That is the big difference between the great Starwood program and Continental Airlines--the Airline to Fly if you fly just one continent.

I am so much more likely to take that non-essential trip that involves staying at a Starwood as I know that I am very likely to get a great upgrade (and if not a lovely room), more points that I can use without blackout dates or capacity controls, and maybe even a Free Friday or Saturday. They have my continuing loyalty. About the only time I would stay somewhere else is if there were no Starwoods in the area or the rates were much higher than a comparable hotel in the area.

With Continental, however, the domestic upgrades are chancy (especially transContinental), and interContinental upgrade chances are just about nonexistent at anything but an exorbitant fare. The extra points that I get are hard to use. The Business First seats seem to be non-revs first over Platinum memebers internationally. My next trip is scheduled on American. I may not have status, but the fare was about 50% lower than on Continental. I know American wants my business and will give me a match or at least a challenge. Just not sure I want to take AAdvantage of it yet.

I just wish Continental would get the message. I have enjoyed flying them for so long.