American Express has introduced blockchain-based travel stamps, giving cardholders a new way to preserve their travel history. The digital keepsakes, called Amex Passport, are designed as ERC-721 NFTs and stored on Ethereum layer-2 network Base.
Luke Gebb, Executive Vice President of Amex Digital Labs, said, “Part of the magic of travel is reminiscing about past getaways, and commemorative keepsakes are a powerful way for travelers to relive their favorite trips. As physical passport stamps continue to disappear, Amex Passport creates an opportunity for Card Members to celebrate their travels.”
How Amex travel stamps work?
Each stamp can highlight memorable experiences such as a favorite meal, attraction, hotel stay, or activity. Customers can customize their stamps and even share them on social media or save them to their camera roll.
Trips booked through Amex within the past two years will automatically appear as stamps in Amex Passport. Only U.S. Amex consumer cardholders with an online account are eligible to claim these stamps.
The NFTs are non-transferable and only show some basic information, such as country or region, description, and date earned. Amex assured that Base will not display personal information and travel details.
Growing demand for digital keepsakes
Interest in digital travel souvenirs is strong. An Amex survey found that 73% of the participants desire more methods to celebrate previous travels, and 56% of the respondents miss having passport stamps when entering a new country.
The initiative reflects a broader trend of blockchain adoption. Last month, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced plans to publish economic statistics, including GDP data, on the blockchain.
In the meantime, the use of crypto in tourism is also increasing. The crypto is now accepted on platforms such as Travala and airlines throughout the world, and statistics indicate that travelers who use digital assets are more likely to spend more and extend their stay.
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