August is a busy months for moms and we make a lot of purchases for our children and the new school year. I was attempting to make a purchase and my platinum, no limit card was declined. I called customer service got the automated voice, went through it's questions and was told that the charge would go through and that I could hang up. But, as I was calling, I also accessed my online account and saw that my account number had been changed. So instead of hanging up I asked to speak to a representative whom I asked about the new account number. I was told in a snotty manner MA'AM FRAUD PROTECTION noticed a change in your spending pattern so they cancelled your card and issued you new one. Which they were going to send to my home address. As someone who frequently travels and used AMEX as my primary credit card, I was grateful that I was not travelling today. Imagine dealing with rental cars, hotels, and purchases without a credit card. Yes, I can go to the ATM but there are daily limits. Also, this is a real inconvienence because I have many accounts direct billed to AMEX. The customer service rep says that if they are recuuring accounts from reputable vendors charge will be honored for sixty days. From past experience, that is not the case. Also, in order to change the billing for those accounts, I have to contact or visit each of the vendors and jump through the hoops they demand to change the billing information. This is a huge annoyance. Also, I did not even get a phone call telling me about this. They told me I would get a email but I have not recieved that email. I did get an email about 6 hours after the computer told me the purchase I called about would go through and that I did not need to speak to some one asking me about that charge. I don't consider this to be platinum level customer serivce. I think that should have contact me by phone to ask about any suspicious charges BEFORE cancelling my card. Imagine being at an expensive business dinner and having your card declined. By the way the out of habit spending totalled under $1000 dollars. I think they could have called before cancelling my card.

Our address is the same in the next city- it says Lane or Dive to differentiate dthe streets. We receive thfeir mail and they receive ours. This has been a problem for years. We have called the post office, ups, fed-ex etc. and our mail still gets misxed up. I was late by 30 days and have been a customer since 1983 and they cancelled my card. I sent them papers from all the sources documenting lthis and they did not reinstate my card.Oh just tell you how much I used it, I lost 300,000 points- everyone said I talked to Oh I'm sorry I can't help you. So very disappointing!

I've been an AmEx Platinum holder for almost 10 years, and I still think it's the best card available. The customer service is beyond reproach. And in 9.5 years, AmEx customer service has never let me down. Last Friday, I noticed that the magnetic stripe on my card was worn out. At 4:00 p.m., I called customer service to ask for a replacement. At 9:30 the next morning (Saturday), my new card arrived at my front door. Now that's service! The travel benefits are outstanding: Lounge access for Continental, Delta, and American (easily worth more than $1000/year); Hertz Gold and National Executive Club; Buy-one-get-one tickets for international business and first-class tickets; Fine Hotels and Resorts program (giving you great rates, free perks, upgrades, and more); and the list truly goes on and on... In addition to the travel benefits, I enjoy the security of knowing that my purchases are covered for theft, damage, and even loss during the first 90 days of making a purchase. One I dropped an expensive watch that was only 2 months old. In doing so, I scratched the case and bent the crown. Purchase protection told me to mail the watch to the manufacturer for repair and to send them a copy of the bill – easy as that. Last year alone, I went through two iPhones in less than a month. The first one was shattered by my 1-year-old nephew. The second, I lost on a trip to London. Both times, AmEx refunded my purchase price, and I was able to buy a new phone immediately. You just can't get service like that with other card providers. If you're worried about fraudulent charges or card security, then this card is for you. Don't recognize a charge? Call them (or flag it online), and they'll immediately take it off your bill until the resolve the issue. And if someone does get hold of your card, they'll quickly cancel it, get you a new one, and help you get on with your life. American Express Platinum costs more than other cards, but it's worth every single penny. If you like great perks, dedicated customer service, and the security provided by the ultimate card provider, then the American Express Platinum is for you. I’m really just glossing over the many benefits that the card provides, so you should definitely spend some time on their site understanding just what they can do for you. I recommend the card to everyone I run into. Four friends and two family members have gotten one and love it as much as I do mine. BB

I got the platinum card on the recommendation of a friend. I wanted mostly to have access to lounges at airports and event venues. When I signed up online, I did so with the understanding of receiving a 30,000 points bonus after spending a certain amount on the card. I was also told that I could cancel the card at anytime if I was not satisfied and would receive a pro-rated refund, so I gave it a try. After I spent the requirement dollar amount on the card , i saw that the points were never posted to my account. When I called to inquire I was told that that the 30,000 point promotion never existed! The case was sent to investigation. I received a letter that said they would award the points in 6 weeks. I waited--still no points. Again they tell me they will not give me the points. After multiple phone calls and hours of my valuable time, they finally award the points, but with the attitude that they were being generous with me. I was so fed up, I wanted to cancel my card and get the pro-rated refund. But of course, now they tell me that I only had 90 days for a refund and now I'm not eligible for a pro-rated refund. I guess the benefits of the card are ok, but dealing with their lack of customer service is not worth. I will not get this card again.

Great access to travel ammenities, airport lounges, and hotel room upgrades. Reward points never expire and have a wide array of uses. Client service reps and travel consultants have always been engaging, courteous, and extremely helpful. I have many cards available, but this is by far my favorite!

i have the american express card since 3yrs. they suddenly cancelled my card when i was travelling and when i called them, they ggive vague excuses. the customer service department is horrible.they make u feel like they are doing u charity when actually they are making huge profits. plss NEVERRRRRRRR get into the amex fraud. initially they will be sweet and honey but they will back stab you.

The American Express Platinum Charge Card has delivered everything as advertised and more. I recently travelled to China, Hong Kong, etc. with a friend and business associate, who has the same card, and, calling customer service from my hotel room back to Canada to ask a question was handled with aplomb, great courtesy and concisely. This particular card has delivered more than what is expected from the ever helpful concierge service, wide array of insurance coverages, including the purchase protection plan, extended warranties on items purchased with the card, membership points, to exclusive airport lounges to enjoy. With a wide range of other cards to use, this card has quickly become a favoured one. Having friends and family members with the Platinum charge card for a lengthy period of time, their opinions and experiences have all consistently been the same, that it is a great charge card to carry. With respect to the annual membership fee, this is an acceptable rate with all the encompassing features available on this card. With respect to the American Express fraud protection, a personal experience is a convincing fact that it works.

Generally speaking, the Platinum card is only useful if you travel a great deal or require the conceirge service. However, where they really excel is in their ability to stop fraud in it's tracks. Twice - once for me, once for my husband - we have had fraudulent charges made on our cards and both times Amex called immediately and alerted us. With no hassle, they eliminated the charges - no paperwork to fill out, no need to justify the other charges made - and overnighted us new cards. Remarkably, I had a receipt stolen from a cash register in a store at the World Trade Center in Manhattan; the thief went to Brooklyn and made three purchases at Rite Aid. Amex immediately knew that the purchases weren't mine. Ditto with international travel. I have never had my card declined overseas but a fraudulent overseas charge was flagged immediately. You may not need help having 1200 thread count sheets delivered to the Amazon by tomorrow morning, but you should want this kind of help when protecting our credit record.

For a fee of $395, one gets an abundance of services. Concierge, great customer service, dining/travel benefits etc... It's well worth getting this card if one takes advantage of the plethora of services available. This is a "charge" card, so having financial responsibility is paramount, seeing as how the bill will have to be paid in full at the end of the month (extended payment options are available, however, the APR is quite high).

I was upgraded from Gold to Platinum just 3 months ago, and noticed the difference in service immediately. My wife & I just returned from vacationing in Dublin, Ireland. I used my American Express Platinum Card from start to finish and savored the first-class treatment throughout. From the time I booked it on the Amex Travel website to contacting the concierge service, I was treated with the upmost respect and professionalism. My personal travel assistant arranged dinner reservations at Taylor's Irish Nights (traditional Irish food & dance show)and reconfirmed via e-mail and telephone. We relaxed while waiting for our flight in USAirways Presidential Club with free alcoholic beverages and snacks. The trademark "Platinum Card" is not just a marketing gimmick, whenever I use it; people notice! (quite a status symbol) The Departures magazine just arrived in the mail. Very exclusive ideals and refined tastes for the discerning connoisseur. If you qualify for this card, it's well worth the annual premium.

I've been an AmEx cardholder since 1999. I was offered the Platinum card in 2001 and took it despite the high annual fee. Two years later I wondered whether the card was worth the high fee. Shortly thereafter I received a call on a Sunday that my grandfather has passed away (the person who raised me). I was unbelievably distraught and tried making travel arrangements through Delta, but couldn't bear to stay on the phone line. I called Amex Platinum services. The rep was incredible. she asked when, where, how etc. and said she would handle everything and e mail me with arrangement. When I arrived at the airport US Air said they were upgrading me to first. When I got to Tampa Airport (late at night), Amex had called Hertz and they had the car pulled to the curb! instead of taking the bus to the lot. After checking into the hotel my message light was on. The message was from the Amex Rep checking to see that I had made my flight and to offer any assistance while I was in Florida. I have since realized that paying for a premium card is not for the everyday occurances, but rather for the unexpected. There is no fee that would have been too high when I really needed assistance.

I've been a Amex cardholder since 1996. Started with the green, progressed to gold and now platinum. The best thing about this card would have to be the concierge service. Because of my busy work schedule, i barely have time to plan birthdays or anniversaries. Just a year ago, we were celebrating my son's 13th birthday. I was seriously pressed for time due to a deadline at work and had absolutely nothing planned for his birthday. I contacted American Express to see if they had any types of tickets available for ANYTHING that particular night. What they found was 2 extremely sold out tickets to see the SF Giants play at SBC park. This was the game that Barry Bonds hit his historic 700th Homerun. I was extremely floored at the fact that these tickets where two rows behind home base and that tickets were sold out months in advance. Not only did American Express give my son and I the chance to see history, they also brought him a gift basket full of toys and sports equipment during the middle of the game! This was one of the many experiences that keep me a happy, loyal Amex customer.

For the past ten years, AMEX Platinum has been my card of choice. The airline lounges, Fine Hotel Program, Cruise Program, Starwood gold card and premium rental car status plus Departures magazine are well worth the annual fee. Great for travel, never had a charge declined, emergency replacement service is excellent. I like to pay in full each month without paying any interest, love collecting membership rewards points, never been charged interest or a penalty for the rare instance that my check was delayed in the mail and arrived a day or two after the next month's statement was generated. I once called Platinum concierge and they came up with tickets for a world-renowned concert in Europe where I would have had no other means of purchasing a ticket without booking a full tour. While resident in Europe, the German AMEX Platinum card service assisted me as one of their own. My experience with the Platinum Travel Service has been mediocre. Booking a cruise with them was a hassle, but the program's extras on board ship were a decisive benefit. I once needed to book an international ticket--my only stipulation was ensuring the Air France flight segment was coded as a Delta code share with a Delta flight number and issued on Delta ticket stock. I finally had to call Delta and buy directly; the AMEX travel counselor on weekend duty could not complete what I thought was a simple request. I regret the Membership Miles program transfers mileage only to limited airlines. That's why this spring my family will start heavily using the Diners Club/Carte Blanche card for daily credit card charges when it becomes capatible with Master Card. This will ensure we can transfer mileage to whatever airline program of our choosing and will have a broader base of establishments where we can rack up charges on our credit card for mileage. (We tend to use airline mileage exclusively for business class upgrades on international flights.) However, I will still maintain our family's AMEX Platinum account because the benefits package is absolutely unbeatable for international travelers seeking to maximize value with stays at three, four and five star hotels. AMEX is often beat up in the press for the cost of the annual fee, but it is a great value for those who use the benefits. Many probably pay as much as the membership fee to purchase an airline lounge membership that provides access to the same airline clubs that are included as a Platinum Card Benefit. Clearly, there is no other "platinum" card I know about in the market place that offers the same elite travel benefits as AMEX Platinum. I am a customer for life!

I have had my Platinum card for a little over a year now and I will never go back to Gold or below. I receive some of the best service through the Platinum Concerige online, or even through normal customer service. Concerige will book dining reservations, find oddities on the net, or do about anything you need online. They were able to get list tickets to Wicked without a problem from Ticketmaster. Working towards Centurion at the moment, hopefully will be there soon enough, utnil then, I will keep my card.

I signed up for the AMEX Platinum and paid the high annually fee mainly for convenience and security when I am travelling. Unfortunatly, the card offers anything but convenience and security. Despite paying my bills in a timely manner, I am regularly declined for purchases. The concierge service can be helpful but it really does not offer any benefit you could not get from a good travel agent. I had a problem in London so I went into one of the shops to check my account and the customer service could not actually access my account records. I had to call the US customer service to find out the details. However, the US customer service was not in the US; it was in India. I could barely understand the rep due to a weak connection and a strong accent so I finally gave up, frustrated. Their business lounge service is a joke as it usually only gives you access to crappy cheap airline common lounge, serving soggy sandwiches and warm drinks. I would rather have an alimentary canal search while waiting for my flight. What do you get for $395? Not much. AMEX creates an image of itself as some seamless global service but it is anything but that. I wouldn’t be surprised if many their employees didn’t have access to e-mail. Anyone who thinks that merchants or other customers are impressed by a Platinum Card are sad, image obsessed fools. Just about anyone can get one of these cards if they are stupid enough to throw their money away for the “privilege” of having one.

Reading messages about the ups and downs of this card. One member posted that he wanted to take advantage of the 2 for 1 business class international flying plan. Well the airlines quoted $3000 for 2 tickets and Amex quoted $7000 for the ticket and the free companion and the only way to get the offer was to book through them. Anyway I figured I would try it out myself. I the mail I received a offer as a GOLD member for 8 years to upgrade to the Platinum. I have spent 2k-4k per month on my GOLD card and have never missed a payment, etc. We today I received my status and it was declined. How can they flood me with pre-approvals and then decline me. Things happen for a reason and I believe I would be wasting my loot on the 395 annual fee. Certainly do not get the card for its platinum status. At one time 5 years ago AMEX Platinum was status all the way. Now everyone has a platinum from other companies. I got 4 visa platinum's in my wallet. So platinum does not mean squat now a days. Anyway, you would think they would take my 395 a year with my excellent card member status as well as my high income. Well Amex has fallen by the wayside on my list and I will slowly phase them out.

I started out as an Amex Rewards Gold Card member in January of 2003 after a pre-approved notice was sent to me in the mail. Had the Gold Card for a total of 8 mnths, and because of my high monthly spending, ($2000+) was upgraded to the Platinum Card. The first thing that I took note of, and have come to appreciate, is the professional, helpful, courteous Customer Service Reps; Always ready and willing to answer any question and fulfill almost any requests. I have used the Platinum Concierge Service several times in the past 2 years and have always been pleased with the end result. For my mom's birthday, I called Amex and requested that a basket of Elizabeth Taylor products (ie; White Diamonds, Gardenia, lotions, etc.) be sent to her at work. The Rep assured me that everything would be taken care of and that she would receive the gift basket before the end of the school day. Somewhere along the lines the request was messed up. The vendor that Amex had used to get the products for the basket got the wrong stuff. The Rep contacted me immediately with the status of the order and suggested alternate solutions. To make a long story short, Amex Called Bloomingdales in NY, NY and had them prepare a basket with a mixture of the products from Origins. Amex then proceeded to have a personal car service pick the basket up from Bloomingdales (free of charge to me) and bring it to my home; I live in Brooklyn. Needless to say that my mother was very happy with her gift basket and was amazed that all of this was put together by Amex. Used Pltnm Trvl Srvs to book travel reservations to New Orleans and thought that everything had went through. 1 week before my travel date I contacted Amex to confirm my reservations and was told that something had happened with my reservation and that it was kicked out of the hotels computer. Amex quickly contacted the hotel in New Orleans, negotiated with the hotel,(which was completely booked) and somehow had arranged for me to stay in a suite, but paying the same rate,(which was significantly lower than the rate at this point in time) that I had originally been given when I first made the reservation. Needless to say that if it weren't for Amex, I would have arrived in New Orleans and realized that I had no hotel room waiting for me. It can't get any better than this... Or can it, (Centurion?). I love this card, love the reaction from cashiers and on-looking customers when using it, and most importantly, I respect American Express for the way that they handle and treat their most valued clients. I refer to my myself as a cliet of Amex because I have forged a very positive financial relationship with this company. They're not just a card company, their a business who's made it their business to take care of their select group of Card Members, (I can only speak for Platinum Charge Card Members). It's definately worth the annual fee... Treatment from Cust Srvc Reps is standard setting... NO SPENDING LIMIT... Practically limitless abilities... Oh... And by the way, I'm only 23 yrs old.

This is a great card for people with excellent credit history and for people who travel frequently and shop a lot. Quite recently AMEX customer service helped me to come by some rare and totally sold out concert tickets, which really impressed me since they were impossible to come by via ordinary channels. The nightclub priority programme is really something too, gets you easily through all the lines and you do not have to pay entry fee. The next natural step after Platinum would be the Centurion card, but since I myself am not a typical Centurion-target-customer, Platinum is the best I can get and I will keep it. If you do not have Platinum, go Platinum if you get the chance, do not hesitate - try it for a year if you have been accepted, it will pay for itself in the end.

This card is a step above any other bank that may offer you a Visa or Mastercard platinum card. It seems nowadays any joker can call company X and get a platinum card. But with AMEX, it means something. I appreciate having one of the best cards you can have, the no preset spending limit is an absolute must. When I travel, this card is wonderful. I used it extensively in Toronto back in June and it never once crossed my mind that I was north of the border and "oh no...will this charge be approved or not". Everything went off without a hitch, and it was great not having to worry about a credit limit like i previously had to do with my Mastercard. I still keep a Mastercard as a backup when AMEX isn't accepted, but 98% of my credit card activity is with the Platinum card. As far as customer service, top notch, anything you need. Perhaps one day soon I'll be offered Centurion, but for now, this card does it for me! One final note, if any of you are ever in a dance or disco club or something of the like, when there black lights or neon lights around, take a look at your card. I noticed at the bar at a club last week when the light hits your card...it says AMEX in light purple letters across the card. A security measure perhaps, to prevent producing fraudulent cards? Not sure, but it looked pretty cool. If you're reading this and you don't have this card, apply today, it is well worth the cost!

I don't see why people flip out over the "black card" when the AMEX Platinum card offers nearly the same benefits. I received the card a good six months ago, and it has been a valuable tool. Prior to receiving the card, I used my Visa Signature card for business and leisure, but I'll more than likely cancel it as the benefits of the AMEX Platinum card far outweigh those of any Visa product I've ever used. I'm an avid traveler, and my wife's an avid shopper, so we enjoy the retail and travel benefits offered by the card. The card enables you to transfer points to several frequent flyer and hotel programs as well as allowing you to accrue points at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. The $395 annual fee didn't sit well with me initially until I realized the immense power of the card. I recently was searching for an oak tie rack I saw in New York as a gift for my father-in-law. I called AMEX, gave them the name of the shop and when I needed it delivered, and they had it to me in 4 days. I had the basic card for a while, but for those of you who have a basic card and want the best in customer service, apply for the AMEX Platinum card. It's the only card on the market truly deserving of the "Platinum" nomenclature.

I had an Optima when I was a freshman in college (8 years ago). They then changed it to a Blue card, which I still have and use by the way. I recently thought about it and applied for an American Express Platinum card, and I am very happy I was approved. The thing I love about this card is the trust factor. It represents that AMEX trusts you enough to give you free access to their money, knowing that you will pay it back no ifs, ands or buts. I think the annual fee now $395, is a fair price to pay. It seems high at first, but you consider the upgrades, SaksRewards, Neiman Marcus InCircle rewards, concierge, Platinum Travel Service, etc, etc, it quickly is forgotten. I would love at some point to be offered the Centurion Card, but I am not at that level yet! I am sure it is even nicer than the Platinum card. I suggest this to anyone who travels at least 2 to 3 times a year, or who loves to shop (or their wife loves to shop)! It is a pleasure to have and use this charge card, and they have earned a customer for life!

I started with a Green card, and swithced to Platinum in 2001. I have always been tempted to drop it, whenever the annual fee is due ... but I always hold off, and it's always worth it. The other reviews here talk about the hotel and travel perks, so I'll mention some things most people never test with their Platinum card. 1. If you're away from home, no travel-related charge will be denied. Even if you're late on this month's payment, you won't be stranded. Try to pay for an airline ticket, train ticket, rental car, hotel room, or restaurant meal, and the charge will go through. Even if you're just 50 miles from home. 2. The 30 day payment policy is really 45 days. And you can avoid getting tripped up by just taking your average monthly bill, dividing it by 4, and having your online bill pay service (bank, etc.) send AMEX that much every week. Then you have a nice and steady set of smaller payments going to AMEX. 3. They really do pay for stuff you break or lose. I even got prescription eyeglasses reimbursed when they got scratched. 4. If your city has one of the Fine Hotels and Resorts locations, don't bother to leave town. You'll get the same awesome perks and upgrades in your hometown, without the travel. 5. Finally, the Concierge can get you into a great restaurant in your own city at the last minute. Try it.

$400 a year and they lost 2 out of 3 money orders in my payment envelope. They proceeded to lie about keeping my account alive as they searched. It was a dead card in the middle of a trip. They finally admitted to, get this, placing my payments in another person's account. They sent me a potted plant and $10 for my trouble. They said they'd pay for $36 in money order traces. $10 isn't $36.My credit report still says 30 days late. Their rental car accident program is a farce. They do everything to make you think you must have primary insurance with your own company before they cover an accident. Liar Amex customer service will not tell you that if you ZERO insurace THEY are primary. They stutter when you tell them to stop lying and then proceed to tell you to "get the other people to pay".They bury this FACT in their website. The booklet they send with your card is so vague, it allows them to possibly burn you. They don't put: IF YOU DON"T HAVE ANY PERSONAL CAR COVERAGE, YOU ARE COMPLETELY COVERED in the wording. They are pathetic.

This is an addendum to my review from 07/27/03. Last month, I used my Platinum card to book a hotel stay through the Fine Hotels and Resorts program (stayed at Ali'i Tower in Honolulu), and my Platinum benefits did not disappoint! I booked a room through Platinum Travel Services for $196/night, which was a better deal than what the discount travel sites were offering. As promised, upon arrival, we were automatically upgraded. The hotel's concierge took us up to our room, where he explained all the room's/hotel's features, presented us each with a voucher for free breakfast on each morning of our stay, a voucher for a free lunch, and other coupons that we could use at the hotel. The hotel was well aware that we were staying with them because of the Fine Hotels and Resorts program, and the staff went out of their way to ensure that we loved our stay! The better room rate, complimentary meals, and room upgrade from this trip were worth well over $1000, and the special service we received from the hotel made the trip an absolute success. (And these savings don’t even include the travel insurance, airport lounge access, car-rental upgrade, and car-rental insurance that we also took advantage of on this trip.) Once again, the initial sticker shock of paying $395/year for a charge card can be intimidating, but if you use the features provided by AmEx Platinum, you'll find that you've gotten a tremendous value for your fee!

This is an addendum to my recent review. I spent the holiday out of the country. I usually stay at the Leading Hotels of the World, particularly in cities. I telephoned Platinum to see what offers I would receive at an exclusive hotel in the city, but to our dismay they had no particular arrangements with platinum (they are new and privately owned) The platinum representative recommended another hotel. The hotel was lovely, perfectly located, great service, etc. However, the big perk was our upgrade. As a platinum member I was given an upgrade to a suite that cost three times what I paid. The suite was extraordinary -- huge parlor, two, that's right two, marble appointed bathrooms. king size bed, and a lovely view overlooking the city. Along with the upgrade of the room, we received free breakfast every morning! The breakfast alone were 30US per day. Within a day and half to two days, the $395 annually fee was paid for with this the upgrade and perks. Consequently, we wound up staying an extra night -- five instead of four. For those of you that may be be thinking that the $395 annual fee is oppressive, forget about it. Just go on one business trip, or take one vacation a year and it pays for itself. This is the card to have!

I have been a Amex holder since 1968 and a platinum member for 8 . i think that the way platinum handles my every need is beyond reproach. Every wish is granted and throughout the years i have never had a request turned down. I wish that more companies conducted affairs like amex platinum...

I had the gold plus card which i lived. I thought the customer service was excellent. As i can afford it, and have learned of the reputation of Amex Platinum I applied for an upgrade and received it. Pluses: Platinum has a seperate customer service number. The recording immediately greets you as a Platinum member and right after gives you the option of speaking to a person so you do not have to go through endless prerecorded direction. Everytime i have spoken to a customer service representative, they have been professional, polite and forcoming with any requests. The platinum points system is extraordiary. The perks are many, hotel upgrades, rental car upgrades, invitation only to special events, etc. In the exclusive shops, hotels etc. they do take a gander at the Platinum Plastic in your hand and i honestly think it makes a difference. The annual fee is not for the faint of heart, and your credit MUST be excellent to get the card. But if you can handle it, my suggestion is by all means do. I know i deserve it, but thanks anyway Amex.

I have found the American Express Card a useful tool to organise my spending and finances. As a charge card there is a requirement to settle the balance each month, and therefore protects one from becoming voluntarily indebted to the card firm. I travel the country and abroad frequently. I enjoy dining at restaraunts whilst away from home. The concierge service recommends a selection of local fine venues, and upon request, make the reservation too. All as a result of a simple telephone call, placed at anytime of the day, or night.

I've had the Platinum card for about a year now. Even though I almost got rid of it just a few months after receiving it, I'm now glad that I kept it, and I'll continue to keep it. I guess the card has a certain prestige to it; although nobody treats me especially well when I use it. The main benefits are in the airline and hotel partnerships. And even though I don't travel enough to take full advantage of these services, they do come in handy once in a while. Some of my favorite things about the card are the little perks I get from AMEX's partners. Purchases at Neiman Marcus earn me In Circle points, and Saks Fifth Avenue seems to really like it’s AMEX Platinum customers. In less than a year, I've received $350 in gift cards from Saks ($100 for going to test drive a Mercedes and $250 just to get me in the store--mission accomplished!). Also AMEX recently invited me to spend a day with Range Rover at a very upscale hotel, where we had food, drinks, and hand-made chocolates, no less. And to top it off, we set off into the wilderness to drive $70,000 Range Rovers on a trail that I didn't think any S.U.V. would be able to handle. They even sent us away with very nice goody bags and a free potted orchid. Those little freebies alone have paid for the card, and the free access to several airlines' airport lounges and automatic room upgrades at Starwood hotels help seal the deal. The card DOES give value for the $400-a-year fee. Customer service is outstanding. Simple as that. They're always polite, efficient, and helpful. My only complaint would be with the Concierge service. I've tried to use it 4 times now, and they've never been able to help me. Whether I was trying to get into a special event or just trying to score some theater tickets, their hands have been tied by the fact that they can only help with AMEX sponsored events--or so they tell me. As I understand, their offices are in New York, which has some kind of law preventing them from procuring goods/services that they aren’t affiliated with. So I see little point in offering that service until they relocate it to another state. All in all, the card is good (definitely above average), and I'll be keeping my pretty Platinum card for at least another year.

I have been a Platinum Card member for about three years. I am very impressed with the professionalism and service with which I am always greeted. The service is unparalleled. For example, I had a friend who needed a rare part for his 1968 Mustang (he's a fanatic) and he looked EVERYWHERE--from specialty shops here in Chicago to California. It was nowhere to be found. I put in a call to Platinum Concierge and we got it in two days. My friend is so thankful, and it made me feel great to be able to help him with the assistance of Platinum Concierge. The ONLY downside to it is the annual fee, but it pays for itself quickly.

For many years an ever increasing number of mail order vendors have been offering low product quotes and then pad shipping to increase their profit margins. As a result of this I get written quotes for the product including the shipping charges. The story which follows is an example of a vendor who tried to gouge on shipping charges. But even more interesting is the fact that American Express has insisted on backing the company who charged nearly three times what they quoted in writing for shipping. So over the last three years American Express has added interest and penalties on an original disputed amount of $59.97 of $368.51, now claiming a grand total of $428.48. A shyster mail order company is not unusual, but the level of incompetence and indifference displayed by American Express is truly astounding. For the whole story go to http://www.rjriley.com/dud/american-express/

I first became a member of American Express 2 years ago when i applied for the gold card. Only recently have i been offered the chance to upgrade to platinum. And why wouldn't i? Gold is scum of the earth!!! Unfortunately they dont offer the centurion in Australia so i'm happy knowing i'm getting the best service money can provide. People take you serious with this card. Great if you want to go test driving in expensive new european sports saloons. One flash of that card, and they know you're potentially a serious customer.

I just thought I would write you short essay about, why if any there aren't many people with this platinum card. For one thing the interest rates are atroutious and even though I could afford the card, it doesn't do anything but sit in my wallet because when I do want to go somewhere normal and use the card they don't accept it, so I guess I'm just out of luck in that department. The only places that even act half decent while using the card are internet sites. But, I know just from getting this letter all of you who work there are not really going to change this card, you like to sit back and read these letters and laugh

I have been an American Express card member for 11 years. The Platinum Card is unsurpassed in quality of customer care, concierge, use of affiliated airport lounges, frequent renter and guest programs, and restaurant/salon reservations. I've even gotten room upgrades at unaffiliated hotels just because the front desk clerks have been impressed with my form of payment! I can't imagine that the Centurion Card would benefit me that much more, considering the annual fee. I have never had a problem with American Express, and would recommend the Platinum Card to anyone who travels a few times or more annually, and who appreciates having someone else take care of some of life's little details. The annual fee is some of my best spent money.

I have been a member of AMEX for 8 years now, and I have been quite pleased with the service here in the UK. The Platinum card is very good, and although the annual fee seems high at first, it represents good value if you travel a lot (VIP lounges, travel insurance for you and others). But the concierge service is excellent. I had to find a hotel near the London area at short notice, and I struggled to find one. But 1 call to the Concierge sorted that all out. They found a hotel close to where I needed, and they response pretty quickly. I also asked them to book a meal at the London Ritz, explaining that it was a special occasion. The instructions were relayed to the Ritz, and overall things went better than expected. I'd highly recommend it.

the platinum card it' s a great card also here in italy.......

Once I called for some questions, one representive's attitute was extremely rude.

NCIX (a Canadian computer distributor) sent broken merchandise, which was returned. They first denied having received it back, and tried to avoid a credit. Later they acknowledged credit was due, but never paid it. Finally Amex paid for the damage, no questions asked.

In my ten years of having american express cards, I have never had a negative experience. In that span of times amex has always come through for me, often when they did not have to. When I complained about another company's poor service and failure to honor a $400.00 credit, American express gave me a $400.00 goodwill credit as I had booked the trip using the American Express card. On a recent family my daughters luggage was lost. By the terms of my agreement with American Express she was no longer covered for luggage loss under my card. She was a year to old. This policy was clearly stated. American Express reimbursed me $1250.00 anyway. When my wallet was stolen and I was due to leave on a trip the next day, they were the only company who could get me a new card that day. This plus the extra perks I receive more that pay for the annual fee for the card. As a result I do not patronize stores that do not accept American Express. I am convinced that have the worlds greatest customer service.

IF YOU HAVE A GOOD CREDIT WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR THIS IS ABSOLUTLEY THE BEST CREDIT CARD EVER THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE IS SIMPLY THE BEST, THEY ARE ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU IN NO TIME, LOW APR ETC...ETC.. THE ONLY PROBLEM IS THE HIGH ANNUAL FEE: ABOUT 100$ IF YOU WILL CARRY THIS CARD FORGET ABOUT ALL THE OTHERS. ALSO CHECK THEIR REWARD PROGRAM. IF YOU DO NOT WANNa PAY AN ANNUAL FEE GO WITH BLUE FROM AMERICA EXPRESS ANOTHER CARD HIGHLY RECCOMENDED. VISA AND MC SUCK ANYWAY THAT IS IT i HOPE YOU WILL FIND THE INFORMATION USEFULL AND THAT YOU LIKE THE CARD AS MUCH AS I DID BYE BYE

i had the amex green card for about 2-3 years and got invited to the platinum card. probably, because i did a lot of trans. on my green card. so $395 later, i have had my card for about 5 months and its great. Cust. service at platinum travel services are great. The list of perks are unbelievable. I am in the NY region, and platinum cardmembers have access to 'amex platinum' tables at high class restarants. also, free membership rewards. I dont think i'd go to the extent of the centurion card, as its a fortune a year and i wouldnt use it to its full potential. Overall, its worth the $400 annually, airport club access is great. escape the perrils of the airport traffic.

Great customer service, great perks, rewards program is excellent. No complaints about anything having to do with this card.

Yeah, the fee is high (recently raised to $395/yr) but the benefits are outstanding - free membership in Hertz #1 club gold and Avis' club also. Let's face it - Amex Platinum was the FIRST Platinum... all other "Platinums" are mere imitations. My best experience with Platinum travel service was on December 30th in Disney World. I had foolishly allowed my mother to make the hotel reservations. The place she reserved (a roach motel) was a DUMP in Kissimmee. The whole family was so down, my brother and sister suggested we just drive home. I called Platinum Travel Service. I begged them to find me something in Walt Disney World (Can you imagine, 2 days away from New Years?)... she was exasperated, but she looked, looked, called, called, and bingo. She got me a fabulous suite at one of Disney's newer hotel/resorts. Yeah, it was EXPENSIVE ($300+ per night!) but worth it. The vacation was saved... thanks to AMEX! There is only ONE TRUE PLATINUM. AMEX PLATINUM. If you can't afford paying your balance each month and can't afford the $395 yearly fee, then you are not a Platinum customer. You are Gold or Silver. Sorry.

The new card couriered overnight wasn't working. Was rejected by merchands in Austria. (to be precise except one case) Couldn't even get cash from banking machine in Europe. Amex staff on Vienna is xenophobic, refused to help with cash advance. Cannot belive that german speaking person would be treated this way. Amex custome service in Canada maintains that this normal due to banking rules in Austria. Cannot find any office or person at Amex to report my problems. Amex make me belive that the card I own Platinum Card. The card has white metalic color, the payment statement says Platinum. The card was stolen but I still have old statements with the header American Express Platinum. The replacement card wasn't Platinum, they maintain that I never had Platinum card.

A friend of mine recently asked me why I chose to carry the AMEX Platinum Charge Card. I responded by telling him that I believe the service I receive along with the many consumer protection benefits (Return Protection/loss protection/best value guarantee) as well as the Concierge service and the airport club access were well worth the fee to me. I think that the amex platinum card is insurance and peace of mind for every purchase you make and you get MR Points, redeemable for virtually everything for money you would have spent anyway.

I had excellent credit and got the Optima Platinum card and handled it fine until i lost my work in the hi tech sector in Massachusetts. For nearly 2 years i was out of work and for over 6 months have almost zero income but did not default on my payments. One large creditor, MBNA submitted credit references and Amex did a credit check then notified me they are raising my interest rate because of the credit report, not because of any late payments or other derogatory information specific to that account. For almost 1 year i lived in my car because i did not want to damage my credit i had worked so hard to get. I had no family to help me per se and wanted only a job commensurate with my job before layoff ,where i had what was considered an average income for my state. Over 50,000 resumes were sent out and eventually i had to settle for a low level job at a 300% pay cut to allow me to continue to pay in good standing with Amex but this is how they treated my perseverance and loyalty in not stiffing them- by raising my interest rate and making it even harder!

It's getting easier to get the Platinum Cards these days. It's not really worth paying for the annual fee. A Green Amex may well serve your needs. Waiting to upgrade to Centurion for better service.

This card promised many benefits, including superior service. The service was the worst I've had from a credit card company. There were numerous problems over the 2 years I was a member - I stayed for the second year only because they promised improved benefits and serviec. Well that didn't happen. Management was extremely inaccessibl;e, and unhelpful when reached. The company seems to believ that the customer should be grateful to give them money, as opposed the company being grateful for the business. Needless to say, I have cancelled this massively overpriced card with the terrible, arrogant service.

Overall i am very happy with this card except, contrary to popular belief, there is a credit limit! I have a platinum card with a $2000 limit. This is the only thing i have against Amex.

I just upgraded to this card and I am very happy with it. I have been with American Express for 20 years now and have never been dissappointed in their products or services. I highly recommend this card.

This is/was the first credit card I ever got. Started off with the green Amex for Students, later upgraded to Gold and even before 2 yrs were over was invited to go Platinum! For those who know, once you have it, you won't want to go back. Simply the best value for money; the features are unmatched(except by Centurion of course), the benefits are better than Carte Blanche and Quantum put together and the customer service treats you with respect because they truly value you as a cardholder. If they invite you, don't decline! I am hoping for the call for the Centurion Card in a few years!

Amex Platinum is the best credit card out there. The service level is unmatched by any other company. The only bad part is the $300 annual fee. However, if you take advantage of the benefits, it could be well worth your money. One thing I really like about the card is access to airport lounges... you can take up to two traveling companions. Once in, there's an OPEN bar, meaning all you can drink, whatever you want to drink; along with free snacks. This benefit alone pays for the annual fee.. (continental presidents club is about $900/yr). There are also benefits exclusive to Platinum cardholders, for example: Amex's Purchase Protection Plan covers LOSS of an item. The purchase protection plan for any other amex card would not cover a loss of an item. These are just a few of the reasons why I'm willing to pay $300/yr for this card.

Service representatives are superb. Annual membership fee of $300 sucks. Overall, the card is worth it (if you travel often).

I have the US edition of the Amex Platinum Card. I never had a problem with the card and I find the customer service very good. The Travel Agents are great!!! They help me through the 9-11 situation.

I am very pleased with my American Expres card. They send very detailed statements which are easy to read. I also love the online access and the ability to make my payment online. This is a hugh advantage not having to mess with stamps or the post office. It is also one less check every month to write. I would definitely recommend this card to any friends or family who were looking for an excellent credit card. Everytime I have talked to a customer service rep fo this card I have been treated with respect and always got my questions answered very promptly and accurately. I have tried calling at all different hours and have always been able to get a live person, even on the weekends. Keep up the super job American Express! I am glad I have your card in my purse.

Horrible customer service. They simply don't seem to care.

THIS CARD IS EXTREMELY CONVENIENT AND OFFERS GREAT AMEX BENEFITS - I WOULD DEFINTLEY RECOMMEND HAVING THIS CARD. I HAVE EXPEREINCED NO DIFFICULTY WITH THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT.

They are very stringent on their 30 day payment policy. Sometimes other monetary issues come up unexpected and the "30 day" policy still must be adhered to.

Of course it is among the best cards in existence, doesn't the name already tell that? But still, never think about comparing any card with Diners Club, it'll keep it's place as #1.

I was traveling to vegas and the Paltinum card people found out the places to go, things you cant miss, and made sure i had reservations for everything i wanted. if they will approve you get it!!!

I upgraded frm the Gold Card to the Platinum card in order to obtain 10,000 additional Delta miles as a bonus. The Platinum card annual fee was $120 as opposed to $80 for the Gold. I felt that $40 for 10000 miles was worth it. They also offered a companion airline ticket after one year which I didn't think was such a great deal because the initial ticket had to be one of the higher priced tickets. I will probably change back to the Gold card before renewal. Great customer service!

When i lost my card a while back, I had a real hard time with the company.

When I first moved to the US they were the only company that would check my foreign credit record and issue me a card. Now they are the only one I use.

After searching far and wide I decided on the American Express Platinum Card because of the insistence of a friend. I was not disappointed, not because the card was so great, because you can get a card of any description nowadays in what is a very competitive industry, but because each and every time I picked up the phone to talk to the folks at the issuing company they were very courteous and helpful in quickly resolving each and every question and concern. I would recommend everyone who has money to burn through the over use of credit cards that this one is a fine one to choose from in the hundres that are available--but I also recommend you go take a look at all of them to pick the one that is matched closest to your particular needs. Amen and God Bless.

offers exceptinonal benefits for medical travel insurances etc

I've been using credit cards since the 60's and i've never founfd a better card then the Am Ex. card i have i was used to use my visa MC cards until latly when i saw on my bill a charge from a internet company that i never ever heard before and i called CS to dispute the charge they assigned a temporary credit to my account until everything is resolved. they ended up reversing the credit since they asked me for proof that the charge isn't mine well how do they expect to proof it???? With Am Ex i had way back when a story i've booked an hotel in southeren CA. with an Ocean Front room at arrival they told me they only have reg rooms not even city view it was a side room when i looked out the window i saw nothing well to make it short i called Am Ex after i came home and asked them what (if anything) i can do since i did stay at that hotel for 2 weeks (all of the close by hotels were overbooked) Am Ex told me not to worry and they will take care of it at the end of the month i saw the hotel charge and on the same bill was a credit for the full amount!!! i called am ex to verify and i was told that since i was not given the service i ordered the whole charge is dropped!!!!! Free Vacation - Go Am Ex G0!!!

The Platinum Card has terrible service. The reps are often rude, sarcastic, shallow and complete morons to deal with. I hate calling. The $300 a year fee, is not worth the troubles. Too much non-sense.

Besides the many, many benefits this card offers you, the two benefits I mentioned above (1. free access to airport-lounges and 2. the included CDW-insurance when renting a car)usually save me more money during a year, than I have to pay for the annual fee of the card itself. Being a german American Express member for several years, the only thing I can complain about the company is the fact, that sometimes they let you wait in line too long, when calling the costumer service.

i think it is a good card and as long as you pay it off your in the clear.

Over the last ten years on several occaisions I have had to dispute charges on all three major credit cards. The only card which handled this quickly and with next to no effort was AMEX. Hats off to their customer service. As of a year ago I started using the Platinum card with Amex and it is well worth it. In contrast I feel Visa and Mastercard could learn from Amex how to treat customers. I have a Visa Airogold(CIBC) with letters that I have to write to get disputed charges off. Who has the time to write letters? I also find that their aireoplan full of black out dates and nonavailability. Why pay $130 a year for a reward card when you can't hardly use the rewards when you want. Trust me Amex has been good to me so guess which card I'll start using from now on. Look into the benefits with amex plat. you might be surprised.