topic Re: How is AMEX SPG? in Credit Cards

How is AMEX SPG?

Anonymous — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 14:29:59 GMT

Is this a good card for travelling? How does this compare to CSP or Hilton HHonors? Thanks.

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

ztnjpv — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 14:45:32 GMT

Yes. it's a good card. It compares well with CSP or Hilton Honors.

But like with any card, it really depends on you. Period.

Look within and the better choices are clearer to decipher.

It's like asking people:

What's better for me? A Toyota Sienna, GMC Yukon Denali, Hona Civic or Infiniti G37 or maybe Nissan Leaf?

....all while making no mention of any details about yourself. Obviously, the answer depends....

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Anonymous — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 14:50:45 GMT

Thanks!

My case is that I usually travel 2-3 times a year. Is there any good choice for me? I think SPG is ok with its low annual fee and good service from AMEX.

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

ztnjpv — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:11:51 GMT

travel where? international? domestic flying plus hotels? road trip plus hotels?

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Open123 — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:29:37 GMT

The SPG card is great if you are going to stay at their properties using their "cash + points" option, and used for domestic spending. For this purpose, I can't think of any higher consistent return on your spending.

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Anonymous — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:35:28 GMT

Just domestic flying plus hotels. Thanks!

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Anonymous — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:36:45 GMT

Cool! Can you please explain a little bit about cash+points? Why it's better than points only? And how much does a point worth approximately? Thanks!

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Open123 — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:40:23 GMT

@Anonymous wrote:
Cool! Can you please explain a little bit about cash+points? Why it's better than points only? And how much does a point worth approximately? Thanks!

When you use "cash + points+ redemption, you can find many Category 3, 4, or 5 properties at good deals, since the points portion if fixed.

In other words, if the cost of a property is high during peak season, the "cash + points" are fixed, therefore it allows for arbitrage if you book opportunistically. Also, this form of redemptions counts towards your stays for gold/plat status and will accrue additional spg points on the cash portion.

If used prudently, your return on spending should be around 3% - 4%.

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Anonymous — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:42:17 GMT

Thank you! Decide to apply somewhere in the near future!

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Open123 — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:44:20 GMT

@Anonymous wrote:
Thank you! Decide to apply somewhere in the near future!

Also, at it's worst, it's still a better general airline miles card at 1.25% than airline cards for non-bonus spending. The only exception would be the UA Club at 1.5.

There's also a redemption of $150 amzn GC for 14,000 spg points, though I can't imagine anyone choosing this option.

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Anonymous — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:45:29 GMT

lol thank you!

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

darkfrosty — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:48:56 GMT

I recently got the SPG card because I wanted a revolver on Amex to go along with my charge card. So far I like it but I have only had it for a month or so.

I have SPG, Platinum and CSP and I really want to add Chase United CLub since Newark airport is a united hub .. but it just seems like too many to have.

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

Open123 — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 15:53:48 GMT

@darkfrosty wrote:
I have SPG, Platinum...

Perfect combo if you stay frequently.

Re: How is AMEX SPG?

red259 — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 16:20:26 GMT

I have been looking at this card as well as something I may get down the line. If when you travel you prefer to stay at Starwoods properties then yes this card is outstanding for that. If you don't really stay at those properties I think you can find something else for a better value. If you like hiltons then there are some cards that are much better and will give you hilton gold status or some of the airlines cards would be better if you prefer specific carriers. The CSP gives you more flexability in terms of which programs you can put your points in.