World Unlocked: Amex Gold Vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred – Which Is Better?

Published on: 19 October 2023 Last Updated on: 30 October 2024

International travel is a popular contender in people’s bucket lists. Revenge travel post-pandemic has motivated several individuals to list countries they want to visit before they die. While immersing yourself in a different culture and enriching your wisdom with knowledge from other nations is exciting, it also comes with heavy financial considerations.

Travel expenses transcend flight tickets and hotel accommodations, though these take up a considerable part of the budget. The other crucial concerns that must be prioritized are food expenses, land transportation, activities, and even souvenirs. When traveling interstate, these may require a meager and fixed amount you can easily budget. Traveling to another country with their unique currency is a different story.

Some factors, including conversion rate and transaction fees, must be accounted for, especially when using credit cards. Using credit cards offers convenience, but their foreign transaction fees can eat into your budget, typically charging 3% of the purchase amount in foreign currency. Thus, the best way to optimize your travel expenses is to use credit cards designed for travel. They usually come with zero transaction fees for foreign currencies.

In this article, we will compare the two crème de la crème among all these no foreign transaction fees credit cards – Amex Gold vs Chase Sapphire Preferred – and evaluate how they fare with their overall suitability for international travel.

The American Express Gold Card: A Culinary Approach to Travel

Coming in as a heavyweight contender in the premium credit card arena is the Amex Gold Credit Card. When traveling is a hobby you do only on special occasions, Amex Gold can give you so much more for your ordinary days. It shines with its generous 4x bonus reward points on your restaurant visits, takeout sprees, and everyday groceries.

On your travel days, Amex Gold also proves to be a reliable companion for your travel expenditures – especially for your gastronomic excursions. The whole American Express network has global recognition, with its card widely accepted worldwide. Using your card for your dining will even award you 4x bonus points and a 3x reward for flight tickets.

Beyond the global acceptance and generous award points, this travel credit card also offers a suite of premium travel benefits. From travel insurance, points transfer with their travel partners, and even a $100 credit for a minimum 2-night stay on their hotel collection to having access to their Global Assist® Hotline.

Their Global Assist® Hotline lets you enjoy your travel with peace of mind, knowing you will have safeguards for emergency situations. Their assistance covers a range of needs, including medical referrals, legal aid, and even lost passport replacement.

Here’s a link to a complete guide to all of Amex Gold credit card benefits:

https://fortune.com/recommends/credit-cards/american-express-gold-card-review

With this solid range of convenience in your hands, it is only fitting that this credit card comes with a hefty annual fee and high APR for a pay-over-time feature. If you look forward to lounge access for your pre-travel experience, you will also be in for a big disappointment, as the Amex Gold card does not provide any lounge access.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: A Versatile Traveler’s Ally

Another premium travel card is the Chase Sapphire Preferred, enjoyed by many cardholders for its flexibility and generous travel rewards program. With their Ultimate Rewards Portal, you can earn 5x bonus points for your flights, hotel rooms, and other travel experiences. On some promotional periods, they even offer 5x bonus points on select theme park tickets available to purchase through the portal, including Universal Studios, Legoland, SeaWorld, etc. This is especially suitable for traveling families or those who enjoy theme park activities.

Nevertheless, on your off-travel days, you can still enjoy other perks, such as their 3x bonus points offer for online grocery purchases, subscriptions to streaming platforms, and even on your restaurant indulgence. Currently, the credit card also offers 5x bonus points on your Lyft rides, so be sure to maximize your commute.

The real perk that comes with the Chase Sapphire is its flexibility with transferring points. Their 1:1 transfer partners make all your earned bonus points worth the incurred expenses. Suppose your favorite hotel line is offering a great deal on premium suites with their hotels on a desired destination. They are offering it for a minimal price of 30,000 points plus applicable taxes and fees. With Chase Sapphire Preferred, you can convert your Ultimate Rewards Points into the rewards program of that hotel line to pounce on that great offer.

Find their comprehensive list of transfer partners in this article.

These great rewards also come with a price of $95 annual fee. They also do not offer any intro APR for new cardholders. Nevertheless, these financial sacrifices can be valuable with all the travel conveniences the card offers, which unfortunately can also be earned only when you book through their portal.

Overall, transaction fee concerns, although entirely erased by these cards, are just one aspect that completes the complexities of international travel. The overall cost-benefit analysis must be made on the basis of the card’s rewards program, annual fees, and other travel-related perks. The choice of a suitable credit card must be weighed on the basis of personal preferences, travel habits, and financial goals.

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Abdul Aziz Mondol

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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Tokyo Unveiled: 9 Must-Try Experiences That Will Transform Your Visit

Just as the petals of the cherry blossom symbolize the fleeting beauty of life, Tokyo, Japan's vibrant capital, serves as a metaphor for an enriching, ephemeral experience waiting to be seized. It's a city that effortlessly marries the ancient with the ultramodern, the serene with the frantic, and the traditional with the innovative. As you're planning your trip, there are certain experiences you can't afford to miss, ones that will not only enhance your visit but transform it into an unforgettable journey. Curious about what these experiences might be? Well, let's embark on this virtual tour together and discover the must-try activities that will help you experience Tokyo in its truest essence. 1. Exploring Tokyo's Historic Temples While going on interesting tours in Tokyo, you can't miss out on the city's historic temples, each one offering a unique glimpse into Japan's rich heritage. Start your journey at Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple. Here, you'll be captivated by the stunning architecture and the iconic Kaminarimon Gate. Don't forget to explore the Nakamise shopping street nearby! Next, head to Meiji Shrine, nestled in the heart of the bustling city, yet providing a tranquil escape. Its grand torii gates and expansive forest will leave you in awe. Lastly, visit Zojoji Temple, where you can marvel at Tokyo Tower's modern brilliance juxtaposed against the temple's traditional beauty. You'll leave each temple with a deeper understanding of Japan's past, and a memorable impression of Tokyo's harmonious blend of old and new. 2. Unforgettable Sumo Wrestling Experiences After soaking in Tokyo's historic charm, it's time to immerse yourself in the thrilling world of sumo wrestling, a quintessentially Japanese experience. Head over to Ryogoku, Tokyo's sumo district, where you'll have the opportunity to watch sumo wrestlers train in a 'beya', a sumo stable. Make sure to respect the strict silence rule during training sessions. You can even try a sumo wrestler's hefty diet, 'chanko nabe', a protein-rich hot pot. If you're fortunate to visit during a tournament, the atmosphere is electric. Watching these giants grapple in the ring, you'll truly comprehend the raw power and ritualistic beauty of this sport. It's an experience you'll never forget, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture. 3. Navigating The Bustling Tsukiji Market Next on your Tokyo adventure, dive into the sensory overload that's Tsukiji Market, the world's largest fish market. Here, you'll find an array of exotic seafood, fresh fruits, and traditional Japanese street food that will leave your taste buds dancing. Navigate through the hustle and bustle, and you'll be rewarded with unique flavors and experiences. Don't miss the chance to witness the exciting tuna auctions, where the day's catch is sold at breakneck speeds. But remember, it's an early start – you'll need to be there by 5 a.m. to catch the action. Lastly, don't forget to try a sushi breakfast at one of the surrounding eateries. This isn't just a market, it's an experience that will transform your Tokyo visit. 4. Tokyo Disneyland And Disneysea Adventure Leaving the flavors and fervor of Tsukiji Market behind, you'll find a different type of thrill at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea, an unforgettable adventure that's sure to enchant both kids and adults alike. You'll be drawn into magical worlds where fairy tales come to life and your favorite Disney characters greet you at every corner. Tokyo Disneyland, with its classic attractions like Cinderella's Castle, will transport you straight into your childhood dreams. Conversely, DisneySea offers unique, sea-themed adventures, such as Journey to the Center of the Earth. Don't forget to watch the mesmerizing evening parades, where the parks transform into a glittering spectacle of lights and music. Read Also: Want To Become A Travel Agent? Here Are The Steps You Need To Take! 5. Traditional Tea Ceremony Experience While the excitement of Disneyland may leave you buzzing, it's worth slowing down and immersing yourself in a traditional tea ceremony for a more serene side of Tokyo. This centuries-old ritual is a cornerstone of Japanese culture, offering an intimate glimpse into the country's rich history and customs. You'll learn more than just the art of tea making. It's an exploration of simplicity, mindfulness, and respect. You'll witness the meticulous preparation, the graceful movements, and the quiet, meditative atmosphere. It's truly a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience that's far removed from the bustling city life. 6. Foodie's Paradise: Sampling Street Food After immersing yourself in tradition, it's time to dive into Tokyo's vibrant street food scene, a gastronomic adventure that's sure to delight your taste buds. Head to the bustling Ameya-Yokocho Market, where you can savor fresh sushi, crispy tempura, and succulent yakitori. You'll be blown away by the unique flavors of takoyaki, Osaka-style octopus balls, or the creamy delight of a matcha-flavored taiyaki, a fish-shaped sweet pancake. Don't miss the savory bowls of ramen at the tiny stalls in Tokyo Station's Ramen Street. Each bite you take is an explosion of authenticity, a testament to the city's rich culinary heritage. Tokyo's street food is more than just cuisine; it's a sensory journey that you'll remember long after your trip. 7. Nightlife In Roppongi District Once you've had your fill of Tokyo's tasty street food, prepare to experience the pulsating heart of the city's nightlife in the Roppongi District. This vibrant area is renowned for its lively bars, exclusive clubs, and upmarket restaurants. You'll find a diverse mix of locals and tourists, creating a unique multicultural atmosphere. Start your evening at a sophisticated cocktail bar, where skilled mixologists create concoctions that are as breathtaking as the city views. Later, hit the dance floor at one of Roppongi's pulsating nightclubs. If you're a jazz fan, don't miss a visit to a live music venue. Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening or a night to remember, Roppongi's nightlife won't disappoint. 8. Shopping Spree In Ginza Having experienced the exhilarating nightlife in Roppongi, you're probably ready for a different kind of thrill: a shopping spree in Ginza, Tokyo's premier shopping district. Known for its high-end boutiques and flagship stores, Ginza is a must-visit for shoppers. You'll find top fashion brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, alongside Japan's own Uniqlo and Muji. And don't miss the iconic Ginza Six mall, where luxury meets art. But it's not just about fashion. Ginza is also home to the previously mentioned Tsukiji, the world's largest fish market, where you can buy fresh seafood. So, set aside a day to explore this bustling retail hub, where shopping is an experience in itself. 9. Experiencing The Cherry Blossom Season Next on your Tokyo adventure, make sure you don't miss the breathtaking spectacle of cherry blossom season. It's a sight you'll never forget. The city transforms into a pink paradise as cherry trees burst into bloom, creating picturesque landscapes everywhere. You can take relaxing strolls under the Sakura trees at Ueno Park or Chidorigafuchi Park, where the blooms reflect beautifully in the water. Don't forget to join in a traditional 'hanami' or flower-viewing party, where you'll picnic under the blossoms, sharing food and laughs with friends. It's an experience that truly encapsulates the spirit of Japan. The Beauty Of Japan: Final Words Whether you're exploring historic temples, watching sumo wrestling, navigating the Tsukiji market, experiencing the magic of Disneyland and DisneySea, taking part in a traditional tea ceremony, sampling street food, discovering Roppongi's nightlife, shopping in Ginza, or basking in cherry blossom season, Tokyo's got it all. Each experience is sure to transform your visit into an unforgettable journey. So, don't wait! Start planning your Tokyo adventure today and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. Learn More About: What Is A Commercial Leasing Agent? Choosing The Best Photographer for Your Event 6 Common Myths busted for the insurance agent exam

Best Places to Visit on the Coast of Maryland

If you’re heading to the east coast, Maryland is a wonderful option. Featuring an abundance of coastlines along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay, it’s hard to go wrong with the Old Line State - especially if you’re looking for a vacation destination on the water. Also known as the Free State, because it didn’t pass laws in support of Prohibition, the state is home to over forty state parks, with seven of them featuring waterfronts. If you’re headed to any stretch of Maryland’s coastline, here are some of the top places to see. Explore Inner Harbor: One of the best places to visit on Maryland’s coast for its sheer volume of exciting options is Inner Harbor. Popular with sightseers of all ages and interests, Inner Harbor is located in Baltimore and has a variety of dining, shopping, and tourist destinations. If history is your thing, you’ll love exploring a wide range of military ships, including the USS Constellation, the last warship built exclusively for sailing by the Navy. Inner Harbor is also home to the National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center, which showcase dolphins and other aquatic wildlife and a planetarium, respectively. You can see the city from new heights when you climb The Top of the World Observation Level and take in sweeping aerial vistas of the coastline and city. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll find plenty of options in Power Plant Live!, which offers bars, food, and events in a converted power plant. There’s so much to do at the Inner Harbor, in fact, that it will be useful to have your phone with you, not just to navigate—but to decide what to do! You may want to keep your phone open to the Harbor’s page on the city’s website, which has a list of activities. Additionally, many of the attractions have apps designed to enhance the visitor experience. To that end, you will want to make sure your phone is in great shape. You’ll find plenty of AT&T stores in Maryland where you can make updates to your phone or purchase a new one that has more options so that you don’t get overwhelmed by all your options! Experience History at Fort McHenry: Were you aware that Maryland plays a key role in many pivotal moments from US history? One such moment was the composition of the “Star Spangled Banner.” America’s National Anthem was inspired by a battle during the War of 1812 at Fort McHenry in which British naval forces were successfully fended off by American troops. Now given the sole distinction of both a National Monument and a Historic Shrine, Fort McHenry is a must-see destination for history buffs taking a trip to Maryland. While you visit the Fort, you’ll have plenty of ways to engage with histories, such as interactive ranger talks during the changing of the flag, multimedia presentations that contextualize the Fort’s role in American history, and a variety of museum exhibits. With so much to offer, you can easily spend half a day at Fort McHenry, making it a great option for your itinerary. Dine in Style at Fells Point: Aside from history and museums, it wouldn’t be a trip to the East Coast unless you were able to enjoy delicious, fresh seafood. Maryland has plenty of seafood to offer, and one of the hippest places to dine is in Fells Point. This waterside neighborhood has dozens of restaurant options along its cobblestone streets offering fresh oysters and crab straight from the Chesapeake Bay. Popular options range from One-Eyed Mike’s, a gastropub, to Thames Street Oyster House, offering a finer take on seafood. No matter what restaurant you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the vibrant energy of Fells Point. Known for its rich history, coastal cuisine, and wealth of museums, Maryland has plenty to offer tourists. Check out some of the sites above, and you're sure to have a great time! Read Also: 10 Best Coffee Places In The US 4 Best Destinations In Western United States

Become A U.S. Citizen Through Naturalization

Are you tired of going back and forth and the travel bill skyrocketing? Whether it is schooling, an internship, or a job that requires you to be in the country part-time, you shouldn't be traveling all month and waiting for your work visa to expire to get it renewed. If you find yourself spending a considerable amount of time in The United States, don’t you think getting citizenship will help you more? Now, it is not a simple process, and a citizenship lawyer would ask you to create a thorough checklist, ensure a clean record in the country, and then apply for citizenship through naturalization. If you are not familiar with the concept of Naturalization, then keep reading more to understand the subject matter and how to proceed with becoming a permanent citizen of the USA. If the legal documentation, and comprehension is getting very difficult then contact a Naturalization Lawyer. What Is Naturalization In simple terms, naturalization is a process of acquiring citizenship of a country when you have citizenship of another country. The reasons why you will need a Naturalization when you are residing in the country more often than not. - When you were not born in the country. - When you marry a US citizen, you will receive a green card that expires within three years. So, you need to submit for naturalization after that. Now that you know the gist of naturalization let us understand the eligibility and how to file. What Is The Eligibility? So, if you are planning to be a US citizen through Naturalization, you must be eligible for all the criteria below. It is a rigid process, and leniency toward making yourself a citizen of a different country is unheard off. Therefore, it is imperative that you take them seriously. - Only an adult can file for citizenship. So, you have to be over 18. - To be a citizen, you must show proof of residency in the country. You could either show proof of being a semi-permanent citizen of the country for the past 3-5 years. Or frequent residency in the country. - Since English is the language of communication in the country. You should at least be able to speak, write or understand basic English. - You should be able to project moral character. Yes, there will be a lot of questions in the procedure. So, it is better to hire a citizenship lawyer for the naturalization process. Since they are local and they have worked in the niche, they should be able to explain all the questions to you. - You need to understand the basics of the US constitution and comply with it. - Have a basic knowledge of US history. - You have to take an oath of Allegiance, so preparing for that is also a necessary part of the process. How To File? Here is how to file for citizenship with the help of a citizenship lawyer. If You Want To Do It Offline - Get the physical copy of Form N-400. - Read the articles on the form thoroughly before filling it up. - Then, start filling out the application carefully. - Sign the N-400. - Some files might have a filing fee, and others don't. - Attached is the extra documentation of evidence and identity proof. If You Want To Do It Offline - You have to create an account in USCIS online. - Then fill up the form. - Pay any fees if they are required. The good part of an online form is you can communicate with the executive securely. Plus, you could even get regular case updates about citizenship through this portal. So, submitting online is more convenient now. Why Should You Get It? Here are some of the reasons you should get US citizenship if you have reached the age. - It will help you get jobs after college if you study abroad on a visa. - You do not have to renew your work visa every six months. - You do not always have to rent; you can now buy property on American land with your citizenship. - You have been out of the country for some time now, and dual citizenship can solve a lot of temporary issues. Read Also: Having Business in Foreigner Country, Advantages and Disadvantages How to Get a Business Visa to Singapore: Insights for Foreigners Government Debt Relief And Student Loans

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Abdul Aziz Mondol

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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Tokyo Unveiled: 9 Must-Try Experiences That Will Transform Your Visit

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Experience The Charm And Allure Of The Island Of Ireland With Indus Travels

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Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related