Rudi you left out the biggest disadvantage: higher award levels. The letter I received from Westin implied that this would happen after June 30 1999. I have already mentioned in the Westin column two instances where Westin effectively devalued the credit card partner points and changed the award level from one free night with ten night stay to a dollar based system where on the average more nights are needed for a free night (at the rates I have been paying).
It is unfortunate that Sheraton Club International is being sucked in with these changes. Like Catman, I would also prefer that the programs remain separate.