They still have the elite program, but for some reason there is no mention of it on their web site. I am Platinum, and I regularly get the 15% bonus (the chintziest top tier bonus in the whole travel industry I bet). Anyhow, I sent them an e-mail inquiring, and they eventually responded that the program still does exist. Here was their e-mail to me:
"Thank you for your email. To earn the Gold Status, you must have 10 qualifying nights within a calender year. With the Gold status you earn a 10% bonus on points for eligible stays.
With the Platinum Status, you must have 30 qualifying nights within a calender year. Platinum members earn a 15% bonus on points for eligible stays."
Originally Posted by John_OHST
The 15 points/dollar figure includes the original 10 points/dollar you earn by staying.
The elite levels seemed to have mysteriously disappeared. They were introduced at the start of 2005. However, the only benefits were a 10% bonus for gold and a 15% bonus for Plat.
The points you earn can be used worldwide. However, i believe earning is limited to United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean