Fairmont President's Club - Fairmont Chase Signature Card

updated as of September 1, 2012

(The credit card was launched in May 2012 and during the first few months the credit card fee for the first year was waived. This is currently no longer the case.)

• Credit Card fee is $95 USD.
• link: www.fairmontcard.com

Existing Club and for Non-FPC members:
• Automatically upgraded to Premier FPC status.
Accelerated Platinum Status
• When spending $7,500, Cardmembers will receive an additional stay credit toward their Elite membership to a maximum of two stay credits per year.

Existing Elite members - Premier and Platinum tiers:
1 Complimentary upgrade certificate to Fairmont Gold from a Deluxe room per year.
• 2x $25 ($50) Dining certificates for Premier members.
• 4x $25 ($100) Dining certificates for Platinum members.

Starting Benefit
After spending $1000 within the first 3 months of their account opening,
Cardmembers receive from Chase:
•2 Complimentary night certificates with breakfast for two
Introductory Offer

Anniversary Benefit
• One complimentary night each anniversary year that the Cardmember makes $12,000 in purchases with their card.

For using their Fairmont Visa Signature Card, guests will:
•Earn 5 points for every $1.00 US spent at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
•Earn 2 points for every $1.00 US spent on airline tickets, car rentals and trains
•Earn 1 point for every $1.00 US spent on all other transactions

Point redemption options include:
•Gift Cards
•Fairmont Ovation Certificates (25000-75000points depending on ovation cert category)

Chase issued Benefits:
•No foreign transaction fees
•Access to VIP Lounges Worldwide
•Complimentary annual membership to the LOUNGE CLUB TM with over 350 VIP lounges worldwide.
•Two complimentary lounge visits annually, based on their enrollment date with the Lounge Club, additional visits are $27.00 per person.

Visa Signature Benefits:
•$500,000 Travel Accident Insurance
•$5,000 Trip Cancellation Coverage
•Car Rental Collision Damage Waiver
•Travel and Emergency Assistance
•Purchase Protection Coverage
•Extended Warranty Protection
•No Preset Spending Limit

reserved

reserved

[B][COLOR="Red"]

...www.fairmontcard.com (Not Live Yet)

Domain Registrant:
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
100 Wellington Street West,
Suite 1600
Toronto, Ontario M5K1B7
Canada

Seems dumb to me not to register the .ca too for 13$ but Fairmont has never been very IT savy.

Seems dumb to me not to register the .ca too for 13$ but Fairmont has never been very IT savy.


They're probably not ever going to launch a similar card in Canada. :eek:

Maybe someone can register it and later sell it to Fairmont.

As a lifetime Platinum I want to like this, but it doesn't look very appealing after the first year.

It would be great to see a Canadian credit card affiliated with Fairmont, but with the limited number of Canadian CCs I doubt we´ll see one anytime soon.

IMO this is an excellent card for both occasional Fairmont guests (as the perks of Premier status are pretty nice) and regular Fairmont guests:

$15000 of spending per year at Fairmont hotels would get you:

1) one Gold suite upgrade cert; valuation would depend on exact terms and property, but easily a worth a few hundred bucks
2) $100 in F&B vouchers
3) 75k points = 1 night at a category D hotel (Savoy, Plaza) or three nights at a category A hotel (most old-style Fairmont hotels) incl. breakfast; value >$1000/year
4) comp. night retention bonus (worth $300-$1000 depending on whether there are any restrictions)

So overall a minimum 10% return on all spendings at Fairmont hotels.

If only I could easily get the CC as a Canadian...seems like another great offer I´ll miss...

For using their Fairmont Visa Signature Card, Guests will:[/B]
•Earn 5 points for every $1.00 US spent at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
•Earn 2 points for every $1.00 US spent on airline tickets, car rentals and trains
•Earn 1 point for every $1.00 US spent on all other transactions

Point redemption options include:
•Gift Cards
•Fairmont Ovation Certificates (25000-75000points depending on ovation cert category)


Any information about other ways to earn points? How about Fairmont spend that's on top of the points for the co-branded credit card? For example, Hyatt gives its general members 5 points per $ spent, Hilton between 10 and 15, Marriott 10, so on and so forth - these are awarded regardless the form of payment.

Any other rumor how the Platinum benefits may change given the intro of this?

Any information about other ways to earn points? How about Fairmont spend that's on top of the points for the co-branded credit card? For example, Hyatt gives its general members 5 points per $ spent, Hilton between 10 and 15, Marriott 10, so on and so forth - these are awarded regardless the form of payment.

Any other rumor how the Platinum benefits may change given the intro of this?

Currently the Fairmont loyalty program is not based on points, and I haven´t heard any rumors regarding a complete revamp of the program, but I wouldn´t be surprised if Fairmont was considering such a change.

Very curious about the two free nights. I assume they correspond to an Ovation level. I hope they make it clear.

okay i guess this means I should sign up for the presidents club

Wonder if the points program will be run by Chase or Fairmont. If it's Chase, this would make a nice addition to Ultimate Rewards.

It sucks that Canada won't get this card! It would be great if Amex looks into making it one of their cards especially since they already have been partnering with them with plat5.

Wonder if the points program will be run by Chase or Fairmont. If it's Chase, this would make a nice addition to Ultimate Rewards.

The way the card is designed, it only makes sense if the points program is run by Chase (which is the info I´ve received). I wouldn´t expect the program to be as flexible as Ultimate Rewards (and I doubt Chase could afford a 1:1 points:miles ratio with the earning structure). Unless Fairmont completely redesigns its loyalty program (which I doubt) I´d think it´s more an artificial currency which helps faciliating the transactions between the Chase CC and Fairmont.

As usual, the best use of points will likely be free nights at Fairmont hotels, though they likely expand the other options like GCs over time.

It sucks that Canada won't get this card! It would be great if Amex looks into making it one of their cards especially since they already have been partnering with them with plat5.

I wouldn´t make any absolute statement right now, at the moment we don´t even have a US card yet, at least officially.:p

As Fairmont already has a very close partnership with AMEX, I think there is some chance they´ll launch a Canadian Fairmont affiliated AMEX in the future (I´d personally expect a 1-2year delay as they´ll probably want to analyze the acceptance of the US card).

Wow! One for myself and the wife = four nights at the kea lani?

It sucks that Canada won't get this card! It would be great if Amex looks into making it one of their cards especially since they already have been partnering with them with plat5.

Who is Amex? :p

I am really excited about this card depending on a few things.

If the free nights are at any hotel, I'm in for two. If they are towards free nights at any hotel my other questions don't matter but obviously the big question is then the points system. If they are UR points then the $7,500 spend will be met quickly... twice.

Wow! One for myself and the wife = four nights at the kea lani?

That's what I'm wondering - does anyone know if the free nights work anywhere and everywhere?

I still have some Ovations from last year's Discover America. I could have a nice long run at the Kea Lani.

As a lifetime Platinum I want to like this, but it doesn't look very appealing after the first year.

I agreed at first, but the $100 dining certs cover the annual fee and I'll take the gold upgrade cert happily. I'll put the $12k on it to get the extra free night every year. I think it's silly not to have it if you're a lifetime plat.

If such a credit card was rolled out in Canada, it would have certain modifications to bring it in line with the notoriously less-competitive Canadian market standards:

1. the fee would be $120
2. no first-year-free in Canada
3. no renewal incentive/benefit
4. starting benefit would be cut in half (one free night only)
5. it would be issued by some garbage bank like Capital One

If such a credit card was rolled out in Canada, it would have certain modifications to bring it in line with the notoriously less-competitive Canadian market standards:

1. the fee would be $120
2. no first-year-free in Canada
3. no renewal incentive/benefit
4. starting benefit would be cut in half (one free night only)
5. it would be issued by some garbage bank like Capital One

You are being too generous. Credit offerings in Canada are worse than you imply.

1. My fee for RBC BA Avios Visa is 165 + 75 for additional cards
2. It would offer very little in the way of useful insurance/protections
3. It would have a 5000 spend req in the first month
4. Points can be exchanged for useless skymall junk on a clunky website shop for a rate of .003 per dollar spend. (increased value for Fairmont spend @ .004 per dollar spend) :)
5. It would offer state of the art Chip and Pin with the card holder assuming all liability. :)
6. Cash advance checks come monthly free of charge :)

(It has been mentioned to me by bankers and those in the credit industry, that the offers aren't as good as USA, because of A: smaller market and B: to protect the consumer and not encourage poor credit usage/practices.
What is funny about that is, in Vancouver people are flipping real estate worth 2x it's value, and I was able to get 4 credit cards by saying "I make 100k" No questions asked.

Slightly off topic:
I have 0 debt, in USA or Canada, but hold 10 american and 5 canadian credit cards.
I have met multiple Canadians with some CRAZY debt, thinking they can use their house to pay down bills.

Can we say bubble-collapse scenario?
Basically the only reason the offers suck here is, because the banks have 0 incentive to help customers.
I am sure glad the local credit union runs diversity advertising every 10 minutes though.

The AMEX Plat 5 promotion for Canadian cardholders seems pretty unbeatable to me. It will be interesting strategically to see how Fairmont balances out its dueling credit card promotions/vendors. When Chase teamed up with United/Continental they managed to kill the airline's relationship with AMEX.

I'll try anything once....

Coincidentally http://fairmontcard.com DNS has been transferred to a fairmont server in Canada (From a generic godaddy holding page)

This server hosts other random fairmont affiliated sites
http://www.ip-adress.com/reverse_ip/fairmontcard.com

5 or so days to go!

I'll be paying for a long fairmont stay on May 14 before I could get the card. Anyone think there's any chance I could switch my payment a week later to the new fairmont card? I'd hate to lose out on those bonus points.

I'll be paying for a long fairmont stay on May 14 before I could get the card. Anyone think there's any chance I could switch my payment a week later to the new fairmont card? I'd hate to lose out on those bonus points.

You might get the card if you apply on May 10, if it is released as this thread speculates. If not you are out of luck. Chase would have no reason to credit you if you pay in another fashion. It would be like paying for Burger King and asking McDonalds to give you a free happy meal toy. Sorry.

You might get the card if you apply on May 10, if it is released as this thread speculates. If not you are out of luck. Chase would have no reason to credit you if you pay in another fashion. It would be like paying for Burger King and asking McDonalds to give you a free happy meal toy. Sorry.
I must not have been clear. I was hoping the hotel would refund my original form of payment and charge my new card. But I agree that I'm probably out of luck. Ohs well, I'll use it at the next stay.

So as a Canadian resident it seems to me that Fairmont is unwilling to align with a Canadian bank and keep my loyalty, hmmmm.......

So as a Canadian resident it seems to me that Fairmont is unwilling to align with a Canadian bank and keep my loyalty, hmmmm.......

I suspect they will, great things come to "Canadians" who wait. Generally that wait is 1-2 years :)

I guess bloggers must not get referral kickbacks for this credit card, otherwise it would be all over the blogosphere today. Anyways, here's the application link:

https://applynowdc1.chase.com/FlexAppWeb/renderApp.do?SPID=DWKB

Applied and approved!

Approved for both me and my wife.

I vote for: "First 100 to apply get Platinum for Life"

Oh wait... that was a different promotion :)

I guess bloggers must not get referral kickbacks for this credit card, otherwise it would be all over the blogosphere today. Anyways, here's the application link:

https://applynowdc1.chase.com/FlexAppWeb/renderApp.do?SPID=DWKB

Do you have a link to Chase/Fairmonts promo offer? Where did you obtain this link? fairmontcard.com is not yet active.

Applied and approved!

Are all of you that have been approved so far Americans/have SSN? I would assume no way to get this as a Canadian but just want to double check. Thanks.

Do you have a link to Chase/Fairmonts promo offer? Where did you obtain this link? fairmontcard.com is not yet active.

Nope, no further info on the offer other than what is listed on the application page. In an ironic twist, I stole the link from a MommyPoints' blog commenter. ;)

I can't wait to see the full details though, mainly what type of Ovation certs do we get for applying for this CC. But also the full details of the upgrade to Gold level for Plats once per year.

The card shows up in my account with a button for "Fairmont Rewards" and this link.

Thank you for using your Fairmont Visa Signature® Card.

Earn Fairmont Rewards on all your purchases: 5 for every $1 spent on Fairmont stays; 2 for every $1 spent on airline tickets purchased directly with the airline, car rental agencies, and transit and commuting; and 1 for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Receive a bonus of one complimentary night stay at any Fairmont hotel or resort worldwide when you spend $12,000 each anniversary year.


https://www.chase.com/online/Credit-Cards/fairmontrewards.htm?rewardsId=55&AI=353742487

https://chaseonline.chase.com/resources/RPC0487.pdf

There are way, way, way too many good Chase offers. This is very tempting but I can't swing it. I was really trying to get the amex daily getaway thing for 6 nights at Kea Lani but came up empty.

I am really excited - this looks like a great card.

What is missing that I don't see is, what exactly can the "points" you earn be used for?

Did anyone see anything on this?

I am really excited - this looks like a great card.

What is missing that I don't see is, what exactly can the "points" you earn be used for?

Did anyone see anything on this?

I posted about this above: https://www.chase.com/online/Credit-...5&AI=353742487

Gift Cards to various retailers, Ovation Fairmont Stays, or Charities
5% back on Fairmont
2% back on Train/Car/Airfare
1% back on all other

Redeemable in Increments of 20-100

That link is dead.

I still don't get it.

So if you earn 5% cash back, and can redeem for Ovation stays, what's the price of the Ovation stay? The certificate price they use at say workingadvantage.com?

It seems like they will need to publish some serious detail about how the "points" they advertise can be use,d but I don't see anything on the site yet about that.

Sorry it appears they changed the link

All the rewards are detailed here:
www.chase.com/online/Credit-Cards/fairmontrewards.htm

$1 dollar @ Fairmont = 5 pts
$1 dollar @ Airline/Car Rental = 2 pts
$1 dollar everywhere else = 1 pts

2,500 points = $25 Giftcard
Starbucks, Hertz, Fairmont, Amazon, etc.

Or you can redeem for an ovation:
..............Standard..Jr. Suite..Gold
Collection A 25,000--30,000--35,000
Collection B 35,000--40,000--45,000
Collection C 45,000--50,000--55,000
Collection D 65,000--70,000--75,000

Or you can donate to a charity

Which category are the 2 free nights

Which category are the 2 free nights

Same as premier/plat certs. Any Open Fairmont Room

I just applied on the link and was instantly approved for both my wife and I.

Now in hindsight, the page doesn't show the details about the items for existing platinum members show in the first post. I'm hoping I didn't jump the gun and miss out on these.

Existing Elite members - Premier and Platinum tiers:
1 Complimentary upgrade certificate to Fairmont Gold from a Deluxe room per year.
• 2x $25 ($50) Dining certificates for Premier members.
• 4x $25 ($100) Dining certificates for Platinum members.

You are fine. They are included in the offering you applied for.

I just applied on the link and was instantly approved for both my wife and I.

Now in hindsight, the page doesn't show the details about the items for existing platinum members show in the first post. I'm hoping I didn't jump the gun and miss out on these.

Existing Elite members - Premier and Platinum tiers:
1 Complimentary upgrade certificate to Fairmont Gold from a Deluxe room per year.
• 2x $25 ($50) Dining certificates for Premier members.
• 4x $25 ($100) Dining certificates for Platinum members.

Reading through the offer, I did not see how long the two complimentary night certificates with breakfast are valid for...

I assume they expire in 1 year - can anybody confirm?

The spend rewards don't seem that great. You can buy ovation certificates (standard) for:

A = $225
B = $289
C = $380
D = $602

If you're looking to redeem for ovation certificates, it doesn't look like you'll even get 1c per point. I didn't look at the prices for the suites and Gold certificates, but I'm certain they won't bring the value over 2c per point. Am I missing something?

Looks like this might be a card destined to be held until the annual fee hits, then cancelled.

Reading through the offer, I did not see how long the two complimentary night certificates with breakfast are valid for...

I assume they expire in 1 year - can anybody confirm?

I can't confirm, but I'm guessing they're ovation certificates, which don't carry an expiration date.

EDIT: I'm wrong, from T&Cs

If permitted by law, certificates will expire within one year of date of issue.

http://www.fairmont.com/EN_FA/Promotions/ChaseTermsAndConditions.htm

If permitted by law, certificates will expire within one year of date of issue.

http://www.fairmont.com/EN_FA/Promotions/ChaseTermsAndConditions.htm

That is some interesting language...

'Will expire within one year of date of issue' - Almost makes it sound like they could expire in less than one year.

The spend rewards don't seem that great. You can buy ovation certificates (standard) for:

A = $225
B = $289
C = $380
D = $602

If you're looking to redeem for ovation certificates, it doesn't look like you'll even get 1c per point. I didn't look at the prices for the suites and Gold certificates, but I'm certain they won't bring the value over 2c per point. Am I missing something?

Looks like this might be a card destined to be held until the annual fee hits, then cancelled.

Well if keep the card, you are getting a free night each year and 100 in certs + Lounge and Gold Upgrade, it pays off the annual fee. (Not even considering the points, which I will cash in for Gift Cards)

Well if keep the card, you are getting a free night each year and 100 in certs + Lounge and Gold Upgrade, it pays off the annual fee. (Not even considering the points, which I will cash in for Gift Cards)

To get the free night you need to put $12,000 on the card. Assuming most can get, say, 2.5c of value out of an SPG point, this translates to an embedded cost of $180 ($300 in SPG points - $120 in gift cards).

This ignores the fact that many like their spend to go toward aspirational redemptions. One night at a Fairmont anywhere in the world is nice, but I can't plan a vacation around it. Since the nights expire after one year, I can't save them up over a few years either to take a great vacation.

The dining certificates are great assuming your stays are for pleasure instead of business, but as a Premier I'd only be eligible for $50 and many applying for the card, $0. Nonetheless, a nice benefit combined with the Gold if you stay at Fairmonts a few times a year.

The lounge access brings another potential $50 in value.

I concede that for some this card will be worthwhile on an ongoing basis (those already logging many nights in Fairmonts), but given the amount of work it takes to get full value out of it, I foresee most dropping it before the AF hits.

RT, good analysis.

For me and other's living or visiting near Fairmont Destinations, this is the card to go to. I am a Platinum so already get 1 free night, in addition to these great new benefits.

In a typical year between my spouse, family and myself we will stay 40-60 nights at a fairmont collectively, so the ability to share certs amongst a family also has it's additional value.

So, does anyone know if the Ovation certs are valid at either The Plaza or the Savoy?

So, does anyone know if the Ovation certs are valid at either The Plaza or the Savoy?

Yes, category D ovation certs can be used at the Plaza and the Savoy.

The spend rewards don't seem that great. You can buy ovation certificates (standard) for:

A = $225
B = $289
C = $380
D = $602


Where can you buy ovation certs for your own use? I thought they could only be bought by companies and travel agents as ncentives for empoyees/customers.

Where can you buy ovation certs for your own use? I thought they could only be bought by companies and travel agents as ncentives for empoyees/customers.

Various travel agents online will sell them. Or if you have access to corp HR reward programs

This press release (http://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article63288Fairmont___Chase_Announce_New_Luxury_R ewards_Credit_Card_for_U_S_Residents.html) mentions a Charter Member Offer expiring July 31, 2012 for existing Premier/Platinum of:

* 2 Gold upgrades
* Extra $150 dining certificates

Does anyone know anything more about that? I don't see this offer showing up anywhere else.

Where can you buy ovation certs for your own use? I thought they could only be bought by companies and travel agents as ncentives for empoyees/customers.

I was looking here for my prices...

http://www.onlythebestgifts.com/fairmont-raffles-swissotel-ovation-reward-certificate/

Well, there are those of us who will really get some aspirational use out of these.

Me - a place to crash after my bender at the Tonga Room (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9wGW5QANDg)...

And I would be remiss not to post on behalf of the Newbie Rabble sure to be posting shortly..

At what point to the other premier benefits of :
- one room upgrade certificate
- one suite upgrade certificate
- one third night free certificate
- two $25 dining certificates

kick in?

Card arrived today via UPS second day air. Was already activated.

Card arrived today via UPS second day air. Was already activated.

Can you please find out when the two free night certificates expire?

Thanks,

Lark

Just a clarification because I could not find this on the application page. As a current FPC Platinum, getting this CC will give me another 4 X $25 certificates for food and beverage, in addition to the ones I already get as FPC Platinum?

Also, for the free night with $12K annual spend... is that an annual offer rather than intro offer?

Can you please find out when the two free night certificates expire?

Thanks,

Lark

1 Year, or End of Feb 2013 like all Fairmont Certs. FPC Desk at their discretion can extend certs.

Just a clarification because I could not find this on the application page. As a current FPC Platinum, getting this CC will give me another 4 X $25 certificates for food and beverage, in addition to the ones I already get as FPC Platinum?

Also, for the free night with $12K annual spend... is that an annual offer rather than intro offer?

4x$25 certs are earned as a Plat. The wording makes me believe this is annual.
12k annual spend = 1 night. It can be earned annually.
The Gold Upgrade Cert is earned annually.
2 Plaza Prem Certs are earned annually.

The 2 night + Breakfast is a 1 time offer.

1 Year, or End of Feb 2013 like all Fairmont Certs. FPC Desk at their discretion can extend certs.

Thanks...

I was going to hold off on getting this card so the free nights expiration date would be further out. But if they are going to expire in February anyway, might as well just go ahead and get the card... As a Plat especially, this card is a no brainer.

I was successful in having Fairmont extend some of my certs for one month (through the end of March) earlier this year.

Suite upgrade certs can be used with those free nights, right?

Suite upgrade certs can be used with those free nights, right?

They "should" work the same as current certs, so yes. Plaza/Savoy exempted.

Suite upgrade certs can be used with those free nights, right?

Yes, room and suite upgrade certs can be used with free night certs and ovation cert bookings. The usual rules apply regarding hotels not being eligible. (see master FAQ thread)

4x$25 certs are earned as a Plat. The wording makes me believe this is annual.
12k annual spend = 1 night. It can be earned annually.
The Gold Upgrade Cert is earned annually.
2 Plaza Prem Certs are earned annually.

The 2 night + Breakfast is a 1 time offer.

Understood Re: 12K annual spend, 2 lounge certs, and gold upgrade cert.

Re: 4 X $25. A current benefit as an existing FPC Plat already entitles me to 4 X $25 annually. If I get the card, does this mean that, being a Plat, I will get an additional 4 x $25 annually on top of the existing ones?

...At what point to the other premier benefits of :
- one room upgrade certificate
- one suite upgrade certificate
- one third night free certificate
- two $25 dining certificates

kick in?

Just called Presidents club - these are awarded as soon as you become Premier!

These are pretty nice bene's on top of an already solid card offering. I don't see any way to keep the rabble out now.

I guess bloggers must not get referral kickbacks for this credit card, otherwise it would be all over the blogosphere today. Anyways, here's the application link:

https://applynowdc1.chase.com/FlexAppWeb/renderApp.do?SPID=DWKB

I definitely have to second this thought. I've been surprised that this card has been out for a day or 2 now, but I have yet to see any mention in any of the frequent flyer blogs, despite the fact that the sign up bonus could be valued at over $1,000, depending on the property.

Does anyone know whether the 2 complimentary nights (after $1,000 in purchases) would apply to a all-suite property, specifically the Kea Lani?

Does anyone know whether the 2 complimentary nights (after $1,000 in purchases) would apply to a all-suite property, specifically the Kea Lani?

The regular free night certs can be used at the Kea Lani, so I´d assume yes.

I definitely have to second this thought. I've been surprised that this card has been out for a day or 2 now, but I have yet to see any mention in any of the frequent flyer blogs, despite the fact that the sign up bonus could be valued at over $1,000, depending on the property.

Same, I spoke to a few bloggers about it, but they seem preoccupied with BA and Hyatt cards. On one hand I am always sad people don't acknowledge Fairmont for the gem it is, on the other, I am happy it isn't over run with plats/premiers. These benefits and the card are a great development and shows Fairmont is committed to marketing it's name, with bloggers support or not.

1 Year, or End of Feb 2013 like all Fairmont Certs. FPC Desk at their discretion can extend certs.

boo :td: I want to use it at the Savoy but don't have any plans to go there within the year.

I'm not super familiar with Fairmont, but what are some iconic (or just great) hotels that I could stay at?

boo :td: I want to use it at the Savoy but don't have any plans to go there within the year.

I'm not super familiar with Fairmont, but what are some iconic (or just great) hotels that I could stay at?

What area are you looking at?

Without discussing all 60+ properties in detail (sorry:p), the better Fairmont hotels are:

- most hotels outside Canada/US
- Canada: Pacific Rim Vancouver, Banff Springs, Lake Louise, Jasper Park Lodge
- US: both Fairmont hotels in Hawaii (particularly Kea Lani), Fairmont San Francisco, Fairmont Seattle

One issue you´ll encounter with the entry level rooms at the historic hotels is that they´re often small and nothing exciting while the higher category rooms (which you can upgrade to using a room/suite upgrade cert as a Premier/Plat member) and the general areas are great, and some of the locations (e.g. in the Canadian Rockies) can´t be beat.

boo :td: I want to use it at the Savoy but don't have any plans to go there within the year.

I'm not super familiar with Fairmont, but what are some iconic (or just great) hotels that I could stay at?

Some of the tops in my mind.

Epic
Savoy - London
Plaza - NYC
Peace Hotel - Shanghai
San Francisco
Monte Carlo

Historic
Hotel Vancouver
Royal York - Toronto
Boston
San Jose
Santa Monica
Scottland
Montreal
Quebec City
Seattle

Chic Modern
Pittsburg
Vancouver Pac Rim
Singapore
Beijing
Chicago

Scenic
Lake Louise
Banff
Whistler
Scottsdale
Jasper
Maui and Hawaii

There is also the Raffles Brand and Swisotel Brand that compliment the Fairmont's around the world. (Certificates DO NOT transfer between Brands)
http://www.frhi.com/destinationmap/
Paris and Singapore are quite exquisite

Some of the tops in my mind.

Epic
Savoy - London
Plaza - NYC
Peace Hotel - Shanghai
San Francisco
Monte Carlo

Historic
Hotel Vancouver
Royal York - Toronto
Boston
San Jose
Santa Monica
Scottland
Montreal
Quebec City
Seattle

Chic Modern
Pittsburg
Vancouver Pac Rim
Singapore
Beijing
Chicago

Scenic
Lake Louise
Banff
Whistler
Scottsdale
Jasper

There is also the Raffles Brand and Swisotel Brand that compliment the Fairmont's around the world. (Certificates DO NOT transfer between Brands)
http://www.frhi.com/destinationmap/
Paris and Singapore are quite exquisite


Wow. You really know your Fairmonts! I've only ever stayed at the SF Fairmont, and it was very impressive.

So if I stay at Raffles/Swissotel I would be able to get credit for the president's club?

Wow. You really know your Fairmonts! I've only ever stayed at the SF Fairmont, and it was very impressive.

So if I stay at Raffles/Swissotel I would be able to get credit for the president's club?

Only Premier and Platinum members get stay credit when staying at Swissotel and Raffles hotels. (they also get a limited of benefits when staying there, but generally FPC status doesn´t mean much at Swissotel/Raffles hotels).

However, not all Swissotel/Raffles rates are considered qualifying rates with FPC and the rules tend to be somewhat more restrictive.

Only Premier and Platinum members get stay credit when staying at Swissotel and Raffles hotels. (they also get a limited of benefits when staying there, but generally FPC status doesn´t mean much at Swissotel/Raffles hotels).

However, not all Swissotel/Raffles rates are considered qualifying rates with FPC and the rules tend to be somewhat more restrictive.

So effectively by applying for the card, Swissotel and Raffles hotel stays will count towards FPC credit since you get complimentary premier status?

Received my card today too via UPS. Already activated as well.

If my wife and I both sign up for the card, would we be able to use all 4 free night certificates (after each spending $1,000 on each card) for a 5 night stay?

If my wife and I both sign up for the card, would we be able to use all 4 free night certificates (after each spending $1,000 on each card) for a 5 night stay?

Yes. Just make sure when you make the reservations (central or hotel res) that they are aware you want to use them consecutively so that you don't have to switch rooms.

If my wife and I both sign up for the card, would we be able to use all 4 free night certificates (after each spending $1,000 on each card) for a 5 night stay?

Unless you have Platinum status, certs are non-transferable, thus you´d need two separate reservations (at least in theory). However, that shouldn´t be a problem as you can just combine/link the two reservations.

Unless you have Platinum status, certs are non-transferable, thus you´d need two separate reservations (at least in theory). However, that shouldn´t be a problem as you can just combine/link the two reservations.

So, certs are transferable for Plats?

We have some friends getting married at the Sonoma Mission Inn. Although they have their room included as a part of the package, I would like to book a room for somebody else in the wedding party.

Can I get this card, and then use the two free nights to book a room for someone else? They have no status, I am Plat.

Thanks Jasper.

So, certs are transferable for Plats?

We have some friends getting married at the Sonoma Mission Inn. Although they have their room included as a part of the package, I would like to book a room for somebody else in the wedding party.

Can I get this card, and then use the two free nights to book a room for someone else? They have no status, I am Plat.

Thanks Jasper.


Sorry, should have been more precise. Free night certificates are transferrable to immediate family only (incl. spouse/children/siblings/parents) if you hold Plat status, but not to anyone else. Premier members cannot transfer certs at all.

If you get Premier by signing up for the card, does this then suggest you need only 5 additional stays to get to platinum or do you have to do 10 stays regardless?

Now that the card has come out, do we know if:

1) The Fairmont points are managed by Fairmont or Chase, and who handles the redemptions?

2) Assuming they are Fairmont Ovation certs, do we have the final redemption values?

I've seen the earlier posts, but have not seen anything concrete since the card release.

Unfortunately while it is true that you get 2 nights at ANY Fairmont hotel this doesn't work very well for the The Fairmont Mara Safari Club. Neither the game rides nor the "full board" are included with the certs (just breakfast).

Now that the card has come out, do we know if:

1) The Fairmont points are managed by Fairmont or Chase, and who handles the redemptions?

2) Assuming they are Fairmont Ovation certs, do we have the final redemption values?

I've seen the earlier posts, but have not seen anything concrete since the card release.

Chase handles the points.
http://www.chase.com/online/Credit-Cards/fairmontrewards.htm

Interesting wording in the fine print about earning the 2 Gold upgrades + $150 dining cert for "charter" card members -- "at the time of fulfillment you must have attained Fairmont President’s Club Premier or Platinum status through acquiring the required number of stays/stay credits, and your account must be open and not in default".

I wonder if this means no "charter" benefits for us few Lifetime Platinum members?

Unfortunately while it is true that you get 2 nights at ANY Fairmont hotel this doesn't work very well for the The Fairmont Mara Safari Club. Neither the game rides nor the "full board" are included with the certs (just breakfast).

Are you speculating?

Or did you actually try and make a booking with certs?

If you book with certs, how much additional do the game rides and lunch and dinner cost?

Thanks,

Lark

If you get Premier by signing up for the card, does this then suggest you need only 5 additional stays to get to platinum or do you have to do 10 stays regardless?

If you get Premier by signing up for the card, does this then suggest you need only 5 additional stays to get to platinum or do you have to do 10 stays regardless?

Can´t say for sure, but it´s unlikely IMO you´ll get Plat status after five additional stays. You can already earn two stay credits per year via spending, so handing out Plat status after just three actual stays would be too good to be true IMO.

This would be in line with various fast track promos (e.g. Premier status after 3 or 4 stays instead of 5) where you still needed 10 stays to earn Plat status.

Anyhow, if you want to be 100% sure, I´d drop FPC an e-mail.

Existing Elite members - Premier and Platinum tiers:
1 Complimentary upgrade certificate to Fairmont Gold from a Deluxe room per year.
• 2x $25 ($50) Dining certificates for Premier members.
• 4x $25 ($100) Dining certificates for Platinum members.

I just received this in my e-mail invitation:

"Existing Fairmont President’s Club Premier & Platinum members
Become a Charter Member and the first year’s annual fee will be waived (a $95 value).2 After approval, you'll receive 2 additional Fairmont Gold upgrades8 along with $150 in dining certificates.9
This is a limited time Charter Member offer, so apply now! "

Appears to be in addition to the 1 you are given as a President's Club Member(? although not completely clear...)

"You will get 2 complimentary nights with breakfast for 2 at any Fairmont destination worldwide after you make just $1,000 in purchases within your first 3 months of account opening.1
• Pay no foreign transaction fees.2
• Earn Fairmont Rewards on every purchase, including 5 per $1 spent on Fairmont stays, 2 per $1 spent on airline tickets purchased directly with airlines, at car rental agencies, and on transit and commuting, and 1 per $1 spent on all other purchases.3
• Upgrade to Fairmont Gold, as you maintain your Platinum or Premier membership stay status, you will receive a Fairmont Gold upgrade certificate4 plus dining certificates5 to enjoy once per year.
• Enjoy a complimentary annual membership to the LOUNGE CLUB™ plus 2 free lounge visits each year, for access to over 350 airport lounges in over 200 cities worldwide. For subsequent visits, simply pay $27 per person per visit.6
• Enjoy 1 complimentary night each anniversary year that you make at least $12,000 in purchases on your card.7 "

The fine print:

"8 One-time Fairmont Gold Upgrade: To be eligible for this one- time bonus offer, you must apply by July 31, 2012 and be a first-time Fairmont Rewards cardmember. Further, at the time of fulfillment you must have attained Fairmont President’s Club Premier or Platinum status through acquiring the required number of stays/stay credits, and your account must be open and not in default. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks after account opening for delivery. The upgrade certificate entitles the holder to a complimentary upgrade from a deluxe room category to a Fairmont Gold room with single/double occupancy (2 adults). The upgrade certificate is not redeemable for Fairmont Gold Suites and cannot be used as credit towards Fairmont Gold Suites, regular Suites, specialty Suites or multi-unit Suites. Redemption is subject to availability of Fairmont Gold rooms at the time of reservation. For a list of current Fairmont hotels and resorts with Fairmont Gold, please visit www.fairmont.com/fairmontgold . Only 1 upgrade certificate may be redeemed per stay, and a single stay cannot exceed 5 nights. Upgrade certificates may not be used in conjunction with any Fairmont or third-party packages or promotions, and cannot be combined with any other certificates. All upgrade certificates are non-refundable if lost, stolen or destroyed, except if otherwise required by law. Upgrade certificates have no cash value, except as required by law. If permitted by law, upgrade certificates will expire within 1 year of date of issue. Upgrade certificates are non-transferable, except by Fairmont President’s Club Platinum members who may transfer to immediate family members. See certificate for more details. Previous and existing Fairmont Rewards cardmembers/accounts are not eligible for this bonus offer. Chase is not responsible for offer fulfillment."

Interesting wording in the fine print about earning the 2 Gold upgrades + $150 dining cert for "charter" card members -- "at the time of fulfillment you must have attained Fairmont President’s Club Premier or Platinum status through acquiring the required number of stays/stay credits, and your account must be open and not in default".

I wonder if this means no "charter" benefits for us few Lifetime Platinum members?

My guess is that the distinction is in there in order to exclude the folks who get their Premier status from being a cardholder, but who knows.

My guess is that the distinction is in there in order to exclude the folks who get their Premier status from being a cardholder, but who knows.

That was my guess, too.

Correct - this has nothing to do with the 114 Lifetime Members :)
I'm in that category and have confirmation that I'll get the charter platinum benefits as a Platinum (the bonus gold upgrades & food certs). Mind you I wasn't silly enough to ask, hey - I didn't make the stays... I simply called Chase asking when I'd get the perks with the card. They conferenced in Fairmont who confirmed what I'd get and even sent me an email the next day with the details without me even asking to have it in writing. It had the standard terms of 6-8 weeks.... I'm hoping for much sooner.

That was my guess, too.

Correct - this has nothing to do with the 114 Lifetime Members :)
I'm in that category and have confirmation that I'll get the charter platinum benefits as a Platinum (the bonus gold upgrades & food certs). Mind you I wasn't silly enough to ask, hey - I didn't make the stays... I simply called Chase asking when I'd get the perks with the card. They conferenced in Fairmont who confirmed what I'd get and even sent me an email the next day with the details without me even asking to have it in writing. It had the standard terms of 6-8 weeks.... I'm hoping for much sooner.

FYI
I am "one of the 114" I signed up on May 8 and got the card on May 11. My spouse's card and mine both say "Charter Member" We checked into a Fairmont using the card on checkin.

Looking forward to getting the certs in my account or in the mail.

Not a major complaint, but under my name "AMRivlin" instead of my FPC number or Status, it says "Charter Member". That is nice, but I would have preferred my FPC Number

Correct - this has nothing to do with the 114 Lifetime Members :)
I'm in that category and have confirmation that I'll get the charter platinum benefits as a Platinum (the bonus gold upgrades & food certs). Mind you I wasn't silly enough to ask, hey - I didn't make the stays... I simply called Chase asking when I'd get the perks with the card. They conferenced in Fairmont who confirmed what I'd get and even sent me an email the next day with the details without me even asking to have it in writing. It had the standard terms of 6-8 weeks.... I'm hoping for much sooner.
Very nice, good to have confirmation. I saw the fine print and worried a bit as a lifetime plat. I'm curious to see the expiration on the certs once they post.

how to get lifetime plat for fairmont?

how to get lifetime plat for fairmont?

10 Stays each year, or 40 nights a year earns your platinum. Just be sure to do it annually and you get Platinum for life!

There was a living social (offshoot of groupon) offer last year that included lifetime platinum status. One of the best deals I bought and the credit card makes it even sweeter.

how to get lifetime plat for fairmont?

Fairmont is contacting users directly to tie the Chase and FPC accounts together. I enrolled with my FPC number, but I guess it didn't transfer over, so I gave that to her today.

Signup Vouchers Posted today to my account.

Dining/Willow Stream and Gold Upgrade Cert.

Also Spent $1000, but expect I will have to wait for my first statement for the $1000 Spend Bonus to be credited.

"Enjoy 2 complimentary nights including breakfast
for 2 at any Fairmont destination worldwide
after you make just $1,000 in purchases
within your first three months of account opening."

Currently Certificate Expiry is listed as 5/22/2012 (So 1 Year, occasioanlly this reverts to the end of Feb, so will have to see how they handle this)

Can you combine the free night certs from the card with the plat free night cert on the same stay?

Can you combine the free night certs from the card with the plat free night cert on the same stay?

Yes. And you can use a Suite + Gold Floor.

So you could use Free Night + 2 Free Night + Suite Upgrade + Gold Upgrade for 3 Nights in a Gold Floor Suite and use dining certs for a meal.

3 Nights at Beijing in a Gold Suite = $5000 Rack Rate

Yes. And you can use a Suite + Gold Floor.

So you could use Free Night + 2 Free Night + Suite Upgrade + Gold Upgrade for 3 Nights in a Gold Floor Suite and use dining certs for a meal.

3 Nights at Beijing in a Gold Suite = $5000 Rack Rate

My understanding is that the Gold Suites are exempt...

I'll go back and look at the T&C's.

Also, did you receive this?

"Existing Fairmont President’s Club Premier & Platinum members
Become a Charter Member and the first year’s annual fee will be waived (a $95 value).2 After approval, you'll receive 2 additional Fairmont Gold upgrades along with $150 in dining certificates.
This is a limited time Charter Member offer, so apply now "

My understanding is that the Gold Suites are exempt...

I'll go back and look at the T&C's.

Also, did you receive this?

"After approval, you'll receive 2 additional Fairmont Gold upgrades along with $150 in dining certificates.
This is a limited time Charter Member offer, so apply now "

Yes and my card says "Charter Member" as well CHRTER is listed on my FPC Profile.

I am VERY pleased with the promotion/offering thus far.

Yes and my card says "Charter Member" as well CHRTER is listed on my FPC Profile.

I am VERY pleased with the promotion/offering thus far.

I agree - this card looks like a winner, especially for existing Plats.

But on the Gold Suites / Rooms:

'Stay certificates may not be redeemed for, or used as credit towards, Fairmont Gold Rooms or Suites.'

' Stay certificates may be used in conjunction with Fairmont President’s Club Platinum Room or Suite Upgrade Certificates but may not be used in conjunction with a Fairmont President’s Club Premier Complimentary Third Night certificate or any other Fairmont or third-party promotions or packages.'

I spoke with them when I first received the card and they verified the perks. That was almost 2 weeks back. My account doesn't show the certs yet though.

Fairmont is contacting users directly to tie the Chase and FPC accounts together. I enrolled with my FPC number, but I guess it didn't transfer over, so I gave that to her today.

Yes and my card says "Charter Member" as well CHRTER is listed on my FPC Profile.

I am VERY pleased with the promotion/offering thus far.

My (well my wife's) card says charter but FPC profile has only platinum - do i need to call to link them somehow?

I agree - this card looks like a winner, especially for existing Plats.

But on the Gold Suites / Rooms:

'Stay certificates may not be redeemed for, or used as credit towards, Fairmont Gold Rooms or Suites.'

' Stay certificates may be used in conjunction with Fairmont President’s Club Platinum Room or Suite Upgrade Certificates but may not be used in conjunction with a Fairmont President’s Club Premier Complimentary Third Night certificate or any other Fairmont or third-party promotions or packages.'

Rule #1
I think this will come down to what agent/hotel you work with.

Rule #2
So as a Plat, I don't get Third Night certs. so that doesn't apply. Worst case, 2Free+2Paid+1Free (you end up paying for 2 nights of 5)

Contacted them last week but as yet FPC account has not been updated. Wonder how long this will take?

Is this card required to spend US $1000 per month on everything charges or it needs to have at least $1000.00 per month charges at Fairmont hotel?. My husband currently has a chase cc card, maybe we can convert to the chase signature card.

Is this card required to spend US $1000 per month on everything charges or it needs to have at least $1000.00 per month charges at Fairmont hotel?. My husband currently has a chase cc card, maybe we can convert to the chase signature card.

You don't need to spend anything. the first 1000 total (in 3 months) gets you the bonus. 12,000 annually earns you other things.

Contacted them last week but as yet FPC account has not been updated. Wonder how long this will take?

They are manually adding the FPC and Visa cards to each account. PM me if you want to contact the manager in charge of this.

There is no rush.Was just wondering how long they will take to do this manually .

Signup Vouchers Posted today to my account.

Dining/Willow Stream and Gold Upgrade Cert.

Also Spent $1000, but expect I will have to wait for my first statement for the $1000 Spend Bonus to be credited.

"Enjoy 2 complimentary nights including breakfast
for 2 at any Fairmont destination worldwide
after you make just $1,000 in purchases
within your first three months of account opening."

Currently Certificate Expiry is listed as 5/22/2012 (So 1 Year, occasioanlly this reverts to the end of Feb, so will have to see how they handle this)

Are you saying before statement is closed, the cert. always show up in the account? that's kind of unusual...

Are you saying before statement is closed, the cert. always show up in the account? that's kind of unusual...

I am saying the opposite. When my statement closes, I will see the bonus post.

I am saying the opposite. When my statement closes, I will see the bonus post.

Opps, sorry, my bad reading... ;)

I guess my question re the 4 x $25 dining certificates was answered.

Checked my account, and as existing Platinum, I received 4 x $25 dining certificates plus a certificate for upgrade to gold.

As a charter member, I now also have the $150 in dining certificates and 2 more certificates for upgrade to gold.

$250 in dining certs and 3 upgrade gold certs. Will definitely clear the $12K for another 3 comp nights in the first year. Not too bad for a card that waives the annual fee for the first year :).

I guess my question re the 4 x $25 dining certificates was answered.

Checked my account, and as existing Platinum, I received 4 x $25 dining certificates plus a certificate for upgrade to gold.

As a charter member, I now also have the $150 in dining certificates and 2 more certificates for upgrade to gold.

$250 in dining certs and 3 upgrade gold certs. Will definitely clear the $12K for another 3 comp nights in the first year. Not too bad for a card that waives the annual fee for the first year :).

Thanks for the report!

Expiration date(s)?

Thanks for the report!

Expiration date(s)?

They posted to my account May 23rd, 2012 (is now May 24th on the east coast) and expire in one year.

They posted to my account May 23rd, 2012 (is now May 24th on the east coast) and expire in one year.

Great to hear that.

Thank you.

Hello FT friends! Two quick questions about this product:

1. What is "Charter Member Offer" - am guessing this is specific to Chase banking products? Or is it something else?

2. To echo a question asked earlier in this thread, but not answered as far as I could see, does this require a US SSN? Has any Canadian tried to obtain the card?

Cheers!

Hello FT friends! Two quick questions about this product:

1. What is "Charter Member Offer" - am guessing this is specific to Chase banking products? Or is it something else?

2. To echo a question asked earlier in this thread, but not answered as far as I could see, does this require a US SSN? Has any Canadian tried to obtain the card?

Cheers!

1. It seems that the Charter Offer is for $150 in Fairmont F/B or Willowstream and one gold upgrade certificate. As Platinum, you would get another $100 and as Premier you would get another $50.

After spending $1K, you get 2 free nights with free breakfast and two more gold upgrade certs. These expire one year after they are posted to your account.

All of this is with no fee for year one. I do not see anything else about a bonus point accumulation for being a charter member. Seems like a one time deal.

2. I'm Canadian but have a SSN from working there and also have a US address so not sure that really helps answer your question.

Yes. And you can use a Suite + Gold Floor.

So you could use Free Night + 2 Free Night + Suite Upgrade + Gold Upgrade for 3 Nights in a Gold Floor Suite and use dining certs for a meal.

3 Nights at Beijing in a Gold Suite = $5000 Rack Rate

AMRivlin: It wasn't fully clear to me, is there a reason you tihnk the Gold floor upgrade can be used in conjunction with other FPC Plat certs? Or is this just a hunch of yours which may or may not be correct, or might be YMMV depending on the agent/hotel you are working with? I would love it if these could be combined, but I'm certainly not holding my breath.............

Thanks for all the information about certificates and dates. I wish I would have thought this out a bit in advance. I've already gone over $1K in spend, but would have loved to the 2 certificates to use for summer 2013 rather than have them expire in May or June of 2013. If I had that to do over, I would have delayed hitting $1K in spending (and maybe even application for the card) until near the deadline for qualifying for the benefits...July or August maybe.

I would have delayed hitting $1K in spending (and maybe even application for the card) until near the deadline for qualifying for the benefits...July or August maybe.

I think somebody above reported the deadline for qualifying for the extra Charter benefits is 7/31/12. I personally am gonna wait to July to apply, just for the extra flexibility for Summer 2013 as you mention.

AMRivlin: It wasn't fully clear to me, is there a reason you tihnk the Gold floor upgrade can be used in conjunction with other FPC Plat certs? Or is this just a hunch of yours which may or may not be correct, or might be YMMV depending on the agent/hotel you are working with? I would love it if these could be combined, but I'm certainly not holding my breath.............

I just called reservations and unfortunately the gold upgrades cannot be used in conjunction with a suite upgrade certificate to get a gold suite. So it's either you want a smaller room with better amenities or a bigger room with fewer (unless you do it in conjunction with something like Fine Hotels to get breakfast anyways).

I think somebody above reported the deadline for qualifying for the extra Charter benefits is 7/31/12. I personally am gonna wait to July to apply, just for the extra flexibility for Summer 2013 as you mention.

I'll do the wife's that way!

I just called reservations and unfortunately the gold upgrades cannot be used in conjunction with a suite upgrade certificate to get a gold suite. So it's either you want a smaller room with better amenities or a bigger room with fewer (unless you do it in conjunction with something like Fine Hotels to get breakfast anyways).

Thanks for checking. I'm also interested in one more scenario if anybody knows the answer:

Can the Gold Upgrade be used in conjunction with a Plat Free Night cert to get you a Free Night in a Gold level room? With the possibility of 4 Free Nights this year per Plat member (normal Plat Free Night, 2 Free Nights for spending $1k, and 1 more Free Night for spending $12k), this scenario could come into play for many here. There have been times WHEN REDEEMING A FREE NIGHT that a Suite Upgrade is not available, but perhaps a Gold Floor Upgrade is available. Or further there might be times when you would prefer a Gold room over a Suite at certain hotels anyways.

Hello FT friends! Two quick questions about this product:

1. What is "Charter Member Offer" - am guessing this is specific to Chase banking products? Or is it something else?

2. To echo a question asked earlier in this thread, but not answered as far as I could see, does this require a US SSN? Has any Canadian tried to obtain the card?

Cheers!

Not sure what Charter member means; maybe the ones who took advantage of the promotion by 7/31?

Yes the Chase application did ask for SSN.

Not sure what Charter member means; maybe the ones who took advantage of the promotion by 7/31?

Yes the Chase application did ask for SSN.

Yes Charter=First Group to have joined/applied before July 31.

What shocks me, is there isn't crazy adoption of this card. The signup value is good, and great for platinum members. Almost so good, if you are a PLAT, you should have this card.

It is pretty clear this is only for US Residents. If you are a US Resident/Citizen you have a SS#. All others are not eligible.

My question: Where do we get the lounge vouchers for the Plaza Lounges?

Yes Charter=First Group to have joined/applied before July 31.

What shocks me, is there isn't crazy adoption of this card. The signup value is good, and great for platinum members. Almost so good, if you are a PLAT, you should have this card.

It is pretty clear this is only for US Residents. If you are a US Resident/Citizen you have a SS#. All others are not eligible.

My question: Where do we get the lounge vouchers for the Plaza Lounges?

Plaza lounges? Too bad that the lounge program isn't priority pass instead of The Lounge Club. The longes in the program seem to be very limited, especially in the US.

What is the advantage of a gold room is it a better room ??

What is the advantage of a gold room is it a better room ??

http://www.fairmont.com/EN_FA/Property/Gold/

Better Views, Basically a Deluxe+ Room, Free Internet (*already free for FPC) Private Checkin (Avoid the front desk), Small Canapes Lounge + Honour Bar.

What do you mean by adoption of the card?
I personally know 10+ who have applies.

Yes Charter=First Group to have joined/applied before July 31.

What shocks me, is there isn't crazy adoption of this card. The signup value is good, and great for platinum members. Almost so good, if you are a PLAT, you should have this card.

It is pretty clear this is only for US Residents. If you are a US Resident/Citizen you have a SS#. All others are not eligible.

My question: Where do we get the lounge vouchers for the Plaza Lounges?

Received my cards in the mail today... my wife is a Fairmont Platinum member and I got two cards, one with my name, and one with her - linked to her Fairmont Membership number...

I had a question about the LoungeClub.com access - can both of us apply for our own membership, and will both of us get 2 free annual visits? Or, do we get 2 per account? If so, can both of us go into the lounge together and use the 2 free visits, or will one of us be charged as a "Guest"?

EDIT: I was able to create a membership account for both me and my wife on LoungeClub.com - so perhaps we'll both get 2 free visits because we each have a card (even though it's the same account number)?

where is the information to sign up for this lounge club thing.

I just want to clarify something. The initial 2 Free Nights (and I assume the yearly Free Night for $12k spend) is NOT an Ovation cert, correct? Rather it is simply some Free Night cert similar to the Plat Free Night cert, correct? And then there is an extra component of a free breakfast cert that Chase must ship you (or deposit electronically into your FPC acct)? I'm asking cuz as far as I know Ovation certs don't expire, but these Chase Free Nights do expire. Also, Ovation certs can be used at Plaza NYC and Savoy without any blackout dates whereas a cert similar to the Plat Free Night cert has limited availability at those 2 hotels. Can anybody clarify this for me please?

I just want to clarify something. The initial 2 Free Nights (and I assume the yearly Free Night for $12k spend) is NOT an Ovation cert, correct? Rather it is simply some Free Night cert similar to the Plat Free Night cert, correct? And then there is an extra component of a free breakfast cert that Chase must ship you (or deposit electronically into your FPC acct)? I'm asking cuz as far as I know Ovation certs don't expire, but these Chase Free Nights do expire. Also, Ovation certs can be used at Plaza NYC and Savoy without any blackout dates whereas a cert similar to the Plat Free Night cert has limited availability at those 2 hotels. Can anybody clarify this for me please?

You are correct. They are a special Certificate similar but not identical to the Plat Free Night. They list Free Breakfast on the cert themselves, not something additional.

You are correct. They are a special Certificate similar but not identical to the Plat Free Night. They list Free Breakfast on the cert themselves, not something additional.

Anybody have any idea if these Chase "special certs" are capacity controlled at Savoy and Plaza NYC like the FPC Plat certs are? Is it the same inventory bucket (ie, likely to sell out for the year sometime in March/April?). Also, if they are not Ovation certs, then I assume they are not valid at Raffles hotels etc, correct?

I assume the Chase $12k spend Free night will also be similar to the one above, correct?

Finally, with the special Chase Fairmont funny money pts that we earn, those pts WILL buy Ovation certs, which are valid even at Raffles depending on the Ovation Category (A/B/C/D), correct?

Anybody have any idea if these Chase "special certs" are capacity controlled at Savoy and Plaza NYC like the FPC Plat certs are? Is it the same inventory bucket (ie, likely to sell out for the year sometime in March/April?). Also, if they are not Ovation certs, then I assume they are not valid at Raffles hotels etc, correct?

I assume the Chase $12k spend Free night will also be similar to the one above, correct?

Finally, with the special Chase Fairmont funny money pts that we earn, those pts WILL buy Ovation certs, which are valid even at Raffles depending on the Ovation Category (A/B/C/D), correct?

Plaza and Savoy will always be capacity controlled. Only valid at fairmonts before expiry. To your second question. Yes.

Plaza and Savoy will always be capacity controlled.

FWIW, Plaza NYC and Savoy are NOT capacity controlled if you redeem an Ovation cert for them. I have personal experience with this, so this I am positive of unless the rules have changed in the past 10 months.

where is the information to sign up for this lounge club thing.

There was something in the glossy materials that came with the card. It may have been in a footnote that was labelled next to the description of the lounge benefit--I can't recall where exactly that info was. In any event, it directs you to the website for Lounge Club and gives you a promo code to enter to get the subscription. You sign up online that way, and then the card itself comes in the mail. Mine came about 10 days or so after signing up online.

I guess my question re the 4 x $25 dining certificates was answered.

Checked my account, and as existing Platinum, I received 4 x $25 dining certificates plus a certificate for upgrade to gold.

As a charter member, I now also have the $150 in dining certificates and 2 more certificates for upgrade to gold.

$250 in dining certs and 3 upgrade gold certs. Will definitely clear the $12K for another 3 comp nights in the first year. Not too bad for a card that waives the annual fee for the first year :).

I'm curious on when the free night posts when you hit $12k spend. It reads like you don't get it until your one year anniversary hits, but I'm hoping it posts when you hit the spend. Will the first person who hits $12k let us know?

I'm curious on when the free night posts when you hit $12k spend. It reads like you don't get it until your one year anniversary hits, but I'm hoping it posts when you hit the spend. Will the first person who hits $12k let us know?

I was just reviewing all of the Fairmont Rewards this evening. Seems like the first year is great with no annual fee and all of the bonuses. It also looks like you'll have to pay the $95 annual fee at the anniversary for the free night to post after spending $12K.

In the next year, as FPC Platinum, paying the $95 will get an annual Gold upgrade cert, and after spending $12K, the free night. Using the 12K Fairmont points, you can get $120 worth of gift cards.

Looking even more closely, I can't actually find a reason to spend more than $12K on this card annually, as the way the points structure works out, the hotel redemption rate doesn't seem like it will be more than about 1%. To stay at the lowest tier (category A), you need to 25K points, meaning $25K spend, assuming they are earned at a 1 for 1 level.

Will put the $12K spending through this evening and report back...

I was just reviewing all of the Fairmont Rewards this evening. Seems like the first year is great with no annual fee and all of the bonuses. It also looks like you'll have to pay the $95 annual fee at the anniversary for the free night to post after spending $12K.

In the next year, as FPC Platinum, paying the $95 will get an annual Gold upgrade cert, and after spending $12K, the free night. Using the 12K Fairmont points, you can get $120 worth of gift cards.

Looking even more closely, I can't actually find a reason to spend more than $12K on this card annually, as the way the points structure works out, the hotel redemption rate doesn't seem like it will be more than about 1%. To stay at the lowest tier (category A), you need to 25K points, meaning $25K spend, assuming they are earned at a 1 for 1 level.

Will put the $12K spending through this evening and report back...

Maybe go to $15K to get the 2 nights stay credit?

"When spending $7,500, Cardmembers will receive an additional stay credit toward their Elite membership to a maximum of two stay credits per year."

Plus put your Fairmont stays on the card no matter what?

Maybe go to $15K to get the 2 nights stay credit?

"When spending $7,500, Cardmembers will receive an additional stay credit toward their Elite membership to a maximum of two stay credits per year."

Plus put your Fairmont stays on the card no matter what?

Unfortunately stay credits do not serve any purpose for me as an automatic annual FPC Plat.

Just put the $12K through, will make the payment when it posts to the account and then ask about the anniversary free night. That might be all I put on it this year. Keep you all posted.

Unfortunately stay credits do not serve any purpose for me as an automatic annual FPC Plat..

Not certain about this but since free certs count towards plat status and 10 nights beyond equate to an additional night, lifetime plats spending 15k on the card can potentially net another free night with 4 paid nights in room.

1 annual plat night cert
2 card sign up 1k certs
1 12k spend cert
2 credits @15k
4 checkins at Newport beach.
May net a member another (their fifth night cert]

9 nights for around $500 (less if u use gift cards)

Not certain about this but since free certs count towards plat status and 10 nights beyond equate to an additional night, lifetime plats spending 15k on the card can potentially net another free night with 4 paid nights in room.

1 annual plat night cert
2 card sign up 1k certs
1 12k spend cert
2 credits @15k
4 checkins at Newport beach.
May net a member another (their fifth night cert]

9 nights for around $500 (less if u use gift cards)

Thanks for this line of thought. The only issue I see is that the $12K night certificate won't be available until next year (at which point there are no longer the 2 free nights with 1K spend). Therefore, it looks like one would need 5 additional nights to make it work for this inaugural year.

Right now, I have 6 nights.

Adding on:
-2 free nights from charter member offer
-$15K in spending yielding 2 more nights credit

This would total 10 nights and therefore another free night. Looks like this Chase Visa may see another 3K... :)

Not certain about this but since free certs count towards plat status

Is this piece right? If someone stays for one night using a free room certificate rather than on a paid rate, that will give a stay credit for qualifying for platinum status? I've never stayed on a free night before that hasn't also included a paid night, so I don't know how that would work.

Is this piece right? If someone stays for one night using a free room certificate rather than on a paid rate, that will give a stay credit for qualifying for platinum status? I've never stayed on a free night before that hasn't also included a paid night, so I don't know how that would work.

At least in years past (2011) the free night cert = Stay Credit, with or without a paid night.

I was a FPC member with no status, and applied for the card two weeks ago. I immediately charged $1,000 to it - and didn't expect anything so soon.

Today, I checked my FPC account, and I've been upgraded to Premier, with the following certificates showing on my account page:


3rd Night Free
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate x2
Complimentary Suite Upgrade
Complimentary Room Upgrade
Fairmont Visa $25 Breakfast Certificate x4
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Night x2


I am - to put it mildly - quite excited.

My wifes account has over $1k in charges for over 3 weeks now (she is ahead of me on spending :) ) and had all the certificates except the free nights post to her account. Sounds like I'll need to call for her. I haven't reached the $1k yet.

Anyone else reach the spending, but not get the free night certs showing up online?

I was a FPC member with no status, and applied for the card two weeks ago. I immediately charged $1,000 to it - and didn't expect anything so soon.

Today, I checked my FPC account, and I've been upgraded to Premier, with the following certificates showing on my account page:


3rd Night Free
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate x2
Complimentary Suite Upgrade
Complimentary Room Upgrade
Fairmont Visa $25 Breakfast Certificate x4
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Night x2


I am - to put it mildly - quite excited.

I was a FPC member with no status, and applied for the card two weeks ago. I immediately charged $1,000 to it - and didn't expect anything so soon.

Today, I checked my FPC account, and I've been upgraded to Premier, with the following certificates showing on my account page:


3rd Night Free
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate x2
Complimentary Suite Upgrade
Complimentary Room Upgrade
Fairmont Visa $25 Breakfast Certificate x4
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Night x2


I am - to put it mildly - quite excited.

I am confused. Can someone explain why Fairmont Visa $25 Breakfast Certificate x4 were given?

got the card in mid may finished spending by 20th or so and called fairmont a few days later to confirm linking the card
Whole bunch of certs posted on may 30 ^ with one year expiration

Now need to decide if i should switch from a suite at hyatt sin to a suite at fairmont sin

I am confused. Can someone explain why Fairmont Visa $25 Breakfast Certificate x4 were given?

I think that's the "2 Free Nights Including Breakfast For 2" part of the offer. Here's the relevant section from the offer's T&C on Fairmont's site:
Each breakfast certificate entitles the holder to: a dining credit for breakfast only (value $25 USD). Breakfast certificates may be applied to tax; however, alcohol and gratuities are not included in the credit. Breakfast certificates are redeemable at all participating restaurants serving breakfast located at or in any Fairmont hotel or resort worldwide. Breakfast certificates may be used in conjunction with the complimentary two-night stay certificate offered in connection with this program, but may not be used in conjunction with any other Fairmont or third-party package or special offer. Breakfast certificates do not apply to in-room dining.

I think that's the "2 Free Nights Including Breakfast For 2" part of the offer. Here's the relevant section from the offer's T&C on Fairmont's site:

Does that mean that the 2 free nights come with $ 100 breakfast certificates?

Here's an email reply I received from a 'Fairmont Visa Signature Administrator' in the middle of may. It states you will get 4 $25 breakfast certificates with the 2 free night certificates. So effectively $50 a day for the breakfast. Not quite enough for 2 people at a Fairmont but when combined with all the other certs its still wonderful.

"If $1,000 USD or more if spent within the first 3 months you will receive 2 complimentary night certificates and 4 breakfast certificates valued at $25 USD each, a maximum of 2 can be used per breakfast sitting. Essentially, if you choose to combine them it’s 2 nights with breakfast."

Does that mean that the 2 free nights come with $ 100 breakfast certificates?

Here's an email reply I received from a 'Fairmont Visa Signature Administrator' in the middle of may. It states you will get 4 $25 breakfast certificates with the 2 free night certificates. So effectively $50 a day for the breakfast. Not quite enough for 2 people at a Fairmont but when combined with all the other certs its still wonderful.

"If $1,000 USD or more if spent within the first 3 months you will receive 2 complimentary night certificates and 4 breakfast certificates valued at $25 USD each, a maximum of 2 can be used per breakfast sitting. Essentially, if you choose to combine them it’s 2 nights with breakfast."

Sweet :)

Man, it is going to take a strong effort and great persistence to make it through all of these!

I'll figure out a way to make it happen though... :)

Thanks Fairmont, and Chase.

$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate
Complimentary Suite Upgrade
Complimentary Suite Upgrade
Complimentary Room Upgrade
Complimentary Night
Complimentary Room Upgrade
$25 USD Willow Stream Spa Certificate
Authentically Local Food Experiences
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Floor Upgrade
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Floor Upgrade
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Floor Upgrade
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate

And this is before I have reached my $1,000 spend...

Man, it is going to take a strong effort and great persistence to make it through all of these!

I'll figure out a way to make it happen though... :)

Thanks Fairmont, and Chase.

$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate
$25 Dining/Willow Stream Certificate
Complimentary Suite Upgrade
Complimentary Suite Upgrade
Complimentary Room Upgrade
Complimentary Night
Complimentary Room Upgrade
$25 USD Willow Stream Spa Certificate
Authentically Local Food Experiences
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Floor Upgrade
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Floor Upgrade
Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Floor Upgrade
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate
Fairmont Visa $25 Dining Certificate

And this is before I have reached my $1,000 spend...

I was thinking the same thing. Here's where being platinum can help as you can do some transferring.

I just applied for my Chase Fairmont Visa Sun. night June 3. Chase's Website flashed that I was instantly approved. Today at 2PM EDT the UPS man knocked on my door to deliver a Next Day Air carton containing my new card & info kit! Wow!
I've noticed that this Visa provides PRIMARY LDW/CDW coverage! Only excluded countries are Israel, Jamaica, & Ireland (Republic & Northern.)
Now to spend $1000 on the card ;) and put it into my car-rental profiles!

1 Year, or End of Feb 2013 like all Fairmont Certs. FPC Desk at their discretion can extend certs.

Please let it be Feb. 2014--because I have reason to meet friends in Monte Carlo in Aug. 2013!

Please let it be Feb. 2014--because I have reason to meet friends in Monte Carlo in Aug. 2013!

It's 1 year. I hit my minimum spend and my two free nights posted with 5/29/13 expiration dates.

Oh-so-thank-U, Bobofoosh, for confirming what the Chase CSR told me yesterday. I was hoping it would be till the end of the calendar month next year. So I will either find an earlier use for my free nights or wait till August 2012 to hit my $1K.
One strategy for someone else who has not yet applied is to wait till late July to apply (just before the July 31 deadline for Charter Membership) and wait till Oct. to spend the $1000 to get an expiry date of Oct. 2013.
BTW, how easy is it to get an extension from FPC?

Oh-so-thank-U, Bobofoosh, for confirming what the Chase CSR told me yesterday. I was hoping it would be till the end of the calendar month next year. So I will either find an earlier use for my free nights or wait till August 2012 to hit my $1K.
One strategy for someone else who has not yet applied is to wait till late July to apply (just before the July 31 deadline for Charter Membership) and wait till Oct. to spend the $1000 to get an expiry date of Oct. 2013.
BTW, how easy is it to get an extension from FPC?

The extension of normal certs aren't too bad if you have a trip reserved. I've done it a few times and they extend them to the last day of my reserved trip.

But with these being promotional certs I don't know if they'll be able/willing to extend them as much.

I received my card a couple weeks ago and can't wait to use it at a Fairmont property. I've already cycled enough on it to get the sign up bonus although I don't expect to receive the bonus until after the first statement cuts. The spend requirement was only $1,000 for the promo I applied through.

The card itself is aesthetically pleasing and I was able to get a limit increase from the initial approval of 15K to 60K.

It looks like my first chance to use it at a property will be the Kea Lani. ^

Anyone know if you can use the two free night stays at the Plaza in New York?

Anyone know if you can use the two free night stays at the Plaza in New York?

Yes, they can be used at any Fairmont hotel.

However, the Plaza (and the Savoy) impose capacity controls when using a Premier 3rd night freee / Plat free night cert while those restrictions apparently don´t apply when using an ovation cert. Not sure how the introductory offer free night certs are handled...

Not sure how the introductory offer free night certs are handled...

The introductory Free Night certs seem like they are going to be handled just like Plat Free Night certs. I saw the "Dining Cert" T&Cs somewhere and they are basically identical to the regular Plat spa/dining certs, including the exact same blackout dates at each hotel as well as the same list of non-participating restaurants (ie, no Dining certs can be used at ThePlaza, even the Chase Dining certs). I assume the yearly $12k spend cert will also be like a Plat Free Night cert. The "awards" you can buy with your earned Chase Fairmont FunnyMoney pts from spending on the CC will be Ovation certs though it seems.

I need to double check a couple of things to make sure I understand correctly. I have read every post but still am not quite clear.

The charter benefits by 7/31/2012...does that mean you need to get the card by then OR get the card and charge the $1,000 by then? I want to get the card at the end of July and charge $1,000 by the end of Oct but do not want to miss the charter benefits.

Charging $15,000 in a years for 2 stay credits.....am I to understand that these are just credits toward platinum status or are they actual stays you can use? In other words, after the first year anniversary and the $15,000 spend in one year, would you have 3 days available?

Thanks very much.

Charging $15,000 in a years for 2 stay credits.....am I to understand that these are just credits toward platinum status or are they actual stays you can use? In other words, after the first year anniversary and the $15,000 spend in one year, would you have 3 days available?


Receiving two stay credits means that your number of qualifying stays is increased by 2 thus making qualifying for Plat status easier. It does NOT mean you will actually get two vouchers.

Receiving two stay credits means that your number of qualifying stays is increased by 2 thus making qualifying for Plat status easier. It does NOT mean you will actually get two vouchers.

Or from the post above putting you 2 nights closer to a free night with 10 nights stayed. Correct?

Receiving two stay credits means that your number of qualifying stays is increased by 2 thus making qualifying for Plat status easier. It does NOT mean you will actually get two vouchers.

Thanks so much for the clarification.

What about the Charter Member benefits? Does one have to charge the $1,000 before 7/31/12?

Thanks again.

Perhaps this is mentioned somewhere but I don't remember seeing it.

The complimentary third night on three-night stay (for premiums), can that be used with the Visa 2 night free certificates or only with paid stays?

Thanks very much.

Only with paid stays:

Only with paid stays:

Thank you so much.

Or from the post above putting you 2 nights closer to a free night with 10 nights stayed. Correct?

Your number of qualifying nights should also be bumped up by 2, however you only earn an additional free night cert for every 10 nights starting at 40 nights in a calendar year, so it´s only relevant to those who spend a fair amount of nights at Fairmonts.

Your number of qualifying nights should also be bumped up by 2, however you only earn an additional free night cert for every 10 nights starting at 40 nights in a calendar year, so it´s only relevant to those who spend a fair amount of nights at Fairmonts.

Thanks for the clarification. As per post above, I was under the impression that there is one free night beginning at 10 nights.

Thanks for the clarification. As per post above, I was under the impression that there is one free night beginning at 10 nights.

Unfortunately no. You only earn an additional free night cert after 40/50/60/etc. nights in a calendar year and even then they don´t post automatically and the last few times I qualified it was quite a pain to actually get those nights credited to my FPC account.

Can Fairmont Visa Chase free night certificate apply to the regular room only or it can combine to be used with the free suite upgrade certificate?

the latter

Will definitely apply for this one before the charter period ends. ^

Thanks so much for the clarification.

What about the Charter Member benefits? Does one have to charge the $1,000 before 7/31/12?

Thanks again.

Bumping this. Does anyone know the specifics of the Charter Member benefits? 1. Get the card by 7/31/12 or 2. charge the $1000 by 7/31/12.

Thanks.

Bumping this. Does anyone know the specifics of the Charter Member benefits? 1. Get the card by 7/31/12 or 2. charge the $1000 by 7/31/12.

Thanks.

No. Think about the logic, if you sign up on 7/31, how would you charge 1000 until you get the card. Charge 1000 in first 3 months of having the card.

Read the terms on fairmontcard.com

No. Think about the logic, if you sign up on 7/31, how would you charge 1000 until you get the card. Charge 1000 in first 3 months of having the card.

Read the terms on fairmontcard.com

I was under the impression that the Charter Member Benefits was something other than the 2 night frees? Meaning, you get the card and the two night free with breakfast, if you charge the $1000 in 3 months. I got that. Other Charter Member Benefits (which maybe I'm not clear on) if you complete the whole process, sign up and spend, by 7/31/12. Make sense?

The Charter benefit just requires sign up by 31 July 2012. No spend involved.

The Charter benefit just requires sign up by 31 July 2012. No spend involved.

Thanks very much.

i received mycard and it says charter member,does that mean i dont need to spend 1000,because in terms i see it says i need to spend 1000

i received mycard and it says charter member,does that mean i dont need to spend 1000,because in terms i see it says i need to spend 1000

People really should read the terms and promotions of a CC they obtain and not blindly sign up.

Charter and 1000 spend are unrelated.

Charter = no annual fee for 1st year + bonus food vouchers if you are Premier/Platinum

1000 Spend in 3 months = 2 Comp Nights + Breakfast.

AMRivlin, can you clarify how you got this card when your location is in Canada? I would love to have this card but I understood it was just for U.S. residents.

AMRivlin, can you clarify how you got this card when your location is in Canada? I would love to have this card but I understood it was just for U.S. residents.

Trilinear: I am a US Citizen. I have a US and Canadian mailing address.

Spends made, shown on montly summary, and paid more than 2 weeks back. Free night certs still not in account.

I think I'll let this drag for a while before calling to hopefully extend when they are offered and then also expire.

Good to know there is a lag in the posting of the free nights. At the rate I'm spending at Fairmonts, my card (which arrived last week) will meet the promotional spending amount after this weekend at Sonoma...... :)

Looking to use my free nights at the Savoy next July....so the later the posting the better!


Spends made, shown on montly summary, and paid more than 2 weeks back. Free night certs still not in account.

I think I'll let this drag for a while before calling to hopefully extend when they are offered and then also expire.

I got my card on June 6. On June 13 I got my Premier status & corresponding e-cert.s posted to my account. I was waiting to spend $1000 to extend my expiry date, but...
Oh well, I just bought $1000 in BW GCs to earn 15K AC miles.
'What the heck,' I thought. I charged it to my Fairmont card, so that does it!

Good to know there is a lag in the posting of the free nights. At the rate I'm spending at Fairmonts, my card (which arrived last week) will meet the promotional spending amount after this weekend at Sonoma...... :)

Looking to use my free nights at the Savoy next July....so the later the posting the better!

Tell us about your room your stay in Sonoma after your stay! (in that thread of course)

:mad:

I applied for this card in mid May, as soon as I learned about it. Received it a few days later & spent $1000 right away. A friend of mine did the same. We are travelling together, and hoped to stay in the same hotel.

His certs posted very quickly & he was able to book the hotel (and also get a free suite upgrade, even on the free nights!).

My certs still have not posted, even though my statement closed a week ago & my spend was $1400.

I have called several times, both to Chase and Fairmont & I am told that there is nothing they can do. They are saying 4-6 weeks. No one can tell me 4-6 weeks FROM WHEN? We leave soon, and the hotel stay is a month from today, so I am not hopeful that we will be able to stay with our friends.

Any suggestions about who to contact?

Also, the other items (suite upgrade and $25 food, etc) posted quickly & expire in Feb 2013.

Thanks!

I'll PM you an email but they may say 4-6wks as well.
Please don't publically post it as I don't want to see it on blogs and flood the guy with their groupies.

I'm fairly dissapointed at how long these certs are taking to arrive.
I'm leaving for a stay later this week too and was hoping to use the $25 certs. I guess I'll print out my certificates and try to get them to electronically pull them.

:mad:

I applied for this card in mid May, as soon as I learned about it. Received it a few days later & spent $1000 right away. A friend of mine did the same. We are travelling together, and hoped to stay in the same hotel.

His certs posted very quickly & he was able to book the hotel (and also get a free suite upgrade, even on the free nights!).

My certs still have not posted, even though my statement closed a week ago & my spend was $1400.

I have called several times, both to Chase and Fairmont & I am told that there is nothing they can do. They are saying 4-6 weeks. No one can tell me 4-6 weeks FROM WHEN? We leave soon, and the hotel stay is a month from today, so I am not hopeful that we will be able to stay with our friends.

Any suggestions about who to contact?

Also, the other items (suite upgrade and $25 food, etc) posted quickly & expire in Feb 2013.

Thanks!

I'll PM you an email but they may say 4-6wks as well.
Please don't publically post it as I don't want to see it on blogs and flood the guy with their groupies.

I'm fairly dissapointed at how long these certs are taking to arrive.
I'm leaving for a stay later this week too and was hoping to use the $25 certs. I guess I'll print out my certificates and try to get them to electronically pull them.

You can always redeem them if you give the restaurant or hotel your FPC number (if they are in your account.)

If you are waiting for the vouchers to come in, contact the email TG65 gives you. I have found this contact to be very responsive.

I also requested the card get the "United Club Card" thicker material, a Chip and Pin, and Visa Paywave. Let's hope they add these features down the road.

Sure it might add a few dollars to the card cost, but that is nothing in the scheme of things to Visa or Fairmont.

I applied for this card under my name. I added my wife as a secondary card holder. I then applied my wife' Fairmont President's Club number to the card since she is Platinum with Fairmont.

They have said that they will not post the points to her account since it must be in the name of the primary card holder. This is a major let-down for me...

I applied for this card under my name. I added my wife as a secondary card holder. I then applied my wife' Fairmont President's Club number to the card since she is Platinum with Fairmont.

They have said that they will not post the points to her account since it must be in the name of the primary card holder. This is a major let-down for me...

So apply the benefits to yourself. I think this is typical of US CC benefits. If your wife applies, you can both have the card and both have the benefits annually.

So apply the benefits to yourself. I think this is typical of US CC benefits. If your wife applies, you can both have the card and both have the benefits annually.

Unfortunately, she cannot apply since she does not have a SSN. The benefits of this card are even greater if you have existing status.

I guess it's better than nothing!

I'll PM you an email but they may say 4-6wks as well.
Please don't publically post it as I don't want to see it on blogs and flood the guy with their groupies.

I'm fairly dissapointed at how long these certs are taking to arrive.
I'm leaving for a stay later this week too and was hoping to use the $25 certs. I guess I'll print out my certificates and try to get them to electronically pull them.

Thank you very much for this advice. It ended up working out ^

I do have a question. How is everyone maximizing the ability to earn rewards? Since the rewards are really only good for the Fairmont purchases? Everything else is 1 pt, except for travel, which is 2 pts.

Buy 1,000s of Fairmont gift cards :)

Just kidding, but in reality I put about $5000 in fairmont spend on the card annually, and everything else up to 12k is $1=1pt

So I figure I will see 35000 points or so and that = 1 night via ovation

I do have a question. How is everyone maximizing the ability to earn rewards? Since the rewards are really only good for the Fairmont purchases? Everything else is 1 pt, except for travel, which is 2 pts.

I really did not even consider the points as a benefit when I applied for this card... The rest of the benefits are overwhelming enough!

I'll do the minimum spend required for the two stay credits (which will also get me the free night), and I'll see how many points I have (about $5 - $6K of my spend will be at Fairmonts, with bonus points). At that point, I'll determine what value these points have for me, and whether they are worth pursuing in the future.

I just got my paper Fairmont room & breakfast cert.s yesterday by USPS letter mail.

My strategy is similar to LarkSFO's, but I will also probably charge my US car rentals to it to enjoy Primary collision coverage. However, I just got a notice that my new Chase UA Visa also offers Primary collision coverage.

I probably will use other cards where they give 2x points. The Chase Sapphire & maybe Starwood Amex will remain my long-term favorites.

I applied for 2 cards on Friday, ( wife and myself ), 2 cards arrived on tuesday, via UPS. That was fast.
No activation required.
Regarding the certificates being transferable to immediate family members, could I transfer with my grown up married daughter? Different last name, different mailing address.
I might have to encourage her , and her husband to sign up.

I applied for 2 cards on Friday, ( wife and myself ), 2 cards arrived on tuesday, via UPS. That was fast.
No activation required.
Regarding the certificates being transferable to immediate family members, could I transfer with my grown up married daughter? Different last name, different mailing address.
I might have to encourage her , and her husband to sign up.

You can transfer them to any immediate family, including your daughter, if you're FPC Platinum. Otherwise the certificates are non-transferable.

Buy 1,000s of Fairmont gift cards :)

Just kidding, but in reality I put about $5000 in fairmont spend on the card annually, and everything else up to 12k is $1=1pt

So I figure I will see 35000 points or so and that = 1 night via ovation

I have about the same spend pattern and figure I will stop using the card at $12k each year. I was planning on going Fairmont giftcards with the redemption though. I'm just not sure the Cat. B ovation cert is worth $350. San Francisco and Kenya hotels maybe, otherwise I was thinking giftcards were the better route. I'd love to be proved wrong though.

We met the min. spend on 6/10 and got the 2 free night certificates and 4 breakfast certificates via USPS on 6/20.

I thought we had received the room upgrade certificate and suite upgrade certificate in an earlier mailing, but now I can't find them. (!!) Did I remember wrong? Do they not send printed upgrade certificates? Can I still request an upgrade when I book my award nights without printed certs in hand?

Also, I want to use my award nights at the Fairmont Kea Lani. Can I stack the room upgrade and suite upgrade to get a better suite? Or would that be a waste of upgrades?

[QUOTE=copilot5;18830078]

Do they not send printed upgrade certificates?
>>>No. It will show up in your account.

Can I still request an upgrade when I book my award nights without printed certs in hand?
>>Yes

Also, I want to use my award nights at the Fairmont Kea Lani. Can I stack the room upgrade and suite upgrade to get a better suite?

>>No.

I have about the same spend pattern and figure I will stop using the card at $12k each year. I was planning on going Fairmont giftcards with the redemption though. I'm just not sure the Cat. B ovation cert is worth $350. San Francisco and Kenya hotels maybe, otherwise I was thinking giftcards were the better route. I'd love to be proved wrong though.

Whistler, Lake Louise, and Tremblant are easily >$500 per night in peak ski season, and Sonoma Mission Inn is easily >$600 per night in the summer and peak harvest season.......

For me, Category B hotels seem to yield the best value. $12,000 spend p.a. with $5,000 in Fairmont spend p.a. yields at least one Category B night and one free Anniversary night - pretty good deal. If all $12,000 is Fairmont spend, it can become one Category A and one Category B night, plus the free Anniversary night.

I was planning on going Fairmont giftcards with the redemption though.

FWIW, I think the Fairmont GCs are a terrible option. From what I saw, you get NO HIGHER VALUE for redeeming for a Fairmont GC as you do for redeeming for any other GCs. So you might as well redeem for an Amazon or Shell or restaurant GC instead of redeeming for a Fairmont GC. The reason is that you don't want to be redeeming Fairmont GCs, instead you want to be charging ALL Fairmont spend to your Fairmont Chase Visa. So redeem for a restaurant or gas station that would otherwise earn you 1 pt/$ instead. ^^^^^

The day the T&Cs came out, I did a quick 5 minute disection/summary of what I believe to be the optimal strategy for spending on this Fairmont Visa................and that strategy pretty much still holds true today. I will try to dig it up and post it here if I get a chance sometime soon.

I dug up and found my 10-minute initial analysis of this Fairmont Chase CC (written the day this CC offer first came out) in an e-mail to somebody, and it still fully applies today. Here it is (btw, this is based on ALREADY being a FPC Plat when you apply for the CC):

Seems to me you are far better off redeeming for $450 worth of Amazon/RuthChris/Mortons/Shell/Exxon GCs than $450 of Fairmont GCs. Can't believe they don't offer a discount for Fairmont GCs, but if you redeem for Fairmont GCs that's $450 less that you can charge to your new Fairmont CC (and get 5 pts per $).

I will have to sit down and run the #s, but my guess is that I will keep this card and pay the annual fee yearly for the bennies, but will sockdrawer it and never spend on it. Although if I anticipate decent spend at Fairmonts in a particular year, I guess I would spend as much as I can at Fairmonts (maybe even buying GCs for future use), and then top the $12k spending requirement off with normal spending elsewhere to get the Free night.

I'm hating Chase right now. They have FAR too many good credit cards that I don't want to cancel. I don't want to cancel the Hyatt card, this card, the IHG card (once I get it). And then my 2 oldest CCs are also Chase no-annual fee cards so I feel like I can't cxl those or it will hurt my credit score. Yikes!!! Wish I could close those somehow and carry the credit card date over to one of these new cards I want.

Edit: Hmmm, thinking more about it, maybe I won't sockdrawer this card. It actually seems to make sense to spend exactly $12k per year on this credit card. Let's say you value the resulting Free Night at $200, plus the $50 of breakfast certs at $25. That is $225 kickback right there. Then you get a MINIMUM kickback of $120 worth of GCs, which could go up to $600 if all your spending is at Fairmonts, or $240 if all your spending is on airfare/rental cars. Let's say on a blended spending of get $200 back, and I'd value the GCs at maybe 85% of face value. So $170. So for spending $12k per year on the CC, you are getting back $225 in free room/breaky, and $170 in GCs, so roughly $400 back on $12k spending, or 3.3%. That's better than I get on all my other CCs except special 5% spend categories. So I will DEFINITELY be spending $12k per year on this CC, that is my analysis. And the $100 in F&B certs per year and Gold level upgrade value will cover the $95 annual fee. So my quick 10-minute analysis says this is a very good CC to put exactly $12k spend on per year, and no more (unless it's Fairmont spend). In fact might be worth it to put all airline/rental/Fairmont charges on it until about Oct, then start charging regular spend to it so you can optimize your $12k spend in the proper categories.

FWIW, I think the Fairmont GCs are a terrible option. From what I saw, you get NO HIGHER VALUE for redeeming for a Fairmont GC as you do for redeeming for any other GCs. So you might as well redeem for an Amazon or Shell or restaurant GC instead of redeeming for a Fairmont GC. The reason is that you don't want to be redeeming Fairmont GCs, instead you want to be charging ALL Fairmont spend to your Fairmont Chase Visa. So redeem for a restaurant or gas station that would otherwise earn you 1 pt/$ instead. ^^^^^

The day the T&Cs came out, I did a quick 5 minute disection/summary of what I believe to be the optimal strategy for spending on this Fairmont Visa................and that strategy pretty much still holds true today. I will try to dig it up and post it here if I get a chance sometime soon.

Great analysis. I spend enough at amazon where that redemption is essentially cash. I'll either do that or ovation certs but I'll pass on the fairmont gcs. Can't believe you don't get a break for redeeming for those

So, I'm curious about something. I applied/received the card recently and have passed the $1000 threshold. I am a current FPC Premier Member. I just looked at my FPC account and this is what has posted to the account:

8 x $25 Fairmont Visa Dining Certificates
3 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Upgrade Certificates

I was expecting:

10 x $25 Fairmont Visa Dining Certificates
1 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Upgrade Certificates
2 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Night Certificates

Should I just wait to see what comes in the mail or should I contact them now to point out the error?

Thanks!

So, I'm curious about something. I applied/received the card recently and have passed the $1000 threshold. I am a current FPC Premier Member. I just looked at my FPC account and this is what has posted to the account:

8 x $25 Fairmont Visa Dining Certificates
3 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Upgrade Certificates

I was expecting:

10 x $25 Fairmont Visa Dining Certificates
1 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Upgrade Certificates
2 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Night Certificates

Should I just wait to see what comes in the mail or should I contact them now to point out the error?

Thanks!

You only get 8 x $25 Visa Dining Certs as Permier. The 10 x $25 Visa Dining Certs benefit is for Platinum only.

You get 2 x Gold Upgrade Certs EXTRA as either Permier or Platinum for applying before July 31.

You will get 2 x Complimentary Night Certs within 10 days after you meet your $1,000 spend (which you did).

I would wait at least two weeks before contacting Fairmont for the free night certs.

You only get 8 x $25 Visa Dining Certs as Permier. The 10 x $25 Visa Dining Certs benefit is for Platinum only.

You get 2 x Gold Upgrade Certs EXTRA as either Permier or Platinum for applying before July 31.

You will get 2 x Complimentary Night Certs within 10 days after you meet your $1,000 spend (which you did).

I would wait at least two weeks before contacting Fairmont for the free night certs.

From the OP:



Existing Elite members - Premier and Platinum tiers:
1 Complimentary upgrade certificate to Fairmont Gold from a Deluxe room per year.
• 2x $25 ($50) Dining certificates for Premier members.
• 4x $25 ($100) Dining certificates for Platinum members.

Starting Benefit
After spending $1000 within the first 3 months of their account opening,
Cardmembers receive from Chase:
•2 Complimentary night certificates with breakfast for two
Introductory Offer


It's my understanding that the starting benefit breakfast component is fulfilled by a $25 dining certificate per night, per person. So I miscalculated my original post (my wife applied for a separate account to get the same benefits and I mistakenly combined our expected benefits). So to revise what I said:

6 x $25 Fairmont Visa Dining Certificates (2 for being current Premier, 4 for the Introductory Offer)
1 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Upgrade Certificates (for being current Premier)
2 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Night Certificates (for the Introductory Offer)

What am I missing here?

Not likely. Generally they aren't stackable and Kea Lani is all suites already.
Your cert gets into a base room and your room upgrade might get you a partial ocean view.

From my Ocean View Suite at Kea Lani :)

I electronically redeemed all my dining and breakfast certs during the stay.
They pulled them by my request at the front desk.

[QUOTE=copilot5;18830078]

Also, I want to use my award nights at the Fairmont Kea Lani. Can I stack the room upgrade and suite upgrade to get a better suite?

>>No.

My account shows 4 $25 Breakfast certificates.

Maybe this is what you mean by per person per night assuming double occupancy.


From the OP:

It's my understanding that the starting benefit breakfast component is fulfilled by a $25 dining certificate per night, per person. So I miscalculated my original post (my wife applied for a separate account to get the same benefits and I mistakenly combined our expected benefits). So to revise what I said:

6 x $25 Fairmont Visa Dining Certificates (2 for being current Premier, 4 for the Introductory Offer)
1 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Gold Upgrade Certificates (for being current Premier)
2 x Fairmont Visa Complimentary Night Certificates (for the Introductory Offer)

What am I missing here?

What am I missing here?

You missed this:

From The Points Guy

"If you’re already a Fairmont President’s Club Premier or Platinum member, you also get a yearly Fairmont Gold Upgrade to a Fairmont Gold room ... If you apply for the card by July 31, you’ll also get a “Charter Member Offer” that includes two extra Fairmont Gold Floor upgrade certificates and an extra $150 in dining certificates."

http://thepointsguy.com/2012/05/two-free-nights-with-chase-fairmont-visa-card/

If you didn't yet receive the two free nights (via $1,000 spend) you won't see the $25 breakfast certs (via $1,000 spend) either.

By the time your two free night certs post you will get 4 x additional breakfast dining certs.

You missed this:

From The Points Guy

"If you’re already a Fairmont President’s Club Premier or Platinum member, you also get a yearly Fairmont Gold Upgrade to a Fairmont Gold room ... If you apply for the card by July 31, you’ll also get a “Charter Member Offer” that includes two extra Fairmont Gold Floor upgrade certificates and an extra $150 in dining certificates."

http://thepointsguy.com/2012/05/two-free-nights-with-chase-fairmont-visa-card/

If you didn't yet receive the two free nights (via $1,000 spend) you won't see the $25 breakfast certs (via $1,000 spend) either.

By the time your two free night certs post you will get 4 x additional breakfast dining certs.

I see. Well, that now makes what I've received so far add up, but I still do not see the additional 2 Gold Floor certs + $150 that PointsGuy mentions in a) the OP, b) www.fairmontcard.com, or c) the Fairmont/Chase T&Cs here (http://www.fairmont.com/EN_FA/Promotions/ChaseTermsAndConditions.htm). The more the merrier, I suppose! Thanks jkc22!

Hi. I've read through the thread but I am still unclear on this question - can you use the free night certs you get for this cc at the Savoy?

Thanks!

Hi. I've read through the thread but I am still unclear on this question - can you use the free night certs you get for this cc at the Savoy?

Thanks!

Yes.:)

If you can find availability :eek:

Savoy is very limited in this respect.


Yes.:)

If you can find availability :eek:

Savoy is very limited in this respect.

It´s not impossible, but yes, the capacity controls at the Savoy and the Plaza are a pain.

I got my card on June 6. On June 13 I got my Premier status & corresponding e-cert.s posted to my account.

DW got the card on 6/25 & charged $1000 on it the next day. Still no status change or certs. Hmmmmm. Don't they know we 'need' to book a room at the Kea Lani!! :)

Statement posted and the free nights and $100 breakfast certs are in my account as well. Have a stay booked at Pacific Rim at the end of this month, so may see if I can apply the certs there.

For any other Canadians with a SSN getting this card, Chase requires payment from a US bank. While I pay my US Amex off with a US check from a CDN bank, Chase won't accept the same. Had check sent back to me with a letter explaining this.

Signup Vouchers Posted today to my account.

Dining/Willow Stream and Gold Upgrade Cert.

Also Spent $1000, but expect I will have to wait for my first statement for the $1000 Spend Bonus to be credited.

"Enjoy 2 complimentary nights including breakfast
for 2 at any Fairmont destination worldwide
after you make just $1,000 in purchases
within your first three months of account opening."

Currently Certificate Expiry is listed as 5/22/2012 (So 1 Year, occasioanlly this reverts to the end of Feb, so will have to see how they handle this)

FYI- just received our e-certs today (room & suite u/g; 3rd night free and two $25 dining/willow spa) and they all expire 2/28/13. The only way I could see anyone getting one year to use these is if one received their certs on March 1st.

That is some interesting language...

'Will expire within one year of date of issue' - Almost makes it sound like they could expire in less than one year.

Very true. They (mine) are NOT good for one year. They expire 2/28/13. Too bad that this wasn't made more clear by Fairmont or Chase. Luckily, our use will be in early Feb. Have not received the free night certs yet.

Very true. They are NOT good for one year. They expire 2/28/13. Too bad that this wasn't made more clear by Fairmont or Chase. Luckily, our use will be in early Feb.

Strange. My comp nights and breakfast certs are good until June 6, 2013. The other certs and gold upgrades are good until May 23, 2013. Only my regular Fairmont Plt certs expire Feb 28, 2013.

Wife just got the card (Impressive presentation package!). We plan a stay in late August 2013.

We plan to exceed the 1k spend in early September. The two free night certs should come in September with an expiration date of September 2013?

We may be out of luck with the dining certs it appears (we do not care for the room upgrade/3rd night free certs)

I wonder if I can inquire (as Platinum) to extend wife's dining certs to expire September 2013?

Any comments/thoughts?

I got the card a week or so ago. I was wondering if Fairmont does status match. I have Hilton Diamond. Since my awards have not been issued yet, I wonder if some additional status would help me any? I probably should have addressed this question Before I applied for the card.
thanks,

I got the card a week or so ago. I was wondering if Fairmont does status match. I have Hilton Diamond. Since my awards have not been issued yet, I wonder if some additional status would help me any? I probably should have addressed this question Before I applied for the card.
thanks,

Your status will automatically be upgraded to Premier once you receive the credit card.

Other than that FPC does generally not match status, please see the info in the master thread for more info.:)

FYI- just received our e-certs today (room & suite u/g; 3rd night free and two $25 dining/willow spa) and they all expire 2/28/13. The only way I could see anyone getting one year to use these is if one received their certs on March 1st.

As cardmembers automatically receive Premier status, they receive one 3rd night free cert, one room upgrade cert, one suite upgrade cert and two $25 F&B certs. Those certs always expire at the end of February.

However, it´s my understanding that any certs you receive directly from the Chase credit card offer (i.e. the free night certs and breakfast certs) should be valid for one year from time of issue.

I see. Well, that now makes what I've received so far add up, but I still do not see the additional 2 Gold Floor certs + $150 that PointsGuy mentions in a) the OP, b) www.fairmontcard.com, or c) the Fairmont/Chase T&Cs here (http://www.fairmont.com/EN_FA/Promotions/ChaseTermsAndConditions.htm). The more the merrier, I suppose! Thanks jkc22!

Well, to add a slight twist... My wife received her free night certs in the mail this week and I received mine today, however, my online account still does not show these certificates in my account. It only shows the ones I referenced up thread (3 Gold Floor certs & 8 $25 dining certs) & I have not received the actual paper certs for those. Does it matter that the free night certs do not show up in my online account?

Thanks!

Well, to add a slight twist... My wife received her free night certs in the mail this week and I received mine today, however, my online account still does not show these certificates in my account. It only shows the ones I referenced up thread (3 Gold Floor certs & 8 $25 dining certs) & I have not received the actual paper certs for those. Does it matter that the free night certs do not show up in my online account?

Thanks!

Yes, the number of certs available in your FPC account is what counts, so if they don´t show up in your online account within the next few weeks, I´d call/e-mail FPC.

I recently was approved for the Fairmont Chase Card. I wasn't a Fairmont member before applying, and I'm not sure how to login to my account. I received an email with my new membership number, along with a link to activate my account online. But when I click the link, it takes me to the top page, fairmont.com.

Any ideas? Should I just email/call them?

EDIT: Ok, I found a functional activate link (here (https://www.fairmont.com/fpc/activate/)) but when I submit the form, it says "Provided information does not match the existing data." Not sure what that's about. I should have registered before hand.

I recently was approved for the Fairmont Chase Card. I wasn't a Fairmont member before applying, and I'm not sure how to login to my account. I received an email with my new membership number, along with a link to activate my account online. But when I click the link, it takes me to the top page, fairmont.com.

Any ideas? Should I just email/call them?

EDIT: Ok, I found a functional activate link (here (https://www.fairmont.com/fpc/activate/)) but when I submit the form, it says "Provided information does not match the existing data." Not sure what that's about. I should have registered before hand.

Had the same issue and the problem was they do not have your birthdate on file. Hence you either need to email or call them to fix this.

[QUOTE=Jasper2009;18880930]Your status will automatically be upgraded to Premier once you receive the credit card.

Do we maintain the Premier status as long as we have the chase card? If that is the case will not new upgrade and free dinning certificates appear in our online account once the old ones expire?

Do we maintain the Premier status as long as we have the chase card? If that is the case will not new upgrade and free dinning certificates appear in our online account once the old ones expire?

There´s no info anywhere that status will only be valid during the first year, so I´d assume that indeed status is valid as long as you have the CC and you´d also get the certs each year (as status is meaningless without the certs). However, as there´s no first-hand experience yet and some of the T&C are somewhat ambigious, I take no responsibility if FPC change their mind.:p

There´s no info anywhere that status will only be valid during the first year, so I´d assume that indeed status is valid as long as you have the CC and you´d also get the certs each year (as status is meaningless without the certs). However, as there´s no first-hand experience yet and some of the T&C are somewhat ambigious, I take no responsibility if FPC change their mind.:p

Since the card came out in May and Fairmont status (and certificates) run from March to Feb, there will be plenty of time to cancel the card if that is indeed not the policy. After all maintaining the Premier status as long as one holds the card seems to me the main benefit of continuing to hold the card after the 1st year since the other main benefits only kick in after a spend of 12 and 15k.

Since the card came out in May and Fairmont status (and certificates) run from March to Feb, there will be plenty of time to cancel the card if that is indeed not the policy. After all maintaining the Premier status as long as one holds the card seems to me the main benefit of continuing to hold the card after the 1st year since the other main benefits only kick in after a spend of 12 and 15k.

Fee is only $95, so I cannot see myself cancelling this card with the following benefits:

- Maintain Premier status (although not clearly published, I would guess you will keep Premier status as long as you have this card.)
- Anniversary Benefit - One complimentary night each anniversary year that the Cardmember makes $12,000 in purchases with their card.
- Stay Credit - When spending $7,500, Cardmembers will receive an additional stay credit toward their Elite membership to a maximum of two stay credits per year. This will be helpful if you are close to Plat status and need a night or two.

I will use this card for:
1) All Fairmont spend
2) Additional spend to reach $15K (One complimentary night plus two stay credits)

The points I receive from doing this could earn me a free night, but even without the points this card is a keeper.