If you can’t tell, I’ve been thinking about ultra-premium cards a lot lately. Which ones to keep and pick up… and my overall card strategy.
All roads lead back to the Amex Platinum Card (learn more here) – the original, and a current stronghold.
Several years ago, it was my first card that had a big annual fee. Lots has changed in the industry since, but it’s held up remarkably well. It’s still the card to have if you’re seeking lounge access (though admittedly denigrated a bit in the past few years).
Among ultra-premium cards, it holds its own – especially if you can get maximum value from the long list of benefits.
There are three main ways to approach recouping the cost of the $550 annual fee: through lounge access, with statement credits, or from ancillary bennies.
In each case, the card earns its keep – making the rest of the perks gravy. 🤤 Let’s dig in a bit more.
And don’t forget the 60,000-point welcome bonus, worth ~$1,200 by itself!
Use the Amex Priority Pass to take a nap in airport Minute Suite locations – and many other lounges around the world
Here’s my expert analysis. 🧐
