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Where you should travel this year based on your Myers-Briggs type

Jan. 18, 2020
14 min read
Young girl discovery London - Tower bridge. London Tourist.
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Now that the new year is in full swing, we know a lot of you have 2020 travel plans on your mind.

Let's be real, though. Deciding on a destination can be overwhelming. I mean, with so many places to choose from (and only so much time you can take off from work) how do you pick just one?

Enter: You.

Yes, you. And a little something called your Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). This well-known and comprehensive test analyzes psychological types so we can all hopefully better understand how we think, feel and behave. In fact, the entire TPG team recently took the test and even the skeptics — myself included — found it pretty insightful.

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Myers-Briggs can tell you more about yourself and what you value, and many people believe it can help you make smarter decisions about where to travel next (including Jetsetter).

"Traveling is so special and personal to people, and our time is the most precious commodity. Using the [MBTI] as a way to maximize your enjoyment seems like a no-brainer," said Kelly Shockley, learning and development partner at TPG's parent company, Red Ventures, which uses the tool to help managers learn different management styles and understand team dynamics.

The test analyzes four different dimensions of your personality:

Is your energy style extroversion (E) or introversion (I)? Are you energized by the people around you, or do you seek to recharge alone in a quiet space?

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Is your cognitive style, or how you take in information, sensor (S) or intuitor (N)? Are you practical and focused on the "now" or abstract and forward-thinking?

What's your values style, or how you make decisions? Are you a thinker (T) who values logic and objectivity, or a feeler (F) who prefers making decisions based on empathy and relationships?

And what is your self-management style? Do you organize your world like a judger (J) or a perceiver (P). The former prefer to plan and schedule, while the latter are more flexible and spontaneous.

Related: The best starter travel credit cards

Depending on how you respond to the questions, you might be an ENTJ, or perhaps an ISFP. In fact, there are 16 possible personality types. Here, we've outlined where you might want to consider visiting this year based on your specific four-letter combination.

First, of course, you'll want to take your own version of the test to find out which Myers-Briggs type you are.

ISFJ

(Photo by Samantha Rosen / The Points Guy)

This is the most popular personality type, Careerplanner.com reported. You're quiet, but warm and factual. You pride yourself on being organized and thorough, yet helpful and sympathetic toward others. You'd thrive in a city like Tokyo or Seoul. Pro tip: Go on a solo trip this year. We have a feeling you'll love it.

How to book: You're going to want to book Japan Airlines first class the second award reservations open up ... 330 days in advance on American and Alaska, 355 days in advance through British Airways and 360 days directly with JAL Mileage Bank. Thank us later.

ESFJ

A jazz band plays on Bourbon St. (Photo by by Simplyphotos/Getty Images)

You're social and, more than anything, you love to take care of other people. You're good at reading others and understanding their point of view. We'd recommend going to New Orleans or Amsterdam. These cities closely match your personality and you'll feel at home from the second you get there. Knowing you, you're likely to make a friend or two along the way, too.

How to book: We know you'll probably book this trip last-minute. Google Flights will be your best bet to find the cheapest flight across all the airlines.

ISTJ

(Photo by Gerard McAuliffe/Getty Images)

You're logical and make your decisions on facts, not feelings. You get your energy by spending time alone and like to plan out every detail possible — you're always the person your friends can count on to create an itinerary that accounts for every second of your trip. If you haven't been to London or Berlin yet, 2020 should be the year.

How to book: Start stocking up on Chase Ultimate Rewards points or American Express Membership Rewards points to fly the new British Airways Club Suite or Virgin Atlantic's Upper Class Suite.

ENFJ

(Photo by Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography/Getty Images.)

This is one of the more rare personality types. You're sociable, enthusiastic and supportive. You have a very idealistic sense of the world, and appreciate all that you have — and want to help others to do the same. Do yourself a favor and book a trip to a city like Cape Town or Barcelona. You'll no doubt be captivated by these high-energy, destinations. Knowing you, you'll likely have every detail planned out ahead of time, too.

How to book: Hop on United's new nonstop flight from Newark (EWR) to Cape Town (CPT). You can transfer your Chase points to United at a 1:1 ratio, meaning for every Chase point you transfer, you'll get one United mile.

ISFP

(Photo by Isaac Ordaz/Unsplash)

You're patient and detail-oriented, but find joy in action and making things happen. You like to experiment and learn about different cultures, people and perspectives. Start planning a trip to Hawaii or the Caribbean so you can take some much-needed time off to recharge your batteries.

How to book: Transfer your Chase points to Hyatt to stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui, Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen, or Park Hyatt St. Kitts. Bliss awaits.

ENFP

(Photo by Tomek Baginski/Unsplash)

You're one of the loudest people in the room, and you're OK with that. There's nothing you love more than coming up with creative and inventive ideas and sharing them with the people around you. You can easily adapt to different environments and you want to help others fulfill their dreams and goals. Make sure Austin, Buenos Aires or Shanghai are on your list.

How to book: Since you have a tendency to wait until the last minute to book, you'll want to take advantage of ExpertFlyer and set an alert in case any upgrades or awards become available. Don't forget to check out our guide to the points and miles you should use for last minute flights, too.

INFJ

(Photo by Harald Nachtmann/Getty Images.)

You're very vocal when you don't agree with someone, and aren't afraid to speak up for yourself. You like being included in plans, but more often than not, just want to stay home with a good book anyway. You wear your heart on your sleeve, too, so it's no surprise that Paris should be on your must-see list in 2020.

How to book: We recommend booking a Star Alliance award to Paris, since it offers the most one-stop routings from the U.S. and also has the greatest number of loyalty programs with which to book.

INFP

Hong Kong Skyline from Victoria Peak
(Photo by Clint Henderson/The Points Guy.)

You've been very independent from a young age, and get a thrill out of making decisions and plans for yourself. When you travel with a close group of friends, they know they can count on you for handling the itinerary and all the reservations. When push comes to shove, though, you'd rather just do a solo trip. We think it's about time you head to Hong Kong.

How to book: We know you like to travel in style, so Cathay Pacific business or first class is the obvious choice here. Stock up on Alaska miles and you'll be stuffing your face with dumplings in no time.

ESTP

New Zealand
(Photo by Southern Landscapes/Getty Images)

You're in search of a good adrenaline rush this year. You work long, hard hours and need to let off some steam. You like to plan ahead, so tell your boss you're putting some PTO on the calendar for this time next year. You'll thank yourself for it later. New Zealand and its famed Nevis Swing is calling your name.

How to book: There are a handful of ways to get to New Zealand on points and miles, but United Polaris takes the cake. Transfer your Chase points to the airline at a 1:1 transfer ratio.

INTJ

(Photo of Miraval by Summer Hull/The Points Guy.)

The last few years have been challenging for you, but also empowering — and you're ready to make some big changes in 2020. You've overcome a lot of obstacles and have a clear vision of what you want. Kicking off the year with a wellness retreat will be just what the doctor ordered.

How to book: Although there are a dizzying number of resorts to choose from, you'll find a solid value (and incredible experience) at the Miraval Resort & Spa in Arizona. Award nights start at 45,000 World of Hyatt points a night — transfer your Chase points and you'll be golden.

ESFP

(Photo by Nuture / Getty Images)

You're energetic and friendly, and definitely the type of person who makes friends wherever you go. Seriously, you could strike up a conversation with that tree over there. You're constantly bombarding your group chat with memes, emojis and plans for this weekend. Text them and tell them you should start planning a trip to Bali. We think you'll be the life of the party.

How to book: While there aren't any nonstop flights from the U.S. to Denpasar Airport (DPS), there are great one-stop itineraries to choose from. Cathay Pacific has some pretty "sweet" sweet spots, including coach for 30,000 miles, premium economy for 35,000 miles, business for 50,000 miles and first class for 70,000 miles one-way when you book through Alaska Airlines.

ISTP

(Photo courtesy of coolimagesco.)

You can frequently be found at boutique fitness classes, or working on your bullet journal, and you never stop moving. A trip to an energetic city like San Francisco or Los Angeles will challenge and inspire you. Just be sure to pencil in a little decompression time for yourself when you return.

How to book: Our top choice is JetBlue Mint, followed closely by American Airlines. You can also use Google Flights to find an affordable economy seat, and you'll be saying "California, here we come" before your green juice is ready.

ENTP

(Photo courtesy of William Cho/Getty Images.)

You read the Wall Street Journal religiously and subscribe to more newsletters than you can keep track of. Not being up-to-date on things happening in the world may or may not make you break out into a cold sweat. You'll love the energy of Singapore — it's bright, vibrant, complex and changes daily.

How to book: May we interest you in a seat on the world's longest flight? Singapore Airlines flies from Newark (EWR) to Singapore (SIN). Premium economy starts at 70,00 KrisFlyer miles and business at 99,000 when you book directly through Singapore.

ESTJ

(Photo credit: jimfeng)

When a crisis comes up, you're the person who everyone turns to. You judge situations according to the facts and evidence, and if we didn't know any better, we'd be willing to bet you use packing cubes religiously. This should be the year you finally make your trip to Machu Picchu happen. After all, there's a lot of logistics involved and if anyone can handle it, you can.

How to book: If you're flying from the U.S., you'll want to fly to Lima (LIM) first; American, Delta and United all have nonstop service there from major U.S. cities, as do Spirit and JetBlue. We'd definitely recommend staying in Lima for a day or two, and then catching a quick flight to Cusco (CUZ), the closest airport to Machu Picchu. This nonstop route is served by LATAM, Avianca, Peruvian, Viva Air Peru and Star Peru.

ENTJ

(Photo by MBPROJEKT_Maciej_Bledowski / Getty Images)

Nothing makes you happier than pouring your heart and soul into a project. You have a magnetic energy that makes people want to know more about you. You're somewhat of an overachiever, but you pride yourself on it. If you'd ask us, we'd say a trip to Patagonia is in order.

How to book: Since Patagonia includes the southern regions of both Argentina and Chile, it makes sense to use points and miles to fly to Buenos Aires (EZE or AEP), Ushuaia (USH), Santiago (SCL), Punta Arenas (PUQ) or Puerto Natales (PNT).

INTP

(Photo by Vignesh Kamath / EyeEm/Getty Images.)

You're like an idea factory. You can't remember the last time you didn't wake up in the middle of the night and scribble some thoughts down on your Notes app. We know you frequently find yourself getting into some pretty deep, philosophical conversations with your friends and family. You'd thrive in a city like Mumbai, India.

How to book: Despite the large number of airlines flying to India, there aren't as many good-value redemptions as you might expect. Consider redeeming through Aeroplan, Avianca LifeMiles, Alaska MileagePlan, American AAdvantage, Delta SkyMiles or United MileagePlus.

Featured image by VIKTORIYA DIKAREVA/GETTY IMAGES

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There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

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  • Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
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Cons

  • Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
  • Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
  • You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
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  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
  • Terms Apply.
Apply for American Express® Gold Card
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees
Best for dining at restaurants
TPG Editor‘s Rating
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4 / 5
Go to review

Rewards Rate

4XEarn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
4XEarn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
3XEarn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
2XEarn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
1XEarn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
  • Intro Offer
    You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

    As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.
  • Annual Fee

    $325
  • Recommended Credit
    Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

    Excellent to Good

Why We Chose It

There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Pros

  • 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
  • 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
  • Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
  • Solid welcome bonus

Cons

  • Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
  • Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
  • You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
  • Terms Apply.