Originally Posted by
jennbar
That is very very true. The only reason I was thinking that the Marriott would be beneficial is if I could then change my status at Hyatt by meeting the Gold criteria because I could definitely do that by sticking with the challenge.
Thanks, I think I will stay with how I have it!
I have no idea if Hyatt does a status match or a challenge from other chains, but if Hyatt does either you would still have to earn it the old-fashioned way at some point in order to keep the status.
If you don't travel enough to earn the mid or upper tier levels at any chain, then just focus on earning points to eventually redeem for awards. Make sure you track the promos the chain(s) you stay at offer to earn more points and/or get free night certs.
PS - Welcome to Flyertalk!
PSS - If you HAVE to stay at the SF Marquis in August at $600/night for a week (vs. staying at one of the SF Hyatt properties), then I'd still sign up for the gold challenge if I were you so that you'd get the extra bonus points, free i-net & access to lounge. I'd also sign up for the mega-bonus if you can get the stay 2, get 1 cert & get another stay in at a Marriott brand to get the free night cert. However, if this is the only time you really think you'd be staying at a Marriott & you have any leeway, then try to find a SF Hyatt to stay at instead.
Cheers.