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The Starwood Credit Card from American Express® is designed for those with good credit
who frequently stay at Starwood Hotels and Resorts and plan to take advantage of
the various benefits and services that are provided.
The reward program, one point is earned for every dollar spent
on the card and four points are earned for Starwood related purchases. Points
can be redeemed for various travel related services, such as free hotel stays
and airline travel. Members receive 6,000 points for the first eligible stay and
500 points for each additional stay at a participating hotel or resort charged
to the credit card, within the first year of membership (up to a maximum of 10
stays). Points do not expire as long as the cardholder makes one eligible stay
at a participating hotel or resort annually.
What is most impressive about the program is the fact that cardholders
can transfer earned points to a variety of frequent flyer programs. In addition,
when a cardholder transfers 20,000 Starpoints into miles, they are awarded 5,000
miles. Also, after the first purchase cardholders earn 4,000 points.
Aside from the reward program, the card does offer a variety of benefits, such
as travel accident insurance, auto rental insurance, discounts via the Offer
Zone, and various fraud protection services with each usage (see website for all
benefits available).
The interest rate for purchases is considered reasonably low (for a reward card)
and there is an annual fee of $30. There is also a low introductory rate for
purchases and balance transfers for the first six months.
Therefore, those who can afford to pay in full each month after the introductory
rate expires (to avoid finance charges), frequently stay at Starwood Hotels and
Resorts (to earn additional points), and can accumulate enough points for a free
hotel stay or other travel related service within a two-year period, will
benefit most from what the Starwood Credit Card from American
Express® has to offer.
Review Date: May 1st, 2007 |
