Granted the free breakfast at Hilton is a plus; however, when traveling on business, breakfast becomes a business expense anyway. The only advantage comes during leisure travel. Unfortunately, due to Hilton's black out dates, finding a hotel with availability during the time I can vacation can be a challenge. As such, I'll be more than happy to concede a free breakfast in exchange for Starwood's lack of black-out dates. Ironically, with that said we'll be staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in two weeks on a free award and we had better receive free breakfast.

I suppose it's all a matter of preference. All programs have their advantages and disadvantages. I'm still miffed at the fact that you use to be able to stay at the St. Regis for 10K points, but now it cost you 25K. Surprisingly their rack rate hasn't increased 150%.