Kazman,
thanks for a "wake-up" call. I am a member since 1989, and had to fight to become Gold 2 years ago (numerous faxes, phone calls, e-mails - because lots of properties "forgot" to give me stay credit).
I too never have any luck w/upgrades,service, property locations/quality -- but always assumed it's the same everywhere. I guess it's time to look somewhere else :-)
As far as your miles are concerned - can't you trade them for airline tickets? or transfer to an airline program?