The Bank of Cyprus Aegean Mastercard Credit Card, is designed to cater to frequent travelers and those who wish to maximize rewards on their daily transactions. This review delves into the various features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the card to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Key Benefits
Collect Miles from Transactions
One of the primary attractions of the Aegean Mastercard is its mileage reward system. For every €1 spent with AEGEAN, cardholders earn 1 award mile. When spending at businesses in Cyprus or abroad, you earn 1 award mile for every €2 spent. This makes it an attractive option for frequent flyers and those who regularly use their credit card for purchases.
Welcome Miles
Upon activation, cardholders are awarded 3,000 welcome miles, credited to their Miles+Bonus account. These welcome miles include both award and tier miles, giving new users a head start in accumulating miles for future travel.
Annual Discount on Flights
The card offers an annual discount of €40 on flights, split into two coupons worth €20 each. These are automatically added to your Miles+Bonus account upon activation, providing immediate savings on your next two flights.
QuickCard
The Aegean Mastercard can be issued instantly, allowing new cardholders to start using it without delay. This is particularly beneficial for those who need a credit card quickly for upcoming travel or purchases.
Additional Features
Antamivi Points
In addition to earning miles, cardholders can collect antamivi points. For every €5 spent through AEGEAN’s direct channels, you earn 6 antamivi points. These points can be converted to miles at a ratio of 3 antamivi points to 5 award miles, offering another avenue to accumulate travel rewards.
Travel and Purchase Protection Insurance
The card includes free travel insurance and purchase protection insurance, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind for cardholders.
Digital Wallet Integration
The Aegean Mastercard can be added to various digital wallets, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, BoC Wallet, Fitbit, Garmin, and Settle. This allows for fast and secure contactless payments wherever these services are accepted.
Lounge Key Access
Cardholders have access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide through the Lounge Key program, albeit at a cost of €24 per visit. This feature is particularly useful for frequent travelers seeking comfort and convenience during their journeys.
Flight Delay Pass
The card offers a free Flight Delay Pass service, granting access to 1,200 lounges in over 100 countries for the cardholder and up to four fellow travelers in case of flight delays. This can significantly enhance the travel experience during unforeseen delays.
Other Benefits
- Conversion of Reward Points: Antamivi points can be converted to miles, providing flexibility in how you utilize your rewards.
- Participation in Draw Schemes: Cardholders can participate in various draw schemes, offering chances to win additional rewards.
- Contactless Transactions: Advanced contactless technology ensures quick and easy payments.
- Security Features: The card provides security through SMS alerts or push notifications, keeping you informed of all transactions.
- Widespread Acceptance: The Aegean Mastercard is widely accepted both in Cyprus and abroad, making it a versatile choice for international travelers.
Fees and Charges
For detailed information about the commission and charges associated with the Aegean Mastercard, prospective cardholders are encouraged to review the terms provided by the Bank of Cyprus. Understanding these fees is crucial to maximizing the benefits and managing the costs of the card effectively.
| Feature | Aegean Mastercard (Bank of Cyprus) | Hellenic Bank Visa Gold | Alpha Bank Gold Mastercard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mileage Rewards | 1 mile per €1 (AEGEAN), 1 mile per €2 (other) | No mileage program | 1 mile per €1.50 (AEGEAN), 1 mile per €3 (other) |
| Welcome Miles | 3,000 miles | No mileage program | 2,000 miles |
| Annual Discounts | €40 (two €20 flight coupons) | No specific travel discount | €30 (one €30 flight coupon) |
| Travel Insurance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Purchase Protection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Wallet Integration | Apple Pay, Google Pay, BoC Wallet, Fitbit, Garmin, Settle | Apple Pay, Google Pay | Apple Pay, Google Pay, Garmin Pay |
| Lounge Access | Lounge Key (€24 per visit), Flight Delay Pass (free for delays) | No specific lounge access | Lounge Key (fee applies) |
| Antamivi Points Conversion | 3 antamivi points = 5 award miles | Not applicable | Points to miles conversion |
| Draw Schemes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Contactless Transactions | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Security Alerts | SMS alert or push notification | SMS alert or push notification | SMS alert or push notification |
| Widespread Acceptance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Annual Fee | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Interest Rate | Competitive | Competitive | Competitive |
Summary
Aegean Mastercard (Bank of Cyprus):
- Best for frequent flyers, with high mileage rewards and significant welcome miles.
- Offers travel insurance, purchase protection, and multiple digital wallet integrations.
- Provides lounge access and Flight Delay Pass services, enhancing travel convenience.
Hellenic Bank Visa Gold:
- Ideal for users seeking general rewards rather than travel-specific benefits.
- Earns reward points redeemable for various gifts and services.
- Includes essential travel insurance and purchase protection.
Alpha Bank Gold Mastercard:
- Balanced benefits for both travel and everyday use.
- Offers mileage rewards, travel insurance, and digital wallet integrations.
- Provides lounge access with a fee, making it suitable for moderate travelers.
Choosing the right card depends on your specific needs, with the Aegean Mastercard being the best option for frequent travelers, the Hellenic Bank Visa Gold catering to general reward seekers, and the Alpha Bank Gold Mastercard offering a balanced mix of benefits.
Aegean Mastercard Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Aegean Mastercard?
- A credit card offering travel rewards and benefits, including earning miles and travel insurance.
- How do I earn miles?
- Earn 1 mile per €1 with AEGEAN and 1 mile per €2 on other purchases, plus 3,000 welcome miles.
- What are the annual discounts?
- Receive €40 in annual discounts for flights (€20 per coupon, two coupons annually).
- Does it include travel insurance?
- Yes, it provides travel insurance and purchase protection.
- What digital wallets can I use?
- Compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, BoC Wallet, Fitbit, Garmin, and Settle.
- Is lounge access included?
- Access to 1,200 lounges worldwide at €24 per visit; free access with Flight Delay Pass.
- What is the antamivi points conversion?
- Convert 3 antamivi points to 5 award miles.
- Are there any security features?
- Yes, includes SMS alerts and push notifications for transactions.
- Where can I use the card?
- Widely accepted in Cyprus and abroad.
- Are there any participation schemes?
- Yes, participate in various draw schemes and rewards programs.
Conclusion
The Bank of Cyprus Aegean Mastercard Credit Card is an excellent choice for frequent travelers and those looking to earn significant rewards from their everyday spending. With a robust mileage program, welcome miles, travel insurance, and access to airport lounges, the card offers a comprehensive package of benefits. However, potential cardholders should consider the associated fees and ensure they align with their spending habits and travel needs. Overall, the Aegean Mastercard is a valuable tool for maximizing travel rewards and enjoying added conveniences during your journeys.