American Express SPG

I started a new hobby a while ago Collecting hundreds of thousands of miles and points for various airlines hotels etc. I am always being asked what cards to sign up for, how to meet spend requirements etc. I am starting a new series on the different credit cards that are out there what their advantages are. As far as redemption goes I am still learning so hopefully we can do this together. The first card I will talk about is the American Express SPG(Starwood Preferred Guest) credit card, below is the current offer for the card which expires 9/4/12.

You get 30,000 SPG points after your first purchase.

Additional 20,000 after spending $5,000 in 6 months for a total of 30,000.

First year the annual $65 fee is waived.

You earn 5 points for every dollar you spend(with the card obviously)at any SPG property, 1 point anywhere else.

Keep in mind the rules state that this bonus offer will not apply to anyone who had this card in the last 12 months.
The following is a list of some of the hotel brands that participate in the SPG program:

St. Regis

The Luxury Collection

W Hotels

Le Méridien

Westin

Sheraton

Aloft

Element

Four Points by Sheraton

I just want to add one note for those of you that are scared of the annual fee kicking in next year. First of all you can cancel before then. Second for the past two years Amex has been running so many promos that if you use the card you will get credited it more than paid. The most famous one of course is the "Small Business Saturday" where you spend $25 at any small business you get the $25 back, so having 3 authorized users on the account gave me a free $100 which was worth the $65 fee.

This card also comes with some of the standerd Amex card benifts like: 

Return Protection

Return Protection can reimburse you for eligible purchase(s) charged entirely on an eligible American Express (R) Card. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item and up to a maximum of $1,000 per Cardmember account per calendar year. Shipping and handling charges will not be reimbursed. Subject to additional terms, conditions and exclusions.

Roadside Assistance

Through Roadside Assistance, American Express may arrange for five (5) basic emergency roadside services to be provided to Cardmembers: (i) towing to nearest available repair shop or preferred destination depending on provider availability; (ii) jumpstarts when a battery is dead; (iii) delivery of up to two (2) gallons of gas; (iv) locksmith service if keys are locked in the car; and, (v) changing of a flat tire if the car has a workable spare. All costs associated with these emergency roadside services are the responsibility of the Cardmember. These services are available when a Cardmember is present with the vehicle. Services are available regardless of mileage from primary residence when traveling within the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. If you need further information, please call the number on the back of your Card.

To see the full list of the transfer partners just click here.
 Starwood American Express 30,000 application link.