Hey I resemble that remark! As one who earned several different hotel program elite levels while on my back, I guess it equates to w***ing around. I have stumbled upon what FewMiles is pointing out, there are diminishing returns once the highest elite level is achieved. I think it's true for both hotel and airlines programs. The only advantage to keep with the same program once the highest elite level is achieved is to reap the benefits of being an elite. For me, this will consist of more LUser fares on DL, therefore there is zero benefit to me to fly more than 100 segments. It penalizes my chances for elite levels with other programs. The same is true of hotels. My last night last year in Priority Club was #50 at the IC in Rio de Janerio, which did not register until after I received a less than expected Gold package from Priority Club. When I can choose, I sleep around in Hilton's program, because I do like and consistently use the HHonors benefits.
One thing no one has pointed out yet is that those of us at non-hub airports like RDU can are not limited to using a dominant carrier, which allows multiple loyalties. I usually can choose from at least 5 carriers for most of my flights to larger cities. With America West starting service last week, I now have even more choices. The downside of being loyal to multiple programs is that I have had to do some mileage runs on two airlines the past two years to retain my status.

Edited to keep from looking much less eloquent than the previous posters.


[This message has been edited by outoftown (edited 06-09-2002).]