1% is too low these days. 1.5-2% cash back is good, or if you know you want to travel on certain airlines, getting the miles can be a better payoff.

I like AA miles the most, and use them extensively. In the past you could get multiple cards (about 1 a month, previously), with big sign up bonuses for 30k or more. I think there is one current promo for 75k or such, but don't think you can get as many cards these days.

I have vendors that won't take credit cards, or if they did, would raise the prices accordingly. It's just part of life, I guess. Find another vendor who will match the prices and take the card, or give up on it. Most small to mid sized businesses pay 2-4% on credit cards. That can be a ton of cash for a business that has tight margins.