In this section of the website, I would like to toss in some advice that has served me well in my travels. For this first one, I would like to send kudos to my Marriott Rewards Credit Card. I have carried the card for about 5-6 years now and not only does it provide a free stay each year (which more than pays for the $89 annual fee), Marriott loyalty pays off in the form of Silver, Gold or Platinum levels. With the card, the Gold level is fairly easy to obtain and I finally should obtain Platinum status this year. The Gold and Platinum levels provide free breakfasts, executive lounge access and room upgrades. Now with the Starwoods merger, the benefits are even greater as Starwood matches your Marriott level. In addition, Delta Airlines offers Starwood Platinum elite matching so that members receive: Priority Check-In, Priority Boarding, Unlimited Complimentary Upgrades and the first checked bag free. Therefore, Marriott Platinum leads to Starwood Platinum which leads to Delta perks.