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The AMEX Rewards Program is much more flexible than any of the others that I have looked at. I have used AMEX points at Fairmont, Holiday Inn, Marriott, Hampton Inn and Hyatt hotels. They work with several airlines, not just one. Plus Amtrak too. Also Crate & Barrel, Sharper Image, and other catalogs and retailers.
It is an advantage with a lost card if the money being stolen is the card company's, not mine. If a thief drains a checking acount with a debit card, there can be problems with overdrafts for auto checks like utilities or mortgage payments. Sure, you might get that money back, but what a hassel in the mean time.
I agree that Visa and MC are more widely accepted, but I don't expect to use plastic at every Mom&Pop's Espresso Hut or Aunt Tilley's Vegetable Stand. I have cash budgeted every month for those kind of expenditures, and if I run out of cash, well, I can live without mochas for a few days.
Also, AMEX has always catered to travellers. I lost my wallet a few years ago in Bulgaria, and had my AMEX replaced THE VERY NEXT DAY. Try that with a debit card from your local bank.
Lindy
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