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Looking for a travel card with airport lounge benefits, travel insurance, and no foreign transaction fees?
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The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite is a premium travel credit card offered by Scotiabank in Canada and co-branded with Visa. It stands out as a travel credit card Canada users often pick for one clear reason: no foreign transaction fees on purchases made in foreign currencies. That feature makes it attractive for frequent international travelers, vacationers, and business travelers who want fee-free travel when they pay abroad.
This Scotiabank travel card also bundles a strong travel insurance suite, Priority Pass lounge access, and Scotia Rewards points. These core differentiators combine to give a full package of protections and perks that we will explore in detail later in the article.
Passport Visa Infinite
This guide aims to provide a friendly, comprehensive look at benefits, costs, how to apply, and how the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite compares with other cards in the Canadian market. Read on to learn whether the card is the right fit for your travel needs and spending habits.
Key Takeaways
- The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite removes foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international spending.
- It combines fee-free travel with travel insurance and Priority Pass lounge access.
- Scotia Rewards points help offset travel costs through flexible redemptions.
- The card targets frequent travelers, business users, and vacationers from Canada.
- This article will cover benefits, fees, application steps, and competitor comparisons.
Scotiabank Gold Amex vs Passport Visa Infinite vs Momentum Visa Infinite: Why the Passport Is the Smartest Choice for Canadians
When it comes to choosing the right credit card in Canada, Scotiabank offers several strong contenders. The Scotiabank Gold American Express, Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite, and Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite are all premium cards with valuable perks. However, when you compare them side by side, the Passport Visa Infinite stands out as the most balanced and travel-friendly option for Canadians who value convenience, flexibility, and real savings.
Scotiabank Gold American Express
The Gold Amex is a powerful card for earning Scene+ points, offering up to 6× points on groceries and 5× on dining and entertainment. It’s a great fit for those who spend heavily on food, entertainment, and streaming services.
The card also comes with no foreign transaction fees, travel insurance, and concierge support, making it a strong option for everyday spending and trips abroad. However, its limited American Express acceptance can be inconvenient, especially in smaller stores or while traveling internationally.
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card
While the earning rate is impressive, the Gold Amex is best suited for people who stay mostly within Canada and want to focus on earning points fast.
Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite
The Momentum Visa Infinite is Scotiabank’s top cash back card, giving up to 4% back on groceries and recurring bills, 2% on gas and transit, and 1% on everything else.
It’s an excellent choice for simplicity and direct savings, especially for families managing everyday expenses. However, it lacks premium travel benefits and still charges a foreign transaction fee, which can make it less appealing for travelers or online shoppers dealing with U.S. dollars or other currencies.
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite: The Best of All Worlds
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite combines the best of both reward systems — strong Scene+ earning potential and comprehensive travel benefits. It’s one of the few Canadian credit cards with no foreign transaction fees, saving users around 2.5% on every international purchase.
It also includes six free airport lounge visits per year, extensive travel insurance coverage, and exclusive Visa Infinite perks like hotel upgrades, concierge access, and luxury travel deals.
Although its annual fee of CAD 150 is slightly higher, the added benefits more than justify the cost. For frequent travelers, digital nomads, or anyone who shops abroad, the Passport Visa Infinite delivers superior value and peace of mind.
Comparison Table
| Card | Reward Type | Travel Benefits | FX Fee | Annual Fee | Ideal For |
| Gold Amex | Scene+ Points (up to 6×) | Travel insurance, concierge | None | CAD 120 | High spenders on dining and entertainment |
| Passport Visa Infinite | Scene+ Points | Lounge access, top-tier insurance | None | CAD 150 | Frequent travelers and international shoppers |
| Momentum Visa Infinite | Cash back (up to 4%) | Basic coverage | Applies | CAD 120 | Families and everyday spending |
Final Verdict
All three Scotiabank cards offer excellent rewards, but the Passport Visa Infinite stands out as the most complete option. It combines strong rewards, premium travel benefits, and zero foreign transaction fees — a rare and valuable trio in Canada.For Canadians who love to travel, shop abroad, or simply want a card that works anywhere, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite is clearly the best choice.
Overview of the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card
This card overview highlights why the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite appeals to frequent travelers and those who value travel protection. The Scotiabank Passport overview covers no foreign transaction fees, Priority Pass access, and a rich insurance package. Read on for concise guidance about who should get this card and the core qualifying criteria.
Who the card is designed for
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite suits Canadians who travel internationally several times a year and want to avoid foreign transaction fees. Business travelers who need lounge access and strong emergency medical coverage will find it useful.
Leisure travelers who spend on flights, hotels, dining, and everyday purchases can earn Scotia Rewards points while saving on FX charges. In short, the card is ideal for people who prioritize travel value and protection.
Quick summary of top benefits
Key perks in this card overview include no foreign transaction fees on purchases in other currencies, saving the typical 2.5% FX charge applied by many competitors. Cardholders receive a Priority Pass membership with complimentary visits, subject to guest policy changes.
Travel insurance is comprehensive: emergency medical, trip cancellation and interruption, flight delay, and baggage coverage. Scotia Rewards points earn on purchases with bonus categories for travel and dining, redeemable for travel, statement credit, merchandise, or gift cards.
Other practical benefits include mobile device insurance and concierge-style assistance, adding convenience for frequent travelers and busy professionals.
Primary eligibility requirements
Visa Infinite eligibility typically requires a good to excellent credit score and steady income that meets Scotiabank’s minimums. Applicants must be Canadian residents and of the age of majority in their province.
Scotiabank will ask for government ID and may request SIN for verification. Income thresholds and documentation needs change over time, so confirm current requirements at application.
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite: No Foreign Transaction Fees
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite removes the common 2.5% charge that many cards add when you make foreign currency purchases. Visa’s exchange rate converts the amount to Canadian dollars without the extra bank surcharge. This applies to in-person and online transactions made in another currency.
Cash advances in a foreign currency may still incur fees and interest. Merchants may offer dynamic currency conversion at checkout. Select the local currency when prompted to avoid merchant DCC markups and protect your travel savings.
How no foreign transaction fees work
When you buy something abroad, the merchant charges in euros, pounds, dollars, or another currency. Visa sets the daily exchange rate. The Passport card posts the converted amount in CAD and skips the usual 2.5% FX fee.
This benefits frequent travelers and those who shop with international merchants online. Cards that waive foreign transaction fees can cut repeated surcharges that add up over a year.
Comparison with cards that charge FX fees
Most Canadian cards add roughly 2.5% for foreign currency purchases. That fee appears on top of the exchange rate. The Passport Visa Infinite combines an FX-free card Canada experience with travel insurance and airport lounge access, making it more complete than some competitors that waive FX fees but lack robust travel perks.
For high-spend travelers, avoiding a recurring 2.5% fee becomes a major advantage. Rewards-focused cards might match points value, yet they often still apply FX charges. Choose based on whether points, insurance, or pure travel savings matter most.
Real-world savings examples for travelers
Example: A two-week trip to Europe with CAD 3,000 in foreign purchases. At a 2.5% FX fee, the additional cost would be CAD 75. Using the Passport Visa Infinite keeps that CAD 75 in your pocket.
Example: A business traveler who spends CAD 20,000 abroad in one year avoids about CAD 500 in FX fees with an FX-free card Canada. That saving helps offset the card’s annual fee when combined with rewards and insurance.
Factor the annual fee against expected travel savings and other benefits. Break-even depends on your yearly foreign spending, points earned, and the value you place on included insurance and lounge access.
| Scenario | Annual Foreign Spend (CAD) | Cost with 2.5% FX Fee | Cost with Passport Visa Infinite | Annual Travel Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casual Traveller | 3,000 | 75 | 0 | 75 |
| Frequent Leisure Traveller | 10,000 | 250 | 0 | 250 |
| Business Traveller | 20,000 | 500 | 0 | 500 |
| Shopper with Online International Purchases | 5,000 | 125 | 0 | 125 |
Travel insurance and protection benefits
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite includes a layered travel protection package that can ease the stress of unexpected events on the road. Coverage terms, maximums, and conditions are set by the insurer and detailed in the cardholder agreement. Cardholders should confirm eligibility and triggering requirements before travel.
Emergency medical coverage details
Emergency medical coverage often applies when you charge travel expenses to the card. Typical benefits include hospital stays, physician fees, ambulance transport, and emergency evacuation up to the policy limit. Coverage usually applies for trips within a set maximum duration per trip and can extend to eligible dependents.
Pre-existing medical conditions, age limits, and coverage maximums may restrict eligibility. Travelers with chronic or recent conditions should read the policy wording and consider supplemental plans if needed.
Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
Trip cancellation insurance reimburses non-refundable prepaid costs when a covered event forces cancellation. Covered reasons often include sudden illness, injury, severe weather, or other unforeseen events specified in the policy. Documentation and timely claims reporting are required to support a reimbursement.
Trip interruption terms reimburse unused travel components and additional transportation costs to return home early. Known events, failure to obtain required travel documents, and some elective situations are typical exclusions. Keep receipts and records to speed up any claim.
Baggage delay and lost luggage protection
Baggage delay coverage reimburses reasonable emergency purchases if checked luggage is delayed beyond a set number of hours, subject to a per-trip limit. Check the specific waiting period and per-item caps in the policy.
Lost or damaged baggage protection reimburses items lost or permanently damaged while a carrier has custody, with per-item and aggregate limits. File a report with the carrier immediately and retain receipts for checked bags and emergency purchases to support a claim.
| Benefit | Typical Trigger | Common Limits | Cardholder Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency medical coverage | Trip paid with card; emergency event | Per-person maximum, trip duration limit | Carry policy details; obtain medical receipts |
| Trip cancellation insurance | Non-refundable prepaid trip costs | Up to a per-trip reimbursement cap | Document cause; call insurer promptly |
| Trip interruption | Early return for covered reason | Reimbursement for unused services and return travel | Keep receipts; submit proof of reason |
| Baggage delay coverage | Checked baggage delayed beyond set hours | Per-trip limit for emergency purchases | Report delay to carrier; keep purchase receipts |
| Lost or damaged baggage | Carrier custody loss or damage | Per-item and aggregate limits apply | Obtain carrier report; keep receipts for claims |
Airport lounge access and travel perks
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite brings a set of travel perks Scotiabank cardholders value. Cardholders get streamlined airport lounge access that eases long waits and adds comfort. Read on to learn how Priority Pass Canada membership, partner lounges, and guest rules work in practice.
Priority Pass access and guest policies
The card typically includes a Priority Pass membership that must be registered and activated online before use. Present the Priority Pass card or digital membership plus the physical Passport Visa Infinite when requested. Guest allowances change by offer; some plans include a few complimentary guest visits while others charge per guest.
Confirm the lounge guest policy for each visit and check whether lounges require advance booking. Some lounges enforce capacity limits or temporary closures, so verifying access before travel saves hassle.
Other airport benefits and partner lounges
Apart from Priority Pass Canada, the card can grant perks at partner lounges and airport experiences. Benefits may include fast-track security lanes, discounts at airport retailers, or access to select airline-operated lounges. Availability varies by airport and by partner agreements.
Check hours and services in the Priority Pass app or the lounge operator’s site. Knowing which lounges participate near your route helps plan connections and stopovers more efficiently.
How to maximize lounge benefits
Use the card to book flights and travel purchases to consolidate qualifying spend. That strategy keeps travel perks Scotiabank rewards aligned with insurance eligibility and renewal benefits.
Travel with one guest when possible to reduce per-guest fees under the lounge guest policy. Use the Priority Pass app to locate lounges, review amenities, and confirm access rules before you arrive.
Watch for renewal offers and limited-time promos that expand lounge access. Small timing changes can add substantial value to your membership over a travel year.
Rewards program and earning potential
The rewards structure for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite centers on flexible Scotia Rewards points that you can target toward travel and everyday spending. Cardholders see different points earning rates depending on the purchase category, with travel, dining, and entertainment often earning boosted points per dollar. Check current offers to confirm exact figures before planning big purchases.
Everyday categories such as groceries, gas, and recurring bills earn the standard rate. New cardholders may qualify for a welcome bonus after meeting a minimum spend within a promotional window. That bonus can jump-start your balance and improve short-term travel rewards Canada potential.
How to redeem points
You can redeem Scotiabank points for travel through the bank’s travel portal, for statement credit, or for gift cards and merchandise. Travel redemptions typically deliver the best cents-per-point value, though values change by redemption method. To redeem Scotiabank points, sign in to your Scotia Rewards account online or contact customer service to complete a booking or request a credit.
Redemption tips
Compare redemption options before you confirm. Using points for flights or hotels through the portal often gives stronger value than merchandise. Watch for blackout dates, seat restrictions, or partner-transfer limits that can affect availability.
Promotions and limited-time offers
Seasonal promotions can boost points earning rates in select categories or raise the welcome bonus for new applicants. Scotiabank also runs targeted offers for existing customers, including statement credit deals tied to specific merchants. Enrollment may be required, and promotions carry expiry dates, so read terms carefully.
| Category | Typical points earning rates | Best redemption use |
|---|---|---|
| Travel, dining, entertainment | Accelerated points per dollar | Travel bookings via portal |
| Groceries, gas, bills | Standard points per dollar | Statement credit or gift cards |
| Welcome bonus | Large one-time points award after spend | Initial travel booking or premium redemption |
| Limited-time boosts | Seasonal higher earn rates | Matches promotional categories for travel rewards Canada |
Fees, interest rates, and additional costs
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite offers strong travel perks, but the cost picture matters. Review Scotiabank Passport fees and the annual fee Visa Infinite when deciding if benefits like no foreign transaction fees and Priority Pass access match your travel habits.
Annual fee and how it compares to competitors
The annual fee Visa Infinite sits with other premium travel cards that waive foreign transaction charges and include extended travel insurance. Match the fee against expected savings from no FX fees, lounge visits, and insurance value.
If you travel several times per year, the annual fee can be offset by avoided foreign exchange costs and lounge access. If you rarely travel, a lower-fee card may be a better fit.
APR and interest details for purchases and cash advances
Cardholders should note that purchases are interest-free only when the statement balance is paid in full by the due date. If a balance carries, the purchase APR applies to revolving balances. Check current posted rates to confirm the APR Scotiabank applies to your account.
Cash advances typically incur higher interest and often start accruing interest immediately. Expect separate cash advance fees on top of interest. Understanding cash advance fees helps avoid large unexpected costs from ATM withdrawals abroad.
Other possible fees to be aware of
Late payment fees, replacement card charges, and fees for additional cardholders can appear on statements. Over-limit fees may apply if you exceed your limit, though many Canadians keep balances well below that threshold.
Merchants may offer dynamic currency conversion at checkout. Decline that option and choose local currency to use the card’s no-FX benefit and avoid extra markups. Priority Pass guest visits beyond any included allowance or expedited card replacement may carry extra charges.
| Fee / Charge | Typical Range | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee Visa Infinite | $120–$199 CAD | Determines whether travel perks and points offset cost |
| APR Scotiabank (purchases) | ~19%–22% (varies) | Applies to carried balances; pay in full to avoid interest |
| Cash advance fees | 2%–3% or $5–$10 min | Plus immediate interest; costly for ATM cash abroad |
| Late payment / Over-limit | $25–$40 | Penalties that raise overall cost of credit |
| Replacement card / expedited shipping | $15–$50 | Useful in emergencies but adds expense |
How to apply for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite
Ready to apply? The process is straightforward whether you choose Scotiabank’s website or a branch visit. Before you start, gather key credit card documents and update your Scotiabank profile to speed the Visa Infinite application. A clear set of documents and accurate details reduce delays.
Online application steps and required documents
Begin the online form with personal details: legal name, address, date of birth and Social Insurance Number. Add employment and income information and consent to a credit check. Keep digital copies of pay stubs, T4 slips or a Notice of Assessment ready for identity or income verification.
Tips to increase approval odds
Maintain a good credit history by paying bills on time and keeping balances low. Report accurate income information; self-employed applicants should upload bank statements or tax returns. Avoid multiple credit applications before you apply. These approval tips Canada commonly recommend to strengthen an application.
What to expect after approval
Approvals can be conditional and may require additional verification using the credit card documents you supplied. Once confirmed, the card arrives by mail with activation instructions. You will receive guidance on registering for Priority Pass, linking to Scotia Rewards and viewing travel insurance details. The first statement may show the annual fee and welcome bonus points post-qualifying spend will appear per the offer terms.
Using the card abroad: practical tips
Traveling with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite works best when you prepare a few simple steps. A short checklist can prevent declined purchases, speed payments at terminals, and protect rewards and insurance eligibility while you are away.
Notifying Scotiabank before travel
Letting Scotiabank know your travel dates and destinations reduces the chance of fraud blocks. Use the Scotiabank mobile app, online banking, or call customer service to place a contact Scotiabank travel notice. That small action keeps transactions smooth and avoids unexpected declines.
Using chip-and-PIN and contactless features internationally
The card supports EMV chip transactions and tap payments in many countries. Carry the PIN for chip-and-PIN situations and be ready for merchants that still ask for a signature. Contactless payments speed small buys, but acceptance varies by market, so keep an alternate payment option handy.
Managing currency conversions and receipts
Avoid dynamic currency conversion at payment terminals. Choose to pay in the local currency to benefit from no foreign transaction fees and Visa’s exchange rate. Keep receipts, boarding passes, and documentation for travel-related purchases to support insurance claims and expense tracking.
| Situation | Recommended action | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Before departure | Place a contact Scotiabank travel notice via app or phone | Reduces fraud holds and keeps card access consistent |
| At the point of sale | Use chip-and-PIN or contactless where accepted; decline DCC | Ensures secure payments and better exchange rates |
| ATM withdrawals | Confirm PIN works for cash and withdraw in local currency | Avoids ATM fees from foreign banks and conversion markups |
| Tracking spending | Save receipts and enable mobile alerts for charges | Makes it easy to reconcile statements and detect fraud |
| Lost or stolen card | Report immediately to Scotiabank and block the card | Limits fraudulent charges and speeds a replacement |
Follow these travel card tips to reduce friction while abroad. Simple steps like notifying Scotiabank, carrying the PIN for chip-and-PIN use, and watching currency choices keep your trip running smoothly.
Alternatives and competitor comparison
Choosing between the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite and other options means weighing fees, rewards, and insurance. Below is a focused outline to help Canadian travelers compare travel cards and spot the best fit.
Other Canadian cards with no foreign transaction fees
- American Express Platinum and select American Express cards now offered in Canada may waive foreign transaction fees while offering premium travel benefits.
- Some bank-issued Visa and Mastercard products from TD, RBC, and BMO have introduced no foreign transaction fee alternatives for frequent travelers.
- Smaller issuers and co-branded airline cards occasionally run no-FX promotions; check terms and whether they apply to purchases abroad or online in foreign currencies.
How rewards and insurance compare across top options
- Points earning: Premium cards often reward travel and dining at higher rates. Mid-tier cards may deliver steady everyday points but lower multipliers for travel.
- Redemption flexibility: Cards tied to flexible programs like American Express Membership Rewards or major bank points let you transfer to airlines and hotels.
- Travel insurance: Scotiabank Passport includes strong emergency medical and trip interruption coverages. Competitors sometimes match or exceed limits, yet they may charge higher annual fees.
- Lounge access and perks: Premium competitors may offer Priority Pass, hotel status, or more guest privileges. Lower-fee cards trade lounge access for lower costs.
Which card suits different traveler profiles
- Frequent international travelers: Choose a premium card that combines no foreign transaction fee alternatives with robust insurance and lounge access for peace of mind.
- Occasional travelers: Look for mid-tier cards that waive FX fees and carry a modest annual fee. These offer core protections without a big cost.
- Points-focused consumers: If transfers to airline or hotel partners matter, prioritize cards with flexible programs even when comparing alternative no-FX cards Canada.
To compare travel cards, list your priorities: annual fee tolerance, lounge needs, insurance depth, and reward transfer partners. That list makes it easier to spot the best travel card Canada for your habits while keeping an eye on no foreign transaction fee alternatives.
Customer experience and reviews
This card earns strong mentions in many Scotiabank Passport reviews for one clear reason: no foreign transaction fees. Travelers report measurable savings on trips to the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Cardholder feedback often highlights the travel insurance package and Priority Pass access as practical perks that add value beyond points.
Common praises from cardholders
Many users praise the elimination of FX fees and say it simplifies spending abroad. Reports frequently note Scotia Rewards flexibility when booking flights or transferring points. Quick contactless payments and smooth mobile app functionality get good marks in user ratings Canada.
Frequent complaints and how to address them
Cardholder feedback flags the annual fee as high for light travelers. Some consumers report claim denials or slow insurer responses for emergency medical or trip interruption claims. Others face issues with Priority Pass when lounges are at capacity.
Common credit card complaints include unexpected dynamic currency conversion at merchants. A practical fix is to request charges in local currency at the point of sale. For disputed claims, contact Scotiabank customer service, follow insurer procedures promptly, and escalate to the insurer’s claims department or the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada if needed.
Where to find reliable user reviews and ratings
For balanced perspectives, consult major financial outlets such as The Globe and Mail and MoneySense. Independent sites like Ratehub and GreedyRates compile user ratings Canada across multiple metrics. App store reviews for the Scotiabank mobile app offer insight on day-to-day usability and service issues.
Always read the cardholder agreement and insurer policy documents for authoritative terms. Combining professional reviews with real cardholder feedback helps form a clearer picture than relying on a single anecdote.
| Topic | Positive signals | Common issues | Practical next steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| No foreign transaction fees | Frequent praise for savings abroad | None often noted | Use card for most international purchases |
| Travel insurance | Value for emergency medical and trip delays | Claim denials when documentation is incomplete | File promptly with full records and receipts |
| Priority Pass access | Positive lounge experiences reported | Access limits when lounges are full | Arrive early and check guest rules in advance |
| Annual fee | Worthwhile for frequent travelers | Perceived high for infrequent users | Run a yearly cost-benefit check on usage |
| Merchant billing | Local currency billing avoids extra charges | Dynamic currency conversion complaints | Insist on local currency at checkout |
Conclusion
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite offers clear value for many Canadian travelers. This Scotiabank Passport summary highlights the card’s core strengths: no foreign transaction fees, robust travel insurance, Priority Pass lounge access, and Scotia Rewards points that make travel spending more rewarding.
Frequent international travelers and business people who use airport lounges and rely on travel protection will see the most benefit. To decide if is Passport Visa Infinite worth it for you, estimate your annual foreign spend to calculate FX savings, count likely lounge visits, and assign a dollar value to the insurance coverage you expect to use.
Compare those numbers to competing cards for the best travel card Canada fit for your needs. Verify current terms, rates, and any sign-up offers directly with Scotiabank, and read the cardholder agreement and insurance policy documents before applying to ensure the card matches your travel habits and budget.
FAQ
What is the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card and who is it for?
How does the no foreign transaction fee benefit work?
Are cash advances and ATM withdrawals treated the same as purchases?
What travel insurance protections are included with the card?
How much emergency medical coverage does the card provide and what are common exclusions?
How does Priority Pass lounge access work with this card?
How many Scotia Rewards points do I earn and how can I redeem them?
Is there a welcome bonus or promotional offers to watch for?
What is the annual fee and how do I know if it’s worth it?
What interest rates and fees should I be aware of?
How do I apply and what documents are required?
What can I do to improve my approval chances?
Should I notify Scotiabank before traveling internationally?
How do I avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC) and other extra charges?
What should I do if a travel insurance claim is denied?
How does the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite compare to other no-FX cards in Canada?
Where can I find trustworthy reviews and up-to-date card details?
How can I maximize the card’s travel value?
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