TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* CardTD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* CardUp to 160,000 TD Rewards Points + annual fee rebate for the first year†

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points
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The list of beautiful landscapes isn’t exhaustive, obviously. However, the peculiarity of these destinations is that it is easily imaginable to visit them by redeeming points; you either get there sing points, or you use points to pay for expenses on the spot.

In Canada, Aeroplan points are among the easiest to earn!

Indeed, with one or two rounds of cards and good planning, the trick could be done.

The Grand Canyon

Planning

The Grand Canyon is a beautiful place that is easily accessible with the help of any Aeroplan credit card. The region’s magnificent landscapes are breathtaking!

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - grand canyon

It is possible to find award tickets for as little as 20,000 Aeroplan points for a round trip in economy class.

Several credit card , including the AeroplanMD* American ExpressMD card , can earn a couple enough points to pay for airfare!

In addition, this destination is eligible for a companion pass that is earned with the CIBC AeroplanMD Visa Infinite Card.

Our credit card selection
Credit cardAnnual feeWelcome offer
Annual fee$120Welcome offer
Up to 45,000 points
Apply Now
Annual fee$139 $0Welcome offer
Up to 50,000 points
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On the lodging side, overnight stays in Las Vegas, your gateway, can be covered with Marriott Bonvoy points.

Secondly, hotels and motels around the Grand Canyon are not very expensive; rates start around $60-80 per night.

From Las Vegas or other airports in the area, a rental car will be needed to properly explore the beautiful lunar landscape. For this, you will have to turn to earning AIR MILES Dreams, for example.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Grand Canyon

National park entry fees are $35 US per vehicle for up to 15 people and this pass is valid for 7 days. Single person access is $20 US for one week as well.

In terms of activities, I highly recommend taking a helicopter ride or hiking to the bottom of the canyon. You will then be able to fully take in the immensity of the place.

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: starting at 20,000 Aeroplan points + $82 tax
Accommodation

Marriott Bonvoy

Reward points

Rental carsAIR MILES
ActivitiesReward points
10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Grand Canyon 2

The Galapagos Islands

Planning

In this archipelago, the landscapes are sublime on the right and on the left.

For more information, I recommend you to read our complete guide to the Galapagos Islands.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Galapagos

To get there, Avianca serves airports in the Galapagos Islands so Aeroplan will be the program of choice. Award ticket costs start at 60,000 Aeroplan points for round-trip economy class.

I strongly recommend a cruise, then using rewards points to offset the cost.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Galapagos 2

Admittedly, this destination requires a credit card strategy that is a little more complex, but it is still very accessible with points. In fact, applying for 4 credit cards could help you earn up to $2,500 worth of rewards points. Prices for Galapagos Island cruises start at $2,000 with G Adventures.

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: from 60,000 Aeroplan points + $262 tax
AccommodationReward points
Activities (Cruise)Reward points
Annual fee
$799
Our valuation
$1,700

Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$1,700Total$1,700Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

Welcome offer
Up to 100,000 points
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidence — no impact on your credit scoreApply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

Terms of the offer

  • Unlock special experiences with the newly designed metal Platinum Card
  • New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 25,000 Welcome Bonus Membership Rewards® points when you charge $2,000 in purchases to your Card in the first three months of Cardmembership
  • Earn 3 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining in Canada, 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
  • You will have access to a $200 CAD Annual Travel Credit to use towards any single travel booking of $200 or more charged to your Platinum Card and made on www.americanexpress.ca/travel or through Platinum Card® Travel Service
  • Take full advantage of the American Express Global Lounge Collection which unlocks access to over 1200 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience
  • Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $550 USD at over 1,000 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels & Resorts.
  • Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities
  • Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport including security bypass, complimentary valet car service and discount car care and parking
  • You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts®, Radisson Hotel Group Hotels and Resorts, Hertz® and Avis®
  • As a Charge Card, the balance must always be paid in full each month. 30% annual interest rate applies to balances not paid in full. Payments must be received and processed by the date of the next monthly statement to avoid interest charges
  American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details, current product information and Terms and Conditions, click the Apply now link. Conditions Apply

The Platinum Card® is the best premium card in Canada for travellers.

With this welcome offer, you can earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points:

  • 70,000 points after charging $10,000 to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
  • 30,000 points when you make a purchase between the 15th and 17th month after your Cardmembership begins

With this Card, you get:

  • 2 points per $1 on eligible dining and delivery purchases in Canada
  • 2 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases charged to the Card
  • 1 point per $1 on all other purchases charged to the Card

You can use your Membership Rewards® points in many ways:

  • Transfer points to airline partners: Aeroplan, Avios (British Airways / Qatar Airways), Flying Blue, Delta SkyMiles, etc.
  • Transfer points to hotel partners, including Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy
  • Redeem points for statement credits to offset any travel purchase charged to your Card (1,000 points = $10)
  • Redeem points for statement credits towards other purchases (1,000 points = $10)
  • And more!

For example, with this welcome offer, if you decide to transfer your Membership Rewards® points to a partner loyalty program, you could earn up to:

  • 100,000 Aeroplan points
  • 100,000 Avios
  • 100,000 Flying Blue Miles
  • 120,000 Marriott Bonvoy points

With this card, you also have advantages for your travels:

  • $200 Annual Travel Credit
  • An annual meal credit of $200
  • A $100 statement credit for NEXUS membership
  • Complimentary access for you and one additional guest to more than 1,550 airport lounges in over 140 countries
  • Hilton Honors Gold status
  • Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
  • Access to the Fine Hotels + Resorts program

Last but not least, The Platinum Card® offers a wide range of insurance coverage: rental car theft and damage, $500,000 travel accident, emergency medical expenses (out-of-province or out-of-country), lost or stolen baggage, flight delays and misdirected baggage, hotel or motel burglary, Purchase Protection, Purchase Security.

Like all American Express Canada Cards, there is no minimum income requirement.

Annual fee

Primary card$799
Additional card$250

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 2xTravel
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,482
2nd Year Value$470

Transfer partners

  • AeroplanAirline
  • British Airways ClubAirline
  • Cathay Asia MilesAirline
  • Etihad GuestAirline
  • Flying BlueAirline
  • Hilton HonorsHotel
  • Marriott BonvoyHotel

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$400
Travel creditsIncluded

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $1,000
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

Iguaçu Falls

Planning

Located on the border between Brazil and Argentina, you can visit the beautiful Iguaçu Falls from both countries to see them from a different perspective.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Iguassu

On the Brazilian side, the waterfalls are further away so the view is more of an overall perspective. Being a photographer with a penchant for landscapes, I was very spoiled. The panoramas are magnificent!

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Iguassu 2

In Argentina, there is a footbridge to get to the heart of the Garganta del Diablo, the biggest waterfall. The latter is not always accessible, especially when the flow of the cataract can compromise the safety of visitors. However, if the path is open, expect to come out all wet!

The helicopter tour and the boat tour are also worth the price.

For Canadians, visas are no longer required to enter Brazil and Argentina has abolished reciprocity fees.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Vol hélicoptère Iguaçu
10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Vol hélicoptère Iguaçu 2

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: from 80,000 Aeroplan points + $136 tax
AccommodationReward points
ActivitiesReward points
Annual fee
$599
Our valuation
$2,000

Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$2,000Total$2,000Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

Welcome offer
Up to 100,000 points
Apply Now

on TD's website

Terms of the offer

  • Limited Time Offer! Apply by December 1, 2019 to earn up to 60,000 Aeroplan Miles (equivalent to 2 business class short-haul roundtrip flight rewards)¹ as follows:
    • Welcome Bonus of 25,000 Aeroplan Miles when you make your first Purchase with your card¹.
    • + Earn 2x miles on your purchases4,5 made using your Card for a total of up to 30,000 Aeroplan Miles, for first 3 months¹.
    • + Earn 5,000 Aeroplan Miles when you add an Authorized User to your Account by December 1, 2019. Annual Fees for Authorized Users continue to apply¹.
  • Earn Aeroplan Miles with every purchase made on your Card and arrive at your dream destination sooner
  • Enjoy Air Canada®³ and Visa Infinite Privilege benefits4
    • Priority Check-in on Air Canada®³ flights
    • Priority Boarding on Air Canada®³ flights
    • First checked bag free on Air Canada®³ flights
    • Four annual One-Time Guest Passes to the Maple Leaf Lounge (when travelling on flight rewards)
    • 50% discount on companion tickets for eligible Executive Class or Executive First fare (booking classes J & C) on tickets entirely operated by Air Canada®³ & Air Canada Express
    • Global Airport Lounge Access4
    • Visa Infinite Privilege* Airport Benefits4 at Vancouver, Ottawa and Montreal-Trudeau International airports
  • An extensive suite of travel insurance
  • Earn 1.5 miles5 for every $1 spent on eligible grocery, gas, drugstore and Air Canada Purchases (excluding Air Canada Vacation packages) made with the Card (capped annually on the first $100,000 across these categories)
  • Earn 1.25 miles6 for every $1 spent on all other purchases made with the Card
  • Earn miles twice7 when you pay with your Card and present your Aeroplan Membership Number at participating partner brands and online retailers via the Aeroplan eStore
  • Your Aeroplan Miles don’t expire as long as you’re a TD Aeroplan Credit Cardholder
  Sponsored advertising. The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on this TD credit card, please click the Apply Now button.

Fees / Rates / Eligibility

 
Type Details
Personal annual income -
Household annual income $200,000
Purchase APR 19.99%
Cash Advance APR 22.99%
Interest Grace Period 21 days on all new purchases
Balance Transfer Rate 22.99%
Foreign Transaction Rate
Annual Fee $399
Authorized User Cards $99
Balance Transfer Fee Promotional Balance Transfer/ Cheque Fee: 3% of the amount of each Balance Transfer or TD Visa Cheque that we may offer to you at a promotional interest rate which is an interest rate that is lower than the regular annual interest rate that applies to Cash Advances on your Account. The Bank may waive or lower this 3% fee at the time the promotional interest rate offer is made to you. You will be advised of the exact fee that applies at the time the offer is made.
Cash Advance Fee 1% of the amount of the transaction (minimum fee of $3.50 up to a maximum fee of $10.00) (in Canada) or $5.00 (outside Canada), plus $3.00 at a PLUS* network ATM. (Fee does not apply to a Balance Transfer or TD Visa Cheque)
Foreign Currency Conversion Fee 2.50%
Over Credit Limit Fee N/A
 

Disclaimer

Annual interest rates, fees and features are current as of June 19, 2017 unless otherwise indicated and subject to change. The Aeroplan Program is a coalition loyalty marketing program owned and operated by Aeroplan Inc. Visit aeroplan.com for complete terms and conditions of the Aeroplan Program. The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its affiliates are not responsible for the Aeroplan Program. 1 Must apply by December 1, 2019. Welcome Bonus of 25,000 Aeroplan Miles will be awarded to the Aeroplan Member account associated with the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege* Card Account (“Account”) only after the first Purchase is made on the Account. Welcome Earn Bonus of 2x in Aeroplan Miles ("Welcome Earn Bonus") applies to new Account in the first 3 months of Account opening ("First 3 Months") to a maximum total collective miles of 30,000 ("Welcome Earn Bonus Cap") on all purchases charged to your ("Account"). During the Welcome Earn Bonus promotional period, 3 Aeroplan Miles are earned for each $1.00 in Purchases of eligible gas, groceries, drugstore, and aircanada.com products and services (excluding Air Canada Vacations packages, car rentals, hotel bookings, and other third party partner products and services that can be purchased through aircanada.com) charged to your Account and 2.5 Aeroplan Miles are earned for each $1.00 for all other Purchases charged to your Account. Any returned items, refunds, rebates or other similar credits on any Purchases made during the First 3 Months will reduce or cancel the Aeroplan Miles earned at the Welcome Earn Bonus on the original Purchase, as applicable. Welcome Earn Bonus Cap: Once the Welcome Earn Bonus Cap is reached, any further Purchases made in the First 3 Months will earn Aeroplan Miles at the regular 1.5 Bonus Aeroplan Miles that applies to each $1.00 in Purchases of eligible gas, groceries, drugstore, and aircanada.com products and services (excluding Air Canada Vacations packages, car rentals, hotel bookings, and other third party partner products and services that can be purchased through aircanada.com) and 1.25 Aeroplan Mile to each $1.00 to all other eligible Purchases. To receive the additional 5,000 Aeroplan Miles for adding an Authorized User to your Account ("Authorized User Bonus"), you must: (a) apply for an Account and add an Authorized User between September 4, 2019, and December 1, 2019; and (b) Authorized User must call and activate their Card by January 31, 2020. You can have a maximum of three (3) Authorized Users on your Account but you will only receive 1 (one) 5,000 Authorized User Bonus Aeroplan Miles offer. Annual Fee for each Authorized User Card added to the Account will apply. The Primary Cardholder is responsible for all charges to the Account, including those made by any Authorized User. Other conditions apply. Offers may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise specified. Welcome Bonus and 2x miles earned through Welcome Earn Bonus are not eligible for Aeroplan status. Your Account must be in good standing at the time bonus miles are awarded. Please allow 8 weeks after the conditions for each offer are fulfilled for the miles to be credited to your Aeroplan Member account. The number of Aeroplan Miles required for the destination is accurate as of September 4, 2019 and is subject to change at any time by Aeroplan Inc. According to Aeroplan's current reward chart, destinations reflect two short-haul  Fixed Mileage Flight Reward® in Business Class departing from within Canada or the continental US (plus applicable fees and taxes). Fixed Mileage Flight Reward availability is capacity controlled and is subject to availability at time of booking as well as seasonality of demand. Aeroplan Flight Rewards are subject to taxes, landing and departure fees, and other charges and surcharges may apply. Aeroplan Partners, rules and regulations are subject to change without notice. For full details on Aeroplan's current reward chart, please visit aeroplan.com. 2 Primary Cardholder remains liable for all charges to the Account, including those made by an Authorized User. 3 All Air Canada benefits are fulfilled in whole or in part by Air Canada or its designated affiliates or other third parties, and are subject to change at any time. The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its affiliates are not responsible for fulfilling these benefits. For more details about these benefits, please contact Air Canada directly. Air Canada Benefit Eligibility – Priority Travel Services : With the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card, Air Canada benefits (the complimentary first checked bag, priority check in and priority boarding) apply whenever the Primary Cardholder travels on a flight operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge or under the Air Canada Express banner. Flights operated by other airlines are not eligible. To access priority check-in and priority boarding, the Primary Cardholder must include their Aeroplan Number on their reservation at time of booking, or redeem their Aeroplan flight reward (defined as Fixed Mileage Flight Rewards® or Market Fare Flight Rewards®) using miles from their Aeroplan account. To access these benefits, the Primary Cardholder must also ensure that the name on the Air Canada flight booking is identical to the name on the Aeroplan account profile of the traveler. Where zonal boarding is available, the priority boarding status will be recognized by a Zone 2 descriptor for the Primary Cardholder and companions travelling on the same reservation checking-in at the same time, which will be displayed on the Air Canada issued boarding pass. Priority check-in may also be extended to companions travelling on the same reservation checking-in at the same time as the Primary Cardholder. To access priority check-in and priority boarding, the Primary Cardholder may be required to show their TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege* Card to the Air Canada agent. Please allow two (2) weeks from receiving your Card for these Air Canada benefits to be activated. The complimentary first checked bag , up to 23kg (50lb), applies whenever the Primary Cardholder travels on a flight operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge or under the Air Canada Express banner. Flights operated by other airlines are not eligible. To access this benefit, the Primary Cardholder must include their Aeroplan Number on their reservation at time of booking, or redeem their Aeroplan flight reward (defined as Fixed Mileage Flight Rewards or Market Fare Flight Rewards) using miles from their Aeroplan account. To access this benefit, the Primary Cardholder must also ensure that the name on the Air Canada flight booking is identical to the name on the Aeroplan account profile of the traveler. The complimentary first checked bag applies solely to the Primary Cardholder, and service charges for additional/oversized/overweight baggage may apply. Applicable on flights that do not already offer a complimentary first checked bag. To access this benefit, the Primary Cardholder may be required to show their TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege * Card to the Air Canada agent. Please allow two (2) weeks from receiving your Card for these Air Canada benefits to be activated. The complimentary first checked bag, up to 23kg (50lb), applies whenever the Primary Cardholder travels on a flight operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge or under the Air Canada Express banner. Flights operated by other airlines are not eligible. To access this benefit, the Primary Cardholder must include their Aeroplan Number on their reservation at time of booking, or redeem their Aeroplan flight reward (defined as Fixed Mileage Flight Rewards or Market Fare Flight Rewards) using miles from their Aeroplan account. To access this benefit, the Primary Cardholder must also ensure that the name on the Air Canada flight booking is identical to the name on the Aeroplan account profile of the traveler. The complimentary first checked bag applies solely to the Primary Cardholder, and service charges for additional/oversized/overweight baggage may apply. Applicable on flights that do not already offer a complimentary first checked bag. To access this benefit, the Primary Cardholder may be required to show their TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card to the Air Canada agent. Please allow two (2) weeks from receiving your Card for these Air Canada benefits to be activated. Air Canada Benefit Eligibility – Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge One-Time Guest Access Benefit : With the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card, the Primary Cardholder will receive four Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge One-Time Guest Access Benefits once every calendar year (January 1 - December 31). The Primary Cardholder may access an Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge, where available, upon presentation of an active TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card with a valid, same-day boarding pass for travel using an Aeroplan Flight Reward, only, on flights operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge or under the Air Canada Express banner. To access this benefit, the Primary Cardholder must redeem their Aeroplan Flight Reward (defined as Fixed Mileage Flight Rewards® or Market Fare Flight Rewards®) with miles from their Aeroplan account. Each Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge One-Time Guest Access Benefit applies for a single entry during the calendar year for which it was provided by the Primary Cardholder only and cannot be carried forward to the next calendar year. As of November 2, 2015, Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge One-Time Guest Access Benefits associated with the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card may be used by a traveling companion, pending space availability, provided that the companion is booked on the same reservation as the eligible Primary Cardholder. Only applicable if the companion ticket is also redeemed using miles from the eligible Primary Cardholder’s Aeroplan account. Companion must be accompanied by the eligible Primary Cardholder who is using a One-Time Guest Access Benefit to access the same Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge. The One-Time Guest Access Benefit may be extended to more than one companion at any given time, pending space availability, provided that the conditions above are met and that this does not exceed the maximum annual allotment of One-Time Guest Access Benefits. Additional conditions may apply and are outlined on aircanada.com/tdbenefits. Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge access is subject to availability and all other terms and conditions located here that are subject to change at Air Canada’s sole discretion from time to time. Please allow two (2) weeks from receiving your Card for these Air Canada benefits to be in effect. Air Canada® Benefit Eligibility – 50% Discount on Companion Ticket : Upon the purchase from Air Canada of two (2) eligible Business Class (Flexible) fares for the Primary Cardholder and a companion (booking classes J, C, and D only) on tickets entirely operated by Air Canada or under the Air Canada Express banner, the Primary Cardholder will be eligible for a 50% discount on the companion ticket. Flights operated by other airlines, including Air Canada-marketed codeshare flights are not eligible. The 50% discount only applies on the published fare, and will not apply to any additional taxes, fees, charges or surcharges. This offer is available once every calendar year (January 1 – December 31) to each Primary Cardholder. The Primary Cardholder can only access the 50% discount each year when booking online at aircanada.com using that year’s promotional code. All travel must be completed by December 31 of the following year. Offer also applies to select Premium rouge bookings, where booking classes J, C, or D are available, on flights operated by Air Canada rouge to select destinations in Canada, the United States, or the Caribbean. Should you require assistance completing your 50% discount during your online booking, please contact Air Canada at 1-888-247-2262. Offer is non-transferable, and the companion Business Class ticket must be booked on the same reservation as the eligible Business Class (Flexible) booking by the Primary Cardholder. Please note that promotional codes apply to undiscounted published fares. Some of our previously discounted fares, while not eligible for the promotion, may be lower than the final price of the undiscounted fare to which the promotion applies. 4 You must be an eligible Visa Infinite Privilege cardholder with a valid Visa Infinite Privilege Card to take advantage of the Visa Infinite Privilege benefits and services. Certain benefits and services require enrolment. Offers and benefits are non-transferable and discounts cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Neither Visa nor the Issuer of the card is responsible for any claims or damages arising from use of any benefits or services provided by a third party. Visa reserves the right to modify or cancel offers or benefits at any time and without notice. All offers, benefits and services made available through Visa are subject to complete terms and conditions, including third party suppliers’ terms and conditions (available at www.visainfinite.ca/privilege/terms.jsp). The Visa Infinite Privilege privacy policy (available at www.visainfinite.ca/privilege/privacy.jsp) applies to all benefits and services that require enrolment through, or are otherwise provided by, the Visa Infinite Privilege Concierge or the Visa Infinite Privilege website. The collection, use and disclosure of cardholders’ personal information by third party suppliers of services and benefits to Visa Infinite Privilege cardholders are subject to such third parties’ own privacy policies. 5 1.5 Bonus Aeroplan Miles (“Bonus Rate”) are earned on each $1.00 in Purchases of gas, groceries or drugstore products/services charged to your TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card Account (“Account”). This Bonus Rate is also earned on each $1.00 in Purchases from Air Canada charged to your Account for products and services completed online at aircanada.com, in-person at an Air Canada customer service counter at the airport or aboard an Air Canada flight. Excluded from the Bonus Rate are Air Canada Vacations packages, car rentals, hotel bookings, and other third party partner products and services that can be purchased through aircanada.com. Any returned items, refunds, rebates or other similar credits will reduce or cancel the Aeroplan Miles earned on the original Purchase. To earn this Bonus Rate, Purchases of gas, groceries, drugstore products/services and Air Canada Purchases must be made at merchants classified through the Visa* network with a Merchant Category Code (“MCC”) that identifies them in the “gas”, “grocery”, “drugstore” or “Air Canada” category. Some merchants may sell gas, groceries or drugstore products/services or Air Canada products/services, or have separate merchants located on their premises that also sell gas, groceries or drugstore products/services or Air Canada products/services, but may not be classified with a gas, grocery, drugstore or Air Canada MCC and such Purchases will not earn this Bonus Rate. If you have questions about the MCC that applies to a Purchase, contact TD at 1-800-983-8472. Bonus Rate is only available on the first $100,000 in net annual Purchases of gas, groceries, drugstore products/services and Air Canada Purchases made from January 1 to December 31 each year on your Account. Once the maximum net annual amount has been reached, Purchases of gas, groceries, drugstore products/services or Air Canada Purchases on the Account will not earn the Bonus Rate but will only earn Aeroplan Miles at the standard rate that applies to all other Purchases on the Account. This Bonus Rate offer is in place of, and not in addition to, the standard rate earned on all other Purchases made on your Account. Offer may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer. 6 1.25 Aeroplan Miles are earned on each $1.00 in Purchases charged to your TD Aeroplan Credit Card Account (“Account”). Credit for returned items, refunds, rebates or other similar credits will reduce or cancel the Aeroplan Miles earned by the amount originally charged to your Account. Fees, Cash Advances (including Balance Transfers, Cash-Like Transactions and TD Visa Cheques), interest charges, optional services, refunds, rebates or other similar credits do not earn Aeroplan Miles. Please see the Aeroplan Terms for Your TD Credit Card section of the Cardholder Agreement for complete details on Aeroplan Miles earned on Purchases (a copy of your Cardholder Agreement is available at http://www.tdcanadatrust.com/tdvisa/agreements ). 7 The Toronto-Dominion Bank is not responsible for any Aeroplan Miles under this “earn miles twice” feature of the Aeroplan Program when the Aeroplan Membership Card is presented. See your Aeroplan Program for full details. Feature may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer. For full details on hotel accommodation and car rental booked with Aeroplan Travel Services, please visit aeroplan.com. All trade-marks are the property of their respective owners. * Trademark of Visa Int., used under license. TM Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge is a trademark of Air Canada, used under license. ® Air Canada, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge and the Air Canada Maple Leaf logo are registered trademarks of Air Canada, used under license. ® Air Canada is a registered trademark of Air Canada, used under license. ® Fixed Mileage Flight Rewards and Market Fare Flight Rewards are registered trademarks of Aimia Canada Inc. Aeroplan® and the Aeroplan logo are registered trademarks of Aeroplan Inc. The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

With the TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Infinite Privilege* Card, you can earn up to 100,000 Aeroplan points with a tiered welcome offer.

This card also offers premium travel benefits, including:

  • A partial rebate on NEXUS program application fees (up to $100 CAD per eligible cardholder) every 48 months
  • Unlimited access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges, with complimentary access for one guest
  • 6 complimentary visits per year to select international airport lounges through the Visa Airport Companion Program presented by DragonPass International Ltd.
  • First checked bag free for you and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation when travel begins with an Air Canada flight

With the TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Infinite Privilege* Card, you earn:

  • Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)
  • 1.5 points per dollar on eligible purchases of gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries, travel, public transit and dining
  • 1.25 points per dollar on all other eligible purchases

Annual fee

Primary card$599
Additional card$199

Annual income required

Individual$150,000
Household$200,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 2xAir Canada flights
  • 1.5xRestaurants
  • 1.5xGroceries
  • 1.5xTravel
  • 1.5xTransit
  • 1.5xGas & EV
  • 1.25xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$2,334
2nd Year Value$461

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$400

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 31 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 31 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $5,000,000 / 4 days
Trip CancellationUp to $2,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $2,500
Flight DelayUp to $1,000
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+2 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,500 / 2 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

The Sahara Desert

Planning

The Sahara Desert covers an area of 9.2 million km² in the north of the African continent. After my experience on the dunes in Morocco and Egypt, I can confirm they are really more beautiful in Merzouga, Morocco.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Sahara 4

Casablanca and Marrakech are easily accessible with Aeroplan points. A train connects both cities in 2 hours and 40 minutes (at a cost of 80-150 MAD) if you land in Casablanca. The route between Montreal and Casablanca is the only sweetspot to cross the Atlantic on Aeroplan’s new program.

Then, for accommodation, Morocco is also a sweetspot for Marriott Bonvoypoints!

However, it should be noted that in order to fully grasp the pulse of the magnificent landscapes of the Sahara desert, I recommend a 3-day excursion.

Merzouga is located about 10 hours drive from Marrakech. I had the chance to go twice and I really enjoyed the experience even though the drive was tough… both times!

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Sahara 3
10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Sahara 2

In town, there will be plenty of choices for tours, but in my experience, the majority of these camps are paltry and travelers are treated like numbers.

It is best to book the tour on Viator through Rakuten for the best return on purchase. We tried both and the difference is great.

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: from 60,000 Aeroplan points + $114 tax
AccommodationMarriott Bonvoy
ActivitiesReward points
Avios: Oneworld multi-partner award tickets - Sahara
Annual fee
$599
Our valuation
$1,700

Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$1,700Total$1,700Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

Welcome offer
Up to 85,000 points
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidence — no impact on your credit scoreApply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text el_class="checkmarks"]This metal credit card is the Best Premium Aeroplan Credit Card in Canada. For a limited time, you can earn up to 150,000 Aeroplan points as a welcome bonus (an estimated $2,550 value). With this Card you can earn:
  • 3 points per dollar on purchases made with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations
  • 2 points per dollar for dining and food delivery purchases
  • 1.25 points per dollar on all other purchases.
Also, as a Cardmember, you get many benefits such as:
  • Unlimited access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges in North America
  • The first checked bag free for you and up to 8 companions
  • An Annual Worldwide Companion Pass
  • Exclusive benefits with Air Canada (Priority check-in, Priority Boarding and Priority Standby List)
  • The ability to earn 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and 1 Statuts Qualifying Segment for every $5,000 in purchases charged to your Card.
Finally, you are covered with reliable insurance for your travels and purchases.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

With this welcome offer for American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card, you can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points. Here’s how:

  • Earn 60,000 points after you spend $7,500 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
  • Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in the 13th month

With this Amex Aeroplan Card, you earn 3X the points on purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations. And 2x the points on Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada. Everywhere else, you will earn 1.25X the points.

With this Amex Aeroplan Premium Card, you receive many Air Canada travel benefits, such as access to Maple Leaf Lounges in North America for you and one guest, priority check-in, priority boarding and priority baggage handling. It’s the best Amex Aeroplan Card for frequent Air Canada flyers.

With this American Express Aeroplan Card, enjoy your first checked bag free (up to 23kg/50lb) for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada®* flights.

Like all American Express Canada Cards, there is no minimum income requirement.

Annual fee

Primary card$599
Additional card$199

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 3xAir Canada flights
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 1.25xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,938
2nd Year Value$430

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$400

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $1,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $1,000
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

The Cappadocia Valley

Planning

This historic region is known for its beautiful scenery of atypical rock formations, its legendary heritage and its hot air balloon tours.

Currently, the HSBC World Elite® Mastercard® welcome bonus provides enough reward points to cover the expenses related to hot air ballooning for a family!

Turkish Airlines provides direct service between Montreal and Istanbul.

Our complete industry guide is here!

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Cappadoce 2

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: from 80,000 Aeroplan points + $141 tax
AccommodationReward points
ActivitiesReward points
10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Cappadoce
Annual fee
$150
Our valuation
$350

Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$350Total$350Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

Welcome offer
Up to 35,000 points

Ends Nov 1, 2026

Apply Now

on Scotiabank's website

With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card +* CardMC, you’ll earn 25,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points after charging $2,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months.

Plus, every year, earn an annual bonus of at least 10,000 Scene+ points when you charge at least $40,000 in purchases to your account. In total, the offer represents up to 35,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,250 in the first year, including rewards, savings on foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access.

With the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card, you earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland and participating Co-ops, and 2 points per $1 spent at other grocery stores, restaurants, eligible entertainment and eligible daily transit. You earn 1 point per $1 on all your other everyday purchases.

These points can be redeemed against any travel purchase at a rate of 1,000 points = $10 (flights, hotels, all-inclusives and even Airbnb), or as cash back with Scene+ at the same rate.

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite +* Card also offers:

  • No fees for foreign currency transactions
  • 6 complimentary airport VIP lounge passes
  • Excellent insurance for your travels and purchases
  • Visa Infinite* Concierge Services

We have named this credit card the Best Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Annual fee

Primary card$150
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

0%

Earning rate

  • 2xGroceries
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 2xTransit
  • 2xEntertainment
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$650
2nd Year Value$397

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$240

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $1,000,000 / 25 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $1,000,000 / 3 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $2,500
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $1,000
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

Iceland

Planning

When we talk about beautiful landscapes, we can’t forget Iceland!

It is a destination mainly focused on nature and the outdoors. There is a lot of diversity in the panorama. Indeed, the country abounds in black sand beaches, sublime waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal springs and spectacular caves.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Islande

The cost of living is high in Iceland. However, it is a great place to go camping to cut costs.

Also, I suggest renting a car.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Islande 3
10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Islande 2

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: starting at 70,000 Aeroplan points + $99 tax
AccommodationReward points
ActivitiesReward points

Ha Long Bay

Planning

Ha Long Bay is huge; in fact, it covers more than 1,500 km². Besides its size, what is most impressive is the thousands of limestone islands that rise out of the emerald waters.

The best way to experience this natural beauty is on the bay itself. Whether it’s a kayak tour or a one- or two-night cruise, you’ll be immersed in the bay’s beautiful scenery!

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Baie de Ha Long 2

Although it is possible to choose an operator on the spot, for the sake of quality, I recommend using a platform like Viator. Local agencies are a hit or miss just like for excursions in the Sahara.

In addition, there are often interesting cash back promotions on Viator when using the Rakuten portal.

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: from 96,000 Aeroplan points + $175 tax
AccommodationMarriott Bonvoy
ActivitiesReward points
10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Baie de Ha Long

The island of Bali

Planning

A trendy travel destination, Bali also offers beautiful scenery to discover with the help of points.

Beyond the sublime landscapes and magical temples, Bali has all kinds of natural beauties. Beautiful beaches, mountainous areas, picturesque waterfalls, emblematic rice fields, etc., make up the island’s panorama.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Bali

Although it is expensive and time-consuming to travel to Indonesia from Canada, this country is another one of my favourites. Once there, the cost of living is relatively low, and Marriott Bonvoy points can go a long way!

With the Marriott Bonvoy Credit cards Welcome Bonus, the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express® Card (or the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card), you could get up to 15 free nights in Bali!

It is a great destination to try with your family as well as Indonesia in general. There is something for everyone, young and old!

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: from 115,000 Aeroplan points + $180 tax
AccommodationMarriott Bonvoy
ActivitiesReward points
10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Bali 2
Our credit card selection
Credit cardAnnual feeWelcome offer
Annual fee$150Welcome offer
Up to 110,000 pointsEnds Sep 22, 2026
Apply Now
Annual fee$120Welcome offer
Up to 110,000 pointsEnds Sep 22, 2026
Apply Now

The Maldives

Planning

This luxury destination is definitely one of the best places to maximize points.

Firstly, the Maldives is served by several airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways. They offer great products in both economy and business class, but also in first class!

The program of choice will be with Aeroplan as it is easier to earn points with the multiple credit cards available.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Maldives

On the lodging side, I strongly advise you to use your Marriott Bonvoy points before the massive devaluation next March. This kind of experience will quickly be out of reach for the points hoarder.

With the abolition of categories and the introduction of dynamic pricing, the number of points required could be exorbitant.

Of course, a minimum of 130,000 points is currently required for a 5-day stay in the beautiful landscape of the archipelago. That might sound like a lot, but it will be much more unattainable after next spring.

By looking at the current promotions, we can see that by taking only one card , the American Express Cobalt® Cardyou can earn 72,000 Marriott Bonvoy points!

Points purchase promotions could prove to be an interesting way to treat yourself to luxury at low prices. Finally, the quickest way to earn them is through the welcome bonuses on the Membership Rewards giving cards, the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express® Card.

Marriott Bonvoy: 5 dream destinations to consider right now - Maldives Snorkeling

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: from 130,000 Aeroplan points + $312 tax
AccommodationMarriott Bonvoy
ActivitiesReward points
Our credit card selection
Credit cardAnnual feeWelcome offer
Annual fee$120Welcome offer
Up to 110,000 pointsEnds Sep 22, 2026
Apply Now
Annual fee$150Welcome offer
Up to 110,000 pointsEnds Sep 22, 2026
Apply Now
Annual fee$191.88Welcome offer
Up to 15,000 points
Apply Now

The Great Barrier Reef

Planning

Australia is full of beautiful landscapes. On the other hand, the beaches of the east coast and the immensity of the coral reef will leave you speechless.

This wonder is located in the state of Queensland and extends from the north of Brisbane to Cape York.

For scuba diving or snorkeling enthusiasts, the Great Barrier Reef is a must-see. It is the largest coral reef in the world. The aquatic life over there is amazingly diverse.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Grande Barrière de Corail 2
10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Grande Barrière de Corail

In addition, there are a variety of activities to please everyone. The white sand beaches are perfect and the water is crystal clear.

The ideal trip would be to rent a campervan and drive along the coast. However, since it’s not always possible to have that many vacation days, here are my favourite spots.

  • Airlie Beach
  • Fitzroy Island
  • Port Douglas

To reach these places with short-haul flights on Qantas, it is better to turn to Avios. These flights are sweetspots in this program!

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Whitsundays 2

I particularly liked having a base at Airlie Beach which is the gateway to the Whitsundays. Of all the beaches I have seen, this is the most beautiful.

And yes, I get on plane and helicopter rides everywhere!

For more information on individual reefs and what they offer, go here.

10 beautiful landscapes to discover with reward points - Whitsundays 3

The strategy

Suggested Points Programs
Airline ticketAeroplan: from 97,000 Aeroplan points + $302 tax
Accommodation

Marriott Bonvoy

Reward points

ActivitiesReward points
Annual fee
$165
Our valuation
$850

Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$850Total$850Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

Welcome offer
50,000 Avios
Apply Now

on RBC's website

With this exceptional welcome offer for the RBC British Airways Visa Infinite Card, you can earn 50,000 Avios!

With this card, you benefit from a companion voucher (by spending $30,000 or more during a calendar year). Additionally, you can enjoy a 10% discount on British Airways flights when booking with your RBC British Airways Visa Infinite Card.

With the RBC British Airways Visa Infinite Card, you get:

  • 3 Avios per dollar spent with British Airways and BA Holidays
  • 2 Avios per dollar on groceries, dining, and food delivery
  • 1 Avios per dollar for all your other purchases

In addition, you benefit from extensive insurance coverage:

  • Out-of-province/country emergency medical insurance
  • Travel Accident Insurance
  • Flight delay and essential items purchase insurance
  • Hotel or motel burglary insurance
  • Rental vehicle collision and damage insurance

Annual fee

Primary card$165
Additional card$75

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 2xGroceries
  • 2xRestaurants
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,348
2nd Year Value$243

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Included
Travel medical (55-64)Included
Travel medical (65+)Included
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionUp to $50,000 / 90 days
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

The strategies

Points for travel or cash back? Here are my two strategies with credit cards:

Annual fee
$191.88
Our valuation
$255

Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$255Total$255Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.

Welcome offer
Up to 15,000 points
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidence — no impact on your credit scoreApply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

The American Express Cobalt® Card is the best credit card from American Express, whether you want points for travel or cash back.

American Express Cobalt® Card welcome offer

The welcome bonus is paid out monthly over your first 12 months. You earn 1,250 Membership Rewards points for each monthly billing period in which you charge $750 in net purchases to your card, in any category (1X, 2X, 3X or 5X). That adds up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points over the year, a welcome offer we value at $255.

Earning the full bonus means $9,000 in net purchases spread across 12 monthly billing periods. This offer rewards steady monthly spending rather than one large purchase.

You can use these points as statement credits on everyday or travel purchases, at the same rate either way: 1,000 points = $10.

You can also transfer them to Aeroplan, Avios (British Airways and Qatar Airways), Flying Blue, Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors. With the full welcome bonus, that is a choice between:

  • 15,000 Aeroplan points
  • 15,000 Avios points
  • 15,000 Flying Blue Miles
  • 18,000 Marriott Bonvoy points

If hotel points are what you are after, our ultimate guide to Marriott Bonvoy and our complete map of Marriott Bonvoy hotels by category show what those points can actually buy.

American Express Cobalt® Card benefits

Here is what the card gives you, starting with the benefits cardholders use most.

  • 5X points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada: groceries, restaurants and bars, home food delivery and convenience stores. A spend cap applies.
  • 3X points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
  • 2X points on eligible gas, public transit and ride sharing purchases in Canada.
  • 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings made through American Express Travel Online.
  • 1X point per dollar on everything else, with no category restrictions.
  • Points that hold the same value either way: 1,000 points = $10 as a statement credit, or a 1:1 transfer to several airline and hotel loyalty programs.
  • No minimum income requirement, as with every American Express Canada card.
  • Additional cards at no extra cost: the first and every other supplementary card is $0.
  • The Hotel Collection: a room upgrade when available, 12pm check-in and late check-out when available, and up to $100 USD in hotel credit on amenities charged to the room for a stay of two or more consecutive nights, booked through American Express Travel.
  • Front Of The Line® presale and reserved tickets for concerts and theatre performances, plus offers and events curated for cardmembers through Amex Experiences.
  • A soft credit check before you apply: you can see whether you will be approved with no impact to your credit score. This applies to American Express personal card applications.

To see how it compares with the rest of the line-up, read our round-up of the best credit cards from American Express in Canada.

The 5X categories and where they apply

The 5X rate is the reason most people carry this card. In Canada it covers four kinds of merchants:

  • Groceries: Metro, IGA, Sobeys, Super C, Safeway, Whole Foods.
  • Restaurants and bars: sit-down meals, takeout and drinks.
  • Home food delivery.
  • Convenience stores: Couche-Tard, 7-Eleven.

The 2X rate covers gas stations such as Esso, Shell and Petro-Canada, along with public transit and ride sharing.

With the American Express Cobalt® Card, you earn between 1 and 5 points per dollar:

Category Points per dollar
Grocery (Metro, IGA, Sobeys, Super C, etc.) 5
Home food delivery 5
Restaurants and bars 5
Convenience stores 5
Streaming services 3
Service station 2
Transport 2
Travel 1
Other 1

That works out to a 1 to 5% return on those purchases. For example, if you spend $1,000 per month across groceries, restaurants and food delivery, you earn $50 back per month, or $600 per year from that category alone. Transfer the points to a program such as Aeroplan instead and the return can be higher.

You can also stack these categories with the hundreds of stores that offer 5x points.

American Express Cobalt® Card insurance coverage

The card comes with a broad insurance package. The amounts below are the coverage limits; conditions, age limits and exclusions are set out in the certificate of insurance linked in the Insurance section above.

Travel insurance

  • Emergency medical: up to $5,000,000 for the first 15 days of a trip.
  • Travel accident: accidental death and dismemberment of up to $250,000 for you, your spouse and dependent children under age 23 when travelling on a common carrier (plane, train, bus or ship) and the tickets are charged to your card. Supplementary cardholders and their families are covered too.
  • Flight delay: up to $500 for necessary hotel, meal and sundry expenses bought within 48 hours when you are delayed or denied boarding for four hours or more and no other transportation is available. This $500 is an aggregate limit per occurrence, shared with missed connection and delayed baggage coverage.
  • Delayed baggage: up to $500 for essential clothing and sundries bought within four days when your outbound luggage is delayed six hours or more. This $500 is an aggregate limit per occurrence, shared with missed connection and flight delay coverage.
  • Lost or stolen baggage: up to $500 per occurrence for all insured persons combined, for checked or carry-on baggage and personal effects in transit, when the airline tickets are charged to your card. Within that limit, jewellery is capped at $300 per occurrence and golf clubs, including golf bags, at $250 per occurrence.
  • Hotel and motel burglary: up to $500 against the loss of most personal items if your hotel or motel is burglarized, when the stay is charged to your card.

Rental car insurance

Theft and damage coverage is included for a rental car with an MSRP, for its model year, of up to $85,000 excluding all taxes, for rentals of up to 48 days. To use it, decline the Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) or any similar option from the rental company and charge the full rental to your card. There is no cost for this coverage, and it replaces the daily insurance the rental company charges, usually $16 to $23 per day.

Mobile device insurance

Your device is covered for up to $1,000 per occurrence when it is charged to the card, for up to two years from the date of purchase. The payout is based on the depreciated value of the device, which falls by 2% of the purchase price for every completed month, less a 10% deductible. Theft and accidental damage coverage starts on the 91st day after purchase, because the first 90 days are covered by purchase protection.

Purchase protection and extended warranty

Eligible items charged to your card are insured against accidental physical damage or theft for 90 days from the purchase date, up to $1,000 per occurrence for all items combined. The card also extends the original manufacturer’s warranty by up to one additional year on eligible items, with indemnification limited to $10,000 per insured item and $25,000 per Cardmember per policy year for all items combined.

American Express Cobalt® Card fees

  • Card fee: $15.99 per month, which equals $191.88 per year, for residents outside Quebec. Quebec residents are billed $191.88 per year.
  • Additional cards: $0.
  • Purchase interest rate: 21.99%.
  • Cash advance interest rate: 21.99%.
  • Foreign transaction fee: 2.5%.
  • Minimum income required: none.

Because the fee is billed monthly rather than in one annual charge, you can stop and restart the cost in step with how much you are actually using the card.

Annual fee

Primary card$191.88
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 5xRestaurants
  • 5xGroceries
  • 5xConvenience
  • 3xStreaming
  • 2xTransit
  • 2xGas & EV
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,828
2nd Year Value$799

Transfer partners

  • AeroplanAirline
  • British Airways ClubAirline
  • Cathay Asia MilesAirline
  • Etihad GuestAirline
  • Flying BlueAirline
  • Hilton HonorsHotel
  • Marriott BonvoyHotel

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $5,000,000 / 15 days
Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $250,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionUp to $1,000 / 90 days
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 2 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

Our editorial integrity

Our reviews and rankings are based on an objective assessment. Advertisers do not influence our content. We may receive compensation through some links; our analysis and opinions remain independent.