Is Barbados Safe? Why Do People Question The Safety In Barbados?

BY  Sibashree Nov 17, 2025

The beaches add to the laid-back vibe and off-the-grid living of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Surfing breaks, boating, canoeing, or just relaxing by the sea, the beaches are ideal for families, surfers, couples, nature seekers, and solo travelers.  Furthermore, it is the largest island of the Hauraki Gulf in the Auckland region, and it has protected the Auckland Harbour from the rampage of the Pacific Ocean and storms. It is now a Dark Sky Sanctuary and a boating paradise.  Also, while exploring the beaches of the Great Barrier Island, I saw a remarkable difference between the eastern and western beaches. The beaches on the eastern side have long white surf beaches and high cliffs. On the other hand, the beaches on the western side are way calmer and have deep, sheltered harbors.  Tryphena, on the southwestern side of the Great Barrier Island, is the largest settlement. The calmer and picturesque beaches of Tryphena are ideal for families. These are also ideal for spotting dolphins.  Whangaparapara Harbour, on the southeastern side, is another important beach location on the Great Barrier Island. I was fortunate enough to meet Tony & Carol Litherland, who have been living on a catamaran here since October 1979.  So, the top beaches to visit on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are beyond water and sand. They are the telltales of human history and home to distinct ecosystems.  In this article, I will share the Great Barrier Island beach guide, which will include the top beaches to visit on Great Barrier Island, including hidden gems, pet-friendly spots, and insider tips. What Are The Top Beaches To Visit On The Great Barrier Island?  The beaches of the Great Barrier Island get transformed into a planetarium after sundown. Being a dark sky sanctuary, it allows us to see the luminous arch of the Milky Way and the constellations.  While Medlands, Awana, and Kaitoke draw the crowds, the secluded beaches are the best for soaking in the real vibe of this nature-first island.  Nevertheless, let’s slip into a kayak and explore secluded coves, surfing beaches, and spot the most fascinating wildlife. 1. Medlands Beach Medlands Beach is also called Oruawharo Beach, named after the early settler family. It is ideal for surfers, and the Medlands Beach campground is one of the best camping spots on the Great Barrier Island. This campground is maintained by the Department of Conservation (DoC).  It is also home to Oyster catchers and Dotterels. The Medlands ecovision community group works hard to preserve the nesting community of birds here.  Furthermore, I saw many pet parents taking their dogs for a walk along Medlands Beach. The dogs are allowed off-leash at 100 meters south of the Lane Walkway. However, they have to stop at 100 meters north of the creek.  However, for me, the biggest attraction of the Medlands Beach has been the Good Heavens Dark Sky. In my Great Barrier Island travel tips, I have mentioned how the sunset moments were magical, adding to our anticipation for the stargazing moments.  2. Awana Beach The Awana Beach, on the eastern coast of the Great Barrier Island, is a popular surfing destination. The DoC campground on the northern end is a favorite spot for watching wetland birds.  Awana Beach is also a prominent location for wildlife tours in the Great Barrier Island for spotting marine life.  3. Kaitoke Beach On our way from Auckland to the Great Barrier Island, we met the long sandy stretch of Kaitoke Beach. Our flight overlooked the Kaitoke beach on its way to the runway.  It is a popular spot for watching hammerhead sharks and sting rays. 4. Whangapoua Beach Whangapoua Beach is a popular surfing spot, and it stands out thanks to the wonderful views of Rakitu Island and Hirakimata. Furthermore, the Whangapoua DOC campground, on the southern end of the beach, is a favorite of fishing and surfing enthusiasts.  In addition, the Northern end of the beach has the SS Wairaapa grave walkway. The grave has a white picket fence. Another major attraction of the beach is the Whangapoua to Harataonga coastal walkway.  5. Harataonga Beach Harataonga Beach has one of the most family-friendly hiking trails on the Great Barrier Island. It is a favorite spot for rock fishing and snorkeling.  You can reach the beach after a walk through the DoC campground. However, camping here is a little difficult, considering the gravel road leading to the campsite is quite bumpy for RVs and campervans.  6. Blind Bay Blind Bay, located on the western coast of the Great Barrier Island, is a lot calmer, and it is ideal for family vacations. Located in Okupu, this bay looks beautiful with the presence of magnificent pohutukawa trees.  What I loved the most about Blind Bay was how the dolphins came to the shore of the Okupu. You just need to get into a kayak and take a ride to spot the dolphins.  Furthermore, September to March is the ideal time for spotting Dotterel nests along the shoreline. Dogs are allowed on the Blind Bay. However, you have to keep them on the leash and ensure they only stick to the marked routes.  7. Gooseberry Flat & Pa Beach The Gooseberry Flat Beach is in the heart of the Great Barrier Island. It is around the corner from the Stonewall Village and the Pa Beach, below the Stonewall Village, is an ideal destination for a quaint boat ride.  However, the headland between these two beaches, featuring the most unique purple stone, is the highlight of this Gooseberry Flat & Pa Beach exploration.  Another fascinating thing on the beach is how sandbars have formed warm pools of water. Kids love to splash around these pools when the tide goes away.  From here, you can go to the southern end and take the walkway over to Mulberry Grove. 8. Mulberry Grove Beach The Mulberry Grove Beach on the Tryphena harbour is easily accessible. It is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and boat launching.  Furthermore, the Mulberry Grove store behind the beach, a playground for young children, and the half pipe for skaters are some of the popular attractions of Mulberry Grove Beach.  You can also spot nesting native birds here. Moreover, indulging in an ice cream or fish and chips and watching the Sun go down with your family will be the most delightful moments on the Mulberry Grove Beach.  Camping And Eco Stays Near These Popular Camping Sites In Great Barrier Island, New Zealand The DoC campsites and eco-friendly lodges are the best options for staying near these beaches.  BeachesNearby AccommodationsMedlands Beach Campsite, Harataonga Beach Campsite, Awana Beach CampsiteDoC CampsitesMedlands BeachMedlands Beach Lodge• Address: Medlands Beach 149 Sandhills Road, Medlands, Tryphena 0961, New Zealand• Contact No: +64 9 429 0335 What Are The Best Beaches For Photography And Drone Footage? Kaitoke Beach is the ideal destination for sunrise photography. The beaches suitable for sunset photography are Blind Bay, Tryphena Bay, and Medlands Beach.  For drone photography during golden hours, use ND filters. Also, respect the privacy of the designated zones and ensure that flying birds are not harmed by flying drones.  What Is The Family-Friendly Beach Guide? Harataonga and Gooseberry Flat are the best options if you are on holiday on the Great Barrier Island with your family. These have shared areas, picnic tables, and toilets.  When exploring the family-friendly beaches of the Great Barrier Island, you will have to bring reef shoes, especially for hiking in the rocky areas. Moreover, determine the child safety zones by monitoring the tides.  What Are The Hidden Beaches And Local Secrets Of The Great Barrier Island? Yes, Kaitoke, Medlands, and Awana are the best crowd pullers of the Great Barrier Island. However, as I talked to the locals, they suggested some really cool hidden gems. These, with their unkempt beauty, helped us connect to the wild spirit of Aotea.  1. Puriri Bay North of the Tryphena Harbour, Puriri Bay is a quiet beach with a rocky shoreline. The low tide makes pockets of dark sand on the shore.  Puriri Bay is also famous for spotting dolphins in the summer season.  2. Schooner Bay Schooner Bay is another hidden gem near Tryphena. Visiting Schooner Bay is a bit of adventure and fun at the same time. You have to pass through a winding road to reach this spot.  It is a favorite for stargazers and couples, and with a cliffside landscape, it is one of the quietest beaches in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The silence here is so powerful that the experience is almost spiritual.  3. Nagle’s Cove Nagle’s Cove is on the Northwest coast near Orama and Kawa. Framed by native bush and volcanic ridges, it exudes a remote and pristine vibe. You have to access it via a kayak or a boat, as there is no marked trail.  In addition, Motairehe Marae, affiliated with Ngātiwai Ki Aotea, is an important community center for weddings, social celebrations, and funerals.  Why These Hidden Beaches Are The Attractions You Must Not Miss? The hidden beaches of Great Barrier Island are beyond scenic. As cultural treasures or cultural taonga of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, they stand for the off-the-grid lifestyle.  They are also the telltale signs of the Māori heritage, and community spirit. To respect the local heritage and culture, you must stick to the following practices.  Avoiding Nesting Bird Zones  Leaving No Trace Staying on the Marked Path Cooperating with Biosecurity Measures  How To Explore These Hidden Beaches On The Great Barrier Island?  Renting an electric bike or a 4WD is the best way to explore the hidden beaches on the Great Barrier Island. Also, as always, it is best to take suggestions from the locals and cafe owners.  They can guide you to the best unnamed spots and directions where Google Maps fails or the network is unavailable.  Also, it’s unfortunate that we could not meet Benny Bellerby during our trip. But, he is like a wizard of the conservation process and stargazing on the Great Barrier Island. He is the adventure operator of Star Treks and is the most passionate about protecting the cultural and natural heritage of the island.  In addition, I have already mentioned Tony & Carol Litherland, who live on a catamaran on the Whangaparapara Harbour, epitomizing the signature hospitality of Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  What Are The Adventure Add-Ons Near These Beaches Of The Great Barrier Island?  Glenfern Sanctuary, Windy Canyon, and the Kaitoke Hot Spring are the attractions near the beaches of the Great Barrier Island.  1. Glenfern Sanctuary Glenfern Sanctuary opens your door to the Kotuku Peninsula. It is located in the northwest of Great Barrier Island, and it takes us through nearby walking tracks such as the Cooper’s Castle Track. Aotea Track and Old Lady Track.  Furthermore, it is a must-visit to experience how biosecurity and the endeavors to protect the endangered plants, animals, and birds are essential for the Great Barrier Island.  2. Windy Canyon Windy Canyon and the Palmers Track, which continued from there, is one of the most picturesque hiking routes on the Great Barrier Island.  Along with being the route to Mount Hobson, it is also home to many rare species, such as black petrel and tomtit. Moreover, North Island robins are being reintroduced on this route. So, it is a wholesome hiking and birdwatching experience.  3. Kaitoke Hot Springs The walk to the sulphurous Kaitoke Hot Springs continues along the edge of the Kaitoke Swamp. It is one of the most accessible tracks with pushchairs, and the walk through the ancient shoreline continues through the Kaitoke wetlands and kānuka forest.  Furthermore, the umbrella fern and orchids near the creek keep the path filled with colors. Also, a nature soak after a long beach day feels very refreshing. What Are The Best Conservation And Safety Tips?  Aotea is not just a scenic destination. It’s a culturally rich and ecologically sensitive island with deep Māori heritage and a close-knit community. Respecting local customs and beach etiquette is essential for a positive experience and responsible tourism. 1. Respecting The Maori Heritage And Sacred Sites Avoid trespassing on private land or areas marked as tapu (sacred). Do not touch or move carvings, stones, or natural markers, as they may hold spiritual significance. Ask before photographing people or cultural sites, especially near marae (Māori meeting grounds). Learn basic greetings like “Kia ora” and show appreciation for local stories and traditions. 2. Being Mindful With Pets There are designated on-leash and off-leash areas on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Furthermore, walking with the pets through the bird nesting areas, especially in the breeding season, is an absolute No-No.  Furthermore, after hiking, you have to clean your pet to stop soil transfer and prevent the resurgence of the Kauri Dieback disease. Proper disposal of the pets is also very important.  Moreover, you must be aware of the conservation and pet policies of the ferries and accommodations before taking them as your companions.  3. Leaving No Trace The Great Barrier Island does not have strategically placed dustbins. So, you will have to pack and carry all the biodegradable items, food scraps, and rubbish, especially when you are hiking and camping.  There is a dumping ground at Claris Landfill PDS at 70 Gray Road for cleaning the campervans and caravans. In addition, you cannot use detergent or soap when swimming on the beaches, as the practice can impact the marine life.  Moreover, staying on the marked trails while hiking is necessary to ensure protection of the flora and fauna from the Kauri Dieback Disease.  4. Respecting The Peace And Privacy If you are staying in eco lodges or near the residential areas, you have to keep your noise level in check, and you cannot play loud music. You have to be more mindful, especially when camping on the beaches.  In addition, be careful when using drones near the sacred sites and wildlife of the Great Barrier Island. You may need permission from local authorities for the same. 5. Being Safe During Swimming And Other Water Activities We could rarely find a lifeguard on the beaches of Aotea. Still, the western beaches of the Great Barrier Island are calmer and suitable for swimming. Also, you have to ensure that you are not blocking the surfing zones.  Stingrays and Jellyfish are common in the shallow waters of the Tryphena Harbour. So, be careful when swimming.  6. Supporting Local Sustainability Efforts We can support the local economy of the Great Barrier Island by shopping at the shops and businesses owned by the Island. Furthermore, you can protect marine life by wearing a reef-safe sunscreen.  Also, participate in beach cleanups and local cleanup activities. In addition, stick to the water conservation rules of the Great Barrier Island, as the supply of fresh drinking water is limited on the island.  7. Ask, Listen, And Learn You cannot know the Great Barrier Island unless you are talking to the locals. The island is the cradle of the incredible Maori heritage, and it is them who told us about Kupe, the mythical navigator and one of the first people to arrive on the Great Barrier Island.  The Okupu settlement or Ō-Kupe-Mai-Tawhiti is named after him.  8. Transport Tips Take a Barrier Air flight from Auckland to reach the Great Barrier Island in New Zealand. You can even take a SeaLink ferry and reach the Great Barrier Island from Auckland in 4.5 hours.  Also, once you reach the Great Barrier Island, you will have to rent a car, e-bike, or scooter to move across the rugged landscape of the island.  9. Embracing Local Culture Off-the-grid living is the essence of the Aotea Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. So, you will not find any banks or ATMs on the island.  You will have to pay by EFTPOS or credit card. However, sometimes the local businesses may refuse to take cards. So, carry enough cash to support your stay and other expenses on the Great Barrier Island.  Why The Beaches Of The Great Barrier Island Will Be On Your Bucket List?  Are you chasing waves, or are you seeking solitude and moments of introspection by the waters? The beaches of Great Barrier Island are ideal for both types of experiences. Add to that the rugged landscape and rich flora and fauna of the Great Barrier Island.  Before you plan your trip, you can read this Great Barrier Island beach guide to experience the magic of Aotea.

BY  sagnika May 20, 2024

Are you going to Europe? If Venice is in your plans, let me share some of the plans that will be perfect for you. So, how many days in Venice are you planning for the trip? The capital city of northern Italy, Venice, is built on 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Moreover, there are hardly any roads, only canals through which you can travel using gondolas. The place is filled with buildings that represent the Renaissance and Gothic periods. You will love the ambiance and surroundings if you are an old soul like me. So, are you wondering best places to go in Italy? You must also experience delicious food in Venice and visit these beautiful locations. It is very important to check out local food when you visit a place so that you can experience its culture. Factors to Consider When Visiting Venice! So, let me share with your certain aspects influencing your decision to plan your trip. The first thing you need to consider is the best time to visit! You must consider two things. If you are someone who does not like crowds, you can visit Venice during winter. However, if your plan extends for a few days, summer is the best time to visit Venice. Furthermore, you need to consider mobility issues because they will impact how long it will take you to travel across Venice. Apart from these factors, another important aspect is the Italian Itinerary! Your Itinerary will include the different places in Venice and the amazing eateries and restaurants. Accommodations come into the picture once you have decided on the places you must visit. A Few Hours in Venice There are several options based on the number of days. Accordingly, you can decide how long you want to stay in Venice and how to plan it. If you are only in Venice for a few hours, you should concentrate on St. Mark's Square. So, how many days in Venice? It is one of the most popular places in Venice, as it is the main public square of the city! Apparently, Napolean claimed that this was the world's most beautiful drawing room. The place is also known as Piazza San Marco, and it has a quite old history. There is quite an open space, with several trees lining the place. There are several government buildings and facilities in this square. Now, if you are hungry, you can go to Bacarandino, a warm and welcoming Veneziano restaurant. You can find gluten-free options, as well as vegetarian and vegan options! Another one is Osteria Numero 1, another Italian restaurant. It is a peaceful experience where you can spend a romantic evening with your partner enjoying delicious food. If you are craving Pasta, you can get hand-made Pasta here all year round. Very similar to some of the most romantic restaurants in Rome! You can take a vaporetto and travel to the Grand Canal, the major water traffic corridor in the city! A public water bus is a Venetian beauty, and you can enjoy several locations as there are about 19 scheduled lines. Then you can visit Rialto Bridge, which is an architectural genius. Another amazing place to visit is St Mark's Basilica. It is quite close to Piazza San Marco! So, once you have indulged in delicious food, you can take a stroll and visit the religious and political center of the Republic of Venice. One Full Day in Venice If you have a full day to spend, I will ask you to visit St. Mark's Basilica first and then go to Doge's Palace once you are done with the church. The church is significantly important for its religious relativity because it is the resting place of Saint Mark. If you want to check out some grandiose gothic architecture, Doge's Palace is a great place. Apparently, it houses one of the largest oil paintings in the world on canvas called The Glory of Paradise. The painting by Jacopo Tintoretto. Several masterpieces, including sculptural decoration and Gothic architecture, are exhibited here. The artists who are exhibited here are Veronese, A-Vittoria, Titian, and Tiepolo. Now that you are hungry, you can quickly go to Tuttinpiedi. A popular place in Venice, it serves food that feels like homemade street food pasta with different seasonings like wine or fish. Continue walking in the back streets after your lunch. Later in the day, you can take a gondola ride through the canals of Venice. Two Days in Venice If your plans allow you to spend two days in Venice, I have the perfect Itinerary for you. Please make sure to visit St Mark's Campanile. The bell tower is quite popular among tourists as people climb up to the tall structure and enjoy the beautiful views of the city from this bell tower. You can go anywhere in the city and see the tall structure from there. Entry costs 12 euros. You must visit this place, as it is one of the most picturesque places in Venice. If you have a problem climbing the stairs, do not worry; there is also a lift to the top. Nearby, there is also Ponte Dell' Accademia, which you can visit. The Grand Canal of Venice is quite popular, and one of the four bridges on this canal is Ponte Dell' Academia. It is at the southern end of the canal. If you or your partner dislike crowded areas, you can explore Cannaregio. When you visit Cannaregio, you will experience an authentic side of Venice. With reasonable glass pieces, you can enjoy your time with food and friends. Furthermore, after you plan a day for it, you can go on a walk to visit Museo Fortuny and Ca Rezzonico. You cannot miss Il Paradiso Perduto, where you can enjoy delicious traditional Venetian dishes. If you want to visit an opulent place to enjoy delicious food, you can go to Oro Restautant in the Cipriani hotel. It is quite extravagant and chic, so you can have a romantic lunch date with your partner. Three Days in Venice If you have three days to spend in Venice, I have an amazing plan for you! The first thing to do is head to the Murano and Burano Islands. The islands have the shape of a small Venice and are joined by bridges. They are quite popular for products such as lace, glass, and others. There are also colorful buildings across these islands, so they are a perfect heaven for photographers and visitors. Burano is quite a popular place for risotto and fresh fish, and you must taste meat, delicious desserts, and fresh fish in Murano. You can also take a gondola ride across the canals of Venice. It is one of the most romantic activities in life. Of course, you must visit St. Mark Square because, near it, you can visit different places such as St. Mark's Basilica, the National Archaeological Museum of Venice, and The Doge's Palace. If you are a museum lover, you must go to Museo Correr! With its 18th-century interior, you will lose your breath. With an extensive collection of architecture and art illustrating the history of Venice, you will experience some of the best art in life. Four or More Days in Venice This is one of the most wholesome days when planning an itinerary for Venice. If you want some beach time, go to Lido. There are also several beaches hence, there are many things to do in Venice Beach! A hamlet of the city, the water and the sand are quite gorgeous with limited crowds. For a beautiful siesta with a book, this is a perfect place to enjoy yourself and relax. A one-day trip to Padua or Verona is an ideal way to spend the second day in Venice. With the names, I am sure you will realize it is from the famous Shakespeare novel Romeo and Juliet!  There are many things to do with its gorgeous architecture, old-world charm, and quiet nightlife! If you like walking or taking a stroll when you visit a beautiful and romantic place like Venice. There is a Jewish Ghetto, which you must explore when you have time. This place shows you the culture of the place; however, it is a place where the government is forcing the Venetian people to live there. It would be best if you did not miss watching an opera at the Teatro le Fenice. An experience of a lifetime, the opera experience will stay with you forever. Conclusion In conclusion, we have provided several options based on the number of hours and days! If you are wondering how many days you will be in Venice, I am sure you have got your plan. You can decide on the places you will visit and the food you will enjoy when you visit Venice. Even though you will see a lot in Venice, it is packed a lot in a small space. Apart from the crowds of tourists, there are picturesque canals, medieval alleyways, charming cafes, and beautiful streets to walk. Starting from St. Mark's Basilica, the Central Square, and Piazza San Marco, you must cover all of it.   Comment on how many days you plan to stay in Venice and which plan suits you the best!  Learn More Also: How Much Time To Spend In Italy? 10 Best Beaches In Italy That Will Surprise You The Most

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2024

Is it about getting most of your travel credits? It’s time to check out the FintechZoom best travel credit card alternatives.  As I was traveling in July this year, the travel credit card I was using gave me a lot of hassle. Only a traveler stuck in a foreign land knows what a nightmare it is! The bonus policies were all over the place for me, and every time I wanted to redeem my award points, the hotels charged me a certain fee. I was angry and did not know why I earned those points!  However, as I returned home, I started exploring other options and found the Platinum Card® from American Express a feasible option.  Then again, a better option for me may not work for others. So, as a traveler, I felt that I should have a sincere discussion about the traveler-friendly options available.  The travel credit card you choose will decide your travel benefits and how many miles you gather. FintechZoom has suggested some of the most suitable travel credit card options. In this guide, we will delve deeper and determine the best options for you.  THIS IS Why You Will Choose FintechZoom Best Travel Credit Card Let me be as honest as a mirror for you! I am always skeptical about what financial solutions to trust, and I piss my partner off with endless questions as he has a better understanding of these things. Then again, he wanted me to learn things the hard way. So, he suggested that I explore the FintechZoom options.  FintechZoom is the best platform for choosing the best travel credit card because of its in-depth analysis and comparisons. Further, FintechZoom makes the most of the artificial intelligence (AI) technology to provide specific information based on accurate financial stats.  In addition, I was really impressed by the transparency of the platform, and the app offered easy navigation while I was exploring options.  THIS Is The FintechZoom Best Travel Credit Card  Here, I present the FintechZoom best travel credit card! I will keep it to the point and drive to your travel requirements.  1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card As I was exploring the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card travel benefits, I found out that USA Today has called it the best travel credit card for “beginners and experienced travelers.” Indeed, the terms are pretty clear and transparent.  Also, my research said that in 2021, Chase was the largest credit card issuer based on market share. So, there is enough backing to go by the FintechZoom suggestion.  What You Get From The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card The table below explains the benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.  Welcome Bonus60000Flexible Point Transfers* 14 Airline or Hotel Partners (Or you can redeem through Chase Travel℠ at 1.25 cents each.)Travel Purchase through the Card5x Reward PointsDining3x Reward PointsAll Other Travel Purchases2x Reward PointsAnnual Hotel CreditsUp to $50Points Worth 25% More When Booking Travels (For example, for 10000 points, you will get $125 as cash back or gift cards)Yearly Bonus10%Repay Eligible PurchasesUp to 24 Months Without Interest (Purchase of $100 or More)Complimentary Travel Protections$10,000 Per Person and $20,000 Per Trip (Against non-refundable, pre-paid travel expenses when the trip is canceled or interrupted)Purchase Protection Benefits $500 for Each Item and $50000 for Every AccountForeign Transaction FeesWaived OffReferral PointUp to 75000 a Year on Successful Referrals (15000 Points on Each Referral)  However, I found two downsides of the card. The $95 annual fee is a little bothersome. Also, the “21.49%-28.49% variable APR” is high.  * Point transfers can occur among 11 airlines and 3 hotel partners on a 1:1 basis. So, there will be no transfer fees. Marriott, Hyatt, United Airlines, Air Canada, and Air France are some of the prestigious partners for this point transfer benefit.  2. The Platinum Card® from American Express Platinum Card® from American Express is celebrating its 40th year. So, you will get many years of trust and safety when you pick this one. Further, with this best travel credit card, you will get access to airport lounges, and as I have started using this travel credit card, I am already in love with the car rental benefits.  Even though the $695 annual fee is quite high, it has offered me more than $1500 in benefits and values. For me, it is a suitable option as I travel quite often. Honestly, the high annual fee can be justified only when you are using the card frequently. “No other card comes with as much perk potential as The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees). If you travel frequently and want to do so in style, this card deserves a place in your wallet. However, this card is best for urban fitness buffs, frequent travelers, high-end shoppers and those who want top rewards on flights and premium accommodations. If you don’t fit the profile, justifying the $695 annual fee might be a stretch.” - Forbes This Is What You Get From Platinum Card® from American Express Learn the American Express Platinum Card® benefits from the table below.  Membership Rewards80000 (After spending $8000 on “eligible purchases in the first six months of the card ownership.)Foreign Purchase Transaction Fees NoneFlight And Prepaid Hotels Booked through the Card5x Reward PointsOther Purchases 1x Reward PointsAirline Free Credit Up to $200CLEAR® Plus Membership$199Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® Application Fee CreditUp to $85Hotel Benefits Up to $200Digital Entertainment CreditMaximum $240Equinox Credit $300Cellphone ProtectionUp to $800 for Each Eligible Card Account Further,  British Airways Avios and Air Canada Aeroplan are some of the prestigious aviation partners of this travel credit card. Also, among the hotel partners,  Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton deserve a special mention.  I am so proud to have chosen this card!  3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers an easy and transparent reward program. Here is what you get with this best travel credit card. Unlimited 2x reward points on every purchase 75000 sign-up bonus on a $4000 purchase in the first three months 1,300+ airport lounges access So, overall, this is a card for travelers who go on a trip twice or thrice a year and prefer simple terms.  4. Citi Premier® Card The Citi Premier® Card has great rewards for travelers. You can earn 3x reward points on air travel, hotel booking, and gas station usage.  You have to visit the ThankYou® Rewards program to redeem your reward points. Further, you can transfer the points to the airline partners of the travel credit card for added benefits.  Things No One Told You About Choosing FintechZoom Best Travel Credit Card FintechZoom’s selections are great, and now you have better options. However, to choose the best travel credit card for you, you will have to abide by the following smart tips.  Earlier, I was foolish not to think of these aspects, and I don’t want you to make the same mistakes.  Consider Your Travel Habits You must keep your frequency and expense of traveling and the benefits a card offers on purchases. Further, be careful about dining, lodging, flight booking, and car rental benefits. These are the things that cover the majority of our travel expenses, right?  Know the Sign-Up Bonus When you get a travel credit card, know the minimum amount you need to spend to get the sign-up bonus. It is crucial to get the sign-up bonus if you want to increase your rewards balance.  Further, make sure that the minimum amount you need to spend for the sign-up bonus is within your budget.  Look at the Annual Fee Is your travel credit card waiving off the annual fee for the first year? Or does it offer annual credits?  These are some of the factors that you need to consider to get the best travel credit card. Also. ensure that the perks and rewards of your card are more than the annual fee you pay.  Know About The Foreign Transaction Fees Benefits Foreign transaction fees are bothersome for international travelers. So, waiving foreign transaction fees is crucial if you travel to other countries frequently.  Flexible Redemption Options Flexibility and versatility in redemption options are important while using a travel credit card. The best one will allow you to transfer points to hotels and airline partners.  Of course, the option of redeeming your points as cashback or gift cards is always available.  FAQs About FintechZoom Best Travel Credit Card 1. What makes FintechZoom’s travel credit card recommendations reliable? FintechZoom is famous for its objective and accurate reviews. Further, FintechZoom has reviewed factors, such as sign-up bonuses, redemption points, travel benefits, and annual fees, to suggest the best travel credit cards for us.  Also, the FintechZoom travel credit card suggestions cater to all types of travelers and their different requirements.  2. Can I have more than one travel credit card? Yes, you can have more than one travel credit card. Each card comes with its unique reward redemption benefits and bonuses.  If you are an aware user, you will know the perks of each card and which one will be the most suitable for the type of travel expenses you are making now.  So, use your cards strategically to optimize your travel benefits and earn more points.  3. How can I maximize my travel rewards with the FintechZoom best travel credit card? You can follow simple tricks to optimize your travel credit card benefits.  Know and use the sign-up bonuses. Pay your credit card bill in full and final at the end of every month. Know and transfer the transfer points and transfer them to travel and airline partners for optimized benefits.  4. Are there any downsides to using the FintechZoom best travel credit card? Yes, some travel credit cards can have downsides in the form of high annual fees and APR. Also, the interest rates of these credit cards increase in leaps and bounds if you don’t pay the monthly bill in full. Therefore, you have to be mindful of your financial state and control your spending habits before you apply for a credit card.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.