Originally Posted by
blueflower22
The CSP and Freedom are our most used cards. We def do not want to cancel them. Are you saying we might not be approved for new cards because of them? We have not applied for cards for over 2 years. I did not think having those two cards would be an issue.
To you, which of the following have earned the most URs so far for each card?
1) Opening bonus; or
2) Everyday purchase.
Even some cards are nice to keep, the principle of churning is to aim for the opening bonus.
Originally Posted by
blueflower22
So even if we are on award flight we'll have to pay that much cash for our infant?
Yes.
But good news. Per UA, the cost for the infant is $182.36 for SFO-LHR (10/5-10/12) regardless of how you book it (paid/award).
I found a blog post illustrate where the black holes are:
http://onemileatatime.boardingarea.c...-award-travel/
In short - as soon as you stay away from BA (a Chase UR partner), you should be fine.
Originally Posted by
blueflower22
But how about after the merger with marriot as it marriot is with chase?
1. The merger of Marriott and SPG is still subject to regulatory approval (like from the U.S. (DOJ, FTC), EU). It is not yet finalized.
2. Per SPG, even the merger can be finalized, the new program will not be ready until 2018.
3. AMEX's contract with SPG was just re-upped 2 years ago. Marriott/SPG will have to pay big to release the contract.
4. A split situation can occur in Marriott/SPG's situation (like what Hilton has now).
Originally Posted by
blueflower22
Will the merger have any effect on CC applications now?
Yes. An opportunity. Usually a new product will be introduced. So you can practically earn 3 opening bonuses in a short time (2 old program+1 new program).