When we travel it is a good idea to understand our economic impact on the places we are visiting. What are the norms when it comes to things like tipping and how does the money we spend impact the economic sustainability of the region? Economic growth does not always mean progress. Money has become its own ecosystem with a cause and effect. Money can help people to survive but in a global economy what happens when tourism leads to prices going up and locals being forced to the fringes of these places we love to visit or in some cases call home.

All figures are in CAD unless noted. Data based on American Express Canada published terms and NerdWallet Canada as of May 2026. A significant lounge access change takes effect January 1, 2027 — covered in full below. Always verify current terms with American Express before applying.

1. Summary

The Platinum Card from American Express is the card that most premium travel card comparisons use as a reference point. At $799 a year, it costs $200 more than the Amex Aeroplan Reserve or the TD Aeroplan Infinite Privilege — but unlike those two, it comes with up to $640 in recurring annual statement credits, automatic Marriott Bonvoy Gold and Hilton Honors Gold status, access to the Centurion Lounge network, and a points currency (Membership Rewards) that can transfer to Aeroplan and more than a dozen other programs.

All figures are in CAD unless noted. Data based on American Express Canada published terms, NerdWallet Canada, and Milesopedia as of May 2026. Always verify current terms directly with American Express before applying.

Announced changes (effective January 12, 2027): Aeroplan and American Express announced a portfolio refresh on September 29, 2026. This card’s annual fee rises to $799 on the first annual fee billing date after January 12, 2027, offset by new benefits: worldwide Maple Leaf Lounge access, 6 complimentary Priority Pass visits and 8 Aspire lounge visits per year, up to $100/year in AC Wallet credits, a $200 annual dining credit, priority security lanes, and a permanent 15% discount on Air Canada flight rewards. We cover the full announcement in Aeroplan Credit Card Changes Coming January 2027. Each affected section below is flagged.

There is beauty all around us if we slow down and learn to appreciate it. Early mornings for me are always met with marvel. It is like everything slows down. You have the time to take it in. Why do we feel so wired all the time? Could simply taking a few moments to smell the roses help slow things down? I believe it can.

Try to take the time everyday to rejoice in the beauty all around. Maybe it’s a sunrise just outside the window, a bouquet of flowers or simply a realization that you are going to be better than ever, that is the beauty within. I encourage you to slow down even if just for a moment stop look around. Where is the hidden beauty in your life?

Today was a day of endings and new beginnings. Family and friends came together unified for a common goal. We are reminded once again of the friends that become family. The people that put their own needs and time aside in order to help someone in need. I woke up knowing it was going to be a difficult day. However the sunrise this morning was incredible and reminded me that new beginnings are always possible. Today was a day of strength empowerment, and resiliency, where we decided our well being was more important than being bitter. A day that we can look back on and be reminded of the courage that was shown. Life may throw curve balls but we are never striking out! As far as I see the home run is just around the corner. I truly believe that when life is difficult we grow and we have space to appreciate the best moments. We have space for the new relationships and our heart that may have been broken, heals even stronger the next time we are ready. So farewell to the untrustworthy and I welcome integrity with open arms.

All figures are in CAD unless noted. Rates and benefits are based on TD’s published terms as of May 2026, including the April 30, 2025 rate changes. Always verify current terms with TD before applying.

Announced changes (effective January 2027): Aeroplan announced a portfolio refresh on September 29, 2026. This card’s annual fee rises to $699 later in January 2027, offset by new benefits: worldwide Maple Leaf Lounge access, priority security lanes, up to $100/year in AC Wallet credits, and a permanent 15% discount on Air Canada flight rewards. We cover the full announcement in Aeroplan Credit Card Changes Coming January 2027. Each affected section below is flagged.

There is a quote we keep coming back to: the journey is the travel, not just the destination. It sounds like a cliché until you’ve had a travel day where everything went wrong, and then you’ve had a travel day where everything went right. The difference often comes down to one thing: preparation.

The Travel Day Spectrum

We have experienced both ends of the spectrum. Then there was the day in Puerto Vallarta when our flight was delayed by four hours. Instead of stressing about the delay, we accessed a lounge with our credit card, had a proper meal, caught up on work using the free WiFi, and actually enjoyed the unexpected downtime. When we finally arrived at our hotel, we were relaxed, fed, and ready to explore.

When you choose excursions are you mindful of your footprint or the impact you leave behind? Excursions affect ecosystems and can negatively impact the local habitat or wildlife. For instance whale watching can be a great boat excursion if you chose a company that respects the wildlife. Do you research the companies when you choose tour companies? We all have a responsibility to keep the land in which we visit safe for all who inhabit the space. By just taking a few moments to think about the impact we make we can make better choices.

This week has been filled with unexpected events. You really learn who comes together when things go wrong. Family and friends are the greatest form of strength and connection a person can have. You are lucky if you have a few that show up in times of trouble. These milestone moments are the moments that define the future. Regardless of what went wrong in your life. May I remind you of the strength and resilience you have. I take the time today to remind you that you are loved and that you are surrounded by good people.

When you travel do you take time to learn about the people, the history and the culture? Do you know and respect the local customs? Each of us can be anthropologists in another country exploring without impacting or judging. We don’t always understand, the ways in which others interact. Is it polite to bow when you meet someone, is it ok to shake their hand? What about looking someone in the eye. We have our own social rules of politeness but not everywhere share these rules. Slurping your soup in some places is a sign that you really enjoy the soup, in other places it is frowned upon. It is important to have contextual knowledge so that you do not offend the people of a country that has so graciously let you visit. Find out a little bit about the place you are going. It will make you feel more prepared and relaxed. Do woman need to have their head covered? If this is not something you are willing to do, then maybe this is not the place for you. It can alter your travel plans and that’s ok. Knowing your limits helps you to choose places that will meet your independent needs. While in Europe for instance many places require arms to be covered and woman dressed modestly packing a scarf and a long skirt will allow you to explore these places at ease.

I love street art! It can be amazing bursts of colour in a landscape that could otherwise be drab and dull. Street art is authentic and vibrant, it brings life to a city. Everyplace I go I look for it and I take photos. Walking through new cities and towns is always a treasure hunt for me. Galleries are beautiful but street art is out there in the open for all to enjoy and it’s free. I often wonder if it was commissioned I know some are, or is this an artist that just needed to release their pent up creativity. Whatever the reason I so enjoy the gracious displays. Take time on your next trip to check out some of the local talent!

Good footwear is essential while traveling. We are usually walking more than normal while traveling and if your feet are full of blisters or you turn an ankle your trip could be compromised. Today I give you a list of my favourites.

I like on cloud sneakers for my everyday walk around and for travel days. They are breathable and have great foot support. On Women's Cloud Sneakers What works for me may not work for you, however I do suggest you invest in a great pair of sneakers that work for your foot.

I recently had a discussion with a family member that had me thinking of what I allow myself to take on vacation. Luggage has to be lightweight and I realized that I pick items that double duty. From a foldable Osprey backpack that helps for day trips and grocery purchasing even triples as a pickleball bag on occasion, to a scarf that is multipurpose blanket on plane can be worn over the shoulders for entering places that need to cover my head. I pack with purpose. What do I absolutely need and what can do more then one job.

Getting the chance to acquaint yourself with the local markets is a great way to see the place your visiting. There is always so much life at the market, vendors selling their goods, families getting stocked up for the week. It’s a great way to try new things. Many food markets around the World let you taste before you buy. The flavours you get to enjoy can be endless.

Markets can vary, some cater to more of the locals, these ones are my favourite. I love watching people going about their day, doing what they have done repeatedly for many years, bartering when appropriate. Finding the best produce and freshest fish!

Exotic cuisine can sometimes be fun to simulate at home. While planning a trip I sometimes will look up a few recipes from the region we are to visit and make them. This adds to the excitement of travel.

Sitting down to good food and discussing our upcoming trip is always a mindful experience. We play music from the region to add to the evening and try to also have a local drink prepared.