Location and bonus points.

I've been top tier at HH, MR, HY, and now SPG, and have nearly 1000 nights over the last decade. It always depends on what hotels are near my project site. I guess the whole concept of "loyalty" is not quite as effective on me.

I often hear "best people in the business" but my honest assessment is that every brand has ups and downs, all are generally very competent, and it greatly depends on where you are. For example, I'm in PIT and think the US folks are the best, as do those in CLT. If you live in PHL, you probably think US is the worst in the business.

Marriott simply has more nice hotels in more places that I've been, so I rack up lots of points. Once you are earning bonuses, it's hard to start over elsewhere, as you lose 30-50% points with every stay.

And I'll be in Indy in a few weeks also - Stand H, best seats in the house...