Why Choose Ourisman Travel for Your Four Seasons Stay
Planning a Four Seasons getaway? Here’s how to make the most of your experience while getting the best value for your money.
Four Seasons Preferred Partner vs. Amex FHR: Which Booking Method Offers the Best Value?
When you’re booking a stay at a Four Seasons hotel or resort, you’re investing in luxury. But how you book that stay can dramatically enhance your overall experience, and potentially save you thousands. Two premium options are:
- Four Seasons Preferred Partner (FSPP) via Four Seasons Preferred Partner Advisor
- American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR), available to Platinum and Centurion cardholders
While both offer appealing perks, booking with Ourisman Travel clearly stands out, especially for families, groups, or travelers who value VIP-level service and personalization. In this post, we’ll break down the benefits of each, highlight key differences, and explain why our Preferred Partner access is often the smarter choice.
Four Seasons Preferred Partner Benefits with Ourisman Travel
Ourisman Travel is one of the Top 30 Global Advisors for Four Seasons, part of an invitation-only program that gives clients access to perks unavailable through public channels.
When you book with Ourisman Travel, you can receive:
- Daily Breakfast for Two per Bedroom
— Whether in the restaurant or via in-room dining - Room Upgrade (Space-Available) Prioritized Above All Other Booking Channels
— Including AMEX FHR and direct bookings - Valuable Hotel Credit
— Often exceeding $100, usable for dining, spa, or activities - VIP Status + Pre-Arrival Coordination
— Ensuring top-tier service and special recognition at the property - Access to Exclusive Offers
— Including unpublished promotions and preferred pricing
AMEX Fine Hotels + Resorts Benefits
AMEX FHR is available to Platinum and Centurion cardholders. It provides:
- Daily Breakfast for Two Total Guests
— Not per bedroom, limiting value for families and groups - Guaranteed 4:00 p.m. Late Checkout
- $100 Property Amenity
— Often a credit, but sometimes a less flexible perk like a wine bottle or spa treatment - Potential Room Upgrade (Subject to Availability)
— Upgraded priority, but not taking precedence over FSPP - Special Offers
— Sometimes includes a free third or fourth night or AMEX statement credit - 5x Membership Rewards Points
— On prepaid bookings made through AmexTravel.com
Four Seasons Preferred Partner vs. AMEX FHR Amenities
| Benefit | Four Seasons Preferred Partner (Ourisman Travel) | AMEX Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) |
| Breakfast | Complimentary for two people per bedroom and applies to in-room dining | Complimentary for two people per reservation |
| Hotel Credit | Often exceeds $100 and is fully flexible | $100 minimum; sometimes limited-use perks |
| Room Upgrades | Priority upgrade over any other channel | Priority upgraded, but FSPP takes precedence |
| Late Checkout | May be granted upon request; enhanced by strong relationships… just ask! | Guaranteed 4:00 p.m. |
| VIP Status | Personalized pre-arrival notes, priority VIP treatment, welcomed by management | Elite-like benefits; less personalization |
| Special Offers | Exclusive promotions, 20% off rates, $1,000+ credits | Some free night offers or AMEX statement credits |
Why Book with Ourisman Travel?
Booking your Four Seasons stay through Ourisman Travel means:
Top-Tier Access
- As a Top 30 Global Advisor, Ourisman Travel is often prioritized by properties for upgrades and VIP recognition.
Tailored, Personalized Service
- Receive detailed pre-arrival planning, itinerary coordination, and proactive communication with the hotel to align with your preferences.
Group & Family Friendly
- With breakfast for two per bedroom, a family of four in a two-bedroom suite receives breakfast for everyone, unlike AMEX FHR.
Better Value
- Enjoy exclusive rates like fourth night free, resort credits up to $1,000, or 20% off select properties (e.g., Four Seasons Anguilla residences).
Better Upgrade Chances
Preferred Partner bookings are prioritized for room upgrades over AMEX FHR and direct bookings.
Real Client Examples
- Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Booking via Ourisman Travel: Breakfast for four in a two-bedroom suite, $200 resort credit, ocean-view upgrade
Booking via AMEX FHR: Breakfast for two, $100 amenity, upgrade STA at check-in
- Four Seasons Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol
Booking via Ourisman Travel: Guaranteed room upgrade, complimentary airport transfers, breakfast for four in a two-bedroom suite, $200+ resort credit,
Booking via AMEX FHR: Breakfast for two, $100 credit, upgrade STA at check-in
- Four Seasons Napa Valley
A family of four in a two-bedroom suite saves $240+ per day on breakfast alone through Ourisman Travel vs AMEX FHR.
Pricing & Rewards
- Rates:
Ourisman Travel’s FSPP rates match or beat direct pricing. - Rewards Points:
AMEX FHR allows you to earn 5x Membership Rewards points, but Ourisman Travel’s overall savings and perks usually outweigh the points, especially for longer or group stays.
Key Differences: Amex FHR vs. Four Seasons Preferred Partner
- FSPP: Guests often receive more tailored, hands-on service throughout their stay. This stems from the program’s structure, which fosters deeper, property-level relationships that enhance everything from arrival to departure.
- Amex FHR: While reliable, the attention can feel more standardized, as benefits are coordinated through a centralized system rather than a direct, ongoing hotel liaison.
- FSPP: Your dedicated contact is typically a seasoned, managerial Four Seasons team member, embedded within the hotel or brand. This insider perspective ensures seamless advocacy and quick resolutions, as they’re fully aligned with Four Seasons’ operations.
- Amex FHR: The primary point of contact is an entry-level reservationist with no established relationships at Amex. This setup provides strong Amex-backed perks but may limit the depth of on-site influence or rapport with hotel staff, as it’s not a direct Four Seasons affiliation.
FAQ: Four Seasons Preferred Partner vs. AMEX FHR
Do I need a credit card to book through Ourisman Travel?
No specific card is required. We book directly with Four Seasons under your name.
Can I still earn points or benefits when booking through Ourisman?
Yes, you can book your reservation with us using your preferred loyalty card and still accrue points and travel statement credits through your credit card.
Is the Ourisman Travel service free?
Yes, when booking through our Hotel Only service level, there’s no additional fee. We’re compensated by the hotel, not you.
Can I use both AMEX FHR and FSPP benefits together?
You cannot typically use both Amex FHR and FSPP benefits together for the same booking due to the distinct booking channels and non-combinable offer terms.
Can you help with complex, multi-room, or multi-destination bookings?
Absolutely. That’s our specialty, especially for families, honeymooners, and milestone trips.
Final Verdict
Both AMEX Fine Hotels + Resorts and Four Seasons Preferred Partner bookings come with premium perks, but if you’re looking for:
- Complimentary breakfast for all guests
- Better upgrade chances
- Larger hotel credits
- Personalized service
- Insider access to offers
… then booking through Ourisman Travel as a Four Seasons Preferred Partner is the clear choice.
Whenever you book with us, you’re not just securing an exceptional travel experience; you’re also supporting a small business dedicated to making your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Our team of passionate travel lovers is here to ensure every aspect of your trip exceeds your expectations.
We take pride in going above and beyond to create a personalized experience just for you. With our high-touch approach, we’ll not only anticipate your every need but also offer tailor-made suggestions and recommendations that perfectly match your taste and budget. When you choose to book your travel with us, you can rest easy knowing that an extraordinary and unforgettable experience awaits you. Ready to embark on your journey? Fill out a Travel Request Form today to elevate your next Four Seasons experience, without spending a dollar more.
