My company has per diems too. I've only travelled within the US under the rules, but the per diem seemed reasonable to get a decent meal, unless you want to wine and dine (in which case I find it reasonable that the traveler shoud pick up the difference).
At a former company, my boss three levels up in the chain used to always travel coach on international trips (he used his miles to upgrade). Its much easier to follow the rules when you know that the big shots are following them too.
Also at that company, travel policies (liberal vs restrictive) were a good indicator of stock valuations.
[This message has been edited by pgupta011 (edited 08-04-1999).]