obunewbie17

I can't speak to the CC as I don't have theirs myself...but I have done their status challenge to jump up a tier. I would absolutely recommend it if you're sure you'll get the required number of stays (i think it's 6 for gold, 12 for platinum, can't remember the last one).

The process is simple, just call into the customer service number in your profile and tell them you wanted to do a status challenge. they'll only let you jump one-tier, and you can't do another challenge for a year.

also don't forget you can book meetings (short and cheap ones too) and get night credits that way. you can put a HUGE dent in your night requirements by doing that.