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The Best Ways To Fly to Taiwan With Points and Miles [2023]

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Stephen Au

Stephen Au

Senior Content Contributor

Countries Visited: 24U.S. States Visited: 22

Stephen is an established voice in the credit card space, with over 70 to his name. His work has been in publications like The Washington Post, and his Au Points and Awards Consulting Services is used...
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Edited by: Keri Stooksbury

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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With years of experience in corporate marketing and as the Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Qatar, Keri is now Editor-in-Chief at UP, overseeing daily content operations and r...
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& Kellie Jez

Kellie Jez

Director of Operations & Compliance

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Kellie’s professional experience has led her to a deep passion for compliance, data reporting, and process improvement. Kellie’s learned the ins and outs of the points and miles world and leads UP’s c...
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The Best Ways To Fly to Taiwan With Points and Miles [2023]

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Taiwan is a destination that many hold close to their hearts.

There are tons of reasons why you would want to visit Taiwan. For many, the food is incredible. Taiwan is a little more spread out than metropolis giants like Hong Kong, but it’s also got a more casual personality. Many also love the balance of big-city life in Taipei and the tranquil nature in cities like Beitou.

Taiwan is known for amazing food, tech, beautiful national parks, and the best universal healthcare system in the world.

This island nation, located near South China, is a great vacation destination for all travelers. We’re going to discuss the best ways to fly nonstop to Taiwan with points and miles.

We’re going to touch on the best award sweet spots, particularly for business class tickets. Taiwanese airlines have business class products that are akin in quality to many first class products, and it’s an absolutely phenomenal experience.

Let’s get started!

Nonstop Flights Between the U.S. and Taiwan

At the moment, there are 3 foreign airlines and 1 U.S. airline offering nonstop flights to Taiwan.

Luckily, all of these airlines boast impressive business class products on U.S.-Taiwan flights, making it a pleasure to fly to Taiwan, regardless of what exact airline you fly.

Here are the foreign airlines with nonstop service to Taiwan:

China Airlines

  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Taipei (TPE)
  • New York (JFK) – Taipei (TPE)
  • Ontario (ONT) – Taipei (TPE)
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Taipei (TPE)

EVA Air

  • Chicago (ORD) – Taipei (TPE)
  • Houston (IAH) – Taipei (TPE)
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Taipei (TPE)
  • New York (JFK) – Taipei (TPE)
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Taipei (TPE)
  • Seattle (SEA) – Taipei (TPE)

Singapore Airlines

  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Taipei (TPE)

As you can tell, Singapore Airlines offers a fifth freedom flight, while EVA Air and China Airlines are both based in Taiwan.

Here’s the sole U.S. airline that flies to Taiwan:

United Airlines

  • San Francisco (SFO) – Taipei (TPE)

Since Taiwan is one of the largest cultural strongholds in Asia, there’s a lot of demand for flights from the U.S. Taiwan enjoys a strong business economy supported by U.S. and foreign travelers alike. There are lots of different options you can utilize when booking with points and miles.

One important distinction to make is that award availability is best far in advance, meaning you’ll want to plan ahead as much as you can.

Some exceptions to this rule exist, such as the case with booking Cathay Pacific first class, which is best booked 1 to 5 days before departure.

When picking the option that best fits your needs, it’s important to remain flexible and be open to changing your departure airports and travel dates so you can get the best deal.

Luckily, this shouldn’t be an issue, as both Taiwanese airlines offer generous award availability in advance. We’re going to be focusing on Star Alliance and SkyTeam carriers. This is because EVA Air is a Star Alliance member and China Airlines is a SkyTeam airline.

As a result, Taiwan is a strategic hub for Star Alliance and SkyTeam. Keep in mind that if you’re looking to fly to mainland China, we’ve put together a separate guide of the best ways to fly to mainland China with points and miles.

Best Programs To Use To Book Flights

ANA Mileage Club

ANA business class. Image Credit: Stephen Au

The first option we’re going to examine is the option that costs the least number of points. We love ANA Mileage Club because it offers phenomenal redemption rates, a lot of ways to earn ANA miles, and a great stopover/open-jaw allowance.

Furthermore, its booking process is relatively simple and can be completed entirely online.

ANA employs region-based award pricing as follows:

  1. ANA-operated flights subject to seasonality (cheaper)
  2. Partner flights (more expensive)

We’ll be analyzing both award charts for optimization purposes. If you fly on ANA, you can use its phenomenal stopover policy to visit Japan before continuing to Taiwan. Best of all, flying on ANA uses the least miles.

This means that flying from North America to Taiwan via Japan on ANA will cost as little as 80,000 miles round-trip in business class. This is the mileage cost during the low season, and the cost during regular and high season is 90,000 and 95,000 miles, respectively.

The best deal flying from North America to Taiwan is on ANA in business class, which will only cost 80,000 to 95,000 miles round-trip! Image Credit: ANA

Keep in mind that this fantastic award pricing for a 2-in-1 trip from North America to Taiwan via Japan is not a non-stop option.

Hot Tip: If you’ve decided on flying ANA via Japan, check out our definitive guide to ANA’s U.S. routes to learn all about the various departure cities.

ANA charges 165,000 miles for round-trip first class in the low and regular season and 180,000 miles for round-trip first class in high season. For round-trip economy, ANA charges 45,000 miles during the low season, 55,000 miles during the regular season, and 60,000 miles during the high season.

Total taxes and fees for award flights on ANA range between $190 to $200 per person, round-trip.

Many travelers want a nonstop flight to Taiwan, and ANA has got your back in this case, too. Flying round-trip to Taiwan via partners will cost 60,000 miles in economy, 95,000 miles in business, and 180,000 miles in first.

Some routes you can take either on ANA or ANA’s partners include:

  • Chicago (ORD) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip in EVA Air economy class for 60,000 miles + ~$132 in taxes and fees
  • Houston (IAH) – Tokyo (NRT/HND) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip in ANA business class with a stopover in Tokyo during the low season for 80,000 ANA miles + ~$279 in taxes and fees
  • New York (JFK) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip in EVA Air business class for 95,000 miles + ~$143 in taxes and fees
  • San Jose (SJC) – Tokyo (NRT/HND) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip in ANA business class with a stopover in Tokyo during the low season for 80,000 ANA miles + ~$279 in taxes and fees
  • Seattle (SEA) – Tokyo (NRT/HND) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip in ANA business class with a stopover in Tokyo during the low season for 80,000 ANA miles + ~$279 in taxes and fees
  • Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Tokyo (NRT/HND) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip in ANA business class with a stopover in Tokyo during the low season for 80,000 ANA miles + ~$279 in taxes and fees

EVA Air offers a stellar business class product; in fact, it ranks among our top 25 best international business class airlines.

You can book awards completely online with ANA. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to complete your booking online for ANA and partner flights:

  1. Visit ANA’s website.
  2. On the top-right side of the website, click on ANA Mileage Club.
  3. On the left side of the page in the Flight Awards section, click International followed by Award Reservation.
  4. Log in with your Member Number and Password.
  5. Fill in the search query by typing in your route, travel dates, class of service, number of passengers, and then click Search.
  6. If you need to transfer points, you may have luck holding awards for up to 3 days by calling ANA at 800-235-9262. This is dependent on what representative you get, but it may be worth a shot.
  7. Finish transferring your points and confirm your reservation by paying for taxes and fees.

Earning ANA Mileage Plan Miles

Currently, ANA is a Marriott transfer partner and an Amex transfer partner.

Keep in mind that Amex transfers are not instant. They typically take 2 to 3 business days and transfer at a 1:1 ratio. Marriott Bonvoy takes up to 7 business days to transfer at a 3:1 ratio.

For Marriott Bonvoy, you’ll receive a bonus of 5,000 ANA miles for each 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred. This brings your total up to 25,000 ANA miles from transferring 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Recommended American Express Cards (Personal)

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS
The Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card® from American Express

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
80,000 points
$1,760
$695
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros

  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per $1 spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per $1 spent on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
  • Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment (airline credit, Uber Cash credit, Saks Fifth Avenue credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR credit, and Equinox credit)
  • TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
  • Access to American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts
  • Access to Amex International Airline Program
  • No foreign transaction fees (rates and fees)

Cons

  • $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card®. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
  • $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card®. Learn more.
  • $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card®. An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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American Express Membership Rewards

BEST FOR DINING
American Express® Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express® Gold Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

American Express® Gold Card

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months.
60,000 points
$1,320
$250
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The American Express® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros

  • 4x points per $1 at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • 4x points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; and 1x thereafter
  • 3x points per $1 on flights purchased directly from airlines or at Amex Travel
  • Up to $120 annual dining credit: up to $10 monthly statement credit when you pay with the Amex Gold card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations
  • Up to $120 in annual Uber Cash: get $10 monthly in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. when you add your Gold Card to your Uber account
  • No foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees)
  • Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection
  • Access to American Express transfer partners

Cons

  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
  • Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
  • Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $250.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Recommended American Express Cards (Business)

OUR BEST OFFER
The Business Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!
Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
120,000 points
$2,640
$695
19.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 120,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Pros

  • 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
  • Up to $200 annual airline fee credit on your selected qualifying airline
  • Statement credits on select purchases with your card
  • 35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points (up to 1,000,000 bonus points per calendar year)
  • Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
  • Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
  • Access to Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts program

Cons

  • High annual fee of $695 (rates and fees)
  • Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline to your Card.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Business Platinum Card®.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
  • $695 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.49% - 27.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

BEST FOR BUYING ADS
American Express® Business Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express® Business Gold Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

American Express® Business Gold Card

Get 4x points in 2 select categories where your business spends the most each month (on your first $150,000 spent each year).
Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership
70,000 points
$1,540
$295
19.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The American Express® Business Gold Card is excellent at racking up rewards for your business spend.

The card earns a whopping 4x points per $1 in the 2 categories (from a list of 6) that your business spends the most money on each month. With no need to opt-in or preselect your categories, so you can focus on what matters most — running your business.

Pros

  • 4x points per dollar spent on your 2 highest purchase categories each month up to $150,000 each calendar year in purchases; categories include:
    • NEW! Transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses , and subways
    • NEW! U.S. purchases made from electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers
    • NEW! Monthly wireless telephone service charges made directly from a wireless telephone service provider in the U.S.
    • U.S. purchases at gas stations
    • U.S. purchases at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
    • Purchases at U.S. media providers for advertising in select media (online such as Google Ads, Facebook Ads, plus TV and radio)
  • 3x points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card
  • Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection
  • Purchase protection and extended warranty protection
  • Trip delay insurance
  • Car rental insurance
  • Cell phone insurance

Cons

  • $295 ($375 if application is received on or after 2/1/24) annual fee (rates and fees)
  • No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access or elite status
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
  • MORE REWARDS: Get 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 select categories where your business spent the most each month. 1X is earned for other purchases.**
  • **4X points apply to the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these 2 categories each calendar year.*
  • PAY OVER TIME OPTION: Decide whether you want to pay eligible purchases in full each month—or pay over time with interest.*
  • *Terms Apply

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.49% - 27.49% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn Membership Rewards for your business spending the easy way: get 2x points for the first $50,000 in purchases per year.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

Earn Membership Rewards for your business spending the easy way: get 2x points for the first $50,000 in purchases per year.
Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
15,000 points
$330
No annual fee
18.49% - 26.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-840)

As a business owner, getting a credit card that maximizes each dollar you spend does not have to be complicated or expensive. Especially when you opt for The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express.

With the Amex Blue Business Plus card, you’ll earn 2x Membership Rewards points on everyday business purchases throughout the year (up to $50,000; 1x thereafter) and receive purchase protections and no-additional-charge employee cards all for no annual fee (see rates and fees).

The simple and straightforward earning structure makes it a great fit for those looking to earn flexible rewards, without having to fixate on which purchases earn the most points.

Let’s take look at all that the Amex Blue Business Plus card has to offer.

Pros

  • 2x Membership Rewards points per $1 on everyday business purchases (up to $50,000; 1x thereafter)
  • Purchase protection and extended warranty protection
  • No annual fee and employee cards at no additional cost

Cons

  • No unique bonus categories and 2x earnings are capped at $50,000 in annual spend
  • No elite travel benefits like lounge access or elite status
  • Charges foreign transaction fees
  • Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
  • You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
  • *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Terms Apply

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 18.49% - 26.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

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Bottom Line: ANA has amazing business class redemptions. Its stopover policy allows for some fantastic 2-for-1 trips to Japan and Taiwan for 80,000 to 95,000 miles round-trip in business class. If that doesn’t fit you, you can book nonstop flights in business class with its partners for 95,000 miles! ANA has 2 transfer partners in Amex and Marriott Bonvoy, which makes this redemption a no-brainer.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

Flying on Cathay Pacific first class is sublime. Image Credit: Alex Miller

Cathay Pacific is one of the most aspirational products to book for travelers. If you can get your hands on first class, you’ll enjoy the world’s widest first class seat, unbelievable dining, and top-notch service.

Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan presents one of the best ways to fly to Taiwan with points and miles as it makes first class redemptions available on Cathay Pacific.

Here are the redemption rates for round-trip flights on Cathay Pacific. One-way is simply half the cost.

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Cabin ClassAlaska Airlines Mileage Cost (Round-Trip)Taxes and Fees
Economy60,000~$241
Business100,000~$243
First140,000~$243

The number that catches our eye is first class on Cathay Pacific. Alaska Airlines’ generous routing rules allow for a stopover, even on one-way flights. This means that for 70,000 Alaska miles, you can fly one-way in first class from the U.S. to Taiwan via Hong Kong and stopover in Hong Kong en route to Taiwan.

Even though it’s a connecting flight from Hong Kong, you can treat it as an opportunity to fly to 2 countries for the price of 1, all in the comfort of Cathay Pacific’s first class, to boot.

We’ve written a complete guide on Cathay Pacific’s U.S. routes, so if you need some inspiration, check out our link.

Here are some example routes you can take:

  • Boston (BOS) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class and business class for 70,000 Alaska miles plus approximately $95 in taxes and fees
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class and business class for 70,000 Alaska miles plus approximately $95 in taxes and fees
  • New York (JFK) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class and business class for 70,000 Alaska miles plus approximately $95 in taxes and fees
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Taipei (TPE) one-way in Cathay Pacific first class and business class for 70,000 Alaska miles plus approximately $95 in taxes and fees

To book Cathay Pacific first class with Alaska requires you to search for availability on British Airways and call Alaska Airlines to book. Follow these steps to book your award ticket:

  1. Go to British Airways’ website.
  2. Log into your account by entering your ID number and password on the top-left side of the page.
  3. Type in your desired routing, dates of travel, cabin class, and number of passengers.
  4. Write down your flight numbers, dates, and times when you’ve located award availability.
  5. Call Alaska Airlines at 800-252-7522.
  6. Feed them your flight numbers, dates, times, and cabin class.
  7. Provide any additional information to book the award ticket.

Need help booking? Check out our step-by-step guide for booking Cathay Pacific first class. If you’d like to still enjoy a bed in the sky but don’t want to shell out tons of miles, check out our guide for booking Cathay Pacific business class.

Earning Alaska Mileage Plan Miles

Alaska miles are relatively difficult to earn, but the huge value you’ll get from Alaska miles still makes earning them a worthwhile effort. There are still a lot of ways to earn Alaska miles.

Alaska Airlines offers co-branded credit cards by Bank of America, though the biggest disadvantage is the limited transfer partners.

The best option for getting Alaska miles would be transferring points from Marriott Bonvoy. Marriott Bonvoy transfers at a 3:1 ratio with a bonus of 5,000 miles when you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. It takes around 4 business days to transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to Alaska Airlines.

Furthermore, you can buy Alaska miles if you have a specific redemption you want to make. Often, Alaska Airlines offers sales of up to 50% more miles on and purchased miles, so be sure to hold out for a sale if you’re going to buy miles.

You can only purchase 60,000 miles per transaction, but you can actually make as many transactions as you want, effectively making the number of possible purchased miles unlimited.

Recommended Marriott Bonvoy Cards

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.
Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.
30,000 points
$210
$0
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

Casual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card.

The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Pros

  • Up to 14x points per $1 on Marriott purchases
  • 2x points per $1 on travel purchases
  • 15 Elite Night Credits each year (automatically gives you Silver Elite status)
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • No annual fee

Cons

  • Lower point earn rate than other Marriott Bonvoy cards
  • Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is the lowest status tier
  • Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card from Chase®!
  • Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Card.
  • 2X points for every $1 spent on other travel purchases (from airfare to taxis and trains).
  • 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, qualifying you for Silver Elite Status. Restrictions apply.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual free night award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual free night award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.
Earn 3 Free Nights after you spend $3,000 on eligible purchases (each night valued up to 50,000 points) within the first 3 months from account opening.
Up to 3 Free Nights
$1,050
$95
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros

  • Earn big when you use your card at over 7,000 participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
  • New benefit to earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
  • Automatic Silver Elite Status
  • 1 Free Night Award each cardmember anniversary (up to 35,000 points)
  • DoorDash DashPass subscription
  • No foreign transaction fees

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • Marriott Silver status is the lowest status tier
  • Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after qualifying purchases.
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
  • 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
  • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
  • Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.
Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership
85,000 points
$595
$250
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, the latest mid-tier offering in the Marriott Bonvoy lineup of cards, offers cardholders automatic elite status and ways to earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on each of their stays and daily purchases.

Pros

  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy
  • 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2X points)
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
  • Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
  • 15 Elite Night Credits per year
  • 1,000 bonus points per paid stay
  • 1 Free Night Award (up to 50,000 points) when you spend $15,000 on the card in a year
  • No foreign transaction fees (rates and fees)

Cons

  • $250 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit
  • Earn 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
  • Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
  • Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
  • 1K Bonus Points Per Stay: Earn 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott for properties participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
  • With complimentary Gold Elites status, earn up to 2.5X points from Marriott Bonvoy® on eligible hotel purchases with the 25% Bonus Points on stays benefit.
  • Marriott Bonvoy Bevy Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express Card® you can receive 15 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
  • Plan It® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
  • $250 Annual Fee.
  • Terms apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.
Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
95,000 bonus points
$665
$650
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros

  • 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
  • 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
  • 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
  • 25 Elite Night Credits each year
  • Priority Pass Select membership upon enrollment
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
  • Annual Free Night Award after card renewal
  • Complimentary Platinum Elite status

Cons

  • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
  • With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
  • $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
  • Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited access to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
  • With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • $650 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Bottom Line: Spending 50,000 Alaska miles for one-way business class on Cathay Pacific or 70,000 miles for one-way first class on Cathay Pacific is one of the best sweet spots out there. Alaska Airlines offers the best redemption rates for this route, and you can make a stopover in Hong Kong en route to Taiwan with this booking.

Asiana Club

EVA Air 777-300ER business class. Image Credit: Stephen Au

Asiana Airlines’ Asiana Club frequent flyer program flies under the radar for the most part. There are a ton of different ways to use Asiana miles for maximum value, but using miles for travel to Asia is an excellent redemption opportunity.

Since Asiana is a Star Alliance partner, you can book travel on EVA Air nonstop to Taiwan. Specifically, the round-trip award cost from the U.S. or Canada is as follows:

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Cabin ClassAsiana Miles Cost (Round-Trip)Taxes and Fees on EVA Air
Economy80,000~$143
Business120,000~$143
First160,000N/A

One-ways cost exactly half of the above prices, and taxes and fees will vary depending on which partner you fly on. Asiana passes on all fuel surcharges, so that’s something you may consider. It isn’t an issue with these particular airlines and routes.

Using Asiana miles makes the most sense for nonstop redemptions to Taiwan using Marriott Bonvoy points.

Here are some great example redemptions you can make:

  • Chicago (ORD) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 60,000 Asiana miles and ~$109 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class
  • Houston (IAH) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 60,000 Asiana miles and ~$109 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 60,000 Asiana miles and ~$109 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class
  • New York (JFK) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 60,000 Asiana miles and ~$109 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 60,000 Asiana miles and ~$109 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class
  • Seattle (SEA) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 60,000 Asiana miles and ~$109 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class

You’ll need to call Asiana to book all partner awards. To get started, follow these steps:

  1. Search for award availability by visiting Air Canada Aeroplan.
  2. At the top right corner, click Sign in and Sign in. Enter your Aeroplan number and password. Click Sign in.
  3. Hover over Book travel at the top-middle section of the landing page and click Flights.
  4. Enter all of your travel details, including trip type, route, travel dates, number of passengers, and cabin class. Click Search.
  5. Write down all the flight information, including flight numbers, dates, and times.
  6. Call Asiana’s U.S. call center at 800-227-4262 between 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. PST Monday through Friday.
  7. Tell the representative that you want to book an award on EVA Air
  8. Provide the flight numbers, travel dates, and any other flight information.
  9. Once the rep has confirmed the award space, provide them with your credit card to pay for taxes and fees.

Earning Asiana Miles

Asiana Mileage Club is a transfer partner with Marriott Bonvoy at a 3:1 ratio. You’ll receive a bonus of 5,000 miles when transferring 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, which brings your received total up to 25,000 Asiana miles for every 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points transferred.

Asiana also offers co-branded Bank of America credit cards to earn miles directly.

For more information, check out our guide on the best ways to earn lots of Asiana miles.

Avianca LifeMiles

Asiana Airlines business class. Image Credit: Asiana Airlines

Avianca LifeMiles is one of the simplest ways to book award travel. Its booking process is as straightforward as you can get and you get all of these benefits:

  • Instantaneous mileage transfers
  • Plenty of transfer partners
  • No fuel surcharges
  • Seamless online booking process

If these are things you value, you’ll be pleased to know that Avianca LifeMiles provides some great redemption values. Avianca LifeMiles is a great program because it never passes on fuel surcharges. This will keep your out-of-pocket costs at a minimum. It does, however, charge a $25 award booking fee one-way.

You can use your LifeMiles to book travel on any Star Alliance partner. Here’s the award chart for one-way flights to Taiwan:

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Cabin ClassLifeMiles Cost (One-Way)Fees
Economy35,000~$51
Business75,000~$51
First90,000~$51

Hot Tip: You’ll save at least $200 round-trip in cash when booking with LifeMiles since it doesn’t pass on any fuel surcharges.

Sadly, Avianca LifeMiles won’t allow open-jaws or stopovers on its awards flights.

Here are some great example routes you can take:

  • Chicago (ORD) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 150,000 miles and $61 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class
  • Houston (IAH) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 150,000 miles and $61 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Seoul (ICN) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 75,000 miles and $30.60 in taxes and fees in Asiana business class
  • New York (JFK) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 150,000 miles and $61 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 35,000 miles and $30.60 in taxes and fees in United economy class
  • Seattle (SEA) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 150,000 miles and $61 in taxes and fees in EVA Air business class

Once you’ve decided on the route you want to take, follow these steps to finish your booking 100% online:

  1. Visit Avianca LifeMiles. Change the language as necessary by clicking on the flag icon in the top right corner and choosing English.
  2. Click Log in on the top right corner using your LifeMiles Number and Password.
  3. Click Fly at the top banner. Type in your origin and destination airports, number of passengers, and cabin class. Click Find Flights.
  4. Click and select your flights and reserve them by paying with LifeMiles and any taxes with your credit card.

Earning Avianca LifeMiles

LifeMiles is transfer partners with American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One Miles, Citi ThankYou Rewards, Brex Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

American Express, Citi, Brex, and Capital One transfer almost instantly at a 1:1 ratio. They’re also known to offer periodic transfer bonuses of up to 35%, so be sure to wait for an opportunity like that when transferring points.

Marriott Bonvoy is transferred at a 3:1 ratio and transfers take around 1 business day.

You can also earn LifeMiles directly by applying for the Banco Popular co-branded credit card.

You may also consider buying LifeMiles. Avianca is known to offer huge sales with up to 200% mile bonuses, so be sure to wait for the right opportunity to buy miles.

Recommended Citi Cards

Citi Premier® Card

Citi Premier® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Frequent flyers will enjoy 3x ThankYou Points at restaurants, gas stations, supermarkets, air travel, and hotels.

Learn More(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Premier® Card

Frequent flyers will enjoy 3x ThankYou Points at restaurants, gas stations, supermarkets, air travel, and hotels.
Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.
60,000 points
$960
$95
21.24% - 29.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Citi Premier® Card is an excellent option for anyone looking for an all-around travel rewards credit card. The card helps you earn points fast with great 3x bonus categories such as restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotels. Plus, it offers access to airline and hotel transfer partners, doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, and has a reasonable annual fee!

Pros

  • 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotel purchases
  • Access to Citi transfer partners
  • Annual hotel credit
  • No foreign transaction fees

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
  • Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
  • 60,000 ThankYou® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
  • No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 21.24% - 29.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

Citi Rewards+® Card

Citi Rewards+® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This no annual fee card rewards cardholders for everyday purchases. Earn bonus points at supermarkets and gas stations, plus your points are rounded up on every purchase.

Learn More(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Rewards+® Card

This no annual fee card rewards cardholders for everyday purchases. Earn bonus points at supermarkets and gas stations, plus your points are rounded up on every purchase.
Earn 20,000 bonus points after you spend $1,500 in purchases with your card within 3 months of account opening; redeemable for $250 in gift cards at thankyou.com.
20,000 points
$320
$0
0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months and on purchases. After that, the variable APR of 18.74% - 28.74%.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent Credit Recommended (670-840)
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points after you spend $1,500 in purchases with your card within 3 months of account opening; redeemable for $200 in gift cards at thankyou.com
  • Plus, for a limited time, earn 5 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel(SM) portal through June 30, 2024.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months from date of first transfer and on purchases from date of account opening. After that, the variable APR will be 18.74% – 28.74%, based on your creditworthiness. There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
  • Earn 2X ThankYou® Points at Supermarkets and Gas Stations for the first $6,000 per year and then 1X Points thereafter. Plus, earn 1X ThankYou® Points on All Other Purchases.
  • The Citi Rewards+® Card – the only credit card that automatically rounds up to the nearest 10 points on every purchase – with no cap.
  • No Annual Fee

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 0% Intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months and on purchases. After that, the variable APR of 18.74% - 28.74%.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each purchase transaction in US dollars

Card Categories

Citi Double Cash® Card

Citi Double Cash® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!

Learn More(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Double Cash® Card

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!
$0
19.24% - 29.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Fair to Excellent (580-850)

The Citi Double Cash® Card has long been one of the top cash-back credit cards on the market, and the card now has the ability to earn Citi ThankYou Points!

This means that cardholders of the Double Cash card will now earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Cash back is earned in the form of ThankYou Points. This means each billing cycle, you will earn 1 ThankYou point per $1 spent on purchases and an additional ThankYou point for every $1 paid on your purchase balance as long as there is a corresponding balance in your Purchase Tracker.

Citi has turned the Double Cash card into a top choice for those who are looking for an everyday, no-fuss credit card.

Pros

  • Uncapped 2% for every $1 spent (1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay)
  • Flexible redemption options
  • No annual fee

Cons

  • No bonus categories
  • 3% foreign transaction fees
  • Lack of premium travel benefits
  • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
  • To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
  • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
  • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
  • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.24% - 29.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Citi ThankYou Rewards

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Citi Custom Cash® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Earn big on purchases in your top eligible spend category, up to the first $500 each billing cycle, with no annual fee!

Learn More(at our partner's secure site)

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Earn big on purchases in your top eligible spend category, up to the first $500 each billing cycle, with no annual fee!
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
$200
$0
0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%.
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Fair to Excellent (580-850)

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is inventive when it comes to cash-back credit cards. Instead of earning a set amount of cash-back on predetermined bonus categories, the Citi Custom Cash card earns 5% cash-back on your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle, without an annual fee.

Thanks to that unique perk, you’ll never need to worry about whether you’re using the right card for the right purchase, as your Citi Custom Cash card will always pay you 5% back on whichever category you end up spending the most on each month.

Pros

  • 5% cash-back (on up to $500 each billing cycle) from your largest purchase category, including restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs, and live entertainment
  • No annual fee
  • Multiple redemption options
  • No redemption minimums

Cons

  • Your 5% category is limited to $500 in spend ($25 in cash-back) each month
  • Not particularly rewarding for any purchases outside of your top 5% cash-back category
  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%.
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: 3%

Card Categories

Hot Tip: Need some help earning LifeMiles? Check out our best ways to earn lots of Avianca LifeMiles!

United Airlines MileagePlus

United Polaris class. Image Credit: United Airlines

When you use United Airlines MileagePlus, you’ll very rarely get the best bang for your buck. However, what you will get is a simple booking process, a lot of ways to earn United miles, and no fuel surcharges.

United offers great opportunities to redeem points and miles for flights to Taiwan. In particular, United offers a spectacular and unique route to Taiwan:

  • San Francisco (SFO) – Taipei (TPE) 

Additionally, this aircraft features United’s brand-new Polaris business class. This is simply one of the best business class seats in the world. Here’s the award chart for one-way flights:

SCROLL FOR MORE
Cabin ClassUnited Mileage Cost (One-Way)Taxes and Fees
EconomyFrom 38,500$5.60
BusinessFrom 77,000$5.60
FirstN/AN/A

Currently, United charges around 77,000 miles (using dynamic pricing) plus $5.60 for one-way tickets in Polaris business class from San Francisco (SFO) to Taipei (TPE), which is an excellent deal.

Additionally, you can book partner awards using the following award chart:

SCROLL FOR MORE
Cabin ClassUnited Mileage Cost (One-Way)Taxes and Fees
EconomyFrom 38,500$5.60 to $80.60
BusinessFrom 88,000$5.60 to $80.60
FirstFrom 132,000$5.60 to $80.60

Earning United Airlines MileagePlus Miles

One of the biggest strengths of United MileagePlus is the ability to easily earn miles using Chase.

United MileagePlus is transfer partners with Chase Ultimate Rewards as well as Marriott Bonvoy. The transfer ratio with Chase is 1:1 and points transfer instantaneously to United.

Marriott Bonvoy transfers at a ratio of 3:1.1 in around 3 business days. Also, if you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to United, you’ll get a bonus of 5,500 miles!

Additionally, there are a lot of opportunities to directly earn United miles by leveraging the United co-branded credit cards from Chase.

Recommended Chase Cards

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
60,000 points
$1,200
$95
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros

  • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
  • 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $250 (through March 31, 2025)
  • 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
  • 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
  • 2x points on all other travel worldwide
  • $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
  • 6 months of complimentary Instacart+ (activate by July 31, 2024), plus up to $15 in statement credits each quarter through July 2024
  • Excellent travel and car rental insurance
  • 10% annual bonus points
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs like United MileagePlus and World of Hyatt
  • Complimentary Spot Club Platinum status with The Parking Spot for 2 years, 20% off of your first reservation, and points for 1 free day of parking (enroll by October 26, 2023)

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, and 2x on all other travel purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points
$1,200
$550
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros

  • 10x points on car rentals, hotels, and dining booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
  • 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
  • 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
  • 5x points on airfare booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
  • 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases; 1x point on all other purchases
  • $300 annual travel credit
  • Priority Pass airport lounge access
  • TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS credit
  • Access to Chase Luxury Hotel and Resort Collection
  • Rental car elite status with National and Avis

Cons

  • $550 annual fee
  • Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more
  • Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Hot Tip: Check out our in-depth guide on how to earn lots of Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

Air Canada Aeroplan

Air Canada Aeroplan makes our list because it offers some of the best routing rules for round-trip flights between 2 different continents. In other words, you can work in extra flights for free by maximizing open-jaws and stopovers. Here’s what the award chart looks like for flights between the U.S. and the Pacific region, of which Taiwan is a member:

Aeroplan North America Pacific award chart. Image Credit: Aeroplan

Remember that the above award chart is for flights between North America and the Pacific, which actually includes Australia, most of Asia, and the rest of Oceania.

At first glance, it may look like Air Canada Aeroplan is less appealing than another program like Avianca LifeMiles, but upon closer examination, you’ll find tons of extra value.

With Air Canada Aeroplan, you can book a stopover on one-way tickets for just 5,000 more miles! Here are some example routes you can take to visit more countries and squeeze out extra value:

  • Chicago (ORD) – Tokyo (NRT) – Taipei (TPE) – Seoul (ICN) – Chicago (ORD) for 175,000 Aeroplan points in ANA business class, EVA Air business class, and Asiana business class with an added stopover in Tokyo or Seoul
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Tokyo (HND/NRT) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 80,000 Aeroplan points in ANA business class and EVA Air business class with an added stopover in Tokyo
  • Newark (EWR) – Tokyo (NRT) – Taipei (TPE) – Beijing (PEK) – Newark (EWR) for 175,000 Aeroplan points in United Polaris class, EVA Air business class, and Air China business class with an added stopover in Tokyo or Beijing

Aeroplan is an excellent program to utilize when you know how to optimize its routing rules. Once you’ve got enough points, follow these steps to book your award travel:

  1. Go to Air Canada Aeroplan’s homepage.
  2. Click Sign in and Sign in at the top-right corner. Type in your Aeroplan number and password. Click Sign in.
  3. On the redirected page, enter your travel dates, trip type, origin and destination airports, number of travelers, and desired class of booking. Be sure to have Points selected instead of US $.
  4. Click Find, select your flights, and pay with miles and for any taxes and fees using a credit card.

Earning Aeroplan Points

Earning Aeroplan points is easy because the airline partners with 4 transferable point programs: American Express, Chase, Capital One, and Marriott Bonvoy.

If you’re looking to transfer points from one of these programs to Aeroplan, you’ll want to keep the transfer ratios and transfer times in mind. Amex, Chase points, and Capital One Miles transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, and Marriott Bonvoy point transfers take 5 business days at a 3:1 ratio.

When you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to Aeroplan, you’ll get an extra 5,000 points.

You can also opt to acquire the co-branded Chase Aeroplan® Credit Card, which earns 3x points per $1 spent on dining, groceries, and Air Canada, as well as 1x point per $1 spent everywhere else.

Recommended Capital One Cards

TOP PICK
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles
$1,350
$395
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-840)

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros

  • 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 5x miles per $1 on flights purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
  • $300 annual travel credit on bookings made through Capital One Travel
  • Unlimited complimentary access for cardholder and 2 guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • 10,000 bonus miles awarded on your account anniversary each year
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
  • Add authorized users for no additional annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fees

 

Cons

  • $395 annual fee
  • Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

 

  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!
Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles
$1,350
$95
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros

  • 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
  • 2 complimentary visits to a Capital One Lounge or Plaza Premium Lounges each year
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • No foreign transaction fees (rates & fees)
  • Access to Capital One transfer partners

Cons

  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Enjoy two complimentary visits per year to Capital One Lounges or to 100+ Plaza Premium Lounges through the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase – or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Learn More(at Capital One's secure site)

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.
Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel.
20,000 miles
$360
$0
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable),0% intro on purchases for 15 months
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

Interested in a travel rewards credit card without one of those pesky annual fees? Then say hello to the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card, the no-annual-fee version of the more popular Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

In addition to no annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card offers no foreign transaction fees.

But is this card worth its salt, or is it merely a shell of the more popular Capital One Venture card?

Pros

  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Ability to use transfer partners
  • Access to Capital One Dining

Cons

  • Weak earn rate at 1.25x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
  • No luxury travel or elite benefits
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable),0% intro on purchases for 15 months
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

China Airlines business class. Image Credit: China Airlines

Until now, we’ve pretty much been focusing on leveraging Star Alliance airlines, either through EVA Air, ANA, or United.

EVA Air deservedly earns the reputation for offering one of the absolute best business class products in the sky. However, sister airline China Airlines, which is the flag carrier of Taiwan, is not far behind.

China Airlines happens to be a SkyTeam partner airline, which means that you’ll be able to leverage points and miles from SkyTeam members to book travel on China Airlines.

Delta SkyMiles is the first logical choice for many of us when thinking about booking SkyTeam travel. While it has an unattractive award pricing structure for its own business class flights, partner flights remain a decent redemption avenue.

While Delta can charge up to 300,000 miles for a one-way flight in business class, it charges 147,500 miles on partners like China Airlines.

Furthermore, Delta is a great program to use because it doesn’t pass on fuel surcharges from China Airlines. This means your out-of-pocket cost is $5.60 each way. Also, business class award availability tends to be good when searching for China Airlines awards.

Here’s the award chart for redeeming Delta SkyMiles on China Airlines flights to Taiwan:

SCROLL FOR MORE
Cabin ClassDelta SkyMiles Cost (One-Way)Taxes and Fees
Economy46,000$5.60
Business147,500 (160,000 if within 21 days before departure)$5.60

Here are some great routes you can take:

  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 295,000 miles and $11.20 in taxes and fees in China Airlines business class
  • New York (JFK) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 46,000 miles and $5.60 in taxes and fees in China Airlines economy class
  • Ontario (ONT) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 147,500 miles and $5.60 in taxes and fees in China Airlines business class
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 92,000 miles and $5.60 in taxes and fees in China Airlines economy class

» Related: The Definitive Guide to China Airlines’ Direct Routes From The U.S. [Plane Types & Seat Options]

To book your China Airlines flight, follow these instructions:

  1. Visit Delta’s website.
  2. At the top of the page, type in your route, travel dates, and the number of passengers. Click Advanced Search right beneath the number of passengers.
  3. Click Show Price in Miles. Click Best Fares for Delta One if flying business class or Main Cabin if flying economy.
  4. Click the red return arrow to search.
  5. Select your flights and pay for any taxes and fees using your credit card.

Earning Delta SkyMiles

There are many ways to earn a lot of Delta SkyMiles. You can start by leveraging transfer partners American Express Membership Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy.

Amex transfers instantly at a 1:1 ratio almost instantly. Marriott Bonvoy transfers to Delta at a 3:1 ratio in 1 business day.

You can also utilize the Delta co-branded credit cards from American Express to earn Delta SkyMiles directly. There are a lot of options here, so don’t overlook this method!

Recommended Delta Cards

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

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Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

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Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.
Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
40,000 miles
$480
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

Frequent Delta flyers will love the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card. The card offers great benefits that will help save you money, effectively mimics low-level elite status with Delta SkyMiles, and helps you earn miles even faster, all for a low annual fee. Let’s dive into the benefits to see if the Delta Gold card is a good fit for your needs.

Pros

  • New: Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Bonus earning on Delta purchases and U.S. supermarket and worldwide restaurant purchases
  • First checked bag free on Delta flights
  • 20% back on inflight purchases

Cons

  • Moderate annual fee
  • Earn rate for Delta flights is relatively low compared to other travel cards
  • Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $99.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
  • Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
  • $100 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, receive a Credit to use toward future travel.
  • Want even more flexibility? Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
  • Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • With Send & Split®, you can send money and split your Card purchases with any other Venmo or PayPal user, directly from the Amex App. Enroll today.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
50,000 bonus miles
$600
$250
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card can be a great option for those seeking additional ways to obtain a higher level of status — or to maintain their current status — with the airline.

A key feature of this card is the ability to earn bonus Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning free flights and other valuable rewards.

Pros

  • New: Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta purchases
  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases made directly with hotels
  • 2x SkyMiles per $1 spent at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets
  • 1x SkyMile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Annual companion certificate
  • Complimentary checked bags
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
  • Delta Status Boost
  • Discount on Delta Sky Club visits (Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available)

Cons

  • $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
  • Does not earn transferable rewards
  • Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • Receive a Domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights. Plus enjoy Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding and settle into your seat sooner.
  • Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
  • Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
  • Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • Get access to Delta Sky Club® at a rate of $50 per person per visit for you and up to two guests or immediate family when traveling on a Delta flight from now until 12/31/23. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Earn 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $25,000 in purchases on your Delta Platinum Card, up to two times through 12/31/23. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $250 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

BEST FOR DELTA LOUNGES
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

U.P. Rating
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
60,000 miles
$720
$550
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its lounge access, status boost, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

Pros

  • New: Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • 3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
  • 1x SkyMile per $1 on all other purchases
  • Complimentary Delta Sky Club and Amex Centurion Lounge access when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • Delta Status Boost
  • Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) Waiver
  • Annual Companion Certificate
  • Access to Complimentary Upgrades and Upgrade Priority
  • Free checked bags
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
  • Travel and purchase protection

Cons

  • $550 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • No bonus categories other than Delta purchases
  • Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • Enter Delta Sky Club® at no cost and bring up to two guests or immediate family at a rate of $50 per person per visit. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • With Status Boost®, earn 15,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card through 12/31/23, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn towards flights. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
  • Eligible Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
  • Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $550 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

Korean Air SKYPASS

The Korean Air Kosmo Suites 2.0 (on all planes except the 787) are fantastic. Image Credit: Korean Air

Another excellent SkyTeam partner to leverage is Korean Air. Its loyalty program is known as SKYPASS, and it’s a worthwhile airline to consider transferring your points to.

Korean Air has different rules that apply to partner flights versus its own flights. With Korean Air flights, you can book one-way travel. Unfortunately, partner flights are only available round-trip, so that’s something you’ll want to consider.

The Korean Air award chart for round-trip flights on partners from North America to Taiwan is as follows:

SCROLL FOR MORE
Cabin ClassKorean Air Miles Cost (Round-Trip)Taxes and Fees
Economy90,000Variable
Business155,000Variable
First200,000Variable

China Airlines’ total taxes and fees for one-way flights will come out to around $72 per person. However, since Korean Air passes on fuel surcharges on all airlines, the amount will vary depending on the carrier.

Furthermore, here’s the award chart for flights from North America to Taiwan via Korea on Korean Air:

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Cabin ClassKorean Air Miles Cost (Round-Trip)Taxes and Fees
Economy (off-peak)70,000$164
Economy (peak)105,000$164
Business (off-peak)125,000$164
Business (peak)185,000$164
First (off-peak)160,000$164
First (peak)240,000$164

Remember that you’re allowed one-way travel when your flights are only on Korean Air. For more information about off-peak versus peak season, click here.

Here are some great redemptions you can make for both partner bookings and Korean Air bookings:

  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Seoul (ICN) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 80,000 Korean Air miles and $82 in taxes and fees in Korean Air first class (stopover in Korea included)
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 155,000 Korean Air miles and $143 in taxes and fees in China Airlines business class
  • New York (JFK) – Seoul (ICN) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 80,000 Korean Air miles and $82 in taxes and fees in Korean Air first class (stopover in Korea included)
  • New York (JFK) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 155,000 Korean Air miles and $143 in taxes and fees in China Airlines business class
  • Ontario (ONT) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 155,000 Korean Air miles and $143 in taxes and fees in China Airlines business class
  • San Francisco (SFO) – Taipei (TPE) round-trip for 155,000 Korean Air miles and $143 in taxes and fees in China Airlines business class

Here’s the process you’ll want to follow to book your travel using SKYPASS:

  1. Confirm award availability using Delta’s search function above. If booking Korean Air flights, we recommend searching directly on Korean Air’s website.
  2. Write down the flight numbers, dates, and times.
  3. Join SKYPASS.
  4. If booking Korean Air flights, you can book your flights directly online on Korean Air’s website; otherwise, call SKYPASS at 800-438-5000.
  5. Feed the agent your flight numbers and book the ticket by paying for any taxes and fees.
    • If booking for a family member, you’ll be subject to rules and restrictions. To avoid this, you can make an account for each person and book each ticket individually.

Earning Korean Air Miles

You can earn Korean Air miles by transferring Marriott Bonvoy points to SKYPASS at a 3:1 ratio.

You can top off your Marriott Bonvoy point balance by taking advantage of generous welcome bonuses on the various Marriott Bonvoy credit cards offered.

Air France/KLM Flying Blue

China Eastern business class. Image Credit: China Eastern

Yet another option to use your points, especially when EVA Air and China Airlines can’t provide any award availability on your desired dates, is by using Air France/KLM Flying Blue miles.

If you need some (almost) guaranteed availability, Air France/KLM Flying Blue is a transfer partner with all the major flexible points programs.

Air France/KLM Flying Blue uses a variable award pricing structure. The cost of award tickets will change depending on the day of search, travel dates, and class of service. For flights between the U.S. and Taiwan, the one-way pricing is generally as follows:

SCROLL FOR MORE
EconomyPremium EconomyBusiness
34,50068,00093,500 to 115,000

The exact pricing will vary, but the most realistic price for business class is 115,000 miles one-way per person.

You’ll pay for all fuel surcharges, which generally makes this program less attractive than Delta SkyMiles. However, the key advantage of Air France/KLM Flying Blue over Delta SkyMiles is its transfer partners, which we’ll talk about later.

Here are some example routes you can take:

  • Atlanta (ATL) – Seoul (ICN) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 93,500 to 115,000 Flying Blue miles plus $81 in taxes and fees on Korean Air business class
  • Chicago (ORD) – Shanghai (PVG) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 93,500 to 115,000 Flying Blue miles plus $121 in taxes and fees on China Eastern business class
  • Los Angeles (LAX) – Taipei (TPE) one-way for 34,500 Flying Blue miles plus $72 in taxes and fees on China Airlines economy class

Air France/KLM Flying Blue is known to offer transfer bonuses of up to 35% from American Express Membership Rewards or Citi ThankYou Rewards. This can drop the award price by a lot, and you can stretch the value of your points a lot further.

Additionally, Air France’s process for booking awards is simple and can be completed online as follows:

  1. Go to the Air France/KLM Flying Blue website.
  2. At the top-right, click My Account and enter your Username and Password.
  3. Click Use Your Miles.
  4. Enter your destination and origin airports, travel dates, number of passengers, and cabin classes.
  5. Finalize your flights and pay for taxes and fees with a credit card.

If you want some other ideas to use Air France miles, check out our post on the best ways to redeem Air France/KLM Flying Blue miles for max value.

Earning Air France/KLM Flying Blue Miles

It’s easy to earn a lot of Flying Blue miles.

The program is transfer partners with Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, Capital One Miles, and Citi ThankYou Rewards.

Chase, Amex, Capital One, and Citi transfer at a 1:1 ratio almost instantly.

Marriott Bonvoy transfers at a 3:1 ratio with a bonus of 5,000 miles when you transfer 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Transfers take 3 business days, approximately.

Other Options To Fly to Taiwan

There are simply too many options to fly to Taiwan with points and miles.

The most logical nonstop flights would be on EVA Air, China Airlines, or United. However, it may make sense to take a connecting flight (which may include stopovers) if you can save a significant number of points and miles.

Some other options that we analyzed were Lufthansa Miles & More, Singapore KrisFlyer, Japan Airlines Mileage Bank, American Airlines AAdvantage, and Cathay Pacific Asia Miles. Unfortunately, these options are unattractive due to factors such as a lack of viable transfer partners or unattractive award costs.

Final Thoughts

There are tons of great ways to use points and miles for flights to Taiwan. Your main nonstop options will be using EVA Air, China Airlines, or United (from San Francisco).

If you’re open to visiting multiple countries such as Japan, Korea, or Hong Kong by utilizing stopovers and open jaws, you can get better value for your points and miles.

The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the American Express® Business Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, click here.

Featured Image Credit: Timo Volz via Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airlines include carrier-imposed surcharges on award flights to Taiwan?

The fuel surcharges levied on flights to Taiwan are typically up to $45 each way. If you factor in taxes and other fees, the typical out-of-pocket cost is around $70 to $100 each way per person.

ANA, EVA Air, China Airlines, United, Korean Air, and Cathay Pacific all levy fuel surcharges. The key programs that don’t pass on fuel surcharges are Delta SkyMiles, Avianca LifeMiles, Air Canada Aeroplan, and United MileagePlus.

What is the fewest number of miles you can use to book an economy class award flight to Taiwan?

The cheapest economy class flights you can book with points and miles is by using 60,000 ANA miles for round-trip economy on EVA Air. If you are open to having a connecting flight or stopover through Tokyo, you can spend 55,000 ANA miles for round-trip economy on ANA.

ANA is transfer partners with American Express Membership Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy.

What is the fewest number of miles required to fly business class to Taiwan?

You can pay 80,000 to 95,000 ANA miles for a round-trip connecting flight via Tokyo to Taiwan on ANA business class. The exact mileage price depends on the seasonality of your travel. If you want to fly nonstop on Star Alliance partners in business class, you’ll pay 95,000 for round-trip flights.

Other options include using 100,000 Alaska miles to book round-trip Cathay Pacific business class via Hong Kong to fly to Taiwan. There are no nonstop options available with the Alaska Airlines method.

What is the fewest number of miles required to fly first class to Taiwan?

The cheapest mileage cost to fly first class is on Cathay Pacific first class using Alaska Airlines miles. You’ll pay 70,000 miles each way, and it includes a free stopover on one-way flights. Marriott Bonvoy is the sole transfer partner of Alaska Airlines.

Other options include 80,000 Korean Air miles each way for Korean Air first class during off-peak season. Unfortunately, the only transfer partner for Korean Air is Marriott Bonvoy.

About Stephen Au

Stephen is an established voice in the credit card space, with over 70 to his name. His work has been in publications like The Washington Post, and his Au Points and Awards Consulting Services is used by hundreds of clients.

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