Welcome to FT!
Originally Posted by
MUTiger86
1. Should I concentrate on one airline no matter what my status is or switch to another airline after I hit platinum (or whatever)
I'd concentrate on one unless you expect to fly enough to have at least mid-level status in two different alliances. Even then, many people feel that top-level status with one is better than mid-level with two. I'd say it depends on where you're based (your public profile doesn't say) and what your travel patterns are. For most people, the benefits of using status once you've earned it swing the deal.
Originally Posted by
MUTiger86
Same as the above, but for hotels. I prefer Starwood, but should I branch out after I hit platinum or concentrate?
Again, depends on where you tend to stay, what there is there, and what you want. If you stay enough for top-tier status in one chain, you might want to look at the hotel forums here. You might prefer a different one after you take top-tier benefits into account.
Originally Posted by
MUTiger86
Are there any basic strategies to get miles/status faster? I have heard of people checking in and out of hotels to get more stays. Are there any other sorts of suggestions like that one that a new frequent traveller should know?
I take indirect routings on flights. Regular BOS-LHR travel, which I did for a while, builds up miles much faster if you change planes in Chicago - and at the same fare in most cases. I've never switched hotels to get stay credits, but that's because I've never been close enough to top-tier in a hotel chain to make it worthwhile.
Originally Posted by
MUTiger86
I had a bunch of Hilton points expire because I didn't stay at a Hilton enough. Is there any chance of getting those reinstated, especially if I tell them I'll concentrate my stays in their hotels?
I don't think your chances are good, but if you don't ask, they're zero.