Review: British Airways Lounges in London and Economy Flight (LHR-AMS)

Published June 9, 2016Updated October 17, 20266 min readEditorial integrity

Note8.8/10

Flight Carrier: British Airways
Departing Airport: London Heathrow Airport
Arrival Airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Flight Number: BA440
Duration: 1:15
Cabin Class: Economy

After my first-class flight on British Airways from New York JFK to London Heathrow, it was time to relax in the airport lounges before boarding my connecting flight to Amsterdam, my destination for the weekend!

Flight British Airways BA440 – London – Amsterdam

It’s a long way through Terminal 5 to reach lounge British Airways Arrivals.

lhr ams british 02 — Terminal 5 – London Heathrow

With little signposting, I’ll first have to clear customs (very quick thanks to the new passport scanners) before heading for the terminal exit…. and then asking for directions to finally find lounge!

lhr ams british 01 — Terminal 5 – London Heathrow – Arrivals Lounge

lhr ams british 03 — Terminal 5 – London Heathrow – Arrivals Lounge

The Arrivals Lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5

At this time of day, lounge is not very busy. Nice! Here are some pictures of the relaxation areas and the buffet.

lhr ams british 04 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 05 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 06 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 07 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 08 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 09 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 10 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 11 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 12 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 13 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – London Heathrow

But before lunch, I decide to take a bath. Indeed, the lounge offers a large number of showers and a few cabanas with bathtubs. Given the low traffic at the lounge, there’s very little waiting for my “cabana” to be ready.

lhr ams british 14 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – LHR

lhr ams british 15 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – LHR

lhr ams british 16 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – LHR – Cabana

lhr ams british 17 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – LHR – Cabana

lhr ams british 18 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – LHR – Cabana

lhr ams british 19 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – LHR – Cabana

What could be better than a nice bubble bath after a transatlantic flight? Meanwhile, a valet is ironing my jacket and shirt. Royal!

After this “brin de toilette”, I decided to go to the Spa. All passengers traveling in first class are entitled to a 15-20 minute massage, barber, facial…

lhr ams british 20 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – Elemis Spa

lhr ams british 21 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – Elemis Spa

lhr ams british 22 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – Elemis Spa

Normally on appointment, I go directly since there is no one! I chose an excellent back and shoulder massage.

lhr ams british 23 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – Elemis Spa – Massage

After a nice bubble bath and massage, it’s time for lunch. I made my way to the room reserved for First Class passengers. The difference: it is not a buffet, but a table service.

lhr ams british 24 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – Lunch

lhr ams british 25 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – Lunch

Shortly after lunch, I head to the lounge business center to start writing my milesopedia articles!

lhr ams british 26 — Galleries Arrivals Lounge – Business center

After 2 hours at the lounge, I leave it to go through security to another lounge… the Concorde Room in Terminal 5!

The lounge Concorde Room at London Heathrow

Indeed, although my connection to Amsterdam will be in economy class, having travelled in First Class just before, this entitles me to access London Heathrow’s most prestigious lounge.

lhr ams british 29 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 30 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow

lhr ams british 32 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow

The lounge offers a very British/classy interior space, as well as a terrace overlooking the interior of Terminal 5.

lhr ams british 33 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow – Terrace

lhr ams british 34 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow – Terrace

You can dine at the table, just like in a restaurant. Everything is free of course.

lhr ams british 35 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow – Table

The choice of alcohols is excellent.

lhr ams british 36 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow – Alcools

I decide to sit comfortably in a club chair and order a burger accompanied by a glass of rosé champagne.

non-expiration of best western points — Concorde Room – London Heathrow – Menu

lhr ams british 37 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow – BA Burger and Champagne

lhr ams british 38 — Concorde Room – London Heathrow – View from lounge

After an hour in the Concorde Room, it’s time for me to head for my door.

On the way to Amsterdam

The widespread strike in France is causing delays and cancellations. My flight will arrive from Nice (my birthplace 🙂 ) with about 30 minutes of delay.

lhr ams british 40 — London Heathrow – Terminal 5 – Departure Screen

The airport is particularly busy, as usual. I was delighted to be able to relax in the lounges, away from all the stress!

lhr ams british 41 — London Heathrow – Terminal 5

lhr ams british 42 — London Heathrow – Terminal 5

lhr ams british 43 — London Heathrow – Terminal 5 – Original storefront!

lhr ams british 44 — London Heathrow – Terminal 5

Here I am at my gate for my flight to Amsterdam.

lhr ams british 45 — London Heathrow – Terminal 5 – Gate A22

One can immediately feel the “downgrade”. Travelling in economy, I no longer have access to the priority lanes, and a stewardess comes up to me to tell me that my cabin baggage is too large and will have to be checked. I point out that some passengers – especially in the priority queue – have bags as big as mine! In vain…

That’s the “First Class to Economy” effect. The fall is hard.

Note that this passenger was able to bring on board his cooler.

lhr ams british 48 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Boarding

What is the difference between business and economy class on British Airways’ intra-European flights? No legroom. Just the middle armchair was blocked off and used as a communal table.

lhr ams british 51 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Business Class

I arrive at my seat. Like the rest of the cabin, it looks new. The leather is of excellent quality!

lhr ams british 53 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Seat 12A

I notice that my cabin baggage… would have fit nicely in the luggage compartments. In short, no comment.

lhr ams british 54 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Luggage Storage

There is storage for magazines, and the legroom is decent.

lhr ams british 56 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam

We leave the door 30 minutes late. The pilot will not fail to point out that those responsible are “once again, the French strikers”. Sighs are heard among the passengers, and I make myself small. 😀

It’s a busy late afternoon at London Heathrow. It will take a good 20 minutes before takeoff.

lhr ams british 59 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Roulage

lhr ams british 60 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Roulage

lhr ams british 61 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Virgin Atlantic A346

lhr ams british 62 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Traffic jam

Here is a video of the takeoff:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW9BnKkd_qE

Shortly after takeoff, the service begins. It has to be said that the flight is very short (30 minutes). The choice is simple: sweet or savory and a few soft drinks.

lhr ams british 63 — London Heathrow – Amsterdam – Service

After this short flight, I arrived at my destination for the weekend: Amsterdam!

Bottom Line

The experience at London Heathrow, particularly in the two British Airways lounges, was excellent. I arrived at my destination completely rested, and was able to work efficiently during that day.

The flight to Amsterdam went smoothly, except for the carry-on baggage that I had to check. I wasted a good twenty minutes waiting at the baggage carousels.

The maps to make this trip

Here, I needed American Express cards with Membership Rewards (transferable to Avios miles) and my Scotiabank Gold American Express card (which allowed me to pay the taxes with Scotia Rewards points).

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American Express^® Gold Rewards Card

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The American Express^® Gold Rewards Card combines points on everyday spending with benefits for your next getaway. With a $250 annual fee, its main advantages are a $100 annual travel credit for bookings through American Express Travel Online and 4 complimentary visits per calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges in Canada.

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You earn 5,000 points for each monthly billing period in which you charge $1,000 in net purchases to the Card. Your regular spending brings you closer to your next trip.

For everyday spending, earn 2 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases and at eligible gas stations, grocery stores, and drugstores in Canada, then 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

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American Express is not responsible for maintaining or controlling the accuracy of the information published on this website. For full and up-to-date product information, click on the Apply now link. Terms and conditions apply.

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Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$0

Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

2xPharmacy
2xGas
2xTravel
2xGroceries
1xAll spending

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1st Year Value$1,555

2nd Year Value$589

Transfer partners

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

Card benefits

Airport lounge access$160

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 $500

Lost BaggageUp to $500

Flight DelayUp to $500

Hotel BurglaryUp to $500

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Purchase ProtectionIncluded

Extended Warranty+1 years

Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

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American Express Platinum Card^®

American Express Amex Membership Rewards

Annual fee: $799
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$1,190Total$1,190$510 deferred bonus, excluded from the first-year estimate and not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.: $1,190
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The American Express Platinum Card^® suits travellers who want airport lounge access, annual credits, and hotel benefits. With a $799 annual fee, it brings together several useful travel privileges:

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Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, plus access to the Fine Hotels + Resorts hotel program.

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The Card also includes a NEXUS credit of up to $100 every 4 years and travel insurance, subject to applicable terms. It is particularly suited to travellers who regularly use the included credits and privileges.

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*Terms and conditions apply. American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of the information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, we may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.

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

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

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Scotiabank Gold American Express^® Card

Scotiabank Scene+

Annual fee: $120
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$650Total$650Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.: $650
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The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card offers an excellent welcome bonus.

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40,000 Scene+ points by charging $2,000 in purchases to the card within the first 3 months
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This represents a value of up to $650 for travel (including Airbnb), and up to $1,100 in first-year value including the points you earn and foreign transaction fee savings.

With the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card, you earn 6 points per dollar spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland, FreshCo, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà par IGA, Voilà by Safeway, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, IGA West, Les Marchés Tradition, Rachelle Béry and Co-Op.

Also, you earn 5 points per dollar for:

Grocery stores
Restaurants
Entertainment centers

And 3 points per dollar on gas, transit and streaming services purchases.

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The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card also offers no foreign transaction fees, excellent insurance for your travel or purchases, concierge service, exclusive American Express benefits like the Front of the Line program.

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* Savings and point earn potential in first 12 months includes welcome offer value, first year point earn potential and foreign transaction fee savings as of Sept 10, 2026:

$400 in travel points (40,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Gold American Express Card clients who spend $2,000 within the first 3 months

$250 in travel points (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) when you spend $7,500 within the first 12 months

$58 in foreign transaction fee savings based on average annual foreign spend per active account over the last 24 months (don't pay the 2.5% foreign transaction fee markup typically charged by other card issuers);

$397 in first year point earn potential (39,700 Scene+ points) on everyday purchases based on average annual spend per active account over the last 24 months with an average spend of 28% in 6X, 5X and 3X accelerator categories combined.

Potential First Year Value = up to $1,105.56 (rounded down to $1,100)

Actual offers, savings and points earned will depend on individual card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.

1 Offer Description and Conditions: The 65,000 Bonus Scene+ Points Offer (the “Offer”) applies only to new Scotiabank Gold American Express credit card accounts (“Accounts”) opened between November 2, 2026, and January 3, 2027 (regardless of the date you apply for the Account) and is subject to the conditions below.

To be eligible for 40,000 bonus Scene+ points (the “40,000 Point Bonus”), you must have at least $2,000 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account in the first 3 months of the Account open date. To be eligible for an additional 25,000 bonus Scene+ points (the “25,000 Point Bonus”), you must have at least $7,500 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account in the first year (12 months) of Account open date. Eligible purchases include purchases (less any refunds, returns or other similar credits) but do not include payments, cash advances (including balance transfers or cash-like transactions), interest, fees or other charges.

Point Bonus Fulfillment: The applicable point Bonus(es) will be credited to the Scene+ account within approximately 8 weeks after qualifying for a Bonus, provided the Account is open and in good standing. For Joint Accounts with a Primary Borrower and Co-borrower, the applicable point Bonus will be credited as follows: (i) the 40,000 Point Bonus and 25,000 Point Bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the Account of the borrower that completed the last transaction to meet the qualifying amount of eligible purchases (i.e., $2,000 or $7,500) in the appropriate time frame (i.e., first 3 months or first 12 months). If a supplementary cardholder completes the last qualifying transaction to meet the qualifying amount of eligible purchases for the 40,000 Point Bonus or the 25,000 Point Bonus, the applicable point Bonus will be credited to the Primary Borrower’s Scene+ account linked to the Account. Points can be transferred between Primary and Co-Borrower or Supplementary Cardholder’s Scene+ accounts by contacting Scene+. The Account is considered in good standing if it is not past due or over limit and the Cardholder(s) is not in breach of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the Account. All other terms and conditions of the Program Terms continue to apply during the Offer period. Offer may be changed, cancelled or extended without notice at any time and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Eligibility and Exclusions: Individuals who are currently or were previously primary or secondary cardholders of a Scotiabank personal credit card in the past 2 years, including those that switch from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card, as well as employees of Scotiabank, are not eligible for the Offer. Subject to the above exclusions, Scotiabank small business credit cardholders are also eligible for the Offer.

Rates and Fees: The current annual fee is $120 for the primary card and $29 for each additional card (including those issued to co-borrowers and supplementary cardholders). The current preferred annual interest rates for the Account are: 21.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and cash-like transactions).
All rates, fees, features and benefits are outlined in the Application Disclosure Statement and are subject to change.

Savings at Shell

Get up to 7 cents per litre in instant fuel discounts for a limited time and earn up to 5 cents per litre in Scene+ points value with a Scotiabank Gold American Express Card linked to a Shell Go+ Account:

Instant 3 cents per Litre Discount on Fuel Purchases (All Grades): Receive an instant 3 cents per litre discount on purchases of fuel (all grades) (“Fuel Purchases (All Grades)”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank debit card or credit card linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per Scotiabank debit card and per Scotiabank credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per payment card account. This discount is subject to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Instant 4 cents per Litre Discount on Premium Fuel: Between May 26, 2026 and June 1, 2027 (“Promotional Period”), receive an instant 4 cents per litre discount on purchases of V-Power^® gasoline, or V-Power^® diesel (“Premium Fuel Purchases”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per credit card account. This promotional offer, including the Promotional Period, may be changed, extended, or withdrawn at any time without notice. These promotional offer terms are in addition to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Earn up to 5 cents per Litre in Scene+ points Value (Equivalent) on Fuel Purchases: Each time you use your linked Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points on Fuel Purchases (All Grades) at participating Shell locations in Canada, you will earn at least 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent. Plus, as a Scene+ Member you will also automatically earn 1 Scene+ point for each litre in Fuel Purchases (All Grades), and as a Shell Go+ member, automatically earn 1 additional Scene+ point for each litre in Premium Fuel Purchases, made with your linked Scotiabank credit card. This means that for every litre in fuel purchased with your linked credit card, you can earn the equivalent of up to 5 cents of redeemable Scene+ points value based on a redemption value of $10 for every 1,000 Scene+ points redeemed for fuel purchases at participating Shell locations. Actual value may be lower depending on how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points. Earn and redemption limits may apply. See the Scene+ Program Terms and Conditions available at sceneplus.ca/terms-and-conditions for full details including redemption options and additional terms.

Note: Highest value of 12 cents per litre assumes a Premium Fuel Purchase made with a Scotiabank Gold American Express Card linked to a Shell Go+ Account. Actual value will vary depending on payment card used and whether or not the card is linked, fuel grade purchased, and how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points.

Additional 3¢/L at Shell (limited time)

Additional 3¢/L Fuel Discount Offer: Offer valid from October 5, 2026 to December 31, 2026 (“Promotional Period”), eligible Scotiabank credit and debit cardholders enrolled in the Shell Fuel Benefits Program who have linked an eligible Scotiabank payment card (an “Eligible Card”) to their Shell Go+ account will receive an additional instant fuel discount of 3 cents per litre on eligible fuel purchases at participating Shell-branded retail locations in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories (the “Eligible Provinces”) excluding Shell Flying J locations. Fuel purchases made outside the Eligible Provinces are not eligible for this offer.

To receive the additional fuel discount, customers must pay with their linked Eligible Card at the time of purchase.

The additional fuel discount is in addition to the fuel savings available through the Shell Fuel Benefits Program and may be combined with other eligible fuel discounts, rewards programs, and promotional fuel offers unless otherwise stated in the applicable offer terms and conditions.

The additional fuel discount is available on up to 1,000 litres of eligible fuel purchases per calendar month for each Eligible Card. The 1,000-litre limit resets at the beginning of each calendar month.

The additional fuel discount is non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash, and cannot be substituted or exchanged.

Participation in the Shell Fuel Benefits Program is subject to the applicable program terms and conditions available at Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.

Shell Canada reserves the right to make changes to this offer and to terminate the offer at any time, for any reason and without notice.

All other applicable terms and conditions of the Shell Fuel Benefits Program, Shell Go+ and Scotiabank continue to apply.

Annual fee

Primary card$120

Additional card$29

Annual income required

Individual$12,000

Household$12,000

Conversion fees

Earning rate

6xWith the partner brand
5xGroceries
5xEntertainment
5xRestaurants
3xGas
3xStreaming
3xTransit
1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,610

2nd Year Value$461

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7

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 $1,500

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

Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 1 years

Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $65,000 / 48 days

Go further with airport VIP lounges

To access VIP lounges without paying $50 each time, check our complete guide on free airport lounge access and our best credit cards for airport VIP lounges ranking, updated monthly by the Milesopedia team.

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Scotiabank Passport^® Visa Infinite +* Card

Scotiabank Scene+

Annual fee: $150
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$450Total$450Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.: $450
Welcome offerAfter $10,000 in 6 months: Up to 45,000 points; Ends Jan 3, 2027

With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport^® Visa Infinite^+* Card, available until January 3, 2027, you can earn up to 35,000 welcome bonus Scene+ points:

15,000 Scene+ points after charging $3,000 in purchases to your account within the first three months
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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 45,000 Scene+ points and a value of up to $1,350 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.

It also includes a new convenient benefit for travellers: enjoy 10 GB of free GigSky global mobile data for 15 days, as well as access to Travel Essentials to use essential apps like messaging, maps, and email while on the go. Cardholders also continue to receive 1 GB of free GigSky mobile data per year, plus a 20% discount on future GigSky purchases.

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

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* Savings and reward potential in first 12 months includes welcome offer value, estimated first year point earn potential, estimated foreign transaction fee savings and airport lounge savings as of Sep 10, 2026:

$150 in travel rewards (15,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card clients who spend $3,000 within the first 3 months;

$200 in travel rewards (20,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card clients who spend $10,000 within the first 6 months;

$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) when you spend $40,000 annually on your Account each year (12-months: annual points bonus);

$50 supplementary card annual fee waiver on the first supplementary card for new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card clients;

$130 in foreign transaction fee savings based on average annual foreign spend per account over the last 24 months (save the 2.5% foreign transaction fee markup typically charged by other card issuers);

$363 in first year point earn potential (36,300 Scene+ points) on everyday purchases based on average annual spend per account over the last 24 months with an average spend of 21% in 3X and 2X accelerator categories combined;

$358 value with a complimentary Visa Airport Companion Program Membership that includes 6 lounge passes (based on a ‘Preferential’ membership valued at approx. CAD$358/USD$259). Currency conversion as of Sep 10, 2026.

Potential First Year Value = up to $1,351 (rounded down to $1,350)

Actual savings and points earned will depend on individual card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.

1 Offer Description and Conditions: The 35,000 Bonus Scene+ Points Offer (the “Offer”) applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + credit card accounts (“Accounts”) that are opened between November 2, 2026, and January 3, 2027 (regardless of the date you apply for the Account) with minimum spend, subject to the conditions below. Offer may be changed, cancelled or extended at any time without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Plus, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + credit cardholder you are always eligible to earn an annual 10,000 Scene+ point bonus with minimum annual eligible purchases, subject to the conditions below.

35,000 Bonus Scene+ Point Offer Conditions: To qualify for 15,000 bonus Scene+ points (the “15,000 Point Bonus”), you must have at least $3,000 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account within the first 3 months of the Account open date. To qualify for an additional 20,000 bonus Scene+ points (the “20,000 Point Bonus”), you must have at least $10,000 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account in the first 6 months of the Account open date. Eligible purchases include purchases (less any refunds, returns or other similar credits) but do not include payments, cash advances (including balance transfers or cash-like transactions), interest, fees or other charges.

10,000 Annual Bonus Scene+ Point Conditions: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + credit cardholder you can earn an annual Scene+ point bonus starting at 10,000 Scene+ points (the “Annual Point Bonus”) when you make at least $40,000 in eligible purchases annually on your Account each year (12-months). Annual period starts from the Account open date and resets every 12 months thereafter. If you switch from another Scene+ eligible Credit Card to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card (vs. it being opened as a new or additional Card), your original Account open date will carry over to your new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card and your annual period for this benefit will begin on the next anniversary of your original Account open date. For example: If you originally opened a Scotiabank^®* Gold American Express^® Card on January 15, 2022, and switch that Card to the Scotiabank Passport^® Visa Infinite +* Card on July 15, 2025 – your annual period for the 10,000 annual Scene+ point benefit will begin on January 15, 2026 (your next Anniversary) and will reset annually on January 15th afterwards. You can also earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for every additional $10,000 in eligible purchases thereafter in that same year, after the $40,000 annual spend has been reached.

Point Bonus Fulfillment: The applicable point Bonus(es) will be credited within approximately 8 weeks after qualifying for a Bonus, provided the Account is open and in good standing. For Joint Accounts with a Primary Borrower and Co-borrower, the applicable point Bonus will be credited as follows: (i) the 15,000 Point Bonus, the 20,000 Point Bonus, and the Annual Point Bonus will be credited to the Scene+ account linked to the Account of the borrower that completed the last transaction to meet the qualifying amount of eligible purchases (i.e., $3,000, $10,000, or $40,000) in the appropriate time frame (i.e., first 3 months, first 6 months, or first 12 months). If a supplementary cardholder completes the last qualifying transaction to meet the qualifying amount of eligible purchases for the 15,000 Point Bonus, the 20,000 Point Bonus or the Annual Point Bonus, the applicable point Bonus will be credited to the Primary Borrower’s Scene+ account linked to the Account. Points can be transferred between Primary and Co-Borrower or Supplementary Cardholder’s Scene+ accounts by contacting Scene+. The Account is considered in good standing if it is not past due or over limit and the Cardholder(s) is not in breach of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the Account. All other terms and conditions of the Program Terms continue to apply during the Offer Period.

Rates and Fees: The current annual fee is $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to co-borrowers and supplementary cardholders). The current preferred annual interest rates for this Account are: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and cash-like transactions). All rates, fees, features and benefits are outlined in the Application Disclosure Statement and are subject to change.

Savings at Shell

Get up to 7 cents per litre in instant fuel discounts for a limited time and earn up to 3 cents per litre in Scene+ points value with an eligible Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + card linked to a Shell Go+ Account:

Instant 3 cents per Litre Discount on Fuel Purchases (All Grades): Receive an instant 3 cents per litre discount on purchases of fuel (all grades) (“Fuel Purchases (All Grades)”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank debit card or credit card linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per Scotiabank debit card and per Scotiabank credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per payment card account. This discount is subject to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Instant 4 cents per Litre Discount on Premium Fuel: Between May 26, 2026 and June 1, 2027 (“Promotional Period”), receive an instant 4 cents per litre discount on purchases of V-Power^® gasoline, or V-Power^® diesel (“Premium Fuel Purchases”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per credit card account. This promotional offer, including the Promotional Period, may be changed, extended, or withdrawn at any time without notice. These promotional offer terms are in addition to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Earn up to 3 cents per Litre in Scene+ points Value (Equivalent) on Fuel Purchases: Each time you use your linked Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points on Fuel Purchases (All Grades) at participating Shell locations in Canada, you will earn at least 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent. Plus, as a Scene+ Member you will also automatically earn 1 Scene+ point for each litre in Fuel Purchases (All Grades), and as a Shell Go+ member, automatically earn 1 additional Scene+ point for each litre in Premium Fuel Purchases, made with your linked Scotiabank credit card. This means that for every litre in fuel purchased with your linked credit card, you can earn the equivalent of up to 3 cents of redeemable Scene+ points value based on a redemption value of $10 for every 1,000 Scene+ points redeemed for fuel purchases at participating Shell locations. Actual value may be lower depending on how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points. Earn and redemption limits may apply. See the Scene+ Program Terms and Conditions available at sceneplus.ca/terms-and-conditions for full details including redemption options and additional terms.

Note: Highest value of 10 cents per litre assumes a Premium Fuel Purchase made with a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card linked to a Shell Go+ Account. Actual value will vary depending on payment card used and whether or not the card is linked, fuel grade purchased, and how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points.

Additional 3¢/L at Shell (limited time)

To receive the additional fuel discount, customers must pay with their linked Eligible Card at the time of purchase.

The additional fuel discount is non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash, and cannot be substituted or exchanged.

Participation in the Shell Fuel Benefits Program is subject to the applicable program terms and conditions available at Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.

Shell Canada reserves the right to make changes to this offer and to terminate the offer at any time, for any reason and without notice.

All other applicable terms and conditions of the Shell Fuel Benefits Program, Shell Go+ and Scotiabank continue to apply.

Annual fee

Primary card$150

Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$60,000

Household$100,000

Conversion fees

Earning rate

3xWith the partner brand
2xGroceries
2xRestaurants
2xTransit
2xEntertainment
1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$704

2nd Year Value$397

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7

Airport lounge access$240

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days

Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 25 days

Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 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

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.

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Flight British Airways BA440 – London – Amsterdam

It’s a long way through Terminal 5 to reach lounge British Airways Arrivals.

The Arrivals Lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5

At this time of day, lounge is not very busy. Nice! Here are some pictures of the relaxation areas and the buffet.

What could be better than a nice bubble bath after a transatlantic flight? Meanwhile, a valet is ironing my jacket and shirt. Royal!

After this “brin de toilette”, I decided to go to the Spa. All passengers traveling in first class are entitled to a 15-20 minute massage, barber, facial…

Normally on appointment, I go directly since there is no one! I chose an excellent back and shoulder massage.

After a nice bubble bath and massage, it’s time for lunch. I made my way to the room reserved for First Class passengers. The difference: it is not a buffet, but a table service.

Shortly after lunch, I head to the lounge business center to start writing my milesopedia articles!

After 2 hours at the lounge, I leave it to go through security to another lounge… the Concorde Room in Terminal 5!

The lounge Concorde Room at London Heathrow

Indeed, although my connection to Amsterdam will be in economy class, having travelled in First Class just before, this entitles me to access London Heathrow’s most prestigious lounge.

The lounge offers a very British/classy interior space, as well as a terrace overlooking the interior of Terminal 5.

You can dine at the table, just like in a restaurant. Everything is free of course.

The choice of alcohols is excellent.

I decide to sit comfortably in a club chair and order a burger accompanied by a glass of rosé champagne.

After an hour in the Concorde Room, it’s time for me to head for my door.

On the way to Amsterdam

The widespread strike in France is causing delays and cancellations. My flight will arrive from Nice (my birthplace 🙂 ) with about 30 minutes of delay.

The airport is particularly busy, as usual. I was delighted to be able to relax in the lounges, away from all the stress!

Here I am at my gate for my flight to Amsterdam.

That’s the “First Class to Economy” effect. The fall is hard.

Note that this passenger was able to bring on board his cooler.

What is the difference between business and economy class on British Airways’ intra-European flights? No legroom. Just the middle armchair was blocked off and used as a communal table.

I arrive at my seat. Like the rest of the cabin, it looks new. The leather is of excellent quality!

I notice that my cabin baggage… would have fit nicely in the luggage compartments. In short, no comment.

There is storage for magazines, and the legroom is decent.

It’s a busy late afternoon at London Heathrow. It will take a good 20 minutes before takeoff.

Here is a video of the takeoff:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW9BnKkd_qE

Shortly after takeoff, the service begins. It has to be said that the flight is very short (30 minutes). The choice is simple: sweet or savory and a few soft drinks.

After this short flight, I arrived at my destination for the weekend: Amsterdam!

Bottom Line

The experience at London Heathrow, particularly in the two British Airways lounges, was excellent. I arrived at my destination completely rested, and was able to work efficiently during that day.

The flight to Amsterdam went smoothly, except for the carry-on baggage that I had to check. I wasted a good twenty minutes waiting at the baggage carousels.

The maps to make this trip

Compare

American Express^® Gold Rewards Card

American Express Amex Membership Rewards

Annual fee: $250
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$1,020Total$1,020Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.: $1,020
Welcome offerAfter $12,000 in 12 months: Up to 60,000 points

The welcome offer can reach 60,000 Membership Rewards points in the first 12 months.

You earn 5,000 points for each monthly billing period in which you charge $1,000 in net purchases to the Card. Your regular spending brings you closer to your next trip.

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Annual fee

Primary card$250

Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$0

Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

2xPharmacy
2xGas
2xTravel
2xGroceries
1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,555

2nd Year Value$589

Transfer partners

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

Card benefits

Airport lounge access$160

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 $500

Lost BaggageUp to $500

Flight DelayUp to $500

Hotel BurglaryUp to $500

Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded

Extended Warranty+1 years

Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

Compare

American Express Platinum Card^®

American Express Amex Membership Rewards

Annual fee: $799
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$1,190Total$1,190$510 deferred bonus, excluded from the first-year estimate and not counted in this total.Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.: $1,190
Welcome offerAfter $10,000 in 3 months: Up to 100,000 points

A $200 annual travel credit for eligible bookings through American Express Travel;
A $200 annual dining credit at participating restaurants in Canada;
Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, subject to each network’s rules;
Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, plus access to the Fine Hotels + Resorts hotel program.

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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

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

Compare

Scotiabank Gold American Express^® Card

Scotiabank Scene+

Annual fee: $120
Our valuationMilesopedia first-year estimate First-year valueWelcome bonus$650Total$650Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.: $650
Welcome offerAfter $7,500 in 12 months: Up to 65,000 points; Ends Jan 3, 2027

The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card offers an excellent welcome bonus.

Until January 3, 2027, you can earn up to 65,000 bonus Scene+ points, broken down as follows:

40,000 Scene+ points by charging $2,000 in purchases to the card within the first 3 months
25,000 Scene+ points by making $7,500 in purchases on the card in the first year

This represents a value of up to $650 for travel (including Airbnb), and up to $1,100 in first-year value including the points you earn and foreign transaction fee savings.

Also, you earn 5 points per dollar for:

Grocery stores
Restaurants
Entertainment centers

And 3 points per dollar on gas, transit and streaming services purchases.

You can redeem your points on travel purchases (flights, hotels, all-inclusive and even Airbnb). You can also use your points as cash back rewards with Scene+.

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* Savings and point earn potential in first 12 months includes welcome offer value, first year point earn potential and foreign transaction fee savings as of Sept 10, 2026:

$400 in travel points (40,000 bonus Scene+ points) for new Scotiabank Gold American Express Card clients who spend $2,000 within the first 3 months

$250 in travel points (25,000 bonus Scene+ points) when you spend $7,500 within the first 12 months

Potential First Year Value = up to $1,105.56 (rounded down to $1,100)

Actual offers, savings and points earned will depend on individual card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.

Savings at Shell

Instant 3 cents per Litre Discount on Fuel Purchases (All Grades): Receive an instant 3 cents per litre discount on purchases of fuel (all grades) (“Fuel Purchases (All Grades)”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank debit card or credit card linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per Scotiabank debit card and per Scotiabank credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per payment card account. This discount is subject to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Instant 4 cents per Litre Discount on Premium Fuel: Between May 26, 2026 and June 1, 2027 (“Promotional Period”), receive an instant 4 cents per litre discount on purchases of V-Power^® gasoline, or V-Power^® diesel (“Premium Fuel Purchases”) at participating Shell locations in Canada when you use any eligible Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points linked to a Shell Go+ Account, up to a maximum of 1,000 litres per month per credit card account. This total limit resets at the start of each new month per credit card account. This promotional offer, including the Promotional Period, may be changed, extended, or withdrawn at any time without notice. These promotional offer terms are in addition to the Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.
Earn up to 5 cents per Litre in Scene+ points Value (Equivalent) on Fuel Purchases: Each time you use your linked Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points on Fuel Purchases (All Grades) at participating Shell locations in Canada, you will earn at least 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent. Plus, as a Scene+ Member you will also automatically earn 1 Scene+ point for each litre in Fuel Purchases (All Grades), and as a Shell Go+ member, automatically earn 1 additional Scene+ point for each litre in Premium Fuel Purchases, made with your linked Scotiabank credit card. This means that for every litre in fuel purchased with your linked credit card, you can earn the equivalent of up to 5 cents of redeemable Scene+ points value based on a redemption value of $10 for every 1,000 Scene+ points redeemed for fuel purchases at participating Shell locations. Actual value may be lower depending on how you choose to redeem your Scene+ points. Earn and redemption limits may apply. See the Scene+ Program Terms and Conditions available at sceneplus.ca/terms-and-conditions for full details including redemption options and additional terms.

Additional 3¢/L at Shell (limited time)

To receive the additional fuel discount, customers must pay with their linked Eligible Card at the time of purchase.

The additional fuel discount is non-transferable, is not redeemable for cash, and cannot be substituted or exchanged.

Participation in the Shell Fuel Benefits Program is subject to the applicable program terms and conditions available at Scotiabank Fuel Benefit Terms and Conditions.

Shell Canada reserves the right to make changes to this offer and to terminate the offer at any time, for any reason and without notice.

All other applicable terms and conditions of the Shell Fuel Benefits Program, Shell Go+ and Scotiabank continue to apply.

Annual fee

Primary card$120

Additional card$29

Annual income required

Individual$12,000

Household$12,000

Conversion fees

Earning rate

6xWith the partner brand
5xGroceries
5xEntertainment
5xRestaurants
3xGas
3xStreaming
3xTransit
1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,610

2nd Year Value$461

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7

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 $1,500

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

Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 1 years

Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $65,000 / 48 days