Fine Hotels & Resorts Program Review

American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) is one of those perks that makes holding an Amex Platinum card feel like you’ve unlocked a secret travel club. Think luxury hotels, guaranteed upgrades, and breakfast that doesn’t come from a sad continental buffet. If you’re wondering whether FHR is worth it, here’s the full breakdown.

This is genuinely one of my favorite benefits of the American Express Platinum card — and I was thrilled when Amex increased the credit amount and split it into two credits per year instead of one.

🌟 What Is Amex FHR (Fine Hotels & Resorts)?

FHR is Amex’s luxury hotel booking program available to Platinum and Centurion cardholders. When you book through FHR, you get a suite of guaranteed benefits at over 1,000 properties worldwide.

Core perks include:

  • Daily breakfast for two

  • Guaranteed 4pm late checkout

  • Room upgrade (when available)

  • Noon check-in (when available)

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

  • A $100 property credit (often for dining or spa)

🏨 Where Can You Use It?

FHR covers luxury properties across the globe—from Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton to boutique gems. Some standout examples include:

  • Conrad Maldives – Overwater villas with breakfast and spa credits

  • Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah – Iconic luxury with guaranteed late checkout

  • Baglioni Hotel Regina, Rome – Boutique charm plus Amex perks

💳 How to Access FHR

To book FHR, you’ll need:

  • Amex Platinum or Business Platinum

  • Booking through the Amex Travel portal

As of 2025, Platinum cardholders receive a two $300 annual FHR credit — perfect for one‑night luxury stays biannually.

⚖️ Amex FHR Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Guaranteed perks add real value (breakfast alone can be $60+ daily).

  • $100 property credit often covers a nice dinner or spa treatment.

  • Late checkout is a lifesaver for cruise embarkation days or long flights.

  • Elite benefits often stack with hotel loyalty programs.

Cons:

  • Rates are usually “best available” (not discounted).

  • Limited to luxury properties—budget travelers may not find this option beneficial.

  • Must book through Amex Travel, which can restrict flexibility.

💡 Travel Hacker Tips

  • Use the $300 Platinum credit strategically—book one-night stays at luxury properties to maximize perks.

  • Compare FHR rates with hotel loyalty program rates; sometimes you’ll earn both perks and points.

  • Perfect for pre-cruise stays: late checkout + breakfast = smooth embarkation day.

  • Stack with Amex Offers for extra savings.

    👉 Want to see a real example? Read how I booked two rooms at The Palazzo using my FHR credit → How I Booked My Amex FHR Stay

📌 Related Reads

Bottom Line

The Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) program is a luxury travel hack hiding in plain sight. If you already hold the Platinum card, FHR can easily offset the annual fee with perks, credits, and experiences that feel indulgent but strategic.

If you love luxury hotels — or even just want to treat yourself once or twice a year — FHR is absolutely worth exploring.

About Julie

Julie Davis is the founder of No Point Left Behind, where she helps families travel better using points, miles, cruise hacks, and smart planning. She’s a mom, a deal‑stacking pro, and a firm believer that travel doesn’t have to be expensive to be unforgettable.

Julie has explored Alaska’s top cruise ports, sailed multiple cruise lines, and built a system that turns everyday spending into real adventures — from national parks to bucket‑list cruises. Her mission is simple: make travel feel doable, approachable, and fun for real families.

Follow along for practical tips, honest reviews, and real‑life points‑powered adventures.

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