Interesting post. I've been a Marriott Platinum for many years now, and I can't really disagree with what you've written, but here are some more thoughts...

- I'm a Starwood Platinum. Have you stayed at many Four Points by Sheratons (roughly equiv to CY)? They are not much better, and many are worse.

- I stayed at the LAX Hilton last week. My first room as GROSS. Non-renovated floor, etc. I complained and got put into a new room. That was on a renovated floor.

- Internet access - two weeks ago i was banging my head against the wall that the LAX Westin's internet connection was abysmal. Then last week the W Seattle's internet was lightning. I've been to some Fairfield Inns with pretty fast internet, and i've had some of the slowest at full service Marriotts.

- As for the TVs having out-of-sync audio, most hotel chains use one of a few companies to provide TV service, and this spans across chains. Haven't you noticed that the remote at the Marriott might like awfully similar to the one at the Hilton?

I guess what I'm saying is that your complaints are totally valid. However, they're not unique to Marriott. You'll find things you dislike at other chains. I'm very happy as both a Marriott / Starwood Platinum. SPG definitely has higher end properties and better upgrades, but I'm not getting any free breakfast over there. Also, I find the low-end SPG properties to be worse than low-end Marriott spots.

Anyhow, interesting post, but don't assume the grass is greener on the other side. And if you think it is, why not give it a shot?