Well, I may have found a distinct difference betweeen Hilton and Marriott! But I may not have all the information yet.

I booked a flight yesterday for two weeks in Australia yesterday. We'll leave SFO on Oct 28.

I was looking at the Marriott properties and I am pretty sure that I can get awards at either the Harbour or the other property on College Road (leaning toward College Road).

We are considering going to Melbourne for the 2nd week but there is no award availability at that Marriott. When I become Plat in a couple of months, will that help? (There is something called a Diamond Force with respect to getting awards with Hilton...not sure if there is something similiar w/MR.)

Also, it was odd that the Marriott in Melbourne was quite a bit more expensive (if you were paying $$) than the other two Marriott's in Sydney. Anyone know why?

And lastly, if there are any Aussie experts out there...if you had two weeks in Australia, how/where would you split your time (4 days here, 6 there, 4 somewhere else)...keeping in mind that I want to utilize my Gold status (Plat before we leave) to the best of my abilit.

Thanks all!!!

Dawn