I've been comparing IHG vs Hilton Hotels, and the Diamond benefit of breakfast and lounge no matter what rate is booked makes the Aspire card good for us. I was excited about the $100 credit (Conrad and Waldorf Astoria only), but in comparing rates it seems that the "$100 credit" rate is the same as the flexible rate (it's equally flexible). If you use either AAA or HHonors Advanced Purchase you come out just about even, so really you're getting the flexible rate for "free", and that only counts if you spend $100 on property since it's not a credit against room rates.