With my decreasing travel load, I can now only count on getting the top elite status with one airline and one hotel program.

For 2000, I will be sticking with Delta Airlines. The unlimited complimentary upgrades is a major incentive that is simply hard to ignore and other carriers do not match. The recent improvement in customer service certainly a big bonus. Furthermore, I can still earn and redeem miles on my favorite airline, Singapore Airlines. I am also keeping my Delta Airlines Platinum AMEX card as a back up to my Diners Club for more SkyMiles.

With regards to hotel frequent guest programs, I am switching to Starwood. I was comped to Platinum for next year, which was incidentally matched by Hilton. I have been a Hilton HHonors Diamond VIP for at least 6 years now but have not booked a lot of trips with them in 1999 due to Starwood's superior product and frequent guest program. I also prefer Starwood's electronic certificates for reward stays.