Originally Posted by MapleLeaf

I treat DC as a mileage bank account separate from BD, just like you suggest. I am Gold on BD, having switched over from LH, as the 100K mark is hard to hit, with their new minimum mileage levels. Rarely does my travel take me on BD metal, it is the program that works for me.

A low *G level, lounge access in North America, decent minimum mileage levels on *A partners, reasonable award redemption levels and the cash + miles option. To me there is no better program, despite the changes. YMMV.