After buying Ambassador status I realized you don't get a room upgrade if you book with points. Another blogger commented on how Hyatt's DSU aren't really free, because you have to spend money to get them (P&C or just cash). So I realized that some elite statuses are more worthwhile if you continue to spend money, and some are more worthwhile if you just want to redeem your points you have accumulated.

But isn't status about trying to get something for nothing? For free, that is? If you wanted to spend money, you can always just book the suite, or fly first-class and not worry about seeing who gets what priority in line. Or you can do a private jet and not worry about other passengers at all!

In that sense, SPG is better than Hyatt because you can potentially get a suite for free (using points and using a SNA). Some may say Hyatt is guaranteed, but it is still subject to availability at the time you book it. I'm pretty certain cash is king, and that is the ultimate guarantee.