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If you want to stay in the Marriott basket, the Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless (stupid name) gives you most of the benefits of the AMEX version. Glaring exceptions are no $300 Marriott credit, no automatic Gold status, and a reduced reward certificate value, however, there is only a $95 AF. I will point out that with the $300 Marriott credit, the effective AF on the AMEX version is only $50 more.
https://creditcards.chase.com/travel-credit-cards/marriott-boundless?iCELL=6H3Z
If you're looking to avoid the Marriott branded cards, you have a few more options. The following options come to mind:
@Anonymous wrote:
Thanks for the input Zoom. I didn’t take into account the $300 Marriott Credit. That one may make the most sense. I am over 5/24, so Chase is out. Would be great if AMEX had a better MR earning card for hotels.
FWIW, Platinum gives 5x for prepaid hotels booked via the Amex Travel website.
@Anonymous wrote: I will be switching over to personal card use for business expenses with my employer. I travel around 30 weeks a year and typically stay in Marriott properties (just switched from Hilton). I’ve looked at the 2 AMEX Marriott cards ... but ... don’t think I can make the AF on the personal work outside of the SUB.
I know you said you're over 5/24 for Chase but once you qualify, I'd really consider that Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Visa from Chase. I got it recently more for the SUB and not sure I will keep it longterm but I wouldn't hesitate if I was a frequent Marriott guest. For one thing, you get a free night annually so it pays the $95 AF right off the bat! Plus you get automatic upgrade to Silver Elite status and 6x points on Marriott stays and purchases. The Points Guy values Marriott points at 8/10 cent per point, so that is effective reward rate of 4.8%!
If you're looking for flexibility (which I was too), I'd suggest the previously-mentioned Chase Sapphire Reserve as soon as you qualify to apply. A great card.
Edited: due to to my error of tired speed reading. goofed again!
Doesn't venture one gives you 10x miles on hotels.com? Seems like the best option for hotels only.
Altitude Reserve also gives you 3 points per dollar spent on hotels if. Points are worth a flat 1.5 cent too.
Not sure why this card doesn’t get much love here.