In a bold move to redefine the travel credit card experience for American travelers, Booking.com has officially launched the Genius Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card. Tailored for simplicity and value, this no-annual-fee card turns routine purchases into tangible travel rewards—without the typical hassle of points conversions, limited redemption partners, or blackout dates.
The card represents a strategic collaboration between Booking.com, Imprint (a next-gen credit card platform), and Visa, one of the most trusted payment networks globally. The Genius Rewards Visa is designed with one core purpose: to make travel more accessible and rewarding for everyone.
Straightforward Travel Credits, No Blackout Dates
Unlike many traditional travel credit cards that offer miles or points with complex redemption rules, the Genius Rewards Visa offers travel credits. For every dollar earned, cardholders receive a dollar in travel credits—redeemable directly across Booking.com’s ecosystem, including hotels, flights, rental cars, and attractions.
This transparent reward structure eliminates the guesswork and lets users enjoy travel their way, with no blackout dates, no minimum redemption requirements, and no restrictive airline or hotel partners.
Rewarding Every Day – Not Just Travel
The card’s generous rewards program extends beyond just travel. Here’s how users earn:
- 6% travel credits on Booking.com app hotel stays
- 5% on all other travel booked via Booking.com
- 3% on dining, gas, groceries, and Booking.com in-stay purchases
- 2% on all other purchases
This means cardholders accumulate meaningful rewards on everyday essentials—not just when booking vacations—making it ideal for both frequent and casual travelers.
Instant Genius Level 3 Loyalty Status
A major perk of the new credit card is automatic Genius Level 3 status, Booking.com’s highest loyalty tier. Benefits include:
- Up to 20% off selected stays
- Free breakfast at participating properties
- Priority customer support
- Room upgrades, when available
- Discounts on rental cars
- Real-time flight alerts
These elite-tier benefits are usually reserved for Booking.com’s most frequent customers, but Genius Rewards Visa cardholders gain immediate access from day one.
Sign-Up and Annual Bonuses: Big Value, No Annual Fee
Travelers who sign up and spend $1,500 within the first 90 days receive a $150 travel credit bonus. Additionally, spending $15,000 or more in a year earns an extra $100 in credits, further incentivizing long-term use.
With zero annual fees and no foreign transaction charges, this card stands out in a crowded market of travel reward cards.
Travel Protection and Built-In Security
To support safe and confident travel, the Genius Rewards Visa includes:
- Rental car insurance coverage
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
- Travel accident insurance
- Extended warranty on eligible purchases
These protections make it a reliable companion for both domestic and international travel.
Why American Travelers Are Eager for Simpler Rewards
Booking.com’s internal research shows that while 82% of American cardholders check their rewards more frequently than their retirement plans, only 28% feel confident they’re maximizing them.
Interestingly, studies found that over 50% of travelers would give up alcohol, nearly 50% would quit dating, and 97% would leave social media for a year of free travel. These findings reflect a profound desire for accessible, easy-to-use travel benefits—the very problem this card seeks to solve.
Strategic Partnerships for Seamless Global Acceptance
Imprint, the card issuer, brings a modern tech-forward platform to the partnership, ensuring frictionless card management. Meanwhile, Visa’s backing means users can enjoy global acceptance and Visa Signature® perks, like exclusive dining offers, luxury hotel upgrades, and concierge services.
Aligning with Booking.com’s Global Travel Vision
Ben Harrell, Managing Director at Booking.com U.S., described the card as a natural extension of the brand’s mission: to eliminate travel barriers. “Travelers want more flexibility, transparency, and immediate value,” Harrell said. “This card provides all that and more.”
The launch comes as Booking.com sharpens its focus on building deeper customer loyalty by reducing friction across the travel planning and booking process.
Empowering Spontaneous and Strategic Travel
From fueling road trips to booking tropical getaways, the Genius Rewards Visa is designed to reward your lifestyle—not just your vacations. With broad earning categories, instant elite status, and clear-cut redemption, it empowers users to turn everyday moments into unforgettable travel experiences.
Whether you’re a globe-trotter or a weekend explorer, this card is engineered to make your journey smoother, richer, and more rewarding.
Final Thoughts: A Clear Winner for Travel Enthusiasts
The Booking.com Genius Rewards Visa isn’t just another travel card—it’s a new benchmark in reward simplicity and flexibility. With high earning rates, no annual fee, generous sign-up bonuses, and elite loyalty benefits baked in, it’s poised to attract savvy U.S. travelers looking for value without compromise.
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