Originally Posted by darthbimmer

I suggest you plan to build up your knowledge about travel gradually. It's a fool's mission to think you're going to absorb everything here on Flyertalk and then completely optimize your next trip with the ideal airline, hotel, credit cards, and bonus programs. The options are horribly complex, and the reality is that what's right for you will not be the same as what's right for the person standing next to you.

I recommend you start by flying whichever airline is most convenient, affordable, and comfortable for your route. Whatever airline it is, sign up for the mileage program. Is it the "right" airline for the long run? It's hard to say, and it doesn't really matter when you're at Square One. Start with one airline now, try another later.

Apply the same idea to hotels. Pick one that's close to your job site, affordable, and comfortable. Get suggestions from colleagues or the client. Is it the right hotel chain for the long run? Again, don't know and doesn't matter. DO sign up for the loyalty program though (never fail to capture points!) and do keep eyes open to see and read about other hotels/chains/programs that may be better for you.

The point I'm trying to make here is twofold:

One, the way to learn what the right answers are FOR YOU is to combine your own experience with advice and information you get from other sources. Always keep learning.

Two, as a budding business traveler you're going to be taking a lot of trips. You can afford to try out different options. In fact, you need to-- see above. It's okay if your first few trips aren't on the "right" airline and hotel. You'll adjust as you learn. It's not a sprint, it's a marathon.