American Express Christmas Party Everyday Rewards

I love it when I get invited to events in Sydney, especially with the festive season around the corner, meeting new people is what I live and breathe. It's one of the biggest passions in my life.

It's also a good time for me to clear my head, as a busy mum of 4 I'll often take a mini working/getaway trip (up to 2-3 times per year) which I used to think was selfish, until I established it was called self love.

I experience very rare "me time" and "sleep in" moments being a stay at home mum these past 10 years....so these hotel sheets make it easy for me chillax.

I checked out loads of hotels for my Sydney stay online, and ways I can use my Qantas Frequent Flyer points that I earned through using my American Express Qantas Discover Card. Then I can use my points to book travel, experiences, car hire and a range of other benefits, through the Qantas Frequent Flyer website.

American Express Qantas Frequent Flyers

So when I saw The Shangri-La when booking my hotel with points, I was instantly transported to the last time we went as a family. Such fond memories cruising on the Carnival Spirit a couple of months ago, truly an amazing family experience our kids will never forget.

Shangri-La Sydney Pre drinks at The Horizon Bar

The Horizon Bar Shangri-La Sydney Dani Stevens

Since I’ve made the switch to how I pay for my everyday expenses using my American Express card instead of cash or my debit card, I’ve been watching the reward points stack up. AND, with a family of six to house, feed, clothe, educate and entertain – you can imagine I give myself and my Amex a daily workout.

I also booked a couple of days of hire car to get me around Sydney for my photoshoot. I simply logged onto the Qantas app on my iPhone, scrolled for the car and booked it. Super easy, no credit card numbers to enter or cash hassles, just using my Qantas Frequent Flyer points I've racked up with my American Express card from my everyday shopping.

American Express Car Hire

I love exploring Sydney and we did a quick pit stop for a photoshoot at one of Australia's most iconic beaches, Bondi.....

Icebergs is always a great backdrop and so breathtaking...

Icebergs Sydney Sydney

I can't wait next time we come to Sydney so it's not as rushed. I adore travelling and visiting new places!!!! But sometimes would love to just stay and not have such a jam packed schedule.

During my stay in Sydney I also used my American Express card, so I could collect more points and to continue all the card benefits so I can come back and do it all over again.

Travel healthy food Dani Stevens

Unlike other rewards schemes, you don’t need to search high and low for a store that will actually honour your points! With my Card, I just make the purchase as usual and redeem my rewards through my American Express Qantas Frequent Flyer online account.

Here’s a tip, visit americanexpress.com.au now to make a start! I bet you’ll be redeeming points through your account or at the checkout of the likes of DJ’s, Woolworths and Ticketmaster like me, soon!

How about you? How do you reward yourself when you achieve your personal goals or need some time out?

XxDani