Originally Posted by darthbimmer

I've carried the SPG Amex, MR Visa, and HH Amex in recent years. I agree with the prevailing wisdom here -- that the SPG Amex is much better than the MR Visa for earning hotel stays from non-hotel spending. I think that's pretty clear from a glance at the redemption charts.

Don't overlook the HH Amex. Sure, HH redemption costs are much higher than SPG's, but the HH card accrues 3 points per $1 spent. Factor that 3x multiplier in when you compare the award charts and consider what kinds of hotels you'd like to visit on your rewards stays.