Very true Nick...and I got rid of the card because the Canadian deal on the card is really underwhelming...no free stay to make the card worth the fee.

Some of the Golds and Plats here make me laugh, it is easy to feel self righteous about the extra amenities they are getting...when their employers are paying for the room (in most cases).

There are lots of little guys like me who travel about 4 times per year on their own dime...and who want to be brand faithful...but Marriott does not recognize this IMHO.