Sorry to hear about the problem you had with AMEX. My experience has always been good with them. A few years ago my mother had her purse stolen in Denmark and global assist was very good at helping her as an additional card holder to obtain a replacement card from AMEX in Copenhagen and schedule a passport appointment at the embassy. They also advised her how to file a police report and arranged emergency cash.

After that experience, I programed Global Assist's toll number into my phone, in case I ever have a future travel emergency. At that time, Global Assist also told me I was free to call that number collect from overseas and they could also connect me directly with AMEX cardholder customer service as well.