Amex Platinum Can Still Be a Good Deal

You may have read my post about American Express eliminating the domestic 2 for 1 airfare program as a Platinum Card (and Centurion if you’re a real Daddy Warbucks) benefit effective 11/15. I have never used the program, so I’m not that annoyed. I certainly understand why others might be a little miffed though. The annual fee for the card is a hefty $450 dollars afterall.

But the Platinum Card can still be a good deal for many. I count myself among those who continue to benefit from carrying the card. I primarily fly two airlines, American and Delta. For $450 dollars, I receive unlimited lounge access on both carriers on the day of travel. Frankly, that pays the annual fee for yours truly right there. You can add the cruise privileges program, Starwood Gold status, Fine Hotels and Resorts and a list of others as icing on the cake for me. So I will more than likely keep the card when it comes up for renewal. But lose the lounge access, and I’ll offload the card in a hurry.

I haven’t really explored the benefits of the Membership Rewards program from American Express. I suspect it might have some utility for me, but for right now, I’m happy to concentrate most of my spending on the Starwood Preferred Guest Card from American Express. If I start to get bored with amassing frequent flyer miles and hotel points, I’ll reconsider Membership Rewards.