HotelChatter

Marriott Hotels

Enhancements to Marriott's Rewards Program Not Legit Right Now

August 28, 2008 at 2:59 PM | 0 Comments

Oopsie. Much like Bloomberg News went too early releasing Steve Job's obituary, Marriott's Web site went live too early with Platinum enhancements.

Marriot rewards members were abuzz on flyertalk earlier this week about an announcement on Marriott's Web site that promised some nice enhancements for Platinum members beginning Jan 15, 2009:

· No blackout dates for points redemption for standard rooms
· Increase of Platinum member elite bonus from 30% to 50%
· 4th night free on a three-night hotel redemption using points

These are some pretty exciting developments, and made some Platinum members who don't think there's enough difference in Gold and Platinum levels quite happy.

However, less than two hours after the initial post went up on the FlyerTalk board, the announcement was gone. Shortly thereafter, Ira, a member of the Marriott Concierge Team, said:

"Earlier today, information about possible changes to the Marriott Rewards program was mistakenly published on Marriott.com.

Based upon your feedback regarding blackout dates and capacity controls, we are evaluating potential program enhancements. We have nothing to announce at this time. We're sorry for any confusion this might have caused and we'll be sure to provide advanced notice of any future changes."

So now we're left wondering if Marriott will make these changes for real. We certainly hope so! Staying 75 nights a year should really count for something.