If you’re someone who loves travel rewards and enjoys the luxury of staying at top-tier hotels, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card is one that deserves your attention. As of 2024, this card continues to be a standout in the world of premium travel credit cards, offering impressive perks for frequent travelers and those who enjoy the finer things in life. In this review, we’ll explore the features, benefits, and drawbacks of this card to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your wallet.
What is the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card?
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card is a premium credit card offered in partnership with Marriott International and American Express. It’s part of the Bonvoy loyalty program, which spans over 30 hotel brands, including luxury chains like The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and JW Marriott. If you’re a Marriott Bonvoy member, this card can supercharge your rewards earnings, but even if you’re new to the program, the card offers compelling reasons to sign up.
Key Benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
1. Welcome Bonus
One of the most attractive features of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card is its generous welcome bonus. As of 2024, new cardholders can earn up to 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after spending a certain amount on purchases within the first three months. These points can be redeemed for stays at Marriott hotels, flights through the airline partners, or even for experiences and merchandise. This is a substantial offer and a great way to jumpstart your Bonvoy points collection, especially if you’re planning a trip or want to book a stay at a Marriott hotel.
2. Earning Points
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card gives you a chance to earn 6 points per dollar on eligible purchases at Marriott hotels, 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines, and 2 points per dollar on other purchases. This makes it an excellent choice for those who frequently stay at Marriott hotels and travel by air. The 3 points per dollar on flights is a nice touch, especially for those who frequently book air travel. For everyday spending, the 2 points per dollar on other purchases can help you rack up points quickly, turning everyday expenses into travel rewards.
3. Annual Free Night Award
Another significant perk is the annual free night award, which you can use for a free one-night stay at participating Marriott hotels. The value of this free night can be significant, especially at higher-end properties. You receive this benefit every year after your card’s anniversary, making it a valuable addition to your travel rewards arsenal. Whether you use the free night at a high-end Marriott hotel or a more affordable option, this is an easy way to get a night of luxury without the extra cost.
4. $300 Marriott Statement Credit
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card comes with a $300 annual statement credit that can be used toward Marriott hotel stays. This effectively lowers the annual fee and makes it more affordable for cardholders who regularly book Marriott properties. It’s a great way to offset some of the card’s cost while getting a luxury experience at the same time. The $300 statement credit can also be used toward upgrades, dining, and other services at Marriott hotels, making it a versatile perk for frequent travelers.
5. Priority Pass Lounge Access
If you travel frequently, you’ll appreciate the Priority Pass Select membership that comes with the card. This membership provides access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide, helping you make your travel experience more comfortable. Whether you’re waiting for a flight or want to unwind before a busy trip, this benefit can be a game-changer. Relaxing in a quiet lounge, enjoying complimentary snacks, and having access to comfortable seating can make a significant difference in your overall travel experience.
6. Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status
As a cardholder, you’ll receive automatic Gold Elite Status in the Marriott Bonvoy program. This grants you benefits like late checkout, room upgrades (when available), and bonus points on stays. For travelers who want extra perks and a more luxurious stay at Marriott properties, this is an exciting feature. The Gold Elite Status is valuable for those who want to elevate their hotel experience without paying extra for it. Plus, once you’ve achieved Gold status, it’s easier to earn higher-tier benefits within the Bonvoy program.
Costs and Fees
With all these impressive benefits, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card does come with an annual fee. As of 2024, the annual fee is $650. While this is a high fee, it’s important to remember that the card offers numerous benefits that can easily outweigh the cost, especially if you frequently stay at Marriott hotels and travel often. If you take advantage of the free night, statement credits, and lounge access, the card can offer substantial value. Additionally, the welcome bonus and the annual free night alone can provide significant rewards that help you get your money’s worth from the card.
Who Should Consider This Card?
This card is best suited for frequent travelers who stay at Marriott hotels and enjoy the luxurious amenities that come with elite status. If you’re someone who loves earning travel rewards, enjoys hotel upgrades, and wants exclusive access to airport lounges, this card should be on your radar. Additionally, if you’re looking for a way to maximize your spending in the Bonvoy program, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card can be a powerful tool. However, if you’re someone who doesn’t travel frequently or stays at hotels outside the Marriott portfolio, the annual fee may not justify the rewards you’d earn. In that case, a lower-cost travel card might be a better fit for your needs.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card vs Other Travel Credit Cards
When comparing the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card with other premium travel credit cards, it stands out because of its unique blend of travel rewards and hotel perks. Other travel cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or The Platinum Card® from American Express, offer solid rewards programs and travel benefits. However, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card’s focus on Marriott properties and the significant annual free night award sets it apart for those who enjoy staying at Marriott hotels.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve, for example, offers higher earning rates on travel-related purchases and a larger sign-up bonus. But if you prefer Marriott hotels and want the added benefits like Priority Pass lounge access, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card is a better choice. On the other hand, if you’re not particularly loyal to any one hotel chain, a general travel card may suit your needs better.
In summary, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card offers a compelling mix of rewards, perks, and travel benefits that make it a top choice for frequent travelers and Marriott fans. From the welcome bonus to the annual free night, statement credits, and lounge access, this card can significantly enhance your travel experience. However, its high annual fee makes it important to evaluate whether you’ll use its benefits often enough to justify the cost. If you do, it’s a premium card that can pay off in ways that make every dollar spent worth it.
If you’re ready to take your travel rewards to the next level in 2024, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card may be the right card for you. With all its incredible features, it’s clear why it’s a popular choice among travel enthusiasts. Don’t forget to weigh the card’s costs against the benefits it offers and see if it aligns with your travel and spending habits. Whether you’re looking to enhance your luxury travel experiences or just want to make the most of your rewards, this card can be a valuable companion on your journey.