Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

If you couldn’t tell by the high welcome offer and the high price tag… this is Marriott’s premium card, and it’s got some premium perks. If you’re a Marriott loyalist and want the best they have to offer, then this is your card. For starters, you’ll get automatic Platinum Elite status! It comes with all sorts of other credits and perks, like an Earned Choice Award after reaching a spending requirement, 25 Elite Night Credits, and additional spending categories with solid earning rates.

• Earn up to 21x total points at Marriott (6x points for every $1 spent at participating Marriott properties, plus 10x points for being a member, and 5x points for having Platinum Elite status)
• 3x points at restaurants and flights booked directly with airlines
• 2x points on all other eligible purchases
• Up to $300 (up to $25 a month) in statement credits for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide
• Up to $100 property credit for qualifying charges at select properties with a two-night minimum stay
• Up to $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® statement credit
• Enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select for access to over 1,200 lounges in 130 countries
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your card renewal month (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at participating Marriott hotels. Certain hotels have resort fees.

• This card gives you Priority Pass Membership, which grants access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide
• Cardholders will also receive immediate Platinum Elite status, which comes with several perks of its own
• You'll also be able to transfer your points to 39 different airline partners at about a 3:1 rate

• This card has a pretty steep annual fee, so if you aren't loyal to the Marriott Bonovy brand, then you should opt for a more general travel card