One of the rather celebrated benefits of holding a premium credit card is the ability to access a concierge at all times. Through the Platinum Card from American Express, the Citi Prestige card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred card each offer a concierge service through their bank programs, or through their extended network benefits. Even though the phone-based service may take a backseat to the points and miles we collect on these cards, having the additional support available is always a good thing.
However, as we have pointed out before, credit card benefits are only good to the point which we use them to our benefit. While a good concierge can make the difference between a good trip and the trip of a lifetime, those who never use the service may be paying the annual fee for something they simply don’t need.
What is the concierge service offered by our favorite credit cards? More importantly, can they actually help us make the most of our adventures? With a little understanding, every frugal traveler can make the most of their next adventures.
What Is The Concierge?
By definition, a concierge traditionally works in high-end hotels, resorts, or aboard cruise ships, and works to arrange experiences for travelers. A good concierge can make recommendations on restaurants and tours, arrange for tickets to performances and events, or set up spa services for the traveler.
While the phone-based concierge may not be in person, they can still perform many of these functions – as well as many more. The credit card concierge can provide travelers with information on their destination before they arrive, arrange for tour and museum tickets, or help with ideas for where to eat. But like all services, even the concierge has its limits.
What Can The Concierge Do For Me?
In many situations, the concierge can be the first line in securing hard-to-get tickets, or getting on the tour you did not know you needed to see while on your next adventure. With a simple call, the concierge can help travelers make a planned itinerary for their next trip, starting with where to go, where to eat and what to see while at a destination.
The concierge is not just limited to helping travelers find things to do and see while adventuring the world. The credit card assistance program can also help travelers secure the perfect gift for friends and loved ones at home. With a phone call, travelers can get assistance with not only finding books and gifts, but also shipping them home with ease. Anything purchased through the concierge is charged to the traveler’s credit card.
What Can The Concierge Not Do?
Although the concierge may seem to have unlimited powers, there are some situations where these helpers simply cannot help. Despite their abilities, these are still humans who require understanding and patience to do their job.
First off, even though concierges may have relationships with restaurants, museums and theatres, there is no guarantees they can get a ticket to the big show. If an event is sold out, there is nothing they can do to get a ticket – plain and simple. Second, a concierge cannot do anything illegal to assist a traveler, such as procure drugs.
However, if a traveler loses their prescription medication while traveling, a concierge can point them towards the nearest pharmacy and may be able to facilitate connections between a physician and a pharmacy. Finally, a concierge is there to help travelers with their needs, but cannot give away free items, or make multiple reservations for the same time. Those who want a failsafe plan should consider making their own plans instead.
While arguably one of the more underutilized benefits, the concierge can help travelers make the most of their adventures. By knowing how to get these helpers to help you, everyone can turn a good trip into an incredible trip – if it makes sense to do so.
Has a good concierge helped you make the most of a trip? Give us your tips in the comments below!
Written by Frugal Travel Guy @ http://www.frugaltravelguy.com
Written by Frugal Travel Guy @ http://www.frugaltravelguy.com