I think my run has come to an end.

My normal mode of operation is to get to a new area where I'll be working, stay at all the likely Fairfield Inns, pick the best one, and then work a deal with the manager. This method has worked very well for the last three years or so. I've easiy made Platinum and earned a lot of points.

My current assignment is near Binghamton, NY. There is only one Fairfield Inn in the area. The manager refuses to deal. In fact, he acted a little miffed that I wasn't already staying at rack rate. He was completely unmoved by my past experience or my 150 nights/year. It's retail or not at all.

So I'm walking. Remember, I pay for all my stays out of my own pocket; they're not reimbursable.

Given that I'll probably be here for anywhere from six months to six years, I'm going for low price -- hello, Motel 6.

Actually, there is a Motel 6 a short walk down the street, and he's $50 a night cheaper than the "best" price the Fairfield would offer me. Now, I love Marriott and the perks, but they ain't worth $50/night!

So, I'll find a cheaper Fairfield 50 miles away and finish out the Megbonus promo, and then it's so long. It was a nice ride while it lasted, and I'll probably spend my points while I'm still plat, but then that's it.

<sniff>