Originally Posted by eamus
If you buy partner memberships then QC still pays much, much better than AC in renewal periods. Annual AC membership for a primary cardholder plus a partner is US$750, renewal for 2 years in QC for primary cardholder plus a partner is ~US$800. It works out as near enough to a twofer, and as JonNYC says, the four year deal is better again. The joining fee skews things in initial periods, but if you are planning on flying a great deal you may just see that as sunk costs.
Good points. I took a 4-year about two years ago and it was an exceptional deal (dollar was stronger/ rates were lower?) and I don't remember paying a joining fee? Is that possible that I didn't? 'Cause that really boosts the cost and I remember thinking "what a great deal!" But, yes, w/ a partner it looks like it still is a good deal-- although 80% of the time I have lounge access w/o any membership.
I do remember being very pleased I had the membership when flying JNB-DXB on Emirates and the Emirates/SAA lounge really sucked and was very crowded. Right next door was a very nice BA lounge-- much nicer-- and they warmly greeted me w/ my QF club card, on a very long layover, it was great.