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June 8, 2005 05:47 PM

In reference to the reward program, one point is earned for every dollar spent on the card and four points are earned for Starwood related purchases. Points can be redeemed for various travel related services, such as free hotel stays and airline travel. Members receive 6,000 points for the first eligible stay and 500 points for each additional stay at a participating hotel or resort charged to the credit card, within the first year of membership (up to a maximum of 10 stays). Points do not expire as long as the cardholder makes one eligible stay at a participating hotel or resort annually.

Perhaps what is most impressive about the program is the fact that cardholders can transfer earned points to a variety of frequent flyer programs. In addition, when a cardholder transfers 20,000 Starpoints into miles, they are awarded 5,000 miles. Also, after the first purchase cardholders earn 4,000 points.

Aside from the reward program, the card does offer a variety of benefits, such as travel accident insurance, auto rental insurance, discounts via the Offer Zone, and various fraud protection services with each usage (see website for all benefits available).

The interest rate for purchases is considered reasonably low (for a reward card) and there is an annual fee of $30. There is also a low introductory rate for purchases and balance transfers for the first six months.

Therefore, those who can afford to pay in full each month after the introductory rate expires (to avoid finance charges), frequently stay at Starwood Hotels and Resorts (to earn additional points), and can accumulate enough points for a free hotel stay or other travel related service within a two-year period, will benefit most from what the Starwood Preferred Guest® Credit Card from American Express® has to offer.