Originally Posted by
Radiation Station
Marriott status isn’t taken seriously in the USA because everyone has it due to credit cards etc, and also due to the lack of professional and decent customer service in the US. The status is taken far more seriously in Europe.
Also in Asia Pacific, even better than in Europe.
That is true for all programs. The elite status does not worth much inside US but once you are in Asia and Europe, the perks and benefits do make you want to keep the status. So it circles back to the never ending argument - It all depends WHERE you travel.
At this moment, a HHonor Diamond can be had at very low cost (the AMEX CC, which even give back $ value to offset part of the AF), and Diamond status in Europe / Asia Pacific do enjoy very very good recognition / benefits, plus Hilton's foot print is not much less than Marriott's, unlike the much touted Hyatt. Though Hyatt is doing a lot to add partner hotels but those only allow you to redeem but not give you any elite benefits. So that is still lacking, but it is still good to see Hyatt is making some moves.