Thanks all you guys for the input.

UpgradeMe: That just shows how little I know of BA, I thought they _were_ in MR. I did find out though that they are connected to the AMEX Starpoints though.

ssbl: You're right. After 1 year, I guess I'll drop that Visa and move on to the next one with a free first year. Or I will try to negotiate a lower fee.

OK, in the absence of a brilliant idea that may come later, this is what I'm going to do:

Apply for the Northwest Visa with the free first year, and also apply for the Marriott Rewards Visa. If after a year, NW won't drop the fee, I'll just keep the Marriott Card. The fee is only $30.

Those cards may not be the absolute BEST deal, but at least they're for programs I already have points for.

Mac


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Via con Dios!