I have generally received great service at Hilton properties - the OP reflects the quality staff there. Unfortunately I have not stayed much at Hilton the past few years as the Starwood properties have had better promo rates and rewards, not to mention Hyatt FFNs.

The devaluation is troublesome but no more so than the almost annual Starwood "reclassification" process and the Marriott changes that were implemented with "no blackout dates." However the lack of a cash + points option makes the points less useful to occasional travelers like me (not to mention the ridiculous redemption levels for embassy suites and other modest properties).

I am glad that others have finally discovered the priceline option. Earlier in the decade, many Hilton properties had unbeatable priceline rates, e.g. $95/night for the Waldorf Astoria NYC. Priceline has almost always been a better option in many cities like NY, SF and San Diego. Ironically I have made less use of priceline over the past two years as I am unable to take even a small chance on a getting a bad property when cramming my family of 4 into a room. Not to mention that rates in many places, e.g. Vegas, have dropped to the point where it makes sense to pay a little more to get elite perks or a certain property.

I miss Hilton, and I wish ES had better rates, a 2-room suite is perfect for my needs these days.