coop21uga

First time poster. I am a delta diamond, mainly through the help of getting 50,000 mqm from my Delta Reserve (personal) and Delta Platinum Amex (business) card spending. I will most likely not maintain the status with Delta's new absurd spending threshold.

Two questions:

1. I've never been very hotel brand loyal, but want to pick a partner to maximize benefits/status. With crossover going away, has anyone heard of replacement program where i can take advantage of my delta status?

2. I spend roughly $100,000/year on my delta reserve card, but feel the benefits over $60,000 spend are possibly a waste. Looking to open another (non-amex) card that can hopefully maximize hotel points. With so much in transition with upcoming SPG/Marriott merger, i've been waiting to see if after 8/18 any big CC deals will be on the horizon. Any suggestions on best card to once again maximize my hotel status/benefits.

Thanks in advance

coop21uga

TheHorta

Non-branded Amex Platinum or one of the better Chase cards. Most here seem to prefer the Sapphire Reserve (which I just got for myself, so I have little experience with it).

cab747

Don't stick with co-brand, either go with Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve.

coop21uga

cab747

Chase Sapphire is $450 but a very easy $300 travel credit comes back to you each year, essentially makes it $150. This is your best bet if you prefer non-Amex. Happy to refer you

Seabilly

If you are considering Marriott as your hotel back-up, the Chase Marriott card gives you 15 days of night credit each year for $95 plus a free night stay each year.

BHammy

I'm headed for dual cards: I use my Amex Plat (non DL) for most things, after filling up my 25/50k MQM bumps from my DL Plat.
But when traveling internationally, Amex is not always accepted, so it would be nice to have a Visa/MC with no transaction fee.

jimgiggles

Are you diamond with Hilton as well?

NOLAnwGOLD

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.