Absolutely go for Diamond!
I wouldn't burn the points for cheap rooms though.
This is why I like being Diamond.
Friday night stayed at the Doubletree at SEA on an AARP rate of $62. Received two $10 chits for food at check in for hotel dining. Ate dinner at their restaurant Seaports (Highly recommended) when I got my bill at check out they had credited me for $24 instead of $20 (no idea why). Upgraded us to the suite on the top floor on the end (deck wrapped around two sides). A co-worker wanted me to pick up a tin of Doubletree cookies ($10) for her husband who loves the cookies. So I asked them to add a tin to my bill. The desk clerk insisted on comping them to me. Plus free shuttle to and from airport.
All on a $62 stay. Yes I like being Diamond, No change that to, "I LOVE BEING DIAMOND".
I was so impressed that I just changed a February reservation elsewhere over to this hotel.
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"A day without FF Miles is like a day without SUNSHINE"