As business owners we cringe when people use an American Express card because of the high fees associated with it. This is the reason that Amex is the least accepted credit card between the top three; Visa, MasterCard and American Express. But outside of the business owner role, Amex is the best credit card business travelers can have in their wallet (in my opinion).

Sure, Visa and MasterCard have affinity programs with airlines, hotels, and restaurants as well as reward point systems, but Amex has these features plus ones that really matter when traveling.

Some of the benefits I have enjoyed this year with my Amex Platinum card are:

• Membership rewards for free hotel rooms, airline tickets and upgrades, as well as meals. Redeeming rewards is made simple with American Express’s online concierge service.
• Access to many airline lounges without having to pay.
• Quickly addressing any credit card disputes.

Many people complain about the $400 Amex membership fee. If you don’t use a credit card often or don’t find yourself traveling frequently, then maybe this card isn’t for you, maybe. As a frequent traveler I have made that yearly fee back 10 times with free hotel rooms, airline tickets, memberships to clubs, and free dining at some of the best restaurants.

Probably the greatest feature of the American Express Platinum card is their customer service. Now–a–days we are used to calling customer service centers in which we can’t understand the words coming out of their mouth. Not only can you understand the Amex staff, they actually care about the customer and try to quickly resolve any question or problem you are having.

I am not one to promote a lot of products, but having been a Visa and MasterCard user for years, I am glad I decided to try American Express. Had I not been jaded with Amex from a business owners perspective, I would have tried it years ago and been enjoying all the benefits. Do yourself a favor and try it, you won’t be disappointed.