Amex Platinum Hotel Benefits: How to Get Room Upgrades, Late Checkout & Luxe Perks
Introduction
If you have the American Express Platinum Card (or you’re considering it), the Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) program is one of the best ways to turn every trip into a five-star experience. Room upgrades, guaranteed late checkout, complimentary breakfast, and other elite benefits are just the beginning.
In this guide, I’ll show you:
Exactly how to get the most out of your Amex Platinum hotel perks
How to boost your chances of a room upgrade
Five design-forward hotels I’ve stayed at—and how to bring their luxury home with a few curated Amazon finds
What You Get with Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts
Booking through Amex Travel’s Fine Hotels + Resorts program unlocks premium extras at over 1,000 luxury properties worldwide. Here’s what’s included:
Complimentary room upgrade (when available)
Daily breakfast for two
Guaranteed 4 PM late checkout
Noon check-in (when available)
Free Wi-Fi
Exclusive property perks (spa credit, dining experience, or other extras)
Even one night can feel like a full vacation when you're getting treated like royalty at check-in.
How to Maximize Your Amex Platinum Room Upgrade
Room upgrades aren’t guaranteed—but you can significantly increase your odds:
Book through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts on the Amex Travel site
Check in early, especially mid-week when occupancy is lower
Join the hotel’s loyalty program, even for one stay
Be friendly at the front desk and mention your FHR booking
Five Amex FHR Hotels That Double as Interior Design Inspiration
Each of the hotels below not only delivers exceptional service and perks—but also serious decor envy. Here’s how to bring that elevated design home (via affordable Amazon finds).
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne – Miami Elegance
What to Steal:
High-thread-count neutral bedding
Natural textures like rattan and wicker
Subtle coastal decor (no seashell overload)
Curated finds evoking the luxury of The Ritz-Carlton on Amazon:
Mandarin Oriental, Taipei – Spa-Like Serenity
What to Steal:
Stone and wood finishes
Soft, ambient lighting
Thoughtful amenities like refillable glass toiletry bottles
Curated finds evoking the luxury of The Mandarin Oriental on Amazon:
Four Seasons Chicago – Urban Sophistication
What to Steal:
Tailored furniture and clean lines
Neutral color palette with navy/burgundy accents
Layered lighting: sconces, lamps, and floor lights
Curated finds evoking the luxury of The Four Seasons on Amazon:
Casa Del Mar – Santa Monica Coastal Glam
What to Steal:
Arched mirrors or architectural details
Ocean-inspired tones in soft blues and whites
Woven textures and plush layered fabrics
Why the Amex Platinum Card Is Worth It (Beyond Hotels)
Even if you only travel a few times a year, the Platinum Card’s travel perks can easily outweigh the annual fee. Benefits include:
Access to Centurion + Priority Pass Lounges
$200 annual airline fee credit
Uber credits
Hotel elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy
If you value comfort, design, and elevated experiences, it’s one of the most powerful cards you can carry.
Some of the most luxurious stays I’ve experienced through FHR also made my list of bucket list hotels worth the splurge.
FAQs About Amex Platinum Hotel Benefits
Do I need to book through Amex to get the perks?
Yes—book through Amex Travel > Fine Hotels + Resorts with your Platinum Card.
Are upgrades guaranteed?
No, upgrades are based on availability. But many travelers report consistent success—especially on less busy travel days.
Do I need hotel loyalty status?
Not required, but it can help. Some hotels prioritize loyalty members for upgrades even on third-party bookings like FHR.
Can I still earn points with the hotel’s brand program?
Often, yes—but confirm when booking. Some chains allow double-dipping, while others don’t.
Are all FHR hotels five-star?
Yes, most are luxury or upper-upscale properties. You’ll find brands like Waldorf Astoria, Auberge Resorts, Rosewood, and more.
“Luxury isn’t just a destination—it’s a mindset. Whether you’re traveling or at home, the key is creating spaces that inspire and rejuvenate.”