To the spreadsheet person that started this thread. If you've become used to Hyatt, my guess is that SPG is where you might be more comfortable.

Cygone, it sounds like you've booked more great free trips than anyone I know. Why the bitterness when the programs up their price? Would you care to share what you spend on hotel rooms during a typical year?

There have been many rapid changes in all sorts of industries the past two years. Why cry about programs increasing the cost of a free room, especially when you were smart enough to use the rewards? I think we're lucky to have the Priceline alternative in 2002/2003. I really don't expect the same deep discounts to be here in 2005.

For the record, I'm SPG Plat, Hyatt & Hilton Diamond. Whenever Holiday Inn began (1982?) Priorty Club, I remember them paying airfare for two and a week in South Africa after maybe 30 stays at their properties. I never complained when they changed their program.