scene plus travel rewards

How to use Scene+ points to reduce travel costs

by Anne Betts | Jan 6, 2024 | Travel Hacking | 32 comments

Updated January 6, 2024

What’s the best use of Scene+? Is Scene+ a useful program for travelling the world on miles and points? How does Scene+ work and what are the ways to use Scene+ points to reduce travel costs ? How does it measure up against the former Scotia Rewards program? How does it compare to other fixed-point reward programs? These questions and more hopefully will be answered in this guide to Scene+.

Table of Contents

Scene+ loyalty program

How to earn scene+ points, current scene+ credit card offers, other scene+ credit cards, what’s the best use scene+ points, 1. scene+ travel, how to redeem using ‘apply points to travel’, what qualifies as a travel purchase , 1. several ways to earn scene+, 2. enhanced earning on travel purchases, 3. convenient system to cancel refundable bookings, 4. discounted annual fee, 5. no forex fee, 6. one-tier redemption value, 7. twelve months to redeem points, 8. excellent online redemption process, 9. access to rebates on credit card applications, 10. user-friendly scene+ app, 1. no way to extract greater value, 2. limited number of travel expenses, 3. points can’t be transferred to airline or hotel loyalty programs, 4. a rocky transition to the new program, 5. cineplex booking fee, final verdict.

Scene+ is the result of a merger between two former programs: Scotiabank’s Scotia Rewards and Cineplex’s SCENE with an effective date of December 13, 2021. In June 2022, grocery giant Empire joined as a third partner with a plan to replace Air Miles with Scene+ as its loyalty program.

Scene+ is a third-party program  operated by Scene Limited Partnership (owned by Scotia Loyalty Ltd., a subsidiary of The Bank of Nova Scotia), Galaxy Entertainment Inc. (a subsidiary of Cineplex Entertainment LP), and Empire Company Ltd., the parent company of stores that include Sobeys, Safeway, Foodland, IGA, FreshCo, Needs,Thrifty, and Lawtons Drugs.

As such, Scotiabank no longer has an in-house loyalty program. This means that Scene+ points earned on Scotiabank credit cards reside in a third-party account. If the credit card that earned Scene+ points is cancelled, the points remain in the member’s Scene+ account, pooled with points earned on other Scotia banking products or a Scene+ Membership Card.

However, there are rules regarding activity. A Scene+ account may be closed, and points forfeited, without any earning or redeeming activity during any 24-consecutive-month period. But a member with a Scene+ Scotiabank product (a credit card or debit card in good standing) is exempt from account closure.

The Scene+ program offers several earning opportunities. These include:

• sign-up bonuses associated with credit cards that earn Scene+ points
• everyday spending on a choice of seven credit cards earning Scene+ points
• purchases using a debit card associated with Scotiabank’s banking packages (Preferred Package, Ultimate Package, Private Banking, Student Banking Advanced Plan, Getting There Savings Program for Youth)
• purchases at partners such as *Empire stores (e.g., Sobeys and Safeway) and  Home Hardware
• movie and entertainment purchases at Cineplex theatres or online at the Cineplex store
• cashback in points by shopping through the rebate portal, Rakuten
• dining at partners that include East Side Mario’s, Harvey’s, Kelsey’s, Montana’s, and Swiss Chalet 
• booking hotel stays and car rentals through Scene+ Travel (powered by Expedia)
• purchases of games and eats at Playdium and The Rec Room

Another advantage of the merged program is that it’s possible to double-dip on earning at partner locations when using a Scene+ credit card and Scene+ Membership Card. Dining purchases at Swiss Chalet, for example, earn one point for every $3 spent and five points per dollar with the dining multiplier on the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card. Special offers increase the earning power.

It pays to check your Scene+ account on a regular basis for current offers from Scene+ partners.

*Empire stores include Sobeys, Sobeys Liquor, IGA, Safeway, Safeway Liquor, Foodland, FreshCo, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà by IGA, Voilà by Safeway, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, IGA West, Les Marchés Tradition, Rachelle Béry, and Needs Convenience. In the Atlantic, Scene+ points can be earned at Lawtons Drugs that’s owned by Empire.

And of course, Scotiabank customers using select Scotiabank credit cards can ‘double dip’ by paying for purchases with a Scotiabank credit card that earns Scene+ points. At Empire grocery stores, the multipliers are higher.

• Scotiabank Gold American Express Card earns 6 points per dollar
• Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card earns 3 points per dollar
• Scotiabank American Express Card earns 3 points per dollar

The latest promotion on the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card sees a return of an annual fee waiver in the first year (a saving of $150). The sign-up bonus is

• an attractive 30,000 Scene+ on spending $1,000 in the first three months
• an unattractive 10,000 Scene+ points on spending $40,000 each year

Besides having worldwide acceptance as a Visa card, attractive features of the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite include

• an accelerated earning rate of x3 at Empire stores
• accelerated earning rates of x2 on eligible grocery, transit, ride share, dining, and entertainment (applicable worldwide)
• no foreign transaction fees (2.5%)
• complimentary Visa Airport Companion membership and six lounge visits per year

The offer is available until July 1, 2024. Applying through the Great Canadian Rebates portal sweetens the deal with a $125 rebate.

The current promotion on the popular Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is in effect July 1, 2024. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have an annual fee waiver in the first year. The annual fee is $120, or $79 for seniors, that can be offset by applying through a rebate portal. The current rebate at Great Canadian Rebates is $125.

The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card earns:

• 20,000 Scene+ on a $1,000 spend in the first three months
• additional 20,000 Scene+ on a $7,500 spend in the first year
• 6 Scene+ per dollar spent at Empire grocery stores
• 5 Scene+ per dollar spent on groceries (at grocery stores other than Empire), dining, food delivery, and entertainment
• 3 Scene+ per dollar spent on gas, transit, and select streaming services
• 1 Scene+ per dollar spent on everything else  

There’s no FOREX (foreign transaction) fee on purchases in a foreign currency.

Like most banks, Scotia offers a banking package where the annual fee on a credit card can be waived every year. For more information see the  Ultimate Package bank account.

In addition to the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card, the other Scene+ credit cards are:

• Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card
• Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Business Card
• Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card
• Scotiabank American Express Card
• ScotiaGold Passport Visa Card
• SCENE Visa Card
• SCENE Visa Card for Students

What’s the value of a Scene+ point?

Scene+ can be redeemed for Apple and Best Buy merchandise and gift cards, dining, movie tickets, and Scotiabank credit card account credits. Unless there are special offers, these types of redemptions are at a lesser value than when redeemed for travel.

The exception is at participating grocery stores where 1,000 points can be redeemed for $10 off grocery purchases. This is a value of one cent per point.  

Travel redemptions are consistently valued at one cent per point (i.e., 10,000 points = $100). This applies to Scene+ Travel bookings, and those booked independently through other providers.

Much like the former Scotia Rewards Program, there are two ways to redeem points for travel. An advantage over the former program is that the minimum threshold of 5,000 points ($50) no longer exists.

Scene+ Travel replaces the former in-house Scotia Rewards Travel Service. The new service under the auspices of Expedia operates in much the same way as ExpediaForTD, the portal for members of the TD Rewards program. Points can be redeemed against any travel booked via the portal.

Charge the full amount to your credit card, or against the points balance in your account. Or, use the part-points-part-charge option.

2. ‘Apply Points to Travel’

This operates much the same way as it did under the former Scotia Rewards Program. It’s for bookings with travel providers other than Scene+ Travel.  

Charge a purchase to your credit card and wait for it to post to your account. Points can then be redeemed against the purchase. This includes taxes, booking fees, airport fees, and travel insurance premiums.

A cardholder has 12 months from the posting date of the purchase to apply the points.

Log into your Scene+ account and navigate your way to  > Rewards > Travel (under Spend your points) > Apply Points to Travel

A drop-down menu will list the credit cards attached to your Scene+ account. Clicking on each credit card will reveal any purchases coded as travel in the period you select.

For example, in my case, all travel purchases charged to my Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card in the last 90 days appear as a list. They include a visa for Turkey, airport bus, hostel accommodation, transit card purchase and initial load, train ticket, scooter account top-up, and a drink at a hotel. 

I can redeem Scene+ points for specific charges by selecting each one. The Summary box to the right shows me my selected charges, the total number of points I’ve chosen to redeem, the monetary value of those points, and the remaining points in my Scene+ account.

Clicking the Continue button takes me to a confirmation page, and the information that the monetary value of my redemption will be credited to my credit card account in two to three days. A confirmation email with the same information is received within seconds.

To be eligible for redemption, the charge needs to be recognized as a travel purchase with merchant codes or identifiers set by the Visa network as:

• airlines and air carriers, airports, flying fields, and airport terminals
• lodgings, hotels, motels, resorts, trailer parks, and campgrounds
• passenger railways, bus lines, steamship, and cruise lines
• travel agencies and tour operators
• automobile rental agencies, and motor home/recreational vehicle rentals

These were the same identifiers previously used by the Scotia Rewards Program.

Based on previous experience, I’ve found that charges for passenger railways, bus lines, and tour operators could be inconsistently included or excluded as candidates for redemption.

For example, Queensland Rail travel between Brisbane and Maryborough West in Australia was eligible as a travel redemption. A journey of a similar distance with Irish Rail between Dublin and Galway wasn’t.

Also, when a purchase is coded as entertainment, it’s excluded from the list of travel charges. This has an impact on tours. For example, tours of Dublin’s Kilmainham Gaol and Belfast Titanic were coded as entertainment. As a result, they didn’t appear on the list of eligible travel redemptions. Admission to Dublin’s Christ Church Cathedral for a self-guided tour wasn’t coded as entertainment, but it appeared on the list of possible travel redemptions.

Another observation concerned dining purchases if they were purchased at a hotel or while travelling by train. They appeared as travel purchases on my account and were therefore eligible as a travel redemption. 

Ten attractive features of the Scene+ program

When combined with Scotiabank’s best features, the Scene+ program offers several advantages.

In addition to opportunities to earn points with Scene+ partners, Scotiabank has seven credit cards in the Scene+ family. Several of them offer points multipliers for various types of category spending.

The best points multiplier is on spending using the popular Scotiabank Gold American Express Card. It earns 5 points per dollar on groceries, dining, and entertainment and 3 points on gas, daily transit, and select streaming services. (The multiplier increases to 6 points per dollar at Empire grocery stores.)

Only purchases in Canadian funds are eligible for the points multiplier, but there have been reports of cases where the multiplier has been applied while travelling abroad. In my view, t he best use of the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is to use it exclusively for the x5 multiplier (x6 at Empire grocery stores). Even for gas, purchase gas gift cards at a grocery store for the x5 or x6 multiplier, and gift cards of other merchants you support. 

For moviegoers, the Scene Visa Card (or the Scene Visa Card for Students) may be useful as a no-fee ‘forever card’ to build and anchor a person’s credit history. It earns x5 on purchases at Cineplex theatres or at cineplex.com, but its value to someone without a lengthy credit history is that it could help elevate a credit score and a person’s credit worthiness. 

Scene+ credit cards earn 3 points per dollar (pre-taxes and fees) on hotel and car rental bookings at Scene+ Travel. The occasional offer such as x10 points on hotel bookings in the fall of 2022 boost earning efforts. This is in addition to the points earned on the respective credit card.

Refundable bookings at Scene+ Travel are conveniently and efficiently processed by Expedia’s Virtual Agent. Clicking on the Customer Support link at the bottom of the confirmation email takes you to your Scene+ account login and then to the Virtual Agent where you’ll be prompted to enter your itinerary number or the last four digits of the credit card used for the booking. Once the Virtual Agent locates the booking, one click cancels it and an email arrives within seconds confirming the cancellation. 

Scotiabank offers discounted annual fees for seniors. The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card has a fee of $79 (as opposed to $120). The ScotiaGold Passport Visa Card’s fee is $65 (compared to $110).  

Scotiabank is to be applauded for being the first of the big-five banks to offer a no-FOREX-fee credit card to its Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card. I suspect that dropping the 2.5% fee cuts into a lucrative profit margin but clearly it’s been worth it. Otherwise, Scotia wouldn’t have added this feature to the popular Scotiabank Gold American Express Card. Needless to say, it came with an annual fee increase from $99 to $120 and the downgrading of several benefits.

To help you decide if a no-FOREX-fee credit card is the best credit card to have while travelling abroad, see Is a no-FOREX-fee credit card always the best choice for international travel?

Unlike other programs (e.g., TD Rewards), there’s no loss of value between using Scene+ Travel and other travel providers. The flexibility to book travel with any provider without any devaluation of points means cardholders can search for the best deal and use a vendor of their choice.

Dealing directly with a provider can be beneficial. In the case of flight delays and overbooked or cancelled flights, it’s my experience that service is better if the booking was made directly with the airline. For hotel bookings, it’s usually necessary to have booked directly with the hotel’s booking service to earn loyalty points and other loyalty program benefits.

(For AirBnB bookings, if you’re chasing Avios points, consider booking through the British Airways Executive Club portal to earn x3 Avios points on each pre-tax £1/€1/$1 spend on accommodation or experiences, plus what you earn on your credit card of choice.)  

Having 12 months to use the ‘Apply Points to Travel’ route means you don’t need to have the points when you book. You can accumulate the necessary points using the welcome bonus and points multipliers with your Scene+ credit card, and then redeem them when it’s to your advantage.

The online system for post-purchase redemptions is user-friendly and efficient.

Scotiabank regularly uses affiliate partners that offer rebates on approved credit card applications. For example, the Great Canadian Rebates (GCR) rebate of $150 on the popular Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is very appealing.

Offers are loaded on the app and the Scene+ membership card is within easy reach to take advantage of earning opportunities. Tapping on an account holder’s points total reveals points-earning activity by date and credit card, with multipliers. A quick glance reveals if points and multipliers have been correctly applied.

The Scene+ app mirrors essential account information available at the Scene+ site.

  Five shortcomings of the Scene+ program

Unlike CIBC Aventura, RBC Avion Rewards, and American Express Membership Rewards, at the present time, Scene+ doesn’t have a flight reward chart where it’s possible to extract a value greater than one cent per point.

For more information on the CIBC Rewards (Aventura) program, see When travelling the world on miles and points, is the CIBC Aventura program worth it?

The system of merchant codes and travel identifiers is mostly restricted to flights, accommodation, transit, car rentals, cruises, and travel packages. Attractions, tours, and sundry travel purchases are mostly excluded. In this respect, TD Rewards can be redeemed for a broader range of travel expenses.

For more information on the TD Rewards program, see: When travelling the world on miles and points, is the TD Rewards program worth it?

There are no conversion partners where it might be possible to extract a greater value than one cent per point on travel redemptions.

Based on the comments in various miles-and-points forums, far too many people had negative experiences with the transition to the Scene+ program. Missing points, missing multipliers, and other anomalies have resulted in reports of people who, in frustration, stopped using Scene+ credit cards until such time as the glitches were resolved. While some issues have been addressed, not all problems have been resolved. Thankfully, Scene+ has a callback system based on a caller’s place in the callback queue.

Also, Scene+ is yet to expand its two-factor authentication to include email. Members with a physical SIM card and local number (or eSIM data-only package) while travelling abroad cannot receive a text or call to a Canadian number that temporarily doesn’t exist or is not in service. Unlike Aeroplan, I can receive an email to confirm my identity and log into my account to manage bookings. This isn’t possible with Scene+ and renders it less useful while travelling.   

In June 2022, Cineplex undermined the convenience of online bookings by introducing a non-refundable booking fee $1.50 per movie ticket. The fee is discounted for Scene+ members (to $1.00 per ticket), and waived for CineClub members enrolled in Cineplex’s monthly subscription service. It doesn’t apply to movie tickets purchased at the theatre.

1. The x5 points multiplier on groceries, dining, and entertainment (x6 at Empire grocery stores) helps make the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card a useful keeper card for many cardholders, and a strong earner of Scene+ points.

2. The addition of Empire is exciting news for Scene+ members who find value in the Scene+ program and now earn points on grocery and drug store purchases at stores under the Empire umbrella. The points boost from x5 to x6 on purchases at Empire grocery stores on the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is welcome news indeed.  

3. The flexibility in redeeming Scene+ for purchases from any travel provider with no loss in value makes it a very attractive fixed value program. In this respect, it has the edge on the TD Rewards Program that has a two-tier redemption structure.

4. The ease of redeeming points online is a welcome user-friendly feature. Having 12 months to do so adds to the appeal.

5. Scene+ points are handy for a variety of travel expenses such as budget flights or those that aren’t part of a primary airline alliance/frequent flyer program. They’re useful for ground transportation, ferries, and miscellaneous accommodation that are outside existing airline and hotel loyalty programs. When used strategically, they can play a beneficial role in reducing out-of-pocket travel expenses.

6. The program has excellent potential as one of several secondary programs in a diversified miles-and-points portfolio. As such, it can be used to complement frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs that are capable of generating a much greater value than one cent per point.

As far as I can see, the new Scene+ program is greater than the sum of its former parts. With no obvious signs of devaluation, it replaces Scotia Rewards as my favourite fixed-point program.

If you found this post helpful, please share it by selecting one or more social media buttons. Do you collect Scene+ points? If so, what’s your experience with the program? Please share your thoughts in the comments. Thank you.

Might you be interested in my other miles-and-points posts?

• When travelling the world on miles and points, is the CIBC Aventura program worth it?
• Is a no-FOREX-fee credit card always the best choice for international travel?
• Finding Aeroplan flights: a step-by-step guide
• Meeting Minimum Spend Requirements to travel the world on miles and points  
• Lounge and flight review of United Airlines’ Polaris experience
• Does the BMO Air Miles World Elite MasterCard deserve a place in your wallet?
• Travelling the world on miles and points. Is the TD Rewards program worth it?
• Why the Best Western loyalty program is good for travellers
• What is the best credit card for trip cancellation, trip interruption and flight delay insurance for trips on points?

Care to pin for later?

32 Comments

Hi Anne Great article on a card I do not have yet. One question. It says that the points credit may not show up for up to two statements. Does this mean interest is charged for those two months, then credited back or is the credit in the system but just not showing? I would hate to leave any balance on a card even when a credit will eventually come.

Hi John. The credit appeared on my account much faster, and there’s no interest involved. Here’s an example using the Spirit of Queensland train fare. I charged it to my credit card in January and the $371.38 charge appeared on my next statement. Each monthly balance is paid in full so by the time I took the train in March, it had already been paid. When I returned from Australia in April, I redeemed 37,138 points and the credit voucher for $371.38 appeared in my account within a matter of days. That put my credit card account in the black at the end of April, and each subsequent charge on my credit card was deducted from that credit. Had I chosen to close the account with a credit, I could have asked for a cheque, or had it transferred to my no-fee Scotia credit card. Does this help answer your question?

Anne, hi. I have the same question on how many days are taken from the date of post-purchase redemption request to a date of showing up in a credit card account. The UP-TO 2 statement periods is really scaring me. You said that it took only several days in your example. Based on your experience , is a week realistic?

Hi Seong. Thanks for dropping by. My experience involved just a few days. It’s my sense banks are over cautious with their “up-to” advertised long periods for points, refunds, buddy passes and the like to be posted. I should think a week is a reasonable expectation despite the stated two statement periods.

Hi Anne, as March 8 2023, the Apply Points to travel Button seems to be gone as an option to redeem existing points. The only way left is to purchase a new trip through their portal powered by Expedia!

Hi Anne, Although in theory the merger of ScenePlus and ScotiaRewards seems to be an excellent program, it is having some serious startup problems : missing points, missing multiplier points, as well as points double-posted including double-posted points for returns. Calculating an accurate points total is almost impossible. A month and a half after the merger the problems have not yet been resolved. Phoning in to rectify the points balance involves wait times of up to four hours plus. All of this for a points program that that involves annual fees. Disappointed? You bet.

Agreed, there have been lots of complaints, especially on multipliers. I’m fortunate in that my Scotia Rewards all converted to Scene+ but I’m taking a break from using Scene+ credit cards until there are reports that the glitches have been fixed. Some reports indicate a commitment to have it fixed sometime in February. Fingers crossed, as I quite like this as a secondary program.

Hello, Anne. Although the merger of ScenePlus and ScotiaRewards appears to be a great programme in theory, it has a number of major initial issues, including missing points, missing multiplier points, and double-posted points, including double-posted points for returns. It’s nearly impossible to calculate an exact point total. The issues have not been resolved a month and a half after the merger. Calling in to correct the points balance can take up to four hours or more. All of this for the sake of a points programme with annual payments. Disappointed? Yes, absolutely.

Hello, Anne. I have the same issue about how long it takes from the time a post-purchase redemption request is submitted to the time the funds appear in a credit card account. I’m terrified of the UP-TO 2 statement periods. In your example, you mentioned it just took a few days. Is a week realistic based on your experience?

A week was realistic with the former Scotia Rewards program. I’m yet to make a redemption from the new Scene+ program.

Hi Anne, thanks for the review. The lack of Forex fees is a big win for me and anybody who uses their VISA abroad. However I noticed that booking travel although is ‘powered by’ Expedia, doesn’t offer the same benefits as using Expedia directly. i.e. must book flights and hotels separately, no packages or package discounts are available. I even did a head-to-head comparison for an upcoming trip to Miami and found the Expedia website price cheaper than via Scene+ Travel, which is very frustrating.

Thank you for this breakdown Anne. I have the Scotia Gold Amex and waiting for the Scotia passport in the mail. Im have no experience in this program and my question is, do my points combine from both cards or do I end up with 2 separate Scene+ accounts?

Marlene, your points combine in the same Scene+ account. You’ll see your total points and a breakdown of the points from your feeder cards. Many people have experienced problems with points being posted correctly, including multipliers, so it’s a good practice to check your points during these early months of the new program.

Greetings, I have a Scotiabank Passport Infinite card I’ve been using in the United States but I don’t seem to be accumulating scene rewards points. Are US dollar spends eligible for points? Tried to connect with Scenes.ca but don’t have time to wait for the estimated 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Yes, the Passport Visa Infinite earns Scene+ on foreign purchases, both base points and the multiplier. It sounds like you’re one of several people experiencing glitches during the transition from Scotia Rewards to Scene+.

This was really helpful – thank you so much! I was struggling to find information on the new program and you’ve summarized it in a very user-friendly way.

Hello. Do you know if AirBnB bookings can be redeemed as part of the Points for Travel program? Is it considered an Eligible Travel Expense?

Hi Cathy. AirBnB is a recognized accommodation provider by the Visa network so it should appear on your list of eligible travel redemptions on your Scotiabank credit card account that earns Scene+ points.Good luck.

Unlike with Scotia Rewards, booking airfare through the new Scene+ system is a complete horror show. People assisting with bookings are incompetent and most do not have adequate English language skills.

I have had exactly the same experience. Very disappointing after receiving consistently excellent service through the previous program.

Where can I find the redeem Scene+ points for travel purchases already made button. I can see my points balance but can’t seem to find the button to redeem. Thanks

It should be in your Scotia account (not Scene+). Any purchases coded as travel should appear as eligible for redemption.

The apply points to travel is not operating at all like it used to with scotia rewards. I made several purchases in the last 6 months of airlines, hotels, taxis, etc. and none of them show up in the list for redemption. It’s really frustrating. Also I used to get double points with my card on any travel bookings before and now it’s just regular points. And living overseas it used to also allow me to get bonus points on restaurants/ entertainment that wasn’t exclusively in Canada. Now not..

Says you need to phone if you want to apply “partial” redemption, as it isn’t yet available in the app. But when you live overseas calling doesn’t work. Overall just a huge disappointment since switching.

Thanks a lot for your summary – so useful. I’ve had a Scotiabank visa infinite since earlier this year. My question is, I have about 60000 scene + points. I’ve incurred hundreds of dollars of travel expenses within the last 6 months. Is there any downside to simply using the “apply points to travel” option and cashing everything out? Am I missing out on any potential better use of the points? Doesn’t seem like it to me, but I’m new to this program, so just wanted to ask an expert. Thanks!

Hi Jonathan. Unless there are special offers, I’m assuming travel redemptions at a penny a point offer the best return. The only downside I can think of to NOT using the points now against recent travel expenses is the possibility of a devaluation. I like to think that’s not likely in the near future given the need to attract members and build confidence in the Scene+ program.

My mother just got her visa infinite scene card in the mail and she is ready to collect points. After reading this I’m a little concerned. We planned on paying our travel agency with the card to earn points, but I’m starting to see that won’t work. Will we earn points for booking tours and whatnot when not using the travel portal? Do you earn points with every purchase?

Thanks for the help

Yes, you earn points with every purchase. So is it the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card? If so, the earning rate is 1 point for every $ spent, except it increases to 2 points per $ on groceries, dining, entertainment, and daily transit. So if you pay your travel agent $500, 500 points will be earned on the purchase. Does this help?

I just got a new Scene+ card from my local Foodland store. When I went to register it I was not happy that I was expected to enter a credit card number as well to complete the process. I found that very suspicious and unless I can be convinced that it is necessary I won’t bother with the card.

Scene is terrible to deal with, please if you are reading this DO NOT GET ANY SCENE CARD! I ordered a 100 dollar gift card that never came. I have called and emailed for months and they will not return my points, so I’m out 100 dollars. All banks have points now, go to one that works, scene is garbage.

It is March 2023 and Scene+ still is in a mess. It is unclear whether they give 3x points for flights and hotels (as they advertise) or 1 point for every dollar spent. Just got back from Europe where all travel and hotels were paid for using Scotiabank Infinite Passport card and only 1 point/$spent appears on statement. The call centre staff are, for the most part, absolutely useless. Why is it called Powered by Expedia? Do you have to book through Expedia?

Thanks for this information. I’ve been trying to confirm with Scotia Passport Visa Infinite Card that even foreign purchases earn points (1 point per dollar). Is that your understanding? Purchases made around the world still earn points? Thank you!

Yes, the Scotia Passport Visa Infinite earns points on all foreign transactions. It also earns points on the multiplier categories. So if you use the card in any country on dining or groceries, it earns x2 points. If you link it to your Uber account, you’ll earn x2 on the ride-share category. All the best.

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Scotia Rewards and SCENE Merge to Become Scene+

For many years, Scotiabank has maintained close ties with Cineplex and the SCENE loyalty program by issuing SCENE co-branded credit and debit cards.  

As of December 13, 2021, the Big 5 bank and the cinema giant have taken their relationship to the next level by combining their respective points programs: Scotia Rewards and SCENE have merged to become Scene+.

Everything’s largely staying the same, and the features of Scotia Rewards program that we’ve come to appreciate will still be around.

However, there are a few minor changes to take note of, as well as a few mildly interesting new opportunities that arise.  

Scotia Rewards Has Become Scene+

The Scotia Rewards and SCENE loyalty programs have merged to become Scene+.

Scotia Rewards points have been phased out, and the Scotiabank travel credit cards will simply earn Scene+ points instead. Your existing Scotia Rewards points and SCENE points have all been converted to Scene+ at a 1:1 ratio:

• If you currently have a Scotiabank credit card but didn’t have a SCENE account, a new Scene+ account has been created for you automatically to house your old Scotia Rewards points.
• If you previously had a SCENE account, that’ll become your Scene+ account, and your Scotia Rewards points will have transferred over by now.

The migration process was seamless for our team member Josh, who has two active Scotiabank credit cards but has never had a SCENE account.

You can access your Scene+ account for the first time by following the links from Scotiabank’s online banking portal:

You’ll be prompted to create a Scene+ password, but your email address and profile information will be populated from Scotiabank.

Going forward, you’ll be able to earn Scene+ points in the exact same ways that you could earn both Scotia Rewards points or SCENE points: by making purchases with an eligible Scotiabank credit card or debit card, or by seeing movies at Cineplex.

Earning rates and welcome bonuses on Scotiabank’s credit cards haven’t changed at all, so you’ll still get a strong 5x return on groceries, dining, and entertainment with the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card , for example. Also, card designs aren’t changing at this time.

Scene+ Is a Third-Party Loyalty Program

Here’s an important distinction to make: Scene+ isn’t Scotiabank’s in-house rewards currency like Scotia Rewards was before; instead, it’ll be treated like a third-party loyalty program for most intents and purposes.

The practical implications of this include:

• Instead of having a separate Scotia Rewards account for each Scotiabank credit card that you hold, all the points earned from different Scotiabank credit cards will be pooled into a single Scene+ account going forward.
• If you were to cancel a Scotiabank credit card, you previously had 60 days to redeem your Scotia Rewards points or they’d be forfeited. Now, these points will remain safe with Scene+ even if you cancel your card.
• The points you earn from your Scotiabank credit card may post to your Scene+ account along with your monthly statements, rather than instantly after each purchase (as is the case with most co-branded credit cards).

This arrangement also makes Scotiabank unique among Canada’s Big 5 banks as the only bank that doesn’t issue their own in-house rewards currency.

Scotiabank now has no counterpart to RBC Avion , TD Rewards, CIBC Aventura, or BMO Rewards. Technically speaking, they only have co-branded Scene+ credit cards, even though they function very much like an in-house rewards currency and are joint-owned by Scotiabank along with Cineplex.

Use Scene+ Points for Any Travel Purchase

Scotia Rewards points were considered one of the most powerful secondary points currencies that a Canadian traveller can collect. Fortunately, that isn’t changing with Scene+.

They’re of secondary importance because their redemption value is limited to 1 cent per point (cpp) against travel purchases. If you have 40,000 Scene+ points from signing up for the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card , you can only redeem them for stuff that’s worth $400 – and not a cent more.

On the other hand, they’re powerful because it’s extremely easy to redeem them for 1cpp. Simply pay for travel using your Scotiabank credit card, and you can redeem your points as a statement credit against any travel purchase.

Unlike rival in-house points programs from TD, CIBC, and BMO, there’s no need to book through a dedicated portal or anything like that. This also allows you to redeem your Scene+ points at 1cpp towards stuff that can’t otherwise be booked on points in the traditional sense, such as car rentals, train tickets, cruises, or (despite some initial technical difficulties) public transit or rideshares.

To use Scene+ points this way, you need to make a minimum redemption of 5,000 points (against $50 in travel expenses). Also, unlike with Scotia Rewards before, it seems you can no longer apply points to partially cover a single transaction, which may be an inconvenience as you try to redeem against larger purchases.

Earn 3x Scene+ Points on Hotels and Car Rentals

With the sun setting on Scotia Rewards, you’ll now have access to the new Scene+ Travel portal powered by Expedia.

You’ll earn 3x Scene+ points on hotels and car rentals booked through Scene+ Travel, in addition to the credit card rewards you earn for making a travel purchase.

As long as the price you see with Scene+ Travel is the same as what you’d otherwise pay, it could make sense to book through Scene+ Travel for an extra 3x Scene+ points (equivalent to a 3% return) on top of the points you earn from your credit card.

Keep in mind that booking chain hotels through third-party travel agencies is rarely a good idea. You’re usually better off booking directly with a loyalty program like Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors to earn points, rack up elite qualifying nights, and enjoy your elite benefits. 

Even if you’re staying with a non-chain property, you could book luxury hotels through third-party booking services like Virtuoso or Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts , or cheaper properties using Hotels.com for an average 10% return . 

On the other hand, booking car rentals through Scene+ Travel could be a good idea for that extra 3% return. 

However, you’ll still want to weigh this against booking directly with the car rental agency for elite status benefits, or against booking portals that you could use – for example, Aeroplan Elite Status members are entitled to 3x Aeroplan points on car rental bookings made through the Aeroplan portal , so that would be more valuable than Scene+ Travel’s 3x Scene+ points.

Nevertheless, it’s a useful option to have around for Scotiabank credit card holders. 

Other Ways to Earn Scene+ Points

Scene+ has introduced Scene+ Offers, individual partnerships with specific merchants where you can earn bonus rewards.

I’d say these offers are more akin to RBC Offers or Neo and Brim ‘s rewards programs, rather than Amex Offers . Still, it’s worth checking to see if there’s any extra value you can get here.

You can use these offers as a Scene+ member even if you don’t have a Scotiabank credit card. Note that the 15x rates are relative to the base rate of 1 point per $3 spent that Scene+ members earn at partner merchants, so really it amounts to a 5% return.

However, if you do have a Scotiabank credit card, these offers are separate from credit card rewards, and the bonus points earned will stack with them. So with 5x rewards on dining from your credit card, plus a 5% return with a Scene+ Offer, you could get 10 points per dollar spent in total.

Here’s an example of the terms and conditions from a Scene+ Offer:

* 15X Scene+ points bonus offer is valid on purchases made by December 31, 2021 only, at participating Bier Markt restaurants. Valid for one time use only. Once you have loaded your offer, you will be directed to a confirmation page. Scene+ members only need to present their Scene+ membership card at the time of payment to earn 15 Scene+ points for every $3.00 spent on the purchase of food and beverages (excluding alcohol where required by law), less all taxes, gratuities and service or delivery charges, to a maximum of 5,000 bonus Scene+ points per transaction. Valid for dine-in and walk-in/take-out orders only. Members must ensure that they receive the confirmation page when loading the offer. In the event of a dispute, Scene+ is not responsible for issuing bonus points to any member that does not receive the confirmation page. Only one (1) bonus points offer per transaction. Cannot be combined with any other offers including but not limited to free appetizers, two can dine, discounts and specials/ feature menu items. Scene+ membership cards are limited to earning Scene+ points on a maximum of three (3) transactions per day across all participating Recipe restaurants. Some restrictions and limitations may apply. ®Trademarks of Recipe Unlimited Corporation, used under license.

Other Ways to Redeem Scene+ Points

In addition to statement credit for travel expenses, you can also redeem points at 1cpp via Scene+ Travel. You can pay with a mix of cash and points, making this a good way to use up a leftover balance that you’re unable to use for a statement credit.

Aside from that, there are a few other ways to redeem Scene+ points, but the value is always best if used for travel. Here are a few other ways you can use your rewards:

• Cineplex movie tickets
• Apple and Best Buy merchandise
• Statement credit against non-travel purchases (0.33 cents per point)

Occasionally you may find redemptions at 1 cent per point, but never more. Since it’s easy enough to use points for a refundable booking , I don’t see any advantage to using them for anything other than travel.

Scotia Rewards and SCENE have merged to become Scene+. You can find all the details on the Scotiabank website.

The changes are mostly cosmetic in nature, with both programs rolling into one but continuing to function as they did before. Like Scotia Rewards before them, Scene+ points will remain useful for offsetting the costs of travel outside of flights and hotels.

If I’m being honest, I do wish Scotiabank and the other Big 5 banks outside of RBC would take the leap of making their rewards programs even more interesting by adding a couple of airline or hotel transfer partners one of these days – but in the absence of greater competition among the Big 5 banks , I’m just relieved that Scotiabank hasn’t taken a step backwards as they tweak their strong program, albeit one of secondary importance.

• Earn  20,000 Scene+ points  upon spending $1,000 in the first three months
• Earn an  additional 20,000 Scene+ points  upon spending $7,500 in the first year
• Earn 6x Scene+ points at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, FreshCo, and more
• Plus, earn 1x 5x Scene+ points on groceries, dining, and entertainment
• Also, earn 1x 3x Scene+ points on gas, transit, and select streaming services
• Redeem points for statement credit for any travel expense
• No foreign transaction fees
• Enjoy the exclusive benefits of being an American Express cardholder
• Annual fee: $120

Prince of Travel is Canada’s leading resource for using frequent flyer miles, credit card points, and loyalty programs to travel the world at a fraction of the price.

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All you need to know about Scene+: the merger of Scotia Rewards and SCENE

The merge of Scotia Rewards and SCENE programs

*** Update November 25, 2021: The launch of Scene + has been postponed. It will take place by December 31, 2021. Originally it was November 22, 2021.

*** Update December 3rd 2021: Confirmation of the date of change (13 December 2021)

Scene+ is a joint venture between Scotiabank and Cineplex . Scotiabank owns the Scotia Rewards program, and Cineplex owns the SCENE program. They will merge their respective rewards programs to create Scene+ .

Good news: the valuation and accumulation of points will remain the same. This new program will allow you to earn and redeem Scene+ points on :

• entertainment
• travel purchases
• all purchases
• and banking services.

Between December 4th and 12th 2021, the SCENE website and application will be inaccessible. During this period, you will continue to earn points. Then, as of December 13, 2021, SCENE+ will be in effect.

SCENE Points and Scotia Bonus Points will be transferred at a 1:1 rate to a SCENE+ account.

For SCENE members, their SCENE membership number and login details will remain the same . They will be able to continue to use the existing physical card or the digital card on the application, which will become SCENE+.

For those who have Scotia Rewards and are not SCENE members, a new account will be created . A digital SCENE+ membership card will be sent by email by December 31, 2021.

At this time, SCENE members can redeem their points for meals at partner restaurants (Swiss Chalet, Harvey’s, etc.) and entertainment purchases at Cineplex theatres.

From now on, the SCENE points will be much more versatile as Scene+ points. They will not expire as long as the member retains a Scotiabank product eligible for the Scene+ program. Once this product is closed, points will expire after 24 months of inactivity on the Scene+ account.

Here are the changes to the rewards, from the perspective of a member of the former SCENE program.

Earn points with banking packages

You can earn Scene+ points with the following Scotiabank accounts for debit card purchases:

• Scotiabank Ultimate Package ($30.95/month or $0 with a balance of $5,000 or more)
• Scotiabank Preerred Package ($16.95/month or $0 with a balance of $4,000 or more)
• Scotiabank Student Banking Advantage Plan ($0 if student)
• Savings Program for Youth ($0 for 18 years and months)

All others will not earn Scene+ points.

The ratio of points earned on debit card purchases will remain the same . It will be 1 Scene+ point/$5 in debit card purchases and 1 point/$1 spent at Cineplex using an eligible account.

If members were collecting points in an account that no longer allows it, they will have to switch their bank account to one of the four above.

Earning Scene+ points with credit cards

There will be no change for credit cards , except for the name given to the points!

The existing physical card will not be replaced as a result of these changes, nor will the accumulation ratio change. Scotia Bonus Points will be converted to Scene+ Points at a rate of 1: 1 on December 13, 2021.

Earning rates will remain the same .

Here are the two best current offers:

Redeem Scene+ points

Scene+ points can be redeemed for :

• movie tickets, concession items and meals at Cineplex
• meals in participating restaurants
• travel with the “Scene+ Travel Service” and “Redeem Points for Travel” options,
• Apple and Best Buy items
• physical or electronicgift cards and prepaid cards,
• credits to your Scotiabank card account with the “Redeem for Credit” option

These changes are apparently positive in simplifying things through unifying these two programs.

There is no devaluation and there are more opportunities to redeem and earn points.

Scene+ Frequently Asked Questions

What changes will be made to scotia rewards.

SCENE and Scotia Bonus Points programs merge to become Scene+. You’ll still have access to the rewards you love from your Scotia Rewards program, including travel, Apple and Best Buy catalogues and more.

All Scotiabank products that used to earn Scotia Rewards points will now earn Scene+ points as of November 22, 2021. Existing points will automatically be transferred to Scene+ at equal value.

When will these changes take place?

The Scene+ Rewards Program will be effective November 22, 2021.

Please note that no points in any form can be redeemed from the SCENE and Scotia Rewards programs from November 15 to 22 while these changes are being made. Most point redemption options will be unavailable between these dates. You may also experience other service interruptions or delays during this period. We apologize for any inconvenience during the implementation of our rewards program improvements.

During this period, you will continue to earn points on all eligible transactions, but they will not be posted to your Scene+ membership account until November 22, 2021.

Also of note:

From November 18 to 21, SCENE members will not be able to earn or redeem SCENE points at partner restaurants Swiss Chalet, Harvey’s, East Side Marios, Montana’s, Kelseys, Bier Markt, Fionn MacCools, D’Arcy McGee’s, Paddy Flaherty’s and Tir nan Og.

In addition, items from the Best Buy and Apply catalogues will not be available from November 10 to 22.

I am a current SCENE member, what will happen to my points balance?

If you are a current SCENE member, your SCENE points and/or Scotia Rewards points will be transferred to your Scene+ account on November 22, 2021, for equal value. For example, if you have a balance of 100 SCENE or Scotia Bonus points, 100 Scene+ points will be transferred to your Scene+ account. Your membership number will not change and your login details will remain the same.

I am not a SCENE member, what will happen to my Scotia Rewards?

If you are not currently a member of SCENE, you will automatically become a member and an account will be created for you on November 22, 2021. Your Scotia Bonus Points will be transferred to this new Scene+ account on the same day. For example, if you have a balance of 100 Scotia Bonus Points , 100 Scene+ points will be transferred to your new Scene+ account. You will receive a new Scene+ account number as of November 22, 2021.

What happens to my points if I cancel my Scotiabank credit card ?

If you cancel your credit card associated with the SCENE and/or Scotia Rewards program, your Scene+ points will remain available and included in your Scene+ account.

How can I use my Scene+ points to book travel?

You can earn and redeem points when you book your next trip with Scene+ Travel, our third-party travel service center that is part of the new Scene+ program. Earn 3 points for every dollar spent on hotel nights and car rentals when you book through Scene+ Travel.

Redeem your points in 100 point increments for $1 off your next hotel night or car rental when you book with Scene+ Travel.

Will I still be able to use my points for travel?

Yes, you will still be able to redeem your points to offset your travel expenses by using the “Use Points to Travel” option with the Scene+ program.

All posts by Caroline Tremblay

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• Bank Your Way

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Build up your points with Home Hardware

Scene+ members can now earn points and redeem rewards at Home Hardware and homehardware.ca. Plus, earn 2X the points with the Scotiabank ® Scene+ ™ Visa * Card.

Earn points faster with Scotiabank

Scotiabank offers the only credit and debit cards that allow you to earn Scene+ points on every transaction 

Shop at one of our stellar partner stores for your everyday needs.

Pay with an eligible Scotiabank credit or debit card to earn points.

Show your Scene+ membership card to earn even more points.

Get rewarded faster

From grocery to travel, to shopping and dining, earn up to 6X the Scene+ points faster †† with one of our award-winning Scene+ debit and credit cards.  

• Credit Cards

Ultimate Package 

Earn Scene+ TM  points

on everyday purchases and redeem them for travel, dining, entertainment, and more.

Earn up to $400 with a Scotiabank banking package and an investment plan. ‡

• Unlimited debit transactions 2 , Interac e-Transfer † transactions, and Scotia International Money Transfers. ± 
• Up to $150 annual fee waiver each year on select credit cards. 9

Preferred Package 

on everyday purchases and redeem them for travel, dining, entertainment, and more 

• Unlimited debit transactions 2 and Interac e-Transfer † transactions 
• Up to $150 annual fee waiver for the first year on select credit cards 8

Scotiabank ®*  Scene+ ™ Visa *  Card

2X the Scene+ points 4

for every $1 spent at Sobeys, Safeway, Foodland & Participating Co-ops, FreshCo and more.

for every $1 spent at Home Hardware.

for every $1 spent on purchases made at Cineplex.

1X the Scene+ points 4

for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases.

Scotiabank Passport ®*  Visa Infinite * Card

3X the Scene+ points 3

for every $1 spent at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland & Participating Co-ops and more.

2X the Scene+ points 3

for every $1 spent on groceries at other eligible grocery stores, dining, entertainment, and daily transit.

1X the Scene+ points 3

Scotiabank ®* Gold American ®  Express Card

6X the Scene+ points 5

for every $1 CAD spent in Canada on at Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo, Foodland and more.

5X the Scene+ points 5

for every $1 CAD spent in Canada on groceries at other eligible grocery stores, dining, and entertainment.

3X the Scene+ points 5

for every $1 CAD spent in Canada on gas, transit and select streaming.

1X the Scene+ points 5

Scotiabank ®* American Express ®  Card

3X the Scene+ points 10

for every $1 spent at Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo, Foodland and more.

2X the Scene+ points 10

for every $1 spent on groceries at other eligible grocery stores, dining, entertainment, gas, daily transit, and select streaming services purchases.

1X the Scene+ points 10

for every $1 spent on other eligible purchases.

Scotiabank ®* Platinum American Express ®  Card

Student Banking Advantage ® Plan 

Earn Scene+ points 

on debit transactions 15  

A worry-free account matched for student life 

• No monthly account fee 13
• Unlimited debit transactions 12  and Interac e-Transfer † transactions 14

Getting There Savings Program for Youth 

Earn Scene+ points

on debit transactions 15

• Unlimited debit and Interac e-Transfer †  transactions 12,14

Scotiabank ® Scene+ ™ Visa * Card for Students

for every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Foodland & Participating Co-ops, FreshCo and more.

New! Discover your credit card rewards

Enter your monthly spending details to compare Scotiabank's credit card benefits and calculate your rewards.  

Join the millions of Canadians  who love Scene+

What is scene+.

Scene+ offers members rewards their way – allowing them to earn and redeem Scene+ points for entertainment, movies, travel, shopping, dining, and banking.

Members can also accelerate their earning power with eight  Scotiabank credit and debit cards .

To learn more about all the ways to earn and redeem with Scene+, please visit  www.sceneplus.ca/en-ca/how-it-works .

What if I do not want this reward program?

We take pride in providing expert advice and excellent service to find solutions for our customers. If you don’t think this program fits your needs, we are available to discuss other banking options that may work for you. Please visit your local branch or call us at 1-800-472-6842 .

Where can I view my points?

You can view your points through the Scotiabank App or by logging in to Scotia OnLine.

You can also see your points by logging into sceneplus.ca

Please note that your total points shown include all of the Scene+ points that you have earned with your eligible Scotiabank payment cards and your Scene+ membership card.

Points are updated within 2-3 business days.

Will my Scene+ points expire under the new Scene+ program?

No, your Scene+ points will not expire as long as your Scotiabank product that is eligible for the Scene+ program remains open.

If you close your Scotiabank product you will remain an active Scene+ member and points will only expire after 24 months of inactivity.

For more information on Scene+ points please visit www.sceneplus.ca/en-ca/how-it-works .

I’m already a Scene+ member, how do I find my Scene+ membership number?

You can get your Scene+ membership number emailed to you by visiting www.sceneplus.ca/en-ca/send-my-card .

Scene+ Terms & Conditions and Your Privacy

It’s always a good idea to look over the Terms & Conditions and privacy policies.

For answers, check out our FAQs.

Scene+ Customer Service: 1-866-586-2805

Scotiabank Customer Service: 1-800-472-6842

Offer Description and Conditions: The 7,500 Bonus Scene+   Points Offer (the “Offer”) applies only to new Scotiabank Scene+ Visa credit card accounts (“Account”) opened by July 1, 2024 and is subject to the below terms and conditions. Offer may be changed, cancelled or extended without notice at any time and cannot be combined with any other offers.

7,500 Bonus Scene+ Point Offer Description and Conditions: To be eligible for 2,500 bonus Scene+   points (the “2,500 Point Bonus”), you must open a new Account by July 1, 2024 and have at least $250 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account in the first 3 months of the Account open date. To be eligible for an additional 5,000 bonus Scene+ points (the “Additional 5,000 Point Bonus”), you must have at least $1,000 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account in your first 3 months of Account open date. Eligible purchases include purchases (less any refunds, returns or other similar credits) but do not include payments, cash advances (including balance transfers or cash-like transactions), interest, fees or other charges.

The 2,500 Point Bonus will be credited to the primary cardholder’s Scene+ account within approximately 2-3 business days after the qualifying $250 in eligible purchases being posted to your Account within the first 3 months of Account open date, provided the Account is open and in good standing. The Additional 5,000 Point Bonus will be credited to the primary cardholder’s Scene+ account within approximately 2-3 business days after the qualifying $1,000 in eligible purchases being posted to your Account within the first 3 months of Account open date, provided the Account is open and in good standing. The Account is considered in good standing if it is not past due or over limit and the Cardholder(s) is not in breach of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the Account.  All other terms and conditions of the Program Terms continue to apply during the Offer period.

Eligibility and Exclusions: Individuals who are currently or were previously primary or secondary cardholders of a Scotiabank personal credit card in the past 2 years, including those that switch from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card, as well as employees of Scotiabank, are not eligible for the Offer. Subject to the above exclusions, Scotiabank small business credit cardholders are also eligible for the Offer.

Rates and Fees: There is currently no annual fee for the primary card and no fee for each additional card (including those issued to co-borrowers and supplementary cardholders). The current preferred annual interest rates for the Account are: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and cash-like transactions).  All rates, fees, features and benefits are outlined in the Application Disclosure Statement and are subject to change.

Customers earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent using their Scene+ ScotiaCard debit card on purchases made at Cineplex Entertainment theatres and online at  cineplex.com  . Gift cards are excluded. Maximum Scene+ points that can be earned per transaction are 300. Maximum daily Scene+ points that can be earned are 600. Some conditions and limitations apply. 

Visit  www.sceneplus.ca   for complete details.

You are awarded three (3) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 purchase made at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland, Foodland & Participating Co-ops, FreshCo, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, Rachelle Béry, Les Marchés, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà by Safeway and Voilà par IGA locations charged and posted to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Account. This list of eligible grocers may be changed from time to time without notice. See full list of participating merchants across Canada at  scotiabank.com/participatingstores . 

You are awarded two (2) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 purchase on all other grocery (not listed above), dining, entertainment, and daily transit purchases charged and posted to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Account (the earn rates for each of the above categories and merchants are referred to as the “Accelerated Earn Rates”). See below for the Spend Threshold that applies to this Accelerated Earn Rate.

You are awarded one (1) Scene+ Point for every $1.00 in all other purchases of goods and services charged to the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Account (the “Regular Earn Rate”). 

Spend Threshold for the Accelerated Earn Rate (Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Accounts only):  You will earn the Accelerated Earn Rate on the first $50,000 in purchases made on your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite account (the “Account”) annually at the following: purchases made at merchants classified in the Visa credit card network as: Grocery Stores and Supermarkets; Eating Places and Restaurants, Drinking Places, Fast Food Restaurants; Entertainment including Motion Picture Theatres, Theatrical Producers, Ticket Agencies, Bands, Orchestras, Miscellaneous Entertainers; Railroads, Local and Suburban Commuter Passenger Transportation, including Ferries, Passenger Railways, Taxicabs and Limousines, Bus Lines, Transportation Services (Not Elsewhere Classified). Some merchants may sell other products/services or are separate merchants who are located on the premises of these merchants, but are classified by the credit card network in another manner, in which case this added benefit would not apply. The annual spend calculation for the $50,000 maximum threshold is calculated annually from January 1st to December 31st each year. You will earn 1 point per $1 on purchases made on the Account after the 2 points per $1 / $50,000 annual spend maximum is reached and on all other purchases made on the Account. Scene+ points are only awarded on purchases. Scene+ points are not awarded for cash advances, balance transfers, Scotia® Credit Card Cheques, payments, returns, refunds or other similar credits, fees or interest or other charges. All dollar amounts are in Canadian currency unless otherwise stated.

Regular Earn Rate:  You are awarded one (1) Scene+ Point for every $1.00 in all purchases of goods and services charged to the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Account (the “Account”).

Accelerated Earn Rates:  You will earn accelerated earn rates on the following eligible purchases charged to the Account:

Grocery Stores

You are awarded two (2) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 purchase made at Sobeys, Safeway, participating IGA, Foodland, Foodland & Participating Co-ops, FreshCo, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, Rachelle Béry, Les Marchés Tradition, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà by Safeway and Voilà par IGA locations charged and posted to the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Account. This list of eligible grocers may be changed from time to time without notice. See full list of participating merchants across Canada at  scotiabank.com/participatingstores .

Home Hardware Stores

You are awarded two (2) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 purchase made at eligible Home Hardware, Home Building Centre, Home Hardware Building Centre, Home Furniture locations in Canada and online at homehardware.ca charged and posted to the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Account. The list of eligible locations may be changed from time to time without notice.  See full list of eligible locations across Canada at  scotiabank.com/participatingstores .

You are awarded two (2) Scene+ Points for every $1.00 purchase made at Cineplex theaters, the Cineplex App and online at  cineplex.com  charged and posted to the Account.

Eligibility:  Only purchases earn Scene+ Points. Cash advances (including Balance Transfers, and Cash-Like Transactions), fees, interest or other charges, returns, refunds or other similar credits to your Account do not qualify for Scene+ Points. Scene+ Points will not be posted to an Account that is not in good standing when purchases are made or when a statement is issued, or if the Account is not open when a statement is issued. See your Scene+ Points terms at  www.scotiabank.com/sceneplus  for full program details.

All dollar amounts are in Canadian currency unless otherwise stated.

You are awarded six (6) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 CAD purchase made at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland, FreshCo, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà by IGA, Voilà by Safeway, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, IGA West, Les Marchés Tradition, Rachelle Béry, and Co-Op locations charged and posted to the Scotiabank Gold American Express Account. This list of eligible grocers may be changed from time to time without notice. See full list of participating merchants across Canada at  scotiabank.com/participatingstores . 

You are awarded five (5) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 CAD purchase on all other grocery (not listed above), dining, and entertainment charged and posted to the Scotiabank Gold American Express Account. You are awarded three (3) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 CAD purchase in gas, public transit and select streaming services purchases charged and posted to the Scotiabank Gold American Express Account (the earn rates for each of the above categories and merchants are referred to as the “Accelerated Earn Rates”). You are awarded one (1) Scene+ Point for every $1.00 in all other purchases of goods and services charged to the Scotiabank Gold American Express Account (the “Regular Earn Rate”). 

You will earn the accelerated Scene+ Points (6X, 5X or 3X as applicable) under the Scene+ program if you make purchases in Canadian currency only. For purchases that are made in foreign currency, you will only earn 1 Scene+ Point for every $1 charged to the Scotiabank American Express® credit card once that foreign currency has been converted into Canadian dollars.

Merchant classifications – American Express network Purchases must be made at merchants classified through the American Express network with a Merchant Category Code (“MCC”) that identifies them in the American Express network in the “grocery”, “dining”, “entertainment”, “gas”, “streaming service” or “transit” category. Purchases at merchants where these categories are not their primary business do not qualify. Some merchants may (i) provide other goods or services; or (ii) have separate merchants located on their premises that may not be classified with an MCC under the Accelerated Earn Rate categories and such purchases will not earn the Accelerated Earn Rate as applicable. The Accelerated Earn Rates for the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card applies to the first $50,000 in purchases charged to the Scotiabank Gold American Express Account annually at merchants qualifying for the Accelerated Earn Rate, calculated annually from January 1st to December 31st each year. Once you exceed the applicable annual spend threshold, you will continue earning points at the Regular Earn Rate of one (1) Scene+ Point per $1.00 in purchases charged and posted to the Scotiabank Gold American Express Account. Eligibility: Only purchases earn Scene+ Points. Cash advances (including Balance Transfers and Cash-Like Transactions), fees, interest or other charges, returns, refunds or other similar credits to your Account do not qualify for Scene+ Points. Scene+ Points will not be posted to an Account that is not in good standing when purchases are made or when a statement is issued, or if the Account is not open when a statement is issued. See your Scene+ Points terms at  www.scotiabank.com/sceneplus  for full program details. All dollar amounts are in Canadian currency unless otherwise stated.

Offer Description and Conditions: The 30,000 Bonus Scene+ Points Offer and First Year Annual Fee Waiver (the “Offer”) applies only to new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite credit card accounts (“Accounts”) that are opened by July 1, 2024 subject to the conditions below.  We will waive the annual fee for the primary card issued before July 1, 2024 on the Account for the first year only.    Offer may be changed, cancelled or extended at any time without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers.  

Plus, as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite credit cardholder you are always eligible to earn an annual 10,000 Scene+ point bonus when you spend at least $40,000 in everyday eligible purchases annually on your Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite account. Conditions apply - see below for further details.

30,000 Bonus Scene+ Point Offer Description and Conditions: To qualify for the 30,000 bonus Scene+ points (the “Bonus Offer”), you must have at least $1,000 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account within the first 3 months of the Account open date. Eligible purchases include purchases (less any refunds, returns or other similar credits) but do not include payments, cash advances (including balance transfers or cash-like transactions), interest, fees or other charges. The 30,000 Bonus Offer points will be credited to the primary cardholder’s Scene+ account within approximately 2-3 business days following the qualifying $1,000 in eligible purchases being posted to your Account within 3 months from the Account open date, provided the Account is open and in good standing. The Account is considered in good standing if it is not past due or over limit and the Cardholder(s) is not in breach of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the Account. Bonus Offer applies to new Accounts only opened by July 1, 2024.  All other terms and conditions of the Program Terms continue to apply during the Offer period.

10,000 Annual Bonus Scene+ Point Conditions: As a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite credit cardholder you can earn an annual Scene+ point bonus starting at 10,000 Scene+ points when you make at least $40,000 in eligible purchases annually on your Account each year (12-months). Annual period starts from the Account open date and resets every 12 months thereafter. You will earn 2,000 bonus Scene+ points for every additional $10,000 in eligible purchases thereafter in that same year, after the $40,000 annual spend has been reached.  Eligible purchases include purchases (less any refunds, returns or other similar credits) but do not include payments, cash advances (including balance transfers or cash-like transactions), interest, fees or other charges.

The Annual bonus Scene+ points will be credited within approximately 2-3 business days after you have met the $40,000 annual spend threshold on the Account and within approximately 2-3 business days after you have met each additional $10,000 annual spend threshold on the Account, provided your Account is open and in good standing (as defined above).

First Year Annual Fee Waiver Offer Description and Conditions: We will waive the annual fee for the primary card issued before July 1, 2024 on the Account for the first year only.

Offer Eligibility and Exclusions: Individuals who are currently or were previously primary or secondary cardholders of a Scotiabank personal credit card in the past 2 years, including those that switch from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card, as well as employees of Scotiabank, are not eligible for the Offer. Subject to the above exclusions, Scotiabank small business credit cardholders are also eligible for the Offer.

Rates and Fees: The current annual fee is $150 for the primary card, $0 for the first additional card and $50 for each additional card thereafter (including those issued to co-borrowers and supplementary cardholders).

The current preferred annual interest rates for this Account are: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and cash-like transactions). All rates, fees, features and benefits are outlined in the Application Disclosure Statement and are  subject to change. 

Offer Description and Conditions: The 40,000 Bonus Scene+ Points  Offer (the “Offer”) applies only to new Scotiabank Gold American Express credit card accounts (“Accounts”) opened by October 31, 2023 and is subject to the conditions below. Offer may be changed, cancelled or extended without notice at any time and cannot be combined with any other offers. 

40,000 Bonus Scene+ Point Offer Description and Conditions: To be eligible for 20,000 bonus Scene+ points (the “20,000 Point Bonus”), you must open a new Account by October 31, 2023 and have at least $1,000 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account in the first 3 months of the Account open date. To be eligible for an additional 20,000 bonus Scene+ points (the “Annual 20,000 Point Bonus”), you must have at least $7,500 in eligible purchases posted to your new Account in your first year (12 months) of Account open date. Eligible purchases include purchases (less any refunds, returns or other similar credits) but do not include payments, cash advances (including balance transfers or cash-like transactions), interest, fees or other charges. 

The 20,000 Point Bonus will be credited to the primary cardholder’s Scene+ account within approximately 2-3 business days after the qualifying $1,000 in eligible purchases being posted to your Account within the first 3 months of Account open date, provided the Account is open and in good standing. The Annual 20,000 Point Bonus will be credited to the primary cardholder’s Scene+ account within approximately 2-3 business days after you have met the $7,500 annual spend threshold on the Account, provided your Account is open and in good standing. The Account is considered in good standing if it is not past due or over limit and the Cardholder(s) is not in breach of the Revolving Credit Agreement that applies to the Account. 

Rates and Fees: The current annual fee is $120 for the primary card and $29 for each additional card.

The current preferred annual interest rates for the Account are: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances (including balance transfers and cash-like transactions). 

All rates, fees, features and benefits are outlined in the Application Disclosure Statement and are subject to change.

You are awarded three (3) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 purchase made at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland, FreshCo, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà by IGA, Voilà by Safeway, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, IGA West, Les Marchés Tradition, Rachelle Béry, and Co-Op locations charged and posted to the Scotiabank American Express Account. This list of eligible grocers may be changed from time to time without notice. See full list of participating merchants across Canada at  scotiabank.com/participatingstores . 

Additionally, you are awarded two (2) Scene+ Points for every eligible $1.00 purchase all other grocery (not listed above), dining, entertainment, gas, daily transit and select streaming services charged and posted to the Scotiabank American Express Account (the “Account”) (the earn rates for each of the above categories and merchants are referred to as the “Accelerated Earn Rates”). You are awarded one (1) Scene+ Point for every $1.00 in all other purchases of goods and services charged to the Scotiabank American Express Account (the “Regular Earn Rate”). 

Merchant classifications – American Express network Purchases must be made at merchants classified through the American Express network with a Merchant Category Code (“MCC”) that identifies them in the American Express network in the “grocery”, “dining”, “entertainment”, “gas”, “streaming service” or “transit” category. Purchases at merchants where these categories are not their primary business do not qualify. Some merchants may (i) provide other goods or services; or (ii) have separate merchants located on their premises that may not be classified with an MCC under the Accelerated Earn Rate categories and such purchases will not earn the Accelerated Earn Rate as applicable. 

Scene+ Points are awarded for purchases charged to your Scotiabank Platinum American Express Credit Card Account (“the Account”). The regular earn rate is two (2) Points per $1.00 in purchases charged and posted to the Account.

Eligibility: Only purchases earn Scene+ Points. Cash advances (including Balance Transfers, Scotia® Credit Card Cheques and Cash-Like Transactions), fees, interest or other charges, returns, refunds or other similar credits to your Account do not qualify for Scene+ Points. Scene+ Points will not be posted to an Account that is not in good standing when purchases are made or when a statement is issued, or if the Account is not open when a statement is issued. See your Scene+ Points terms at  www.scotiabank.com/sceneplus  for full program details.

The Accelerated Earn Rates for the Scotiabank American Express Card applies to the first $50,000 in purchases charged to the Scotiabank American Express Account annually at merchants qualifying for the Accelerated Earn Rate, calculated annually from January 1st to December 31st each year. Once you exceed the applicable annual spend threshold, you will continue earning points at the Regular Earn Rate of one (1) Scene+ Point per $1.00 in purchases charged and posted to the Scotiabank American Express Account.

Eligibility: Only purchases earn Scene+ Points. Cash advances (including Balance Transfers, Scotia† Credit Card Cheques and Cash-Like Transactions), fees, interest or other charges, returns, refunds or other similar credits to your Account do not qualify for Scene+ Points. Scene+ Points will not be posted to an Account that is not in good standing when purchases are made or when a statement is issued, or if the Account is not open when a statement is issued. See your Scene+ Points terms at  www.scotiabank.com/sceneplus  for full program details

Savings and reward potential in first 12 months based on the following card usage and offers:

$400 in travel rewards (40,000 bonus Scene+ points) when you spend $1,000 within your first 3 months (to earn 20,000 points) and when you spend $7,500 within your first 12 months (to earn an additional 20,000 points); 

$33 in foreign transaction fee savings based on average first year annual foreign spend per account (save the 2.5% foreign transaction fee typically charged by other card issuers);

$247 in travel rewards (24,709 Scene+ points) on everyday purchases based on average annual first year spend on the Account with an average spend of 21% in 5x accelerator and 7% in 3X accelerator categories.

Potential First Year Value = up to $680

Actual savings and rewards earned will depend on individual card usage and eligibility for applicable offers. Conditions apply.

The Scotiabank $400 Cash Bonus Bundle Offer (the “Offer”) is available between March 1, 2024 and July 31, 2024 (the “Offer Period”) to individuals who open new eligible accounts. Subject to the conditions below, eligible customers can earn $350 when they open a new Preferred Package or Ultimate Package and complete certain qualifying transactions and an additional $50 boost when they open a new eligible Registered Retirement Savings Plan, Tax-Free Savings Account or First Home Savings Account (each an “Eligible Registered Account”) with either The Bank of Nova Scotia or Scotia Securities Inc. (together, “Scotiabank”) and complete certain qualifying transactions.

For the purposes of this Offer, the following Scotia registered accounts are eligible for the Offer:  Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs, excluding locked-in plans such as LIRAs and LRSPs) (each an “RRSP”), Scotia Tax-Free Savings Accounts (each a “TFSA”) and Scotia First Home Savings Accounts (each a “FHSA”). Scotia RRIFs (including locked-in income plans), RESPs, RDSPs, and non-registered Scotia Investment Accounts are not eligible for the Offer.

$350 Cash Bonus for Preferred or Ultimate Package Conditions: To qualify for the $350 cash bonus (the “Package Bonus”), you must:

1. Open a new Ultimate Package or new Preferred Package (the “Eligible Chequing Account”) during the Offer Period; and

2. Complete any two (2) of the following activities in your Eligible Chequing Account within 60 days of Eligible Chequing Account opening:

·         Set up and clear at least one eligible automated and recurring direct deposit†, such as payroll or pension, which will recur monthly for a minimum of six (6) consecutive months, or

·         Set up and clear a minimum of two (2) separate eligible recurring pre-authorized transactions† with a minimum value of at least $50 per transaction which will each recur monthly for a minimum of six (6) consecutive months, or

·         Make at least one (1) eligible online bill payment† of at least $50 through the Scotiabank Mobile App or through Scotia OnLine.

† Click here for a list of eligible direct deposits, pre-authorized transactions and online bill payments. Notwithstanding a transaction may be included in these lists, certain exclusions may still apply and Scotiabank reserves the right to modify these lists and to determine whether a specific direct deposit, pre-authorized transaction or bill payment is eligible for the Package Bonus. Fund transfers initiated to other Scotiabank accounts (one time or recurring, e.g. credit card or savings account), to chequing or savings accounts held at other financial institutions, or to payment processing firms, are not eligible for the Package Bonus.

$50 Registered Account Bundle Conditions: To qualify for the $50 cash bonus (the “Bundle Bonus”), you must meet the conditions for the $350 Package Bonus, and:

1. During the Offer Period and within 60 days of opening your Eligible Chequing Account, open a New Eligible Registered Account; and

2. Complete any one (1) of the following activities in your Eligible Registered Account within 60 days of Eligible Registered Account opening:

·         Set up and clear a recurring pre-authorized contribution (PAC) from any Scotiabank personal bank account of at least $50 total per month into your new Eligible Registered Account, which must recur monthly for a minimum of six (6) consecutive months, or

·         Contribute or transfer in a minimum qualifying Investment amount of $3,000 into your new Eligible Registered Account and maintain that minimum qualifying investment amount for a minimum of six (6) consecutive months.

Eligibility and Exclusions:   Individuals who are currently holders of, or who were previously holders within the last two (2) years of, a Scotiabank Chequing Account are not eligible for the Package Bonus. “Scotiabank Chequing Account” means any of the following accounts: Ultimate Package, Preferred Package, Scotia One Account, Basic Plus Bank Account, Basic Banking Plan, Basic Bank Account, Momentum Chequing, Power Chequing, Scotia One Service, Scotia Value, Student Banking Advantage Plan. Employees of Scotiabank are also not eligible for these Offers. In order to qualify for the Bundle Bonus the individual cannot have held the same type of Eligible Registered Account (as that opened during the Offer Period) with Scotiabank in the six (6) months preceding the Offer Period. 

General Terms: Provided all Package Bonus conditions outlined above have been met, the $350 Package Bonus will be deposited to the Eligible Chequing Account within approximately nine (9) months from Account open date. Provided all the Bundle Bonus conditions outlined above have been met, the additional $50 Bundle Bonus will be deposited to your Eligible Chequing Account within approximately thirteen (13) months from the Eligible Registered Account open date. You have 24 months from the date you believe you have fulfilled the Offer conditions to notify us if you have not received the applicable cash bonus so that we may confirm your eligibility.

For either cash bonus to be fulfilled, the Eligible Chequing Account and the Eligible Registered Account, as applicable, must be open and in good standing until the time of payout of the cash bonus. The Eligible Chequing Account is not in "good standing" if any of the following conditions are not met: (i) it has a negative balance exceeding the authorized overdraft limit, (ii) it has been in continuous overdraft for a period of three (3) consecutive months, or (iii) the Account holder is in breach of the Account agreement with Scotiabank. For purposes of this Offer, an Eligible Registered Account is not in 'good standing' if the account holder is in breach of the Eligible Registered Account agreement.  Customers are responsible to confirm their contribution limits noted on their most current Notice of Assessment issued by the Canada Revenue Agency prior to making any contribution to their Eligible Registered Account(s).  Scotiabank is not responsible for any contribution over a customer’s limit in connection with this Offer. For a spousal RRSP, the Bundle Bonus will be paid into the Eligible Chequing Account opened by the contributor.

This Offer is non-transferable and may not be duplicated. Limit of one (1) Package Bonus and one (1) Bundle Bonus per customer, regardless of the number of Eligible Chequing Accounts or Eligible Registered Accounts opened. If multiple Eligible Chequing Accounts or Eligible Registered Accounts are opened, only the first Eligible Chequing Account or first Eligible Registered Account opened, as applicable, will qualify for the respective Package Bonus or Bundle Bonus. For joint accounts, only one (1) $350 Package Bonus and one (1) $50 Bundle Bonus, as applicable, will be applied to the primary account holder’s Eligible Chequing Account. All rates, fees, features and benefits are subject to change. This Offer may be changed, cancelled or extended at any time without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers.

$300 in travel rewards (30,000 bonus Scene+ points) when you spend $1,000 within your first 3 months;

$100 in travel rewards (10,000 bonus Scene+ points) when you spend $40,000 annually on your Account each year (12-months).

$150 primary card fee waiver for the first year; 

$50 additional card fee waiver on your first additional card (including those issued to co-borrowers and supplementary cardholders) every year;

$104 in foreign transaction fee savings based on average first year annual foreign spend per account (save the 2.5% foreign transaction fee typically charged by other card issuers);

$287 in travel rewards (28,733 Scene+ points) on everyday purchases based on average annual first year spend per account with an average spend of 19% in 2x accelerator categories.

$350 value with a complimentary Visa Airport Companion Program Membership and 6 lounge passes (annual membership plus one free visit of approx. CAD$136/USD$99 plus 5 lounge passes at CDN$43/USD$31 per pass). Currency conversion as at November 9, 2023.

Potential First Year Value = up to $1,341

Members can access discounts and special features

Early booking unlocks great savings on your next trip with Scene+ Travel

Sign in to pay your way with scene+ points, any payment card, or a mix of both on flights, hotels, car rentals and more. plus you can earn points , even when you pay with points, frequently asked questions, why is early booking through scene+ travel a good idea.

Early booking can help you catch some great prices and offers to make your Scene+ points go further. With a little longer before you go, you have time to plan every detail of your trip – from practicalities like currency and insurance to arranging fun activities – and really look forward to exploring everything your dream destination has to offer.

Is free cancellation guaranteed with early booking through Scene+ Travel?

Early booking with Scene+ Travel sometimes includes free cancellation as an option. Free cancellation is a great way to plan a trip with no strings attached and keep your plans flexible to suit your lifestyle. Hotels often offer free cancellation up to a certain amount of days, making early booking a smart choice. However, free cancellation is not guaranteed. You must always check the cancellation policy details before you book.

How can I find the best early booking hotels on Scene+?

Unlocking an early booking discount on top hotels with Scene+ is simple: put in your preferred dates and destinations and use the filters to find everything from luxury hotels with 4- and 5-star ratings to more basic options that still check all your boxes. Look out for must-have amenities for your trip.

What kind of early booking discount does Scene+ Travel offer?

Early booking through Scene+ Travel unlocks a world of possibilities. You can grab a great early booking offer at destinations around the globe, with options to suit everyone from families to couples and people with pets. Use your Scene+ rewards to book hotels with excellent ratings, including luxury hotels . The only limitation: to get 20% off your trip, you must book 45 days in advance.

Home » The new Scene+ program is now live, find all the details here!

The new Scene+ program is now live, find all the details here!

Cineplex SCENE and Scotia Rewards members rejoice! Your revamped and combined Scene+ program is now here! After some technical issues causing the originally planned launch in November the program went live today.. well some of it was actually operable over the weekend but for the most part all of it went up today. 

For the most part the combined program isn’t much different at all from the two separate programs. The majority of the earn and burn in the new program matches that of the two old programs. What essentially has happened is that Cineplex SCENE members now get access to redemption options like travel rewards that were part of Scotia Rewards and Scotia Rewards members now get access to earning more points at places like Cineplex, their restaurant partners and more. Thus we won’t go into huge detail here on the earning and burning other than what we do see is new or worthy of further mention from our previous posts.

💳 Rwrds reminder: Get ready for Scene+ the merged program of Scotia Rewards and Cineplex SCENE 💳

Membership in the new program

The program is using Cineplex’s SCENE numbering/membership system as SCENE members points will transfer automatically to Scene+ and the membership number will remain the same. Points will transfer 1:1 from SCENE to Scene+. Scotia Rewards members who are not SCENE members will have a new Scene+ membership created for them and their Scotia Rewards balance will transfer over. Points will transfer 1:1 from Scotia Rewards to Scene+.

The big thing in earning is the combining of points – that is when you use your Scene+ card at a participating partner and pay for it with a Scotia card that earn Scene+ points all those points will pool into the same account. Before it would be split between the two programs so now earning is accelerated. Think of AIR MILES and Aeroplan here with their numerous partnerships where you earn with your loyalty card and then can earn on those purchases with one of their co-brand cards. 

A good example of this is one I mentioned in our last podcast of 2021 whereby if you eat at one of the restaurants that participate in Scene+ like Swiss Chalet, Montana’s etc. you’ll earn 1 Scene+ points per $3 spent (and any bonuses on top of that) and pay for it with your Scotia Gold American Express Card you’ll earn an additional 5 Scene+ points per dollar spent as that card earns 5x points on dining not to mention entertainment so you’ll want to use that card at Cineplex theatres as well! Of course that’s not your only Scene+ credit card option, there are others which you can check out here .

You basically now have the ability to earn a ton of points at once within the program when you shop at select retailers.

There are a couple of new earning options as well. The first is Scene+ Travel which I cover separately below and they have added one more partner of note to earn at and that’s Rakuten (thanks @joshnet for alerting us to this). This the online shopping portal formerly known as ebates.ca is now an earning partner of Scene+. The partnership sees them offering a $10 bonus when you join Rakuten and complete your first purchase of $25 or more. (Hint you can earn $30 cash back when you join via our link and spend $30 and then link your account your after) This is for new Rakuten members and is available until February 28. For existing Rakuten members and for those members making more purchases after their initial one you can earn 20% more cash back on purchases made through Rakuten when you link your Scene+ account to Rakuten. 

Click here to learn more and to link your accounts.

The redemption side doesn’t change a whole lot either here. All redemption rates remain the same and the two key takeaways are that those who are only members of Scene+ (nee Cineplex SCENE) can now redeem for some Scotia Rewards options – namely travel. And for Scotia cardholder who were earning points in Scotia Rewards you no longer have to wait to get to 5,000 points to redeem for travel. You can redeem as little as 100 points for a $1 credit towards any travel or redeem 1 point for 1 cent off when booking via Scene+ Travel. Plus Scotia Rewards members also now have access to all the movie redemption options that Cineplex SCENE has.

Scene+ Travel

The new Scene+ Travel booking portal is now available to all members. It was actually up and running for a little bit over the weekend as noted @Joshnet as he was able to login with his Scotia Rewards account and check out the new Scene+ Travel which is powered by Expedia.(a big thanks to him he’s been keeping me aware of so much going on with Scene+ over the past few months). As Josh mentioned it looks and feels a lot like ExpediaForTD which is the online travel portal for TD Rewards members. 

Scene+ members can book travel via this portal and choose to earn points on hotel or car rental purchases and you can choose to redeem points against any travel booked via the portal.

When you search for travel the results will show you all your options,  the cash price, how many Scene+ points you can earn (if it’s a hotel or car rental booking) and how many points in total it would take to redeem for the entire amount.

Once you click on the hotel you like the following will come up where you can choose to earn Scene+ points (you’ll have to check the box) or simply click on reserve to get your payment and redemption options

Once you click on ‘Reserve’ you’ll see the following on the next page:

As mentioned already you don’t need the entire amount of points however to redeem for the said travel booking. You can redeem as little as 1 point per this screenshot. You simply input the amount of points you want to use and it will then tell you how much you still have to pay with cash (well, with your credit card).

You’ll also see this summary on the page showing you how much of a discount you get with your points:

On the flights side you can redeem for any flights they bring up, in any fare classes aand they also give you the options to choose from within fare classes. Here’s economy class between Calgary and Toronto as an example:

And once selected, the points redemption for flights works exactly like it does for hotels:

Overall I am really impressed with the booking engine on Scene+ Travel. It is really easy to use, very intuitive and places all your options right in front of you making it super easy to use.

Technical issues

Technical issues delayed the launch of the program by several weeks and as expected there still seem to be some teething issues. This can be expected with any change or update to program let alone the combining of two programs. Here’s what we’ve seen so far:

Known issues so fare

• On Safari I could login to the general Scene+ website but could not login to the travel portal. However on Firefox I could login to Scene+ Travel (after I fixed an issue, see next bullet)
• When I first tried Scene+ on Firefox I received an error page. However when I removed old Scene and even some new Scene+ cookies the site worked fine on Firefox
• According to a thread on Red Flag Deals ( read it here ) the use points for any travel option is not working properly – at least for transit options that used to work under that option. It appears to be asking for roughly three times the points (or so) regularly required, that is 300 points for $1 rather than the 100 points for $1 that it used to be. Not sure is this an issue or if they no longer consider Transit part of travel.
• Credit card points accelerators not posting correctly. For example Joshnet mentioned his latest SkipTheDishes purchase only posted at 1x points instead of 5x points on his Scotia Gold American Express Card .
• Per the comment from Robsaw below: “The most significant glitch is the current inability for partial redemptions towards travel charges on the Scotia credit cards. Won’t let you redeem unless the full amount of points is available for any specific travel charge.”

If you come across any issues please let us know in the comments below as Scotia and Scene do monitor our posts and comments!

In the meantime I would recommend everyone keep a close eye on their accounts and purchases over the next few weeks as Scene+ works out the kinks and then you can follow up to request any missing points etc.

Wrapping it up

The new Scene+ program does seem really promising! I mean I know some parts of the old Scene program took a devaluation early in the year which was unfortunate but I think that was done in anticipation of this new program and its expanded earning capabilities with the credit cards. Overall though I think many members will be happy with the new program and the changes that have happened. The program as a whole definitely upped their game here and was the right move for them after Cineplex SCENE’s plans to become a coalition program fizzled years ago. Now, while still considered a mini-coalition program in our eyes, it is a big player in the market and the competitors will need to keep an eye on them as this transition and the new program kept most if not all of what was good from the two previous programs combined into one.

As always we’d love to hear your thoughts on the new program in the comments section below!

Click here to learn more about the new Scene+ Program

Credit cards.

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