Marriott has earned my business because:

1. Recent 5000k Delta miles promo for each stay. Strategically found $52-59rates at SpringHill Suite/Courtyard/RI with $20 Target Gift Card promo so net rate was $32-39. Earned 60000k Delta miles for 13 Marriott stays.
2. Achieved Platinum during this promo via Plat Challenge
3. Current Promo is with every other stay get a free cat1-4 hotel certificate. Works for me as using them during football weekend Auburn vs. LSU at Marriott Grand National Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Value $585
4. Marriott VISA just finished 3-month spending promo-received one free CAT 1-4 night.
5. Frequently use Free Night EEO certificate at full service Marriott or Renaissance. Strategically use this around ATL or Dulles for $69-$79. Pay this rate and second night is free. No points needed, just the EEO! Also use 2-4-1 Dining Certificate. If breakfast is an issue then I book the "Stay for Breakfast" rate that is typically $10-20 more.
6. Travel Package reward is awesome! Cashed in 300,000 points during US AIRWAYS promo for 50% bonus for point transfer. Received 180,000 USAirways points and a 7 night stay in Curacao.
7. Cashed in an additional 90,000 points and got the All-Inclusive package in Curacao. This was probably the best use of my points ever!
8. Am working back to another Travel Package and All-Inclusive award as quickly as I can and will time it with another 50% Airline Bonus Transfer.

Am Hilton Diamond with approx. 1.2 million points. When traveling in Europe I do stay with Hilton. Really like the spouse stays free, free breakfast amenity, executive lounge access whether upgraded to executive level or not.
I am concerned about dropping to Gold in 2010. Have had unbelievable Hilton upgrades in Europe and U.S.