Free Gold until August 31.  Then, stay 4 times before Aug 31 and get Gold for another year.  I tried it and it worked.  I'm now Gold.  As I have not stayed in Hilton for years, I wanted to try a few. 

 

http://slickdeals.net/f/8723471-hilton-hhonors-free-gold-status-upgrade-book-4-times-by-august-31-earn-free-year?utm_content=59660

That is a good deal especially for Asia where Golds tend to be treated rather well. Generally not worth much in the USA except for slow WiFi.

 

Certain places in Europe get treated well also , others not so much.

I have a Hyatt credit card, and now a Marriott one. Hyatt's rates consistently beat Marriott's. Can I add a Hilton or would that be one too many hotel cards?

You can never have to many . I have Hilton, Marriott, Radisson , IHG, SPG even though I use Hilton 80% of the time.

I guess I should check then to see what bonus Hilton's credit card is offering!

Worked for me too, thanks a bunch!