I keep on reading fatalism in this forum: e.g. "for a business traveler, there's no choice other than Marriott."

I couldn't disagree more.

I was an Ambassador member for 4 years (and current Titanium and lifetime Platinum). Because of Marriott's guest unfriendly policies, my total spend on Marriott this year is down to less than $500. Here's how I've switched:

1) Stay at Hyatt, wherever possible. I have shifted about $10k of spend to them and will qualify for Globalist this year. They are soooo nice! If you don't have status, remember you can get status-like benefits through Hyatt Prive-- or see #3 below.

2) IHG in cheaper locations (e.g. smaller towns). The free breakfast at HI Express is often better than Courtyard or Sheraton in these locations. The whole property often is as well. The Chase IHG card gets you easy status.

3) Amex FHR for overseas and luxury locations. The benefits (free breakfast, dining credit, etc) are often better than what Titanium gets you at Marriott. Plus you get to stay at some really top-notch places -- e.g. Four Season and Mandarin, that make Marriott properties look like puke.

4) Hilton where none of the above is available. Hilton's top Diamond status is easily available with a CC, which pays for itself easily.