American Express Travel has significantly expanded its premium hotel offerings, adding more than 350 new properties to its Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection programmes. The move brings the combined portfolio to over 3,400 hotels across 116 countries, just as Fine Hotels + Resorts marks its 35th anniversary.
The new additions reflect shifting traveller priorities, as outlined in Amex Travel's 2026 Global Travel Trends Report. The report highlights a growing demand for milestone celebrations, culinary exploration, immersive cultural experiences, and spontaneous adventures. Notable new properties include Teranka Hotel Formentera in Spain, ESPACIO Nagoya Castle in Japan, Roki Queenstown in New Zealand, and Casa Lucia, Meliá Collection in Argentina.
Trends shaping the expanded portfolio
Audrey Hendley, President of Amex Travel, underscored the significance of the expansion, stating that it demonstrates how modern travellers are redefining exploration. The programme now features trends such as Miles on Milestones, Sight-Doing, Lore Chasing, and Snackpacking, each catering to distinct travel motivations.
For travel professionals, the expanded portfolio offers more options for clients seeking premium stays with added value. Fine Hotels + Resorts typically includes benefits like room upgrades, daily breakfast, and late checkout, while The Hotel Collection provides similar perks on longer stays. The growth is particularly relevant for luxury travel advisors and agents who rely on these programmes to secure exclusive amenities for their clients.
The expansion also aligns with broader industry moves to cater to high-end travellers. For instance, Forbes Travel Guide's recent shift beyond star ratings reflects a similar focus on experiential luxury. Meanwhile, other players are broadening their premium offerings, such as Thomas Cook India and SOTC expanding their rail portfolio across five continents.
Amex Travel's investment in its hotel portfolio comes as competition intensifies among travel providers for affluent customers. The company has been enhancing its travel ecosystem, including partnerships with airlines and cruise lines. For example, Emirates recently expanded booking flexibility, and Atlas Ocean Voyages added 37 expedition cruises for 2028, indicating a broader trend of premium travel expansion.
The 35th anniversary of Fine Hotels + Resorts is a milestone for the programme, which has become a cornerstone of Amex's travel benefits for Platinum and Centurion cardholders. The continued growth underscores Amex's commitment to evolving its offerings in line with changing consumer preferences, providing members with exclusive access to a wide range of luxury accommodations worldwide.
Travel advisors and agents can leverage the expanded portfolio to meet the rising demand for unique, high-end experiences. With properties spanning from European island retreats to Japanese castle-adjacent hotels, the programme offers diverse options for clients seeking both classic luxury and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
As the travel industry continues to recover and evolve, Amex Travel's expansion signals confidence in the premium segment. The company's focus on trend-driven additions suggests a strategic approach to staying relevant in a competitive market, where travellers increasingly seek personalised and memorable stays.
