Originally Posted by
JBord
Well, as both a long-time UA and Marriott customer, I'd take the side of MR Gold > UA Silver
. But the problem, I think, is that UA Gold > MR Gold, when you think of things like SDC's, *A lounges, etc.
And I think MR Silver is fairly worthless, so there's no real benefit to UA in tying to that status at any level.
UA Gold would be wayyyyyyyy too good a status level to give to MR Plats. That's something people like me fly 1MM BIS over a long time to get.
Don't just think of the benefits of both MR Gold vs. UA Silver (bonus points, chance at a better room/seat, some better handling, etc.)...think of the opportunity cost:
- No MR Gold - can't get into the lounge, wait in the normal check-in line...but your experience should still be perfectly fine & comfortable
- No UA Silver - sit in a seat w/no legroom, board later & possibly not get your bag in an OHB, wait in a much longer line to check in. You are "flying with the masses", which is a pretty terrible experience these days w/o status.
Thus, I will maintain that getting low status in an airline program > midtier status in a hotel one once you think beyond just the benefits.