Starwood Preferred Guest (Edit)

The Starwood Preferred Guest program is one of the simplest frequency programs. Starwood has gone out of its way to eliminate the hassles found with most programs. There aren't the usual blackout dates, capacity controls, expedite fees, re-deposit fees and other such nonsense. Redeeming points is as easy as earning them (if not easier).

You earn points based on the dollars you spend at hotels. Base members earn two points per dollar; Gold and Platinum elites earn three points per dollar. In addition to the extra points, elite members get upgraded rooms and guaranteed 4 p.m. checkout. Platinum members get suite upgrades, 72-hour guaranteed room availability, Platinum amenity on each stay and access to the Platinum concierge.

You can redeem your points for airline miles instead of hotel stays; however, I've found the hotel stays to be a much better value. While 20,000 points will get you 25,000 airlines miles (a $300 value), it can also get you two free nights at a hotel such as the W New York Union Square (more than $500 value).

Features

Unlike many programs, which do their best to discourage redemption, it would be hard for Starwood to make redeeming awards any easier. If there is a room available for sale, it's available for redemption. You can redeem over the phone or from Starwood's Web site. You can even redeem an award the same day, without any fees. Change your mind? Re-deposit the points -- again, no fee. And, because the awards are electronic, there is no wait to get your points back.

A key feature of Platinum status is the Platinum concierge. In addition to making room reservations, the concierge can make restaurant and theater reservations and a whole lot more.

Pros

The simplicity of the program is the biggest draw. After that, it is Starwood's dedication to customer service. This is evidenced by Starwood's official presence on www.FlyerTalk.com (the world's most popular frequent flyer community), William Sanders, aka the Starwood Lurker, diligently researches almost every request and question brought up by the community, including some rather odd ones.

Starwood hotels do a very good job at upgrading its Platinum members. Much of the time, the upgrades are pre-assigned. Platinum members get a choice of amenities at most North American properties. Tip: Take the points! Starwood also runs great promotions, such as the very lucrative Free Fridays and Free Weekends.

Cons

The biggest downside of Starwood Preferred Guest is that upgrades can be inconsistent. While most properties do a pretty good job, there are some bad apples. At these properties, you'll have to beg and plead for the benefits that are supposed to be a part of the program. This is especially likely at Starwood's franchised properties.

Another gripe is that Starwood has one of the worst Web sites in the industry. Finding rates is a chore and it is very easy to lose your place. It is not unusual for the booking engine to change dates on you, so be certain to review the confirmation page before confirming a reservation.

Hilton HHonors (Edit)

Hilton HHonors is one of the most comprehensive hotel loyalty programs. The sheer number of properties (about 2,300 and growing) located all over the world makes it very attractive. With the addition of Promus family, especially Hampton Inns, the Hilton family of hotels is now penetrating smaller markets in North America not covered by many competitors. Hilton is one of the most recognizable brand names worldwide.

Features

The main distinction of this program from its competitors is "double dipping" -- earning both HHonors points and airline miles for the same stay. Hilton HHonors has four levels -- Blue, Silver VIP (four stays or 10 nights in a calendar year), Gold VIP (16 stays or 36 nights) and Diamond VIP (28 stays or 60 nights). One can qualify for an elite level with either stays or nights. Base point earning is 10 HHonors points per $1 spent, plus elite bonuses (15% for Silver VIP, 25% for Gold VIP and 50% for Diamond VIP), and you can earn a maximum of 100,000 base points per stay. Most rates qualify for both points and miles.

Pros

Double Dipping (with choice of many airline FF programs). Lots of promotions, albeit not very many lately. Choice of awards, including merchandise and vacation awards. Rewards Exchange, which allows you to turn HHonors points into airline miles on several airlines and turn miles into points. This two-way feature, unique to the HHonors program, is especially valuable for turning orphan miles into something useful. HHonors Mutual Fund allows couples to combine their point earnings and stays/nights credits toward elite status. Very helpful Diamond desk (wish it were open on weekends). Lounge access or free breakfast for Gold and Diamond VIPs. Excellent credit card partnerships: no-fee AMEX with 3/5 earning rate (three points per $1 spent and five points per $1 spent at HHonors properties) and no-fee VISA with 2/3 earning rate. PointStretcher Awards offer 40% discount on the amount of points required for an award (available at select properties for certain dates). Lots of properties, including smaller markets. Spouse stays free. Complimentary health club access for elite-level members.

Cons

Award availability for non-Diamond members appears to be limited due to blackout dates and capacity controls. Convoluted and often malfunctioning Web site. Some properties are notorious for failing to honor the written rules and not offering guaranteed benefits. Paper statements are always outdated (2-3 months late). Somewhat diluted mid-tier Gold VIP level.