I just received an offer from Providian, which I think worth considering - even inspite their reputation.
Here it is:
- Platinum benefits
- No fee for a card
- 0% intoductory APR until August 2001 on everything (they mean in: purchases, balance transfers, cash advances), 9.9% fixed after that
- They waive first year $48 fee for Providian Points Plus (25000 points - Domestic ticket, 40000 - Canada/Mexico, 60000 - Europe)
- Double points for purchases for the first six month.

So basically: spend $12,500 in 6 month and get a free ticket, you don't even have to pay off until 08-01. Most likely, you will even get FF miles for the flight.

Looks like the best deal I've seen in a while. What's on the downside? First, Providian itself, some people won't even touch them. Second, if you are planning to cancel Points Plus - unredeemed points are lost, so yo've got to do it within an year.

Phone is 1-800-221-1684

Any experience with this offer/Points Plus
?