Join Date: May 2004
Location: formerly Gold now Diamond, formerly MSY, now LAX, formerly NW, now DL
Programs: Hyatt Plat, Hilton Gold, SPG Gold, Delta Diamond/1MM
Posts: 4,635
For me, I've always counted on hotel CC for status for better experiences at the hotel and also free nights via points and spend. I found the DL AMEX to be a waste of spend and the opportunities with SkyMiles very limited and also had enough miles from my regular flying.
I love the Hilton AMEX. Both products are quite good as well. Ascend has $95 and gold status which is great since you get lounge access and free breakfast. Also the Aspire card though $450 fee, I've gotten back $250 via Delta fees and Diamond status with them is the top. Let me know if you'd want me to refer you to either Hilton AMEX cards (private message me).
Marriott/SPG I'm not a fan anymore since cross over is gone and hard to get status that means anything
Hyatt was great until they re-did the program a few years ago.
IHG, I have that, easy, low fee and some decent return on the $49 annual fee (free night). I think I can refer you for this as well.