American Express Membership Rewards - AMEX Plat Intnl USD Card drops benefits

I'm 25+ year AMEX member and I've been AMEX Plat member for 8 years. My Starwood's Preferred Gold card expired about 2 weeks ago and on APG website I'm no longer a Gold member.

I've got 4 stays in Starwood Hotels coming in the next 3 weeks. So I phoned AMEX Platinum CSR and discovered that it's not offered anymore for Plat AMEX. This is even though the AMEX website I've used for years says it is. When I joined 8 years ago I got SPG Plat complimentary membership .... then downgraded to Gold ... now apparently nothing.

The Customer rep gave me a new website to view which says that HHonors now is only offered for one year (after which you must earn it with enough stays).

Also I don't see the hertz #1 Club on the list of benefits.

thie following is the new website:-

http://www10.americanexpress.com/sif/cda/page/0,1641,8444,00.asp


Is AMEX going down the tubes? It seems they now they are concentrating on "travel services" or travel agent type activities but their prices aren't that good.

What gives?

Are you able to switch to a regular Amex Plat? Starwood Gold and Hertz Gold are still listed as benefits on a "regular" Plat card. https://www124.americanexpress.com/cards/loyalty.do?page=platinum.benefits

Otherwise, you might try just calling SPG, stating that you are a Plat cardholder, and see what they do. SPG may not be making the distinction between Plat and Plat USD yet or maybe at all. My SPG Gold got downgraded also, but when I called SPG, they immediately re-instated Gold status after I told them I was Plat Amex and gave them my number. (Although I have reg Plat and not Plat USD)

It might also help if you mention your upcoming 4 stays in 3 weeks. Good luck. :)

International Dollar Cards are issued in three regional versions:

Europe & Africa
Latin American, Caribbean & Bermuda
Japan, Asia-Pacific & Australia

The link posted is for the Japan, Asia-Pacific & Australia version. Is that the correct site for your card?

Platinum card holders from the USA and UK have also reported that their Starwood Gold status expired, but this has subsequently been resolved due to a change in the way American Express and Satrwood validates their card membership. Have you contacted Starwood?

dennis