Just got back from overseas trip. Used awards for 2 Hilton stays. I am Gold.

London Paddington, was told no exec floor or lounge access. then told no breakfast since they had already given me an "upgrade" to a room that was not ready. I reqeuest that they put me back in my original room and give me the breakfast instead. After much confusion, they said that the "upgraded" room was ready and we could keep it and they would also give us breakfast. They did honor it for 3 people in the room (which was listed on the original reservation). Good thing the breakfast was free, it was 19.99 lbs or $40 a person for the very worst buffet I have ever had (worst than Denny's breakfast in the US).

On the other hand at the Sandton Hilton (Johannesburg, SA). They upgraded us to a suite, and sent up wine and fruit and chocolate. Exec lounge was oversold and breakfast was not included, but the breakfast (which was about $16 person) was some of the best and most assorted food you could want (along with great service).

So outside the US, it can be spotty. Although I have usually been upgraded to the Exec level, when I travel off peak.