There are many ways to redeem American Express Membership Rewards points, so how do you decide? Read on for a list of transfer ideas to inspire you.
Airline Transfer Partners
You can squeeze more value out of your points if you do it right. In our opinion, transferring your points to a partner frequent flyer program is one of the best ways to use your Membership Rewards points. For example: if you have 30,000 MR points, you could either book a flight through American Express Travel and get roughly $300 in value, OR you can transfer those points and book a roundtrip flight from Los Angeles to Hawaii.
The trick is knowing where to look and being willing to shop around before you redeem.
Membership Rewards Airline Transfer Partners include:
Aeromexico 1:1
Air Canada (Aeroplan) 1:1
Air France KLM (Flying Blue) 1:1
Alitalia (Millemiglia) 1:1
All Nippon Airways 1:1
Asia Miles 1:1
British Airways
Delta Air Lines (SkyMiles) 1:1
El Al Israel Airlines
Emirates 1:1
Etihad Airways 1:1
Hawaiian Airlines 1:1
Iberia Plus
JetBlue Airways
Singapore Airlines 1:1
Virgin America
Virgin Atlantic Airways 1:1
We've gathered some of our favorite most visited, exotic, and wanderlust-worthy destinations around the globe. And we want to help you get to them.
So check your latest Membership Rewards balance and consider the many ways you can use your points to achieve your dream vacation. We've included some sample routes from different areas within the U.S. for reference.
Note: The value of points is based on data as of September 2016. Redemption options and value can change at any time.
Tip: Not sure which American Express card is right for you? Take a look at our in-depth review of current American Express promotions.
Which of these places are you daydreaming about?
1. Hawaii
Hawaii, despite being part of the United States, is not a paradise in our backyard. It costs a considerable amount of money and time to get to. A roundtrip, nonstop flight usually costs about $500-$700 from the mainland U.S. to the remote tropical paradise of Hawaii. Use these transfers to get to Hawaii cheaper, and enjoy the beautiful soft sandy beaches, lush greenery, luaus, and that famous Aloha spirit.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Honolulu (HNL): 30,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Delta)
New York (JFK) - Honolulu (HNL): 40,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (partner flight operated by Hawaiian Airlines)
Houston (HOU) - Honolulu (HNL): 35,000 KrisFlyer miles on Singapore Airlines (Star Alliance flight operated by United Airlines)
All flights are roundtrip, non-stop.
Tip: You may see instances where a flight is operated by another airline. Using the above as an example: if you want to take this flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, you would transfer 30,000 of your MR points to Air France. And then you would use Air France's website (or call them) to book the partner award flight on Delta. On your travel day at LAX, you would be boarding a Delta flight to get to Hawaii.
2. Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is America's favorite vacation destination, and for good reason. A short jaunt to our southern neighbor puts you in a completely different world of white sandy beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, an underwater world, 5-star dining, and wild nightlife. It's got something for everyone. Roundtrip flights are generally not too expensive (around $350-$400, depending on your season and starting point).
Here are some sample routes:
New York (JFK) - Cancun (CUN): 25,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Aeromexico)
Chicago (MDW/ORD) - Cancun (CUN): 25,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by Alaska, Air France, Delta, Copa, and Aeromexico)
San Jose (SJC) - Cancun (CUN): 25,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Alaska and Delta)
Flights are roundtrip and may include 1 stop.
3. Paris, France
Ah, the City of Lights. Stroll down the Seine, stop for a moment for a freshly made crepe, get lost for hours among the greatest artists in history inside the Louvre, and then watch the Eiffel Tower light up at night in gold. Paris is perhaps that one destination that everyone wishes to visit once in their lifetime.
If you're lucky enough to be from a city from which European budget airlines depart (e.g., New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco), you can fly roundtrip to Paris for as low as $400 during off-peak season.
For the rest of you, here are some transfer options:
Houston (HOU) - Paris (CDG): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France
Miami (MIA) - Paris (CDG): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France
Philadelphia (PHL) - Paris (CDG): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Delta)
Flights are roundtrip, non-stop.
We found some examples where a transfer would make more sense, but make sure you check first if it's better to just buy the ticket for cash, ESPECIALLY if you're traveling during an off-peak time.
Tip: Consider traveling off-peak (or even shoulder season) if you have the flexibility. Everything - from flights to hotels - will be cheaper. The number of points you use could be less too. Plus, Europe is beautiful during the winter season.
4. London
London is a city that captivates almost everyone. From the beautiful architecture to charming pubs to vibrant markets to edgy street art, there's no end to the surprises that the city delivers. And of course you'll also find the iconic red phone booths, double-decker buses, and the fuzzy hats of the Queen's guards. London is a place you'll have to see for yourself.
Good thing you can use your points to score a deal for an award flight, because the pounds will not be in your favor when you get there.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - London (HLR): 50,000 KrisFlyer Miles on Singapore Airlines (flight operated by Virgin Atlantic)
New York (JFK) - London (HLR): 45,000 Asia Miles on Cathay Pacific (flight operated by American Airlines and British Airways)
Austin (AUS) - London (HLR): 45,000 Asia Miles on Cathay Pacific (flight operated by British Airways)
All flights are roundtrip, non-stop. If you're going off-season, make sure to check if it's better to pay directly with cash.
Tip: If you want to travel in style and treat yourself to something comfier on a long-haul flight, you can book a business class seat for as low as 80,000 miles. Often, booking business class will offer even more value out of your points, as a regular business class seat generally starts at over $2,000.
5. New York
Coming back Stateside, why not discover more of your own country? New York is at the top of the list for domestic explorers. Take in the dazzling skyscrapers and the historic buildings, the bustling streets and the peaceful Central Park, the world-class museums, the nightlife, and a Broadway show.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - New York (JFK): 25,000 SkyMiles on Delta Air Lines
Miami (MIA) - New York (JFK): 20,000 Asia Miles on Cathay Pacific (flight operated by American Airlines)
Denver (DEN) - New York (JFK): 25,000 SkyMiles on Delta Air Lines
All flights are roundtrip, non-stop.
6. Toronto, Canada
Or visit our neighbor up north with a trip to Toronto, Canada's largest city. See the view from CN Tower (do the EdgeWalk if you dare!), explore the medieval splendor of Casa Loma, wander through the artsy Distillery District, and stuff your belly at St. Lawrence Market.
Here's some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Toronto (YYZ): 25,000 Aeroplan Miles on Air Canada
New York (JFK) - Toronto (YYZ): 15,000 Aeroplan Miles on Air Canada
Portland (PDX) - Toronto (YYZ): 25,000 Aeroplan Miles on Air Canada
All flights are roundtrip, non-stop.
7. San Jose, Costa Rica
Looking for the ultimate nature escape? For somewhere that still feels wild and untamed, the rainforest country of Costa Rica in Central America provides plenty of thrills. Zipline over the dense rainforest canopy, hike up a volcano, go horseback riding on the beach, unwind in a natural hot spring, and see the abundant wildlife up close (try to spot a sloth!).
Most travelers fly into San Jose, and from there, cheap domestic flights or other forms of transport can be used to reach your destination.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - San Jose (SJO): 30,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Alaska and Delta)
Houston (HOU) - San Jose (SJO): 35,000 KrisFlyer Miles on Singapore Airlines (flight operated by United)
Portland (PDX) - San Jose (SJO): 30,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Alaska and Delta)
All flights are roundtrip. We suggest non-stop if possible, but in some cases, a city doesn't provide a non-stop flight (such as Portland).
8. The Bahamas
Many of us dream of that Caribbean escape. Practically just a hop away from the U.S., just a short flight will transport you to a serene, azure world. The Bahamas is made up of a chain of hundreds of islands. Most people fly into Nassau and use the ferry to get to the islands (swim with piggies in Exuma!). Depending on where you're from, a flight could cost $600 roundtrip; get to paradise cheaper with these transfers.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Nassau (NAS): 30,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Copa Airlines and Delta)
Chicago (MDW/ORD) - Nassau (NAS): 30,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Copa Airlines and Delta)
Boston (BOS) - Nassau (NAS): 30,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Copa Airlines and Delta)
Some flights may include one stop.
9. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, but it's an entirely different world. And American citizens don't need a passport to go to Puerto Rico, which is awesome because you get to visit another country even if you don't have a passport. Enjoy the sandy beaches, rainforests, and the distinctive cocina corilla (the local food).
Here are some sample routes:
Portland (PDX) - San Juan (SJU): 25,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Alaska and Delta)
Denver (DEN) - San Juan (SJU): 25,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Delta)
Philadelphia (PHL) - San Juan (SJU): 25,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Delta)
Be careful: this is another destination where you'll have to do your homework first and check if it makes more sense to pay for a ticket with cash.
10. Rome, Italy
Seriously, the food! Doesn't your mouth water at the thought of fresh, handmade pasta and a glass of Sangiovese? Rome is the perfect starting point for your great Italian adventure. Soak in the rich history of this ancient city, and then hop on a train to explore the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, the rolling hills (and wine!) of Tuscany, and the canals of Venice.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Rome (FCO): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
New York (JFK) - Rome (FCO): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
Austin (AUS) - Rome (FCO): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Alitalia and Delta)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
11. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona (part of an area called Catalonia) has a completely different feel from the rest of traditional Spain. It's hip, it's cosmopolitan. Soak up the sun on the miles of beach, admire the quirky Gaudi buildings, revel in the stunning architecture of La Sagrada Familia, and of course, eat all the pintxos and tapas your heart desires.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Barcelona (BCN): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
New York (JFK) - Barcelona (BNC): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
Chicago (MDW/ORD) - Barcelona (BNC): 50,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
12. Tokyo, Japan
Japan draws many visitors for its traditional, yet quirky, culture and delicate, delicious food. Tokyo is almost a sensory overload. It's got ancient temples, gigantic electronic stores, vending machines with anything you can think of, and more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere in the world.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Tokyo (NRT): 50,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
New York (JFK) - Tokyo (NRT): 50,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
Miami (MIA) - Tokyo (NRT): 55,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Star Alliance)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
Tip: If you are able to travel off-season, then you can score a flight to Tokyo from LAX or JFK for as low as 40,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles (on All Nippon Airways). Japan's peak seasons are March-April for the cherry blossoms and October-November for the autumn leaves. Mid-August is also a popular local holiday. Consider traveling from December - early March for cheaper rates, if you don't mind the cold!
13. Beijing, China
China may not be at the top of many U.S. folks' travel wish list because of the long flight, but once you get there, you'll find a country rife with history, natural beauty, friendly locals, and some of the best food in the world. Standing on the Great Wall is truly an experience like no other. And remember, no trip to Beijing is complete without indulging in the traditional Peking roast duck.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Beijing (PEK): 55,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
Houston (HOU) - Beijing (PEK): 55,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
Philadelphia (PHL) - Beijing (PEK): 60,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Lufthansa, United, Air Canada, and Air China)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
Tip: Summer is the busiest time in Beijing, but it's also very hot and humid. The best weather is April and October (but avoid the first week as it's a national holiday). You could beat the crowd and score a flight for fewer points (for example, it'll only be 45,000 ANA Mileage Club points from LAX to PEK during off-season).
14. Shanghai, China
While Beijing is historic and traditional, Shanghai is young and trendy while still managing to retain an old China feel in many areas. Stroll along the Bund at night, with the dazzling skyline on one side and the beautiful colonial buildings on the other. Go for an extravagant brunch and then join the locals for some cheap, delicious street food.
Here are some sample routes:
San Francisco (SFO) - Shanghai (PVG): 60,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flight operated by United)
Denver (DEN) - Shanghai (PVG): 60,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Star Alliance)
Baltimore (BWI) - Shanghai (PVG): 60,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Air Canada and United)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
15. Hong Kong
Hong Kong - a former British colony and now an autonomous territory of China - is often described as "East meets West." It has evolved into its own unique culture, with a love for afternoon tea, wonderful and weird street markets, and hybrid local food. It's a city that's built vertically, with one of the densest skyscrapers in the world, and also one of the most splendid skylines.
Here are some sample routes:
San Francisco (SFO) - Hong Kong (HKG): 51,000 KrisFlyer Miles on Singapore Airlines
New York (JFK) - Hong Kong (HKG): 55,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
Chicago (ORD) - Hong Kong (HKG): 55,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
Tip: Hong Kong is extremely humid and uncomfortable during the summer months. Points listed here are for peak season, but if you go off-season (such as December - March), you could save yourself the sweat and a good chunk of points. You may even find that paying cash is a better deal.
16. Seoul, South Korea
Seoul has become one of the hottest Asian destinations. It's no surprise as the city boasts a lively nightlife, vibrant local cuisine, and abundant shopping opportunities. Visit Seoul and discover exactly what Gangnam Style is all about!
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Seoul (GMP): 55,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
Portland (PDX) - Seoul (ICN): 60,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Star Alliance)
Austin (AUS) - Seoul (ICN): 60,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Asiana Airlines, Air Canada, United, and Singapore Airlines)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
17. Thailand
Thailand tends to conjure up images of the ultimate exotic getaway. It does have it all: Beyond the large crazy metropolis of Bangkok, discover a country of mesmerizing temples, pristine beaches, and ancient ruins. It's also got some of the best - and cheapest - food you'll ever eat by the side of the road.
Most people fly into Bangkok, and from there it is easy to grab a cheap domestic flight to the other regions or use local ground transportation.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Bangkok (BKK): 65,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
Miami (MIA) - Bangkok (BKK): 80,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by Star Alliance)
Chicago (ORD) - Bangkok (BKK): 65,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
Tip: For Southeast Asia, the low season is considered to be June - September (the rainy season), and shoulder season is March - May. If you're not bothered by unpredictable weather, then consider traveling during this time to get much cheaper deals. It's also way less crowded during these times.
18. Singapore
This tiny island-country has developed a vibrant culture all of its own. Singapore has its own food, customs, and even its own special brand of "Singlish." It's the very juxtaposition of modern - skyscrapers and world-class dining - and traditional - old shop houses and cheap hawker fare - that makes this multi-ethnic city so interesting.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Singapore (SIN): 59,500 KrisFlyer Miles on Singapore Airlines
New York (JFK) - Singapore (SIN): 63,800 KrisFlyer Miles on Singapore Airlines
Boston (BOS) - Singapore (SIN): 80,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Star Alliance)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
19. Maldives
Where else can you literally sleep in a hut right over the water? Imagine waking up in the morning and immediately diving off your balcony into the clear Indian Ocean. For many of us, the Maldives is that one ultimate - yet unattainable - dream destination. Luckily, if you're willing to cash in enough MR points, and spend a bit more time in transit, you can potentially make this dream a reality. And then have a bit more to spend on those luxury huts over the water.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Male (MLE): 80,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
Denver (DEN) - Male (MLE): 80,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Lufthansa)
Houston (HOU) - Male (MLE): 80,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and United)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
20. Bali, Indonesia
Eat, Pray, Love may have helped put Bali onto the map for Americans, but it was a favorite vacation destination in Southeast Asia long before that. You can channel your inner Julia Roberts and discover Bali's sandy beaches, lush rice paddies, rich Indonesian culture, yoga, and delicious local cuisine.
Unless you're flying from a major airport like LAX, flights to Bali can be very expensive, costing up to $1,500 for a roundtrip.
Here are some sample routes:
Portland (PDX) - Bali (DPS): 80,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Garuda Indonesia and Delta)
Miami (MIA) - Bali (DPS): 110,000 Asia Miles on Cathay Pacific (flight operated by Qatar Airways)
Boston (BOS) - Bali (DPS): 80,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flight operated by Garuda Indonesia and Japan Airlines)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
21. Lima, Peru
Looking for a different kind of vacation? Consider Peru. Follow the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the world's most beautiful ruins, embedded in the heart of the High Andes. And when you're not conquering the trails, explore the bustling city of Lima and indulge in the local cuisine - a unique fusion of local flavors with Japanese/Chinese influences.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Lima (LIM): 35,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
New York (JFK) - Lima (LIM): 35,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
Chicago (MDW/ORD) - Lima (LIM): 35,000 Flying Blue Miles on Air France (flights operated by SkyTeam)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
Tip: The high season for visiting Peru is June - August, and the rainy season is January - March, with the Inca Trail closed in February. Avoid those times and you should be able to score a balance of good deals and good weather.
22. South Africa
Get in touch with your wild side and get up close to the animals of the Great Plains on a South African Safari. Seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is an experience that can't be described. Most people fly in to Cape Town or Johannesburg, depending on where they want to visit. A safari adventure is not cheap, so good thing you can offset the cost a bit with an award flight.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Johannesburg (JNB): 65,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Star Alliance)
New York (JFK) - Johannesburg (JNB): 65,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Star Alliance)
Miami (MIA) - Johannesburg (JNB): 65,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Star Alliance)
Flights are roundtrip and may include one stop.
23. New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, famed for its incredible natural landscapes. And if you're a hardcore fan of Lord of the Rings, you'll recognize many filming locations. And you can even visit Hobbiton in North Island - the picturesque village of Middle Earth, where you'll find little hobbit holes tucked under rolling green hills.
Most people fly into Auckland, where you can then find cheap domestic flights if you want to travel to another region. New Zealand is expensive to get to, with roundtrips often costing way over $1,000.
Here are some sample routes:
Los Angeles (LAX) - Auckland (AKL): 75,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Star Alliance)
New York (JFK) - Auckland (AKL): 75,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by Hawaiian Airlines, Air China, Air New Zealand, and All Nippon)
Houston (HOU) - Auckland (AKL): 75,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles on All Nippon Airways (flights operated by United, Air China, Air Newland, and All Nippon)
Travel the World
Are you ready for your next vacation?
Did we inspire you to start planning your next trip? If you're not quite there yet with your American Express points, keep using your AMEX Membership Rewards card throughout the year and you'll be surprised at how much closer you'll get to your dream getaway.
Note: Redemption options and value can change at any time. You are usually responsible for any taxes, fees, and surcharges. While many AMEX Membership Rewards transfer partners are at 1:1 ratio (meaning you transfer 1,000 Membership Rewards for 1,000 miles or points), some are at a different ratio, including British Airways, Iberia, EL AL Israel Airlines, Hilton, JetBlue Airways, Starwood Preferred Guest, and Virgin America. Terms and limitations apply.
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