Confused About the New Amex Platinum Changes? Here’s the Clear Breakdown

I recently got feedback from a newsletter subscriber who's looking to travel the world and wants to know what to do for fun, particularly at night. They're also back in the dating scene and hoping to meet someone new. They're more mature, so the average party scene isn't the best fit.

This was a great question — and I'm curious about this too! I'm not getting any younger, and there are some places I prefer not to visit anymore.

While many younger travelers enjoy clubs and dive bars, that's no longer my vibe.

I will say that I'm fortunate to be part of the Salsa dance community — it's a wonderful place where people of all backgrounds and ages can come together and dance.

But what else is there to do?

If you fit this demographic (mature), what do you like to do for fun at night?

Let me know!

If you're curious too, let me know and I may write about it in a future newsletter.

The American Express Platinum Card has gotten a complete overhaul. There are many different changes, but don't worry, I've got you covered. Here are the key updates:

Overall, they've increased the annual price ($895) and added some monthly credits for services you may not use.

If you shop at Lululemon frequently or use the Oura Ring, that's great! If you don't have the Platinum card yet, these new benefits might make it worth considering.

If you already have the card but don't use these services, you should evaluate whether to keep the card based on a cost-benefit analysis…

I've noticed a trend in the credit card industry — shifting from lump sum payments to monthly credits, and honestly, I'm not a fan.

• INCOMING MINI-RANT: For example, my American Express Gold Card gives me a $7 monthly credit to Dunkin' Donuts. What is $7 really going to get me?
  
  I would actually pay $7 for peace of mind rather than worry about using a free coffee credit each month.

But if you like Dunkin' Donuts and we run into each other in person sometime, hey, it's on me!

Keep traveling,

Andrew

Would you get the card with these new changes?

Cocktail of the Week

Random Travel Thought

Psst! My secret? I'm actually having a blast with this whole content creation thing.

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The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com : This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner : An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing : I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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