There's a new luxury hotel consortium that often gives benefits with the first stay, although you must book through them. Benefits tend to include an upgrade, often confirmed at booking, a $75 F&B credit, and priority for a late checkout. Participants include most Belmonds (former Orient Express hotels), many Design Hotels, and many of the iconic luxury properties in major European cities.

Don't forget the PTS/CTS FHR program if you have an eligible AmEx card. A major advantage over Virtuoso is that the 4pm checkout is guaranteed.