Well, you're obviously racking up more miles NYC-DFW-IAH on AA (or NYC-ORD-IAH?) than you would be EWR-IAH non-stop on CO. Of course you're also spending more time... So, the question is which is more important to you?

If you want to make the switch to CO, they'll certainly comp you equivalent status. Just go over to the CO board and search for "status match" ...

While CO offers free domestic upgrades on all fares, since it sounds like you're buying full fare tickets in addition to being a Gold, be sure to note that AA offers free upgrades to all elites traveling on full fare tickets.

As far as switching hotels, it would help to know where you need to be location-wise. Then check out the Starwood, Hilton, etc. boards to find out more about the hotel programs and specifics about the properties you might choose to stay at.

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More Room Throughout Coach: the Website of Free Miles and Free Markets