Ultimate Maine foodie road trip: How we put refreshed Amex Gold Card perks to the test

Nothing says summer vacation like an epic road trip: scenic ocean views, carefree beachside bike rides, eating lobster by the water and laughing with friends.For us, that meant packing our bags for coastal Maine. Between Portland's restaurant scene, iconic lobster shacks, lighthouse-studded coastlines and sleepy island bike rides, it was everything we were dreaming of in an early-summer getaway.ERIC ROSEN/THE POINTS GUYAnd along the journey, we were able to put the refreshed American Express® Gold Card, with a $325 annual fee (see rates and fees), to the test by earning bonus points on flights, saving on dining, using some built-in statement credits and enjoying the hotel benefits.SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUYSummer and Eric, here. We've been friends for nearly two decades. Back then, we used to meet up on mileage runs around the globe. These days, our travels have us checking out new hotels and up-and-coming destinations, but we still make time to get together whenever we can — preferably over a great meal (or, let's be honest, several).ERIC ROSEN/THE POINTS GUYHere's how we planned our quick Maine adventure, made the most of our Amex Gold perks and discovered why this stretch of New...