There’s no need for me to rush out and apply to avoid the increase in minimum spend that’s reportedly coming that has now happened. OK, I’m being a little facetious, but I did want to talk about the card because I think it deserves a little love. The Barclay Arrival Card is actually one of my core personal spending cards, the other two being the Chase Sapphire Preferred and my Delta Platinum Amex.

Once the 10,000 MQMs (and MQD waiver as of this year) from my Delta Amex are safely in hand, I return to my old favorite, the Chase Sapphire Preferred. I use that for all 2x spending on dining and travel. Where I’m not earning 2x Ultimate Rewards, the Barclay Arrival is my go-to card for all other personal spending. In fact, it is my favorite card for cruise expenses. Why? First, I’m earning rewards at a better rate than I can with any cruise line sponsored card product – 2x for all purchases, not just cruise purchases. Second, when it’s time cruise, I don’t have to bother calling anyone to obtain any certificates for onboard credit, discounts, etc. I simply charge the cruise expenses to my Arrival card. Finally, the Barclaycard website makes it extremely easy to redeem Arrival miles for your travel expenses. Just today, I paid myself back for my onboard expenses from my most recent cruise in all of about a minute, and my 10 percent Arrival miles rebate appeared at the same time I cashed in the miles to cover my cruise spending bill. You can read my comparison of the Arrival card and other products for cruise expenses here.

A lot has been written about this card in the last few days, but I think some of my favorite advice came from Rapid Travel Chai. I’m not one to run around yelling “get this card (or any other) now!” I mean, I am the guy who hasn’t acted (yet) on the 100K Citi AAdvantage Executive card (in spite of the constant ribbing and cajoling from friends). If the Barclay Arrival Card has been on your mind and it makes sense for you, then by all means apply. The Barclaycard Arrival PlusTM World Elite MasterCard® is a good card product that I’m glad to carry, and is available for application on my sidebar under “Featured Credit Card Offers.” Please be advised that I will receive a commission if you use my link.

-MJ, February 20, 2014