Update to this. 2 further late night calls this week to link were unsuccessful (one said the only way to link is to cancel one card!). Mrs Mac rang again today, got a USA call centre. The operator said request should be ok and put us on hold. When she came back she apologised and said Gateway points need to be xferred out first or forfeited.
We rang the number on the card a few hours later, (had been calling MR number) and linking was done on the spot. Gateway is gone and message where Gateway points used to be says refer to card xx_xx. Points haven't transferred yet but expecting that they will in next 3-5 days. Just hope I don't get anything about a forfeit.
I have to say the operators were all very nice and professional even when turning is down, the hardest part has been convincing my wife that if we keep trying eventually one will say yes.
I just tried again and no luck, congrats to those of you who managed to do it.
I think I will just leave it, I've had 2 rejected calls already - meant to receive a call back on Monday to see if it can be done, but if not I'll just let it be.
Got some good news! despite being explicitly told by the amex CSR (twice over two phone calls) that I wouldn't receive any sign-up bonus because amex had plugged the 'loophole' and upgraded their system I did receive my bonus this morning! just minutes after the final charge that pushed me over the $1500 was confirmed the 110,000 points hit. so relieved! points have already be transferred to my krisflyer account for safe keeping lol.
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While for some it is quick, for others it has taken a week to sort itself out. Off the top of my head I cannot recall anyone who had problems not linking all ok after a while.
i am in a similar situation. Called a few times late night during the week and was put through to the Philippines call centre. They were firm that linking is not possible due to the different programs and rates.
Gave it one more shot today. When I heard that the CSR is in Sydney, I was prepared to be told the same answer. But to my surprise, the very courteous guy said it is fine after putting me on a few minutes hold. He was very clear that the points in my gateway will be transferred and combined with my ascent account.
gateway is not visible anymore but the points haven't landed in my Ascent yet. Fingers crossed too that I haven't lost the bulk!
Where is the $400 travel credit supposed to show up in your online banking?
This might be a first - on the Mrs explorer, we de linked and had a gateway account open. We have made the required 1.5k spend, and no point's posted yet.
Transaction has gone off pending as well...no point's for that transaction either. From experience points post as soon as spend is made, will give it another day or so
Thanks for that
I only see my $200 credit for the plat edge
So I guess I need to call and ask about the $400 for the explorer?
cheers
Anyone know if you still get hotel status if you book via Amex Travel Services?
AMEX Travel are just an OTA like any other, so no I don't believe you will receive hotel status recognition.
you could always ask for them to record your membership number on check in. has worked for me in the past.