When the high-profile multi-millionaire Sir Richard Branson decides to release a credit card, people notice.

The Virgin credit card, Branson’s group’s first foray into the credit card world, continues to attract attention with its interesting blend of simplicity and cardholder benefits.

A straightforward approach has been the advertised hallmark of this credit card since its introduction.  While other cards may make use of complicated arrangements and reward programs, Virgin makes a point of keeping things simple and easy to understand.  That dedication to providing transparency has been one reason why the public has responded so favorably to it.

The Virigin credit card is available in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Australia.  Although the card is issued by Barclay’s Bank, a Delaware corporation, it is not available to U.S. consumers.  At this point, there’s no indication that the card’s availability will be extended to America.

One major attraction of the Virgin card that is heavily promoted in the UK is the balance transfer system.  Virgin tries to make balance transfers attractive by offering a 16-month period during which no interest is paid on the moved balance.  There are a few restrictions and a little fine print regarding this feature, including a one-time 2.98% fee, but it is a solid opportunity for those who are currently carrying a balance on a high interest card.

The card itself offers a very competitive interest rate, too.  All purchases made within the first three months of opening an account are interest-free and the typical variable APR for cardholders comes in at a respectable 16.6%.  That number varies, obviously, based on the individual applicant and his or her credit history.  When you combine the prospect of a very low interest rate credit card (especially for applicants who possess better than average credit scores), the aforementioned balance transfer plan becomes even more attractive.  Not only is the Virgin card a good way to make credit purchases, it’s also a solid way to escape credit cards with more onerous terms.

The Virgin card compares favorably with the competition.  Part of that stems from Virgin’s policy of not charging an annual fee.  Most other lower rate cards in England, South African and Australia generally do require an annual fee.  Virgin gains a comparative advantage over the others by doing away with the expense.  While some thought the no-fee pledge would be short-lived due to the low interest rates offered with the card, Virgin has maintained its promise to remain free of annual membership payment obligations.

Another appealing aspect of the Virgin credit card is its discount scheme.  Unlike other cards that allow users to accumulate points based on purchases, Virgin tends to offer a wide variety of straight percentage discounts on numerous products and services to its membership base.  The offers are wide-ranging, too.  Whether you’d like a voucher for one of High Street’s better shops, a cheaper bottle of wine, vacation savings, makeup discounts, or a chance to skydive out of an airplane, the Virgin card can help you.

The Virgin card compares favorably to most of its competitors.  It’s combination of a potentially low APR, a simple and easy-to-use discount plan and a great balance transfer option has made it one of the most popular cards among those in the regions in which it’s offered.  If you’re in an area covered by the card and are looking for a quality alternative to higher-interest cards that drown you in fine print and “legalese”, you should consider applying for a credit card like this one.