re: Rewards credit cards...which one to go with

I like the hotel rewards cards - I stick with Marriott and it has paid off big and small:

Received 50,000 sign up bonus

Received a free night stay

Have been room upgraded twice already

Using the elite check in is very nice and you can check out an hour later if needed.

I travel a good bit for work - but I stick with one brand and make it work. I see immediate tangible benefits from the program (room upgrades)....and I like that.

Apples to apples there are better deals out there - but I like the personal service I receive from the hotel brand and the free nights are nice when traveling with the family.