I agree with LarryU.I have at least mid-tier with SPG,HH and Marriott. Since I travel all over the US,it helps me get the prices and benefits I like. If I'm going to a city and have a number of choices,I often call and see how a property "treats" their gold+.Sometimes HH works,sometimes it's another property. But,IMHO,Starwood has the best overall properties (but,less selections and higher prices) and best elite program.