In this space, we often highlight points and miles earning opportunities whenever they arise, be it in the form of a deal or a welcome bonus. However, many benefits often fly under the radar. Card issuers don’t advertise them as much as other benefits and customers also tend to remember them less than others. In the past, I’ve written about how less known benefits like purchase protection can go a long way in helping you recoup the annual fee on a card. Similarly, the Amex Platinum Concierge service is one such benefit. I got the opportunity to finally use it. Here’s my experience.
Amex Platinum Concierge Service
I’ve carried the Charles Schwab Platinum card for half a decade. I wanted to make a reservation at a particularly difficult to get restaurant during really busy time of the year in Mumbai, India. We needed to make a reservation for December 26, at 7 PM. I decided to call the number on the back of my card.
Benefit Details
So, how does the Amex Platinum Concierge Service work? As per Amex’s website, you can place a request and your concierge will get it done. Obviously, you will still need to pay for the service you’ll eventually be using, be it at a restaurant or a concert venue.
Here’s what Amex’s website says:
Platinum Card® from American Express Exclusively for Charles Schwab Concierge is a complimentary service, for eligible Card Members. Our Lifestyle concierges provide expertise on what matters to you and can assist you with finding the best restaurants or buying tickets to upcoming events.
Simply call the number on the back of your Card, and select or say “Concierge” when prompted.‡
Good to Know
-
Our Concierge staff typically fulfills requests at no cost to you.
-
You are responsible for any purchase and/or shipping charges you authorize.
-
Please see below for other important terms and conditions.
Fine Print
The terms and conditions once again, clearly state that the Amex Platinum Concierge will only help you book or arrange a service. You, the cardmember, has to pay for the eventual goods or services consumed.
American Express Concierge may perform select services at your request and on your behalf that are limited to: (i) purchasing of available event tickets, (ii) making of available dining or other reservations (which may include, for example, spa or golf), (iii) general travel-related inquiries, and (iv) shopping requests (which may include, for example, sending of flowers or gifts); in each case, as deemed reasonable by American Express. You are responsible for all purchases and associated taxes and fees (including, without limitation, shipping fees) that Concierge makes at your request and on your behalf. You acknowledge that if you make a request through Concierge: (i) American Express is placing that request on your behalf, and (ii) the goods and/or services you requested will be provided by third parties and American Express is not liable for any injury to person or property caused by such third parties or the goods and/or services requested. American Express reserves the right to note your preferences (which may include, for example, flower preferences or tee times) for servicing and marketing purposes, but is not responsible for notifying a restaurant of any food allergies or any other dietary restrictions or preferences when making dining reservations.
My Experience
I was looking a make a reservation for a party of 11 at this restaurant, during a particularly busy time of the year. I called the number on the back of my card and was immediately connected to a rep. She noted all the reservation details and asked about any dietary restrictions and whether we were celebrating any special occasion.
At the end of the call, the rep mentioned that she will update me in 48 hours. She also asked for a preferred method to contact me. I selected email. Within 48 hours, I got an email from Amex. The concierge was unable to reach the hotel to complete my booking.
The Pundit’s Mantra
My reservation date was still one week away from the day I received the email from American Express. I eventually had to take the matter into my own hands. I tried calling for the next couple of days and finally managed to get a table booked for our entire party.
This was the first time that I tried using the Amex Platinum Concierge service on my Schwab Platinum card. While Amex wasn’t able to contact the restaurant and find the table, the rep was knowledgeable and provided regular updates.
Have you had success using the Amex Platinum concierge service? Tell us in the comments section.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Never miss out on the deals, news and travel industry trends. Like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and Twitter to keep getting the latest content!
