mauld: I must admit I do not travel domestically much anymore, but as recently as the FAQ in Montréal, Brigitte and I were guaranteed a suite 2 weeks before our stay by dealing with the front desk directly, as we live in YUL. Surprisingly, their computer records showed our status as being Gold. The upgrade came when we provided them with our Plat card (it does come in handy on occasion). As you mention, the ease of obtaining a suite overseas is much higher. For some reason they accord status members more prestige. Perhaps we're more of a rarity there. Then again, when we stayed at the Westin Sydney just a couple of weeks ago there were 6 other Platinum guests. Is that a lot? I would think so.