Marriott Bonvoy Bevy American Express

The Bevy sits in the middle of the Marriott lineup, and its best argument is everyday earning: 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets on up to $15,000 a year combined, 6 points at Marriott hotels, and 2 points on everything else. It also brings complimentary Gold Elite status, 15 Elite Night Credits a year, and 1,000 bonus points per paid eligible stay booked directly with Marriott. The catch is the $250 annual fee paired with a Free Night Award you have to earn by spending $15,000 in a calendar year, rather than one that arrives automatically at renewal. American Express also recently trimmed the welcome bonus from 135,000 to 125,000 points, still requiring $5,000 in spend over 6 months. It makes sense for loyal Marriott guests who put heavy dining and grocery spend on one card; occasional travelers will struggle to justify the fee.