Originally Posted by Auracon
A lot of people on FlyerTalk seem to like AmericanExpress, but from my quick research, I don't know what's so attractive about AMEX..? Am missing something here? Don't less merchants accept AMEX?
The AMEX Starwood card effectively gives you 1.25 miles per dollar spent. Better than the usual 1:1 ratio. Read about it on the Free Cards page of the Credit Card section of my website,
Free Frequent Flyer Miles.
One way to start a credit record is to find a bank that will issue you a card that is guaranteed by a bank account you own. Usually the card limit is half the value of the account. But be absolutely sure to pay your account in full and on time each month. In full because the miles are not worth the intersest you would have to pay. And on time because otherwise your credit card is screwed.