HotelChatter

Some of the types of changes Marriott rewards is considering offering for its members include using points for other expenses incurred during your stay like dinner, spa treatments, golf, etc; earning rewards benefits for spending money on the Marriott property; using a combo of cash and points to book pay for a hotel stay and special concierge services for Platinum members. (We think that last one is awfully similar to Starwood's secret Ambassador Program.)

Additionally, Marriott Rewards is looking at personalization options like customizing the look of your Marriott Rewards card and to introducing a Marriott Rewards mobile app from which you can make reservations. Lastly, starting May 7, Marriott will be offering its Gold and Platinum members free internet in the guestrooms and in the public spaces. Woo-hoo!

Unfortunately for us, it takes 50 to 75 nights to qualify for Gold and Platinum levels. Since we like to sleep around, these Rewards points may be out of reach. Heh.

Possible Changes to the Marriott Rewards Program *

· As a Gold or Platinum Elite member, you can customize your Elite benefits on each stay. For instance, you can earn more Elite night credits but a smaller point bonus on one stay; and a larger point bonus but not receive Lounge Access on another stay.

· You can now decide to use your points when you're at a hotel to pay for anything you can charge to your hotel room bill including dinner, a spa treatment, golf, a movie, etc. with Instant Redemption.

· Have the ability to earn rewards points for any spending (such as meals, drinks, golf, spa, gym, gift shop) at a Marriott property, even when you are not staying there.

· You can customize the look of your Marriott Rewards membership card from a selection of different hotel, destination, or activity photos.

· The ability to view and select their room from all available that meet their preferences via online or mobile app.

· Elite members will receive one electronic certificate every 3 stays that they can use at Marriott hotels for perks like a cup of Starbucks coffee, a drink at the bar, a movie, etc.

·Have the option to make an online reservation and then pay for hotel stays at a Marriott property with a combination of Marriott Rewards points and cash.

·Platinum members can take advantage of premium concierge-type services (phone or online access) such as roadside assistance, emergency assistance, restaurant bookings, hospitality and event ticketing, gifts and flower delivery.

*These questions were asked as part of a survey to Marriott Gold and Platinum members. It does not mean all of these benefits are in place for members now.