I don't really have much to contribute in the way of Hiltons vs. Marriotts as I'm somewhat of a new traveller and have stayed in way more Marriotts (Platinum vs. Silver on Hiltons), but this post piqued my interest as a former native Austinite, now Houstonian, who returns to Austin frequently.

I've stayed at that Hilton in downtown Austin and I love it, but because I'm a Marriott person I've started to stay at the new CY/RI just one block away. I would have to say that the only plus to that one is the free internet (and I guess that it's brand new) and once that Starbucks opens in it, that too.

On a more related note, I'm Platinum for Marriott already and have the option to stay at a Homewood Suites as opposed to a Residence Inn in Wichita, KS where I'll be travelling to on weeks on end. I know the HS is brand new but the RI is fairly new and not too shabby either. Is it worth it for me to start trying to rack up Hilton points/nights or should I just stay loyal to Marriott?

And lastly, I can't believe the Horns lost to the Aggies