"for some people the marriott changes are better. for golds, they just dont accumulate enough miles (and they know it, or should) to spend a week in Paris in their lifetime. they probably spend the points on weekends, short trips etc - all domestic. rewards that maximize short stays are probably better for them. "
You are very much mistaken on this point-as you have been in many of your points in this thread.
Your thread is also incredibly snobbish Many of us mere golds-and even some"gasp"silver and general members have large balences in our accounts.Are you damning us for beliving in loyalty as a two way street?

I actually have enough points for two weeks in Paris thank you very much.And this is after using points for domestic and international stays.