Whenever I google credit cards and loyalty programs, sometimes a thread from Tripadvisor or Flyertalk jumps out with some Canadian asking if they could get the free nights with the Hyatt/Hilton/Marriott/Club Carlson. Usually, the answer is no, unless you have a US credit file. I made a list, and it is simply pathetic how many partners are not available in Canada. In the past few years, we have had the co-brand American, Delta, IHG, Choice Hotels, and Marriott card dropped.
If Only…
Transfer Partners
American Express Membership Rewards: Aeroplan, BA Avios, Asia Miles (1:0.75), Delta Skymiles (1:0.75), Etihad Guest (1:0.75), Hilton Honors (1:1), Starwood Preferred Guest (2:1)
RBC Avion: American AAdvantage (1:0.7), BA Avios, Asia Miles
HSBC Premier: Singapore Krisflyer (1:0.9), BA Avios, Asia Miles (1:0.8)
Unfortunately, we seem to be heading towards cashback or regular fixed-ratio rather than co-brand and transferrable points.
Reward Programs Not Available in Canada
Airlines: American, United, Delta, Asiana, Korean Air, Japan Airlines, ANA, Lufthansa, LATAM, Avianca Lifemiles, AeroMexico (SPG Transfers Only)
Hotels: Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Club Carlson, Fairmont, IHG, Ritz-Carlton
Credit Card Programs: Citi ThankYou Points, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Diners Club
Airline Transfer Partners: Air France/KLM Flying Blue, Turkish, Qantas, Emirates, Garuda, EVA, Jet Airways, Qatar, Virgin Atlantic, Thai Airways (SPG Transfer Only)
Most airline partners are not available in Canada directly. However, the one benefit is that the SPG Personal American Express and the SPG Business American Express earn points that can be transferred to these airlines. It also has an increased bonus of 25,000 points each.
I really like learning about all the different programs because they each have their unique sweet spot redemptions which save you miles when you redeem, such as the cheapest way to fly the best first class product in the world, Etihad Apartments.
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