u/Protection_Humble

Has anyone experienced this with a newly opened Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card?

I opened an Aspire Card through a new application, not an upgrade or product change from another Hilton card.
I was expecting the Free Night Reward that comes with opening the Aspire Card, but I was told that according to Amex, my account “will not earn an Annual Free Night Reward until the next renewal cycle.”

I’m confused because this is a completely new Aspire account, and my understanding of the Aspire terms is that the Free Night Reward for a new account should be delivered within approximately 8–14 weeks after opening, and then annually after renewal.

Has anyone had Amex tell them that a brand-new Aspire account would not receive the initial Free Night Reward and would have to wait until the first renewal?
If so, what was the reason? Was it eventually corrected, and did you receive the Free Night Reward?
I’m specifically asking about new Aspire applications, not upgrades/product changes from Surpass to Aspire.

I'm trying to decide between Hilton Maldives Amingiri and Milaidhoo Maldives for a 5-night stay and would love to hear from anyone who has stayed at one or both. Taking in consideration that I have Diamond status.

The things that matter most to me are:
Activities: snorkeling, excursions, water sports, house reef, things to do during the day.

Food: quality, variety, and especially the prices of restaurants and drinks. Is one noticeably more expensive than the other?

Rooms: Which resort has the better villas? I'm mainly interested in the overall feel, privacy, comfort, and whether the overwater or beach villas stand out.

I'd also love to know:
Which resort felt more luxurious?
Which had the better atmosphere for a couple?
If you've been to both, which one would you go back to and why?

Any photos, menus, or recent experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!