Originally Posted by
Segments
HHonors Gold is also available via CC and worth more than SPG Gold.
As to getting status the hard way, SPG loyalists keep reminding us how hard it is to be loyal due to the limited footprint. So which is it? Easier due to less nights needed or harder because *wood properties aren't everywhere? Pick one.
I've maintained that Hilton has the dumbest "strategy" of all the major hotel chains...give away a good mid-tier (40 night) status level w/a $95 card, yet not really offer any materially better benefits at the Diamond (60 night) level.
Re: SPG, I don't have to "pick one"...the brand smartly had a clear night requirement and benefit distinction between Gold and Plat (unlike MR IMO, where Plat isn't that materially different from Gold, and PPlat even less so vs. Plat). SPG figured out how to retain members a few years ago with increasing benefits at 50, 75, and 100 nights.
SPG Plats need to be fairly loyal due to the larger footprint...Golds less so as it's an easier status level to get/achieve.