I'm currently in the states. I dropped to gold after I booked current trip. The only difference I've noticed is choice of seating is less than previous as platinum in economy. I still have option to check in at business counter. For domestic & international have priority boarding. There is a difference in sc, points, bonus earned, but for me gold is something to maintain, if possible.
I booked first Dfw-Okc with AA, I always check with check in agent if my qf status shows on their system. As first, you still have priority boarding. I went through usual security, had to take shoes off, no biggie. Last year I had tsa (?) approval & went through security, shoes left on. Again, no problem.
in Dfw admirals, a sign going into lounge says cash isn't used. I read on flyertalk, cash can be used to tip bar staff. I didn't go to the food counter, noticed some folk near me seemed to have different & wider choice choice of food on their plate to my last visit.
You didn't ask questions on dropping to gold but I'm focusing more on you dropping to gold, I've found little differences to booking (other than choice of seating & requesting award or upgrade), checking in, security, etc.
Also, don't know if you are interested, I've switched to airbnb accommodation. I've had 3 different stays this year Australia, New Zealand, & states, not disappointed as yet. Much cheaper, accruing points aren't as important to me now, if it's going to allow me to save money & travel more.
I enjoy planning trip also, makes trip last longer. Just my 2 cents worth.