AmEx newb here - recently signed up for the AmEx Platinum as part of my strategy to diversify from the AA co-brand ecosystem. I'll continue to spend on my AAdvantage Citi World Elite MC until I hit ExPlat with AA, then transition most of my spend to AmEx and Cap1 to accrue transferable points and maximize category bonuses.

My first question is whether there are any circumstances under which it makes sense to book flights through AmEx Travel? Seems to me that you'll just pay a bit more for the same earn and no benefit?

Second question (acknowledging nothing is ever free) - are you ever finding the rates for hotels comparable enough that it makes sense to use your benefits (property or f/b credit, 5x earn, etc.) and book through AmEx Travel, or is the consensus that this is generally a scam that should be avoided? My sample size is small, but looking at mid-range properties (Conrad, EDITION, etc.), the rates are easily 20-30% more expensive and far outweigh any credit or value of additional points. 5x is pretty weak compared to competing systems.

Third question: Generally, where are you getting the most value out of your AmEx Platinum? Besides lounge access, for me it's the 5x on flights booked directly with the carrier. I plan to put my non-AA flights on the card, plus all my AA flights once I requalify for EP. Highly unlikely that I'll put anything but flights on this card.

[Mods - please feel free to merge if there's an existing thread that I missed.]