Good points. I didnt realize that it was 10 points per dollar spent plus a 20% bonus for being silver or 12 points even at courtyards and fairfield inns. Since Marriott seems to be a better value than Hilton, this IC seem to be the way to go (based on # of hotels in my respective area).

I wonder if I could also get the 30K points if I convert from a chase card to a marriott chase visa? My card is now chase but not marriott and that way I would get 5 more points for staying at a marriott each night or 17 points a night if I understand it correctly (20% + 5 points for using marriott chase card) That way it really is a great program and I do not see any disadvantages to this program.