I have both Starwood and Hilton for two simple reasons:

1) In certain cities only one of them is represented (for example, Sheraton in Rio de Janeiro, Hilton in Istanbul). Usually it’s Starwood that is not represented.

2) Although I generally prefer Starwood, at some properties I know from past experience that I am going to have to engage in a verbal duel with a duty manager in order to actually get the privileges promised by SPG. I tend to prefer Hilton in such cases.