Heh, I'm sure I don't travel nearly as much as you, but I've been in that position for years. Travel for me was nearly always for internal purposes, and generally involved getting myself to STL or SLC from PIT. I also helped with getting others to or from those destinations, or sometimes other combinations involving CMH, BWI, DCA. If I needed to go to Columbus OH or DC, I would drive (about 3 hours and 4.5 hours respectively). Sometimes I'd drive to CLE to fly west. But I had my limits. I never ever flew Vanguard, and I don't think anyone on business should have to. I did fly AirTran and Southwest, including crazy AirTran to Southwest connections at MDW to get to STL. Saved me a drive up to CLE, basically. Did enough of that that for the first time I might earn a free trip on Southwest and one on AirTran for my trouble, whatever those are worth.

I sympathize with you, though. I think those of you who travel so much deserve to have all the perks that are usually thrown your way. Upgrades, lotsa miles, etc. And sheesh, at the very least they could book you into a hotel that isn't of dubious quality! If I need a hotel, I've taken to checking discounters and even checking Hotwire or bidding Priceline. Have gotten good deals that way. If you are in control of your own bookings (versus someone doing it for you), doubtful, I suppose, but if so you may want to check into such options, strange as it may be, or perhaps we can give you some pointers on better low-end brands. I would at least demand that you be spared Vanguard and Best Western. Bet the *boss* isn't flying them or staying there.