Exactly. SPG and Hyatt both understand how to build loyalty, especially from higher paying guests. Marriott model is not bad -(it is more profitable as I've always said) just not aimed for high touch, high paying guests. Marriott program is more vanilla.

For example, a Park Hyatt last week bought me Greek yogurt. It doesn't cost much but the thought mattered to me most. I tipped just under $100 USD because I was so happy at what probably was a $20 yogurt purchase. They made my life nicer and provided great service.

I don't care much about money - I care about value and service. The PH I'm staying at today (different from the yogurt one) is probably double the cost of Marriott's on the same city but the value in recognition is better - they prepared cherries in my room. My kid loves cherries but I have no idea where to buy in this city

That's service. Who cares if Marriott is cheaper or earns more points?

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QUOTE=txhyattlvr;32917616]Starwood/SPG pioneered the REAL hotel loyalty program IMHO. Yes, programs existed before them, but they were the ones that got me to stick with ONE chain whenever/however/wherever possible. Real loyalty is different from simply stacking points or miles - it means you go out of your way and SPG's perks and benefits (and implementation/execution) drove intense loyalty (for lots of good reasons). Today's WOH is similar, for sure....[/QUOTE]