Amex just handed Platinum members Accor Gold status in 12 countries. Unfortunately, the United States is not one of them.
On paper this is an excellent new benefit. Accor runs more than 45 brands, including an impressive and growing luxury tier: Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, plus the Orient Express and Banyan Tree properties. Earning Gold the hard way takes 30 elite nights or 7,000 status points, which works out to roughly €2,800 of hotel spending. Getting it for holding a card you already hold is a welcome perk and will likely introduce many new clients to the brand.
The framing in the release is worth noting. Amex called it a partnership rolling out “across 12 locations,” and Accor’s loyalty chief said Amex’s member base is “perfectly suited for our luxury portfolio.” Both companies are describing something worldwide while routing around the single largest premium card market on earth and some notable additional markets.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Live and Let's Fly.
