Marriott is great as well since you get one night credit for every $3,000 you spend.

Plus since they have a lifetime program, once you receive their plat status you have it for life and can move all your spending elsewhere. (provided that you have had 10 years in the Marriott program.

As far as airlines go you can just worry about racking up the miles instead of status since when you book C or F awards you pretty much get all the best benefits anyway.