If you have money left after your vacation, or after paying your Starwood bills from it, an IRA is a good place. In general, a standard IRA is only worthwhile for the current tax deduction. If you are currently in a high tax bracket or one higher than you anticipate being in at retirement, which is not usually the case at 20, a standard is better. Otherwise, a Roth is better. The basic idea is that a standard gives you a deduction now, but principle and earnings are taxed upon withdrawl as ordinary income. A Roth does not give a deduction now, but withdrawls are tax free including any type of earnings. Can't tell you much more without knowing you.