Personally, i'd have to agree with those that say to stay with hilton.

I've found that status is really only valuable if you intend to be a frequent traveler. You stated that "I am not a regular traveler"... do you think that over the next year or two you would be a more regular traveler? If this is really your only long stay, i wouldn't advise moving.

to get status in another program will take nearly two months. you'll have little benefits along the way. what would be the point if you don't plan on using it in the next year or so? you'll work to earn status, and just lose it...

rather, i'd enjoy what you've earned - the lounge access, the upgrades (maybe), the bonus points. but that's my two cents.

i guess it comes down to - what do you plan in the next year? you had also said "as the status is likely to be more helpful to me than the points." why do you feel that way? keep in mind that getting status for status sake is pretty pointless