://sensesaruba.restaurant/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Senses Fine Dining</a>, which are located on the resort's property.</p><div type="image" title="The pool and villas at Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba" height="959" width="1278" msid="88283093" hostid="261"></div><p><strong>For boutique chic</strong>: <strong>Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.boardwalkaruba.com/en" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba</a> is a charming, family-friendly community, with distinctive decor in each unit. Picture an entire village of colorful country-style cottages (or casitas) connected by boardwalks winding through a lush garden of coconut plants and tropical blooms.</p><p>Though it's not right on the sea, the retreat has an oasis for guests on Palm Beach and two freshwater pools on site.</p><div type="image" title="An overwater bungalow with a pool at Aruba Ocean Villas." height="1404" width="1873" msid="88283095" hostid="261"></div><p><strong>For romantic luxury</strong>: <strong>Aruba Ocean Villas</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.arubaoceanvillas.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Aruba Ocean Villas</a> feature exclusive, luxurious Tahitian-style overwater bungalows in the town of Savaneta, where you'll also find bamboo cabins, boho-chic beach villas, and a two-story treehouse.</p><p>Each villa is unique, inside and out, and includes lavish amenities like crystal chandeliers, private jacuzzis, deep soaking tubs, and dipping pools. Book a romantic dinner at the beachfront restaurant; the resort is adults-only.</p><p><em><a href="https://www.insider.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-traveling-to-aruba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Aruba.</a></em></p>

8 of the dreamiest hotels in Aruba that feel like you've escaped to your own private paradise

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span>Lolostock/Shutterstock</span></p><p class="caption">Choosing credit cards that align with your <keyword id="6354692" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Travel">travel</keyword> goals and spending habits is key to maximizing your points and miles earning.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul class="summary-list"><li>I earn more than 1 million points and miles each year, which enables me to book travel and save on expenses.</li><li>I'm able to earn so many points and miles by maximizing all my spending with the right credit cards. </li><li>For eating out, the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-preferred-card/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Chase Sapphire Preferred Card</a> is a great pick thanks to 2x points on dining, and I use the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/hilton-honors-american-express-aspire-card/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express</a> to rack up Hilton points and enjoy hotel benefits.</li><li>My strategy won't necessarily be the same as yours - look for credit cards that offer the perks you need, and make sure it's worth paying the annual fee.</li></ul><p>When I tell people I earn over 1 million points every year from credit cards, I get shocked expressions and responses like, "How are you handling all of those cards?" It's easier than you might think, and the payout in the form of miles, points, and cash back makes it well worth it.</p><p>Through a combination of <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-current-credit-card-signup-bonuses">credit card sign-up bonuses</a>, strategic spending, and by leveraging category bonuses, I manage to earn over 1 million miles every year. These are the credit cards I use to get there.</p><h2><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-preferred-card/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Chase Sapphire Preferred Card</a></h2><p>I've had the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/chase-sapphire-preferred-card-review">Chase Sapphire Preferred</a> for over seven years - it was one of my earliest rewards credit cards. Nowadays, I mainly use this card for dining and travel bonuses, as it earns 2x points on these purchases. At some point I'll upgrade to the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-reserve/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Chase Sapphire Reserve</a>, when I'm in compliance with the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-chase-524-rule">5/24 rule</a>.</p><h2><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-freedom-unlimited/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Chase Freedom Unlimited</a></h2><p>The <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/chase-freedom-unlimited-review">Chase Freedom Unlimited</a> earns 1.5% cash back everywhere. If you have another Ultimate Rewards-earning credit card (i.e., the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-preferred-card/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Chase Sapphire Preferred</a>), you can <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/turn-cash-back-into-chase-ultimate-rewards-points-freedom-cards">convert your cash-back rewards to points</a>. So essentially, this card allows me to earn 1.5 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent. That's incredibly valuable, considering I often <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-use-chase-ultimate-rewards-points-2018-1">use Chase Ultimate Rewards points</a> for business-class flights and premium hotels that cost a fortune in cash.</p><h2><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/hilton-honors-american-express-aspire-card/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express</a></h2><p>I don't think there's a better <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-hotel-credit-cards">hotel credit card</a> out there than the Hilton Honors Aspire card. While the $450 annual fee seems steep, I definitely get my money's worth thanks to a variety of incredible benefits and category bonuses. For starters, the card comes with top-tier Hilton Diamond status, which entitles me to space-available room upgrades, free breakfast, club lounge access, and 100% bonus points on paid stays.</p><p>To sweeten the deal, cardholders receive up to a $250 Hilton resort statement credit each anniversary year and up to a $250 airline fee credit each calendar year. Priority Pass Select membership is included, along with up to a $100 Hilton on-property credit on two-night bookings made at HiltonHonors.com/aspirecard. To me, these benefits far outweigh the $450 annual fee, even if I only put them to use once a year.</p><p>Additionally, the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/hilton-amex-aspire-review">Hilton Aspire card</a> pays out 3 points per dollar spent on everyday, non-bonus category purchases, which goes quite a long way. As an additional incentive, cardholders earn an annual weekend night reward for spending $60,000 in a calendar year.</p><h2>Chase Ink Plus Business Card</h2><p>The Chase Ink Plus card is no longer available to new applicants, but I've been using it for years to earn 5x points on cable, phone, and office supply store spending. The 5x point bonus is valid on the first $50,000 spent in these categories, which I have yet to exceed.</p><p>If you're looking for a similar credit card that <em>is</em> available to new applicants, the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/ink-business-cash%e2%84%a0-credit-card/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Ink Business Cash Credit Card</a> offers 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent at office supply stores and on internet, cable, and phone services every year (then 1% back). The card has no annual fee.</p><h2>Discover it® Miles</h2><p>The Discover it Miles card is a fantastic option for those who want to earn lots of rewards without thinking about category bonuses. The card pays out 1.5x miles on everything, which gets matched at the end of the first year. You earn 1.5% cash back now, while the remaining 1.5% is deposited into your rewards account at the end of the year. I earned over $3,000 cash back during my first year and have kept the card since, mainly because it has <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-no-fee-credit-card">no annual fee</a> and a large credit limit.</p><h2>Fidelity Rewards Visa Signature Credit Card</h2><p>With airline and hotel rewards programs devaluing their points and miles regularly, incorporating <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-cash-back-credit-cards">cash back</a> into your rewards strategy is key. After all, cash back can be used on anything. That can really come in handy during times when award availability is limited or travel is too cheap to justify redeeming points.</p><p>I treat my Fidelity Rewards Visa Signature Card like a piggy bank. While the 2% cash back I earn is primarily reserved for travel, I occasionally use it to pay for other expenses that come up throughout the year. It's a great card and carries no annual fee.</p><p></p><h2>Radisson Rewards Platinum Visa Card</h2><p>The Radisson Rewards Platinum Visa Card isn't publicly available at the moment. It was previously known as the Club Carlson Rewards Visa Signature Card, before the program rebranded to Radisson Rewards. The card earns 3 points per dollar spent and even though the annual fee is $50, I get 25,000 bonus points every year I renew the card.</p><p>I get puzzled looks when I pull out my Radisson Rewards credit card. Radisson hotels aren't just restricted to crumbling airport locations - the chain has over 1,100 hotels and resorts worldwide. Luxury resorts include the Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu, Palazzo Montemartini Rome, and Hormuz Grand Muscat, to name a few.</p><h2>SkyPass Visa Signature Card</h2><p>This may sound random to some of you, but the U.S. Bank Korean SkyPass Card is incredibly valuable. While it only earns 1 mile per dollar spent (and 2 miles per dollar on Korean Air purchases and at gas stations and hotels), the rewards go a long way.</p><p>For starters, Korean Air's SkyPass program only requires 80,000 miles for a round-trip business-class ticket to Europe. Considering that most airlines charge well over 115,000 miles for the same award, this is a bargain. The card may not offer much in the way of perks, but the cheap Korean SkyPass awards to Europe are reason enough for me to keep accruing these miles.</p><h2>Amex EveryDay® Credit Card from American Express</h2><p>The American Express Everyday Card has no annual fee and a few unique benefits that make it worth keeping. For starters, the card earns 2 points per dollar on the first $6,000 spent at US supermarkets in a calendar year (then 1x).</p><p>Additionally, I earn 20% bonus points during every billing cycle when I use the card for 20 or more purchases. Not only is this a solid card for earning rewards on everyday spending, but it also generates additional cash and points through the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-amex-offers-work">Amex Offers program</a>.</p><h2>Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card</h2><p>The transition to Marriott Bonvoy hasn't been smooth for a lot of people, but that's not a reason to write off Marriott altogether. With over 7,000 Marriott hotels worldwide, Marriott points are bound to come in handy. That's why I continue to use my Marriott Bonvoy Card from American Express for regular purchases. Granted, it only earns 2 points per dollar spent, but it all adds up.</p><p>Spending $35,000 on the card gets me Marriott Gold Elite status which, granted, is not worth the trouble but it's still a nice bonus in addition to the points I earn. Throughout the year, the card has earned its keep thanks to some lucrative bonuses from <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-are-amex-offers-available-now">Amex Offers</a>. The free Boingo American Express plan is also useful during my travels.</p><p>This card is no longer open to new applicants, but the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/marriott-bonvoy-boundless-credit-card/?utm_campaign=bi_08202019_aa_cards-1-million-points&amp;utm_source=referral">Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card</a> from Chase is.</p><h2><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-airline-credit-card-comparison-delta-united-american">Citi® AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard®</a></h2><p>The Citi AAdvantage Platinum Card offers some very lucrative sign-up bonuses year-round. I believe when I got the card, I was targeted for a 75,000-mile offer. The current public sign-up bonus is 50,000 miles after $2,500 spent in 3 months. Throughout the year, I use this card primarily to earn the $125 American Airlines Flight Discount, which requires $20,000 worth of spending.</p><p>The real value of this card are the miles. While I do fly American Airlines enough to make the free checked bag benefit worth the annual fee, I use the miles primarily for international travel. American Airlines partners with some great international carriers like Qantas, Etihad and Cathay Pacific, to name a few.</p><p><em><strong>Read more: </strong><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-airline-credit-card-comparison-delta-united-american">American vs. Delta vs. United - we compared the 3 most popular airline credit cards</a></em></p><h2><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/heavy-metal-credit-card-trend-citi-prestige-2019-7">Citi Prestige® Card</a></h2><p>The Citi Prestige card was my go-to for restaurant and airline spending, thanks to a 5x restaurant and air travel bonus and up to $250 in annual airline fee credits. The 4th Night Free benefit was also very useful, though that has recently been limited to two uses per year.</p><p>Recently, Citi <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/citi-credit-cards-losing-travel-purchase-protection-2019-7">downgraded its purchase and travel protections</a>. Even with 5 points per dollar spent on several bonus categories, I don't want to lose out on travel protections so I will probably downgrade to the Citi Premier Card to avoid the increased $495 fee. The Citi Premier Card has a lower annual fee ($95) and earns 2 points per dollar spent at restaurants. Citi ThankYou points are incredibly valuable thanks to partners like Avianca LifeMiles and Air France-KLM Flying Blue, so at least I'll continue to earn those rewards.</p><h2>Why these cards are keepers</h2><p>While my credit card rotation does change over the years, most of these cards are long-term keepers. That's largely because they offer recurring benefits, category bonuses, or other incentives that makes paying the annual fees worthwhile. It's important to take these factors into consideration when evaluating your own points-earning strategy in order to meet your travel goals.</p><p class="tagline"><p style="font-size:14px;"><em>Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Personal Finance Insider team. We occasionally highlight financial products and services that can help you make smarter decisions with your money. We do not give investment advice or encourage you to adopt a certain investment strategy. What you decide to do with your money is up to you. If you take action based on one of our recommendations, we get a small share of the revenue from our commerce partners. This does not influence whether we feature a financial product or service. We operate independently from our advertising sales team.</em></p><p style="font-size:14px;"><em>Business Insider may receive a commission from The Points Guy Affiliate Network, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.</em></p></p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/taste-test-kfc-popeyes-fried-chicken-fast-food-2016-9">We did a blind taste-test of KFC and Popeyes fried chicken - here's the verdict</a></h3>        <div>                    </div>    </div>

I earn more than 1 million points and miles a year - here are the credit cards I use to rack up rewards

<p class="source"><span>Cavan Images/Getty Images</span></p><p class="caption">Your points and miles are only valuable if you use them, so make a plan to redeem them for travel.</p><ul class="summary-list"><li>The rewards you earn with travel credit cards can get you amazing redemptions that otherwise wouldn't be attainable, like <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/credit-card-points-first-class-flight-japan-ana-2019-4">first-class flights that would cost thousands of dollars</a> to book with cash.</li><li>But credit card points are only valuable if you use them - and the longer you wait to redeem them, the bigger the chance that they'll lose value due to program devaluations.</li><li>If you're having trouble getting over "points paralysis" and putting your rewards to use, start by researching where your points can take you and decide on a destination.</li><li>Remember that many loyalty programs let you pool your points, so you can work with friends and family to reach a travel goal.</li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-travel-rewards-credit-cards">See Business Insider's list of the best travel rewards credit cards »</a></li></ul><p>You've been saving points for months, charging every bit of spending to your <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-rewards-credit-cards">rewards credit card</a>, possibly in hopes of booking a fancy redemption like a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/credit-card-points-first-class-flight-japan-ana-2019-4">first-class flight</a> or a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/marriott-points-free-madrid-luxury-hotel-stay-2019-8">luxury hotel stay</a>. Perhaps you've even scored a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-current-credit-card-signup-bonuses">big credit card sign-up bonus</a> or two. You've done the work, earned the rewards, and...now what?</p><p>If you have a big stash of travel rewards, don't wait too long to redeem them. Airline and hotel loyalty programs periodically "devalue" their rewards currencies, so your points and miles will likely never be worth more than they are now. If you're unsure about how to get started with redeeming your travel rewards, here are some tips to guide you.</p><p><em>Keep in mind that we're focusing on the rewards and perks that make these credit cards great options, not things like interest rates and late fees, which will far outweigh the value of any points or miles. It's important to practice financial discipline when using credit cards by paying your balances in full each month, making payments on time, and only spending what you can afford to pay back. </em></p><h2>Make a plan to redeem your rewards</h2><p>Ideally, you should set a travel goal before earning credit card rewards so you know roughly how many points or miles you'll need, but better late than never. Once you have a large stash of rewards saved up, start planning ways to redeem them. Look into which rewards programs will offer you the most bang for your buck and transfer your points once you've confirmed award flight or award night availability.</p><p>It's especially important to research your options when you're working with <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/transferable-credit-card-points-best-rewards-to-earn">transferable credit card points</a> like <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/amex-membership-rewards-points-ways-to-use">Amex Membership Rewards points</a>, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/guide-earning-using-chase-ultimate-rewards-points">Chase Ultimate Rewards points</a>, Capital One miles, and Citi ThankYou points. That's because you can transfer these points to a variety of airline and hotel programs, so you may have more than one option for booking the same travel. In that case, you'll want to find the program that requires the fewest points. Having multiple options for booking award travel can also come in handy if one program doesn't have availability for the dates you need.</p><p>Most people will settle on a destination and then try to find award space to help them get there. Sometimes it's best to reverse-engineer: Go where the miles take you. If you're flexible, find an airline program with the lowest redemption rates and ample award space and plan your trip accordingly.</p><p>When researching award flights, don't just search the airline's website. You won't always find partner availability and sometimes you might come across "phantom" award space. Search for partner award space on the respective partner airline website. So if you have British Airways Avios you want to use for an American Airlines flight, check the American Airlines website for flights.</p><p>Once you've spotted seats you want to book, transfer your credit card rewards and call your frequent flyer program's customer service line to redeem your miles.</p><h2>Earn additional rewards if necessary</h2><p>You may have a ton of credit card rewards and still find that it's not enough for the trip you want to book. In that case, you'll need to earn additional rewards. Pick up another <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-current-credit-card-signup-bonuses">big credit card sign-up bonus</a> if you're not in a rush to book your travel.</p><p>Some of the best credit card sign-up bonuses available now include:</p><ul><li><strong><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-hub/chase-sapphire-preferred-card/?utm_campaign=bi_12312019_aa_start-using-points&amp;utm_source=referral" rel="nofollow">Chase Sapphire Preferred Card</a> -</strong> Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months ($95 annual fee)</li><li><strong><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-hub/united-explorer-card/?utm_campaign=bi_12312019_aa_start-using-points&amp;utm_source=referral" rel="nofollow">United Explorer Card</a> -</strong> Earn up to 65,000 miles: 40,000 miles after you spend $2,000 in the first three months, and another 25,000 miles after you spend $10,000 total in the first six months ($95 annual fee that's waived the first year)</li><li><strong><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-hub/capital-one-venture-rewards-credit-card/?utm_campaign=bi_12312019_aa_start-using-points&amp;utm_source=referral" rel="nofollow">Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card</a> -</strong> Earn 50,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months ($95 annual fee that's waived the first year)</li><li><strong><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-hub/the-platinum-card-from-american-express/?utm_campaign=bi_12312019_aa_start-using-points&amp;utm_source=referral" rel="nofollow nofollow">The Platinum Card® from American Express</a> -</strong> Earn 60,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months ($550 annual fee, as this is a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/which-premium-travel-rewards-credit-card-if-only-one">premium card</a> with luxury travel perks like <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-airport-lounges-visit-with-amex-platinum">extensive airport lounge access options</a>)</li></ul><p>Other options for earning additional travel rewards include <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/use-shopping-portals-maximize-rewards-online-purchases">utilizing airline and hotel shopping portals</a>, signing up for dining rewards programs, and checking the "Offers" page of your preferred frequent flyer programs to see how you can earn more miles.</p><p>If you're hoping to earn more credit card rewards, be sure to use them to maximize category bonuses. After all, why settle for 1 point per dollar on your <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/the-best-credit-cards-for-buying-groceries">grocery spending</a> if you can earn 4 points at US supermarkets with the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-hub/the-american-express-gold-card/?utm_campaign=bi_12312019_aa_start-using-points&amp;utm_source=referral" rel="nofollow">American Express® Gold Card</a>? (The card offers 4x on the first $25,000 spent at US supermarkets each year, then 1x.)</p><p>Some banks, including Chase and Barclaycard, have their own shopping portals so you can earn extra points on your online shopping. The Chase Ultimate Rewards portal consistently offers some of the highest payouts at popular online merchants. Do a quick search on <a href="https://www.cashbackmonitor.com/">Cashback Monitor</a> to find out which rewards portal is offering the most points on any given day.</p><h2>Pool points with friends for bigger redemption opportunities</h2><p>Despite your best efforts, there may be times when you fall short of your credit card rewards goal. Luckily, many rewards programs allow you to pool your points with friends or family. Chase allows Ultimate Rewards points transfers between members of the same household.</p><p><em><strong>Read more:</strong> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/credit-card-rewards-double-dip-earn-more-points">My wife and I "double-dip" to earn even more credit card points</a></em></p><p>Citi allows points earned via credit cards like the Citi Premier℠ Card or Citi Prestige® Card to be transferred to other account holders. Cardholders are limited to both sending and receiving a maximum of 100,000 ThankYou points per calendar year. Transferred points expire after 90 days, so only transfer points if you have an immediate use in mind.</p><p>Aside from credit card rewards, airline miles and hotel points can also be shared. Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Radisson Rewards, British Airways, and JetBlue are just a few rewards programs that allow free transfers or pooling of points.</p><h3><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-travel-rewards-credit-cards">See Business Insider's list of the best travel rewards credit cards »</a></h3><ul class="read-more-links"><li>More <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/category/credit-cards">credit card</a> coverage</li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-airline-credit-card-comparison-delta-united-american">What's the best airline credit card?</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-cash-back-credit-cards">The best cash-back credit cards</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/southwest-credit-card-comparison-which-to-get">Southwest credit card review</a></li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-rewards-credit-cards">Best rewards credit cards</a></li></ul><p style="font-size:14px;"><em>Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Personal Finance Insider team. We occasionally highlight financial products and services that can help you make smarter decisions with your money. We do not give investment advice or encourage you to adopt a certain investment strategy. If you take action based on one of our recommendations, we get a small share of the revenue from our commerce partners. This does not influence whether we feature a financial product or service. We operate independently from our advertising sales team.</em></p><p style="font-size:14px;"><em>Business Insider may receive a commission from The Points Guy Affiliate Network, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.</em></p><p style="font-size:14px;"><em>Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.</em></p>            <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/starbucks-spend-more-money-coffee-chain-rewards-2019-4">Starbucks is giving away free drinks for the rest of 2019. It's one of the 5 sneaky tactics the coffee chain uses to get you to spend more money.</a></h3>

3 steps for getting over 'points paralysis' and starting to use your credit card rewards for travel

<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"><div class="image-container float_right" style="width:480px"><div class="image"><p class="source"><a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mall_of_America-2005-05-29.jpg">Wikimedia Commons</a></p></div></div>At 4.2 million square feet, The <keyword id="1739170" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Mall-Of-America">Mall of America</keyword> in Bloomington, Minn. is already one of the biggest malls in the U.S. — </span><a href="http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/gallery?section=news/national_world&amp;id=8454520&amp;photo=10">and the most visited</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">, with </span><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/moa/facts">40 million visitors per year</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">,</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">But starting this fall, the mall is planning to add up to 5.6 million square feet of space in hopes of</span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"> drawing an additional 20 million visitors annually.</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/future-expansion/overview">According to the mall's website</a>, the new expansion will aim to attract customers with annual household incomes of $100,000 or more.</p>
<p>Unlike the existing mall, the new stores and lodging options will be in a "boutique" style. The <span style="line-height: 1.5em;">expansion will also add up to 8,000 parking spaces.</span></p>
<p>The mall has become something of a <keyword id="6368952" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="shopping">shopping</keyword> destination for wealthy tourists from Asia and Europe, and international visitors have been known to spend up to 2.5 times more than domestic customers, <a href="http://www.twincities.com/localnews/ci_21285978/moas-new-mission-remaking-itself-high-end-shoppers">according to the Pioneer Press</a>.</p>
<p>Management wants to cater to these higher-income customers by putting an emphasis on luxury retailers and by offering features like valet parking, a wellness center, multiple spas, a permanent museum-quality exhibition space.</p>
<p>They've already <a href="http://www.radissonblu.com/hotel-mall-of-america">added a Radisson Blu Hotel</a>, which is part of an Radisson's upscale chain. The mall is also looking to up the quality of its food offerings; food courts will be known as "food halls" and menus will feature less pizza and soda in favor of <a href="http://www.twincities.com/business/ci_23580228/mall-america-set-super-sizing">more sushi and wine</a>.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">The expansion will end up costing about $2.5 billion in total and will take place in several stages, </span><a href="http://www.twincities.com/portal/news/ci_23580228/mall-america-set-super-sizing?_loopback=1">according to the Pioneer Press.</a><span style="line-height: 1.5em;"> The first phase of construction will begin this fall and will cost about $250 million, adding about 50 new stores and expanding the mall to the north. </span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.twincities.com/ci_23588148/mall-america-expansion-plans-call-water-park-ice?IADID=Search-www.twincities.com-www.twincities.com&amp;IADID=Search-www.twincities.com-www.twincities.com">The Pioneer Press also reports</a> that among the new amenities will be a<span style="line-height: 1.5em;"> state-of-the-art water park and accompanying resort with 300 to 400 rooms and </span><span style="line-height: 1.5em;">an NHL-sized indoor skating rink.</span></p>
<p>Check out some renderings of the expansion below:</p>
<p><div class="image-container" style="width:800px"><div class="image"><p class="source"><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/future-expansion/gallery">via Mall of America</a></p><p class="caption">An artist's rendering of the proposed Phase II expansion once it is finished.</p></div></div></p>
<p><div class="image-container" style="width:800px"><div class="image"><p class="source"><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/future-expansion/gallery">via Mall of America</a></p><p class="caption">The mall recently added a Radisson Blu, an internationally-known hotel intended to attract higher-income guests.</p></div></div><div class="image-container" style="width:800px"><div class="image"><p class="source"><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/future-expansion/gallery">via Mall of America</a></p><p class="caption">A rendering of what the Radisson at the Mall looks like from the outside.</p></div></div></p>
<p><div class="image-container" style="width:800px"><div class="image"><p class="source"><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/future-expansion/gallery">via Mall of America</a></p><p class="caption">A view of an entry to the new hotel.</p></div></div><div class="image-container" style="width:800px"><div class="image"><p class="source"><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/future-expansion/gallery">via Mall of America</a></p><p class="caption">A virtual rendering of what the Radisson would look like from farther away.</p></div></div></p>
<p><div class="image-container" style="width:800px"><div class="image"><p class="source"><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/future-expansion/gallery">via Mall of America</a></p><p class="caption">This part of the expansion will begin in the fall (note the waterpark and resort hotel in yellow).</p></div></div></p>
<p><div class="image-container" style="width:800px"><div class="image"><p class="source"><a href="http://www.mallofamerica.com/about/future-expansion/gallery">via Mall of America</a></p><p class="caption">Shown here is a plan of the final phase completed, including new <keyword id="6354851" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Retail">retail</keyword> space.</p></div></div></p>

The Mall Of America Is Undergoing A Massive Expansion To Attract 'Upscale' Customers

<h3><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span>Corinthia Hotel</span></p><p class="caption">Making you hotel experience all the more suite.</p></div><p></p></div></div></h3><ul><li><strong>Getting the suite experience can be possible even if you're staying in a standard hotel room.</strong></li><li><strong>Business Insider asked frequent travellers and experts for the things they always do to ensure they have the most comfortable stay possible and receive the best service.</strong></li><li><strong>Their advice includes things like always arriving at your hotel on time, or requesting the room with the sofa bed.</strong></li></ul><p><br />Flying first class and staying in penthouse suites is every traveller's dream, but for those on a regular budget, it's hardly a reality.</p><p>But just like there are <a href="http://uk.businessinsider.com/make-an-economy-flight-feel-like-first-class-2016-12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">things you can do to make economy feel like first class</a>, there are also ways you can make staying in a standard hotel room feel like a luxurious suite experience.</p><p>Business Insider asked a range of travel experts for the things they always do when they're booking or arriving at a hotel in order to make their stay as seamless and comfortable as possible - and get the absolute best service.</p><p>Here are 10 ways to make a standard hotel room feel like a suite, according to travel experts.</p><h3>1. Tell the hotel what time you'll be arriving - and stick to it</h3><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/hotel-concierge-bell-on-reception-front-50943100?src=uEdS1M6mNNMfI3mqIdYXCA-1-7">TessarTheTegu / Shutterstock</a></span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>This is what <a href="http://uk.businessinsider.com/alex-macheras-20-year-old-aviation-expert-first-class-travel-testing-new-planes-2017-5" target="_blank" rel="noopener">20-year-old aviation expert Alex Macheras</a> always does, and he said: "It means they often a better prepared for my arrival, including if it's early morning - with a ready-made tea/coffee - or perhaps late at night, by ensuring check in is very fast so that I can head straight to sleep."</p><h3>2. Take tips from past travellers</h3><p>"I use 'Room Tips' on <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TripAdvisor</a> to note down the most popular room numbers being mentioned," Macheras said. "Not all standard rooms are created equally, some are superior to others despite being the same category room. More often than not, rooms at the end of the corridor are slightly larger."</p><h3>3. Always tell the hotel if it's a special occasion</h3><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/luxury-hotel-room-139392596?src=JGIjPVknlrDLTqPTcdaEJw-1-1">marla dawn studio / Shutterstock</a></span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>If you're celebrating a birthday or anniversary, be sure to let the hotel know. "The front desk team will note it down, and help you celebrate in one way or another," Macheras said. "Every time I'm travelling to celebrate something, there is often cake, fruit platters, or Champagne in my room, upon my arrival to the hotel."</p><h3>4. Ask for a deal or an upgrade</h3><p>"Try to actually get a suite - if you arrive late, especially at an independent hotel, you might be able to buy a cheap upgrade if the hotel knows by that point that no one is going to book one for cash," said Rob Burgess, founder of air miles blog <a href="https://www.headforpoints.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Head for Points</a>. "This works better on shorter stays, as the longer you are staying the more risk the hotel takes by giving you a better room for a discount."</p><h3>5. Get rid of hotel literature</h3><p>"All of those brochures, leaflets, and stand-up cards on the desk, TV, side table etc. - put them in a drawer," Burgess said. "They kill the homely feel."</p><h3>5. Ask for anything missing from your room</h3><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/hotel-bathrobe-748553758?src=n8hBakE7CRbU-wyERCwRJg-1-7">Cool Pictures / Shutterstock</a></span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>"Ask for extras that are 99% of the time free and included in the room, but may not physically be in the room," Macheras said. This can include a robe, slippers, or softer/firmer pillows.</p><h3>6. Take the room with a sofa bed</h3><p>"Many hotels advertise an extra sofabed in some rooms, often for the same price as a room with just a bed," Burgess said. "Take the room with a sofabed, even if you're not bringing a child. This guarantees that you will get the biggest standard room available, as they are the ones where the sofabeds get put."</p><h3>7. Bring luxury with you</h3><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span>Brora / This Works / Diptyque / Cire Trudon</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>"I always travel with some mini travel candles, of either <a href="https://trudon.com/us_en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cire Trudon</a> or <a href="http://www.diptyqueparis.co.uk/?gclid=CjwKCAiAsejRBRB3EiwAZft7sGb_RJAG1YBOSiFLBMJXb4OhmInbcsCgkAaxysIyijJwxCvqu-0roRoCmnQQAvD_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Diptyque</a>, to have at hand as good smells and candlelight make everything prettier," said <a href="http://uk.businessinsider.com/how-celebrity-makeup-artist-emma-day-built-a-career-with-no-training-2017-11" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Day, the celebrity makeup artist who spends most of her time travelling.</a></p><p>"I also always take <a href="http://www.thisworks.com/deep-sleep-pillow-spray.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">This Works Pillow Spray</a> as I'm often a bad sleeper and this is really soothing and seems to help. Also, I always take a rather old lilac <a href="https://www.brora.co.uk/shop/cashmere-woven-blanket-23081" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cashmere Brora throw</a>, which is not only quite luxurious looking but doubles up as a blanket if the heating is not amazing or there aren't extra blankets. It's so comforting!"</p><h3>8. Make use of hotel loyalty programmes...</h3><p>Even if it's your first time at the chain, you should register with the hotel's loyalty programme, according to Macheras, "so the front desk team are aware you have an interest to return, and therefore ensure they 'wow' you first time...which often means a room upgrade."</p><h3>9. ...and credit cards</h3><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><p class="source"><span><a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/gold-credit-card-closeup-3140629?src=b318yhLrHmW2YUQGEAa2iA-1-0">Kaspars Grinvalds / Shutterstock</a></span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>"Many chain hotels give out elite status with credit cards," said Burgess, who suggested looking into the following cards:</p><ul><li><strong>American Express Platinum</strong> in the UK, which gives all cardholders Starwood Preferred Guest (Sheraton, Westin, W, etc.) Gold, Hilton Honors Gold, Club Carlson (Radisson, Park Inn) Gold, Melia Rewards Gold, and Shangri-La Jade status.</li><li><strong>IHG Rewards Club MasterCard, </strong>which is free, gives you IHG Rewards Club Gold status, valid at Holiday Inn, HI Express, Crowne Plaza, Indigo, InterContinental, etc.</li><li><strong>IHG Rewards Club Premium MasterCard</strong> (which comes at a £99 ($132) fee) gives you IHG Rewards Club Platinum status.</li><li><strong>Hilton Honors Platinum Visa</strong> (also free) gives you Hilton Honors Silver status and upgrades you to Gold if you spend £10,000 in a calendar year.</li><li><strong>Starwood Preferred Guest American Express</strong> (free again) gives you SPG Preferred Plus status for free and upgrades you to Gold if you spend £15,000 in a calendar year.</li></ul><p>"Whilst you are never guaranteed an upgrade, having status with that particular chain will give you some benefits, will put you at the top of the list for upgrades, and will give you more clout if you do want to try to get an upgrade via cash or complaining," Burgess said.</p><h3>10. If in doubt, find something to complain about</h3><p>"I was, in my youth, a bit of an over-complainer because it was actually successful," Burgess said. "If you end up changing rooms, you are usually given a better one as compensation. Even not liking the view counts. Do this as soon as you check in as, once you've unpacked, it becomes a bit of a chore."</p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/paul-krugman-on-trump-the-fed-and-bitcoin-2017-12">We talked to Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman about tax reform, Trump, and bitcoin</a></h3>        <div>                    </div>    </div>

10 easy ways to make a standard hotel room feel like a suite

<p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">The </span></em><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks"><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Insider Picks</span></em></a><em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider may receive a commission from The Points Guy Affiliate Network.</span></em></p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/the-platinum-card-from-american-express/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a><p class="source"><span>American Express</span></p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not paying for things if you don't have to is both common sense and a fundamental tenet of personal finance. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At first glance, this makes credit cards with annual fees seem like a losing proposition when there are credit cards that don't have annual fees. However, an annual fee isn't necessarily a reason to turn down an otherwise compelling credit card offer - especially since in some cases, rewards, bonuses, and benefits you'll receive are worth more than the fee you'll pay.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here are a few reasons you shouldn't automatically ignore a credit card just because it has an annual fee.</span></p><h2><strong>1. Significant welcome bonuses</strong></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Credit cards that offer huge welcome bonuses - think 50,000-100,000 points or more just for signing up and meeting a minimum spending requirement - are pretty much guaranteed to have an annual fee. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Their no-fee counterparts typically have much smaller bonuses, if they offer anything at all. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example, the no-fee <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-freedom/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Freedom</a> usually<span style="color: #000000;"> offers $150 in cash back (or 15,000 points) after you spend $500 on purchases in your first three months of opening an account,</span> while the more expensive <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-preferred-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Sapphire Preferred Card</a> and <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-reserve/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Sapphire Reserve</a> each offer a bonus of 50,000 points <span>after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months</span>.</span></p><p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Read more</strong>: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-credit-card-reward-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The best credit card rewards, bonuses, and perks of 2019</a></span></em></p><h2><strong>2. Better rewards for spending</strong></h2><p>Cards with annual fees are generally more rewarding than their no-fee counterparts. For example, the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-reserve/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Sapphire Reserve</a> earns 3 points per dollar spent on dining and travel, while the no-fee <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-freedom-unlimited℠/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Freedom Unlimited</a> offers just 1.5 points per dollar spent on all your purchases.</p><h2><strong style="color: #000000;">3. No foreign transaction fees</strong></h2><p>Depending on how much you travel - and how much money you spend abroad - this could be significant. With a few exceptions, most credit cards without annual fees charge extra (around 3%) when you make a purchase in a foreign currency; these days, virtually all annual-fee cards don't have such fees (though make sure you double check to avoid a nasty surprise!).</p><p><em><strong>Read more</strong>: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/what-credit-card-has-no-foreign-transaction-fee-2018-4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The 5 best 'no foreign transaction fee' credit cards that will save you money on international trips</a></em></p><h2><strong>4. Extra credit card benefits</strong></h2><p>Many of the most attractive credit card benefits are only available on cards with annual fees - think free checked bags, discounts on in-flight purchases, airport lounge access, and hotel elite status.</p><h2><strong>5. Improved purchase and travel protection</strong></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Many credit cards with annual fees come with protection benefits for the things you buy with the card - extended warranties, trip delay and cancellation coverage, return protection, purchase protection, rental car insurance, and more. Many of these benefits are not available on no-annual-fee cards, or if they are they are more limited. Cards with annual fees typically have higher per-claim and annual reimbursement limits, and/or protect you for a longer period of time. </span></p><h2><strong>6. Travel credits can offset high fees</strong></h2><p>For premium credit cards with the highest annual fees - think $450-$550 - the actual cost often isn't as high as it first appears.</p><p>For example, the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/starwood-preferred-guest-american-express-luxury-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Starwood Preferred Guest® American Express Luxury Card</a> has a $450 annual fee, but you get a $300 credit toward purchases at participating SPG and <span style="color: #000000;">Marriott Rewards hotels</span> every year. So if you use that credit, the annual fee is effectively $150, before accounting for other card benefits.</p><p>Similarly, the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/hilton-honors-american-express-aspire-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express</a> gets you a $250 annual hotel or resort credit, a $250 airline fee credit, an annual free weekend night at any Hilton property, a $100 on-property credit any time you stay for two nights or more and book through <a href="https://www.hiltonhonorsaspirecard.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hiltonhonorsaspirecard.com</a>, free Hilton Honors Diamond status, and more. The first two benefits alone are worth $500, and the card's annual fee is $450 - if you just used those two benefits and nothing else, you'd already come out ahead.<br /><strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></strong>The same is true for cards like the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-reserve/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Sapphire Reserve</a> ($450 annual fee, $300 travel credit) and the Citi Prestige ($495 annual fee, $250 travel credit).</p><p>The <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/the-platinum-card-from-american-express/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Platinum Card® from American Express</a> has a more diverse set of annual credits: its $550 annual fee is offset by a $200 airline fee credit, up to $200 per year in Uber credits ($15 per month January-November and $35 in December), and up to $100 in Saks Fifth Avenue credits ($50 in each half of the calendar year). So if you use all of those benefits, you're effectively paying just $50/year for everything else that comes with the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/the-platinum-card-from-american-express/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AmEx Platinum</a>!</p><p><em><strong>Read more</strong>: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/worth-it-to-have-both-amex-platinum-and-chase-sapphire-reserve-2018-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I pay $1,000 in annual fees for the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the AmEx Platinum - and as far as I'm concerned, the math checks out</a></em></p><h2><strong>7. Anniversary rewards</strong></h2><p>Many credit cards with annual fees also offer annual bonuses that can be worth as much or more than the annual fee itself.</p><p>Hotel cards like the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/ihg-rewards-club-premier-credit-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card</a> and <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/the-world-of-hyatt-credit-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The World of Hyatt Credit Card</a> from Chase and <span style="color: #000000;">the Starwood Preferred Guest cards from American Express (<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/update-to-spg-marriott-card-after-merger-2018-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">find a breakdown of them here</a>) give</span> you a free night certificate every year after you pay the annual fee. Others, like the Radisson Rewards credit cards from US Bank, offer an annual rewards points bonus. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/southwest-airlines-credit-card-comparison-2018-8"></a></p><p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/southwest-airlines-credit-card-comparison-2018-8">Chase and <span style="color: #000000;">Southwest Airlines' cobranded credit cards</span></a> also come with anniversary reward points ranging from 3,000 to 7,500 points depending on the card. </p><h2><strong>8. Unlock the full potential of your rewards</strong></h2><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition to credit cards that earn frequent flyer miles with an airline or rewards points with a hotel loyalty program, many banks offer credit cards that earn points in their own rewards programs - Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou Points, and American Express Membership Rewards are the most well-known of these. </span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All of these programs have both annual-fee cards and no-annual-fee cards that accrue points. However, without an annual fee, you'll often find yourself unable to use your points in certain ways. For example, no-annual-fee cards from Chase like the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-freedom/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Freedom</a>, <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-freedom-unlimited%E2%84%A0/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Freedom Unlimited</a>, and <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/ink-business-cash%e2%84%a0-credit-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ink Business Cash Credit Card</a> earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points, but you can't transfer those points to Chase's airline and hotel partners unless you have a card with an annual fee, like the <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-reserve/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Sapphire Reserve</a>, <a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-preferred-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chase Sapphire Preferred</a>, or <span style="color: #ff0000;"><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/ink-business-preferred℠-credit-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="color: #000000;">Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card</span></a></span>.</span></p><h2><strong>9. An annual fee isn't a lifetime commitment</strong></h2><p>You can always downgrade or cancel a card in the future if the annual fee is no longer worth it. A credit card should be a mutually beneficial relationship between you and your bank. If you aren't getting enough value out of a card to justify the annual fee, call your bank and tell them - they may be able to offer you a one-time bonus (commonly referred to as a "retention offer"), or help you exchange your credit card for a different one with no annual fee.</p><p>Otherwise, you can close your account. But if you're going to do this, we recommend waiting for at least a year after you open the card. Closing a card shortly after receiving a welcome bonus makes banks less likely to give you bonuses in the future, and in some cases can even result in a reversal of the points you've already received.</p><h2>The bottom line</h2><p>Keep in mind that all this doesn't mean every credit card you have should have an annual fee - in fact, using a combination of cards is often the most rewarding strategy. But if you're looking to maximize the rewards you earn from your spending - and you pay off your credit cards every month - an annual fee isn't necessarily a reason to say no to a new credit card.</p><h3><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/the-platinum-card-from-american-express/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here to learn more about the AmEx Platinum from American Express from Insider Picks' partner: The Points Guy.</a></h3><h3><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-reserve/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here to learn more about the Chase Sapphire Reserve from Insider Picks' partner: The Points Guy.</a></h3><h3><a href="https://thepointsguy.com/card-details/chase-sapphire-preferred-card/?utm_campaign=bi_cl_should-not-avoid-annual-fees&amp;utm_source=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here to learn more about the Chase Sapphire Preferred from Insider Picks' partner: The Points Guy.</a></h3><p class="tagline"><a href="http://e.businessinsider.com/join/ci/insider-picks">Subscribe to our newsletter.</a><br><br>Find all the best offers at our <a href="https://coupons.businessinsider.com/">Coupons page</a>.<br><br>Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/insiderpicks">Insider Picks</a> team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at insiderpicks@businessinsider.com.</br></br></br></br></p>

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