Marriott: After 6 Years, 600 Nights & $120,000 - I QUIT!

#marriott #marriottbonvoy #hotels
WHY I LEFT MARRIOTT BONVOY!
I had Marriott Ambassador Elite Status for six years in a row and I quit the program because they did THIS...
- How did they respond?
- Will I ever go back?
- Is Marriott Bonvoy worth it anymore?
In this video, I talk about why I chose Marriott Bonvoy, the best perks of being a Marriott Ambassador, when things started to deteriorate and why I ultimately left.
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[@Coolist]

If the Marriott CEO watched this video and read the comments, he would: A) Ignore it B) Internalize it C) Discuss it with stakeholders D) Swiftly implement change

[@chrisfoxwell4128]

A

[@teams3345]

A

[@cosmicdrift8311]

Trick question, the Marriott CEO wouldn't watch this video and read the comments. You've been Bonvoyed.

[@chrisfoxwell4128]

@@cosmicdrift8311 😂😂😂

[@TruthInspector]

If this was 5 years ago they would immediately changed their system and try and recoup their reputation but most of these corpse don't care anymore because America is imploding and they know it so they're letting it.... We're heading into world war III and everybody's asleep except for the CEOs. No more freebies no more customer service they don't care about the people they just care about their own and surviving. Traveling will be a thing of the past. This is not just Marriott it's almost every industry in the hospitality arena now. They all suck and are going downhill rapidly. Marriott used to be the gold standard for the rest of them and now that they're going down we know it's tanking....

[@oSirSniffleso]

Agreed 100%. I've always been a Marriot guy and the program isn't really worth making them a priority. So now I just choose hotel based on best location or price for my needs, with zero brand loyalty.

[@newagain9964]

Makes no sense to be hotel loyalist or have a hotel credit card these days.

[@buffalobreeeze]

Former Marriott GM here; I've been at 5 different properties in various markets and at all of them it was tough to honor upgrades most of the time due to the combination of Ambassador and Titanium members arriving each day and how many suites on property (usually they only had between 5-25 suites). They've done a good job growing and pushing these loyalty programs; too many members fighting over certain finite property benefits. I don't think they care too much when ppl leave / are inactive. Only if they see an overall massive % drop and then they usually make yearly program changes/adjustments. Key is being a member of all of the loyalty programs and know the ins and outs to maximizing your pts when it comes to earning and spending.

[@GetGwapThisYear]

That would suggest it had always been that way, but James says it changed markedly overnight. That’s not oversubscription, it’s poor business practice. If a service becomes that prevalent and difficult to fulfil, that should come with a cost reduction or some smaller benefits or service improvements to make up the shortfall.

[@parajerry]

Same thing is happening with Airport Lounges. Recently, there are always lines and hour waits to access lounges. AMX Platinum value is dropping like a rock as it is marketed to travelers and a primary benefit is the lounge access. They oversold or under-built lounges. They still have other great benefits, but the perks are loosing value quickly.

[@SKS8080]

And this person forgot to mention that a good chunk of the hotels are not corporate owned. They are actually franchisees who in a lot of cases make up their own rules that go against the Bonvoy term and conditions.

[@marcd6897]

you guys forget that during Covid many hotel chains were fighting and did all sorts of sh%t to keep people coming by granting more and more people all these status benefits and now they face reality where they have a lot more “entitled” guests.

[@Maliceless100]

Marketing always front loads splashy benefits to woo new business and of course - loyal customers interpret inevitable deflation of these things differently. You and Jim describe a situation that's not quite bait and switch but still...

[@korymitchell465]

Totally agree. I am Titanium Elite, and I virtually get no upgrades - ever. I get 2 bottles of water, and usually don’t even get free breakfast. The point downgrades are terrible. I have stayed 78 nights so far this year, and with all the points I have earned for the entire year, I can get approximately one night at a Ritz Carlton or St Regis. However, what I would say is: as a Globalist with Hyatt, they still truly honor their guests. They have incredible service, the points redemptions for top tier properties are usually 30-40k per night (compared to 120k to 200k per night for premier Marriott stays). And, they give 5 Suite certificates and they are good for the entire stay, not per night like the Marriott ones. They also give breakfast for up to 4 at the restaurants, and the food is great. Hyatts are a bit higher end, but I can say unabashed that the Globalist program is the best Hotel program bar-none.

[@kevin7151]

I would concur. Before I retired, I used Hyatt properties all the time and was a top tier guest. They always treated me (and my family) well and I miss the perks the program offered.

[@AL-pu7ux]

Helpful info. Doesn’t seem like Hyatt status matches though.

[@kevin7151]

@@AL-pu7ux Stayed at all chains pretty regularly. My best experience as a member was Hyatt. Just my own experience. I certainly respect yours.

[@giuseppinasanger6410]

Wow. Well I’m titanium elite for Marriott, but my husband and I are soon approaching retirement with the means and time to travel, and knowing this makes me want to switch immediately to the Globalist program.

[@wilsonwong93]

Totally agree with the statement! Im a Marriott Titanium, I typically will get upgrades outside of North America, as there are wayyyyy too many Titanium/Ambassador in North America due to credit card buff! I'm a Hyatt Globalist as well and I definitely feel like the hospitality of Hyatt is better than Marriott and the points redemption is much better than Marriott as well

[@yoyoon9761]

It's very impressive that James is doing this in almost a single take, and I don't think he's reading off the prompter. I don't know if he prepares the scripts and rehearses his speech, but it's very impressive that he can shoot 9 minute video without stuttering or mumbling, and express his thoughts in a very fluent manner. Very nice.

[@stevenlowe9807]

There is a reason he worked in sales :)

[@fingersmicke8856]

There are clear cuts in the video so it’s not all in one take.

[@glogloe1797]

It might have to do that he went to a good college. Took speech/debate courses?

[@Nextbesthing81]

​@@fingersmicke8856Thank you.

[@bettynesbitt4503]

​@@fingersmicke8856let's see you do it😊

[@alyonapetrova694]

I agree with you 100%! Marriott has ruined its redemption days internationally. Upgrades are NEVER available. When I asked what my “Titanium” upgrade was, they responded that you get a room with a bathrobe!

[@SKS8080]

Big take away is there’s no longer a Marriott family member in charge of the company. This would never happen under JW or Bill Marriott. The family took the company extremely seriously.

[@nubianpwr]

good point

[@prmaninla]

That's not correct. David Marriott is the Chairman of Marriott. Met him while I was staying at the W in Punta de Mita at the request of the hotel GM at the time. I was super impressed that clearly someone had let him know a little about me and we had a really lovely conversation.

[@AnnaKrueger809]

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[@Bradleyschaeffer376]

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[@Rhgeyer278]

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[@allympili3437]

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[@RandalHebert]

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[@miamivicefanatic9736]

I'm a Marriott Rewards member, and I wholeheartedly agree about the points being diluted. If you look at how much a room costs with points vs cash, the points are almost always valued at under 1%, even factoring in room taxes and fees. It's just not a good program anymore.

[@newagain9964]

Tropical cent per point for marriot is 0.7. Hilton is Lower but at least u know you’ll get breakfast!

[@justsmy5677]

I'm a Marriott Rewards member and property owner. I have also noticed the service being degraded. Much of it is not the money but just the way you are (not) treated. I just stayed at the Old Scottsdale Marriott and was disappointed that parking was $30 per night regardless of your status. They charged a $25 per day incidental fee, but also said we had a $25 credit per day in the hotel restaurant/bar only (not room service, poolside, etc). This forces you to either forfeit $25 per day if you want to eat/drink outside the hotel, or limit your dining to the hotel restaurant, which did not have much of a menu selection. And of course, the marketing guys know that going into the bar/restaurant with your party to redeem your $25 credit normally results in you spending $60-80 minimum. So, I felt like there was a $55 per day fee just to check in. Breakfast was not complementary. At another Marriot property nearby, the parking fee was $18 per night. This was not in the city and there was plenty of parking. It seems like Marriot has conducted a study and figured out they can bring in an extra (fill in the amount here) $6 Million dollars per year hitting everyone with parking fees. The next night I was back in Phoenix. Stayed at the Tempe Residence Inn. $15 per day to park. I walked in and without asking was informed that they upgraded my room. I was using points and they gave me a one BR corner suite. It was nothing special but it was nice to get the upgrade. Breakfast was included. One of my biggest gripes is knowing that the hotel has rooms available, but they will not let you reserve them if you are using points. I get the impression that Marriott often does not care. Staff at reception seems indifferent.

[@newagain9964]

Marriot is not even the 4th best chain

[@amygladwin]

When Marriott and Starwood merged, things became very different for (former) Starwood employees as well. You might think that the largest hotelier in the world, with all that buying power, would have highly competitive pay and benefits packages. When the new benefits packages rolled out, there were FEWER choices and they were more expensive for the employees. Employee discounts were barely any better than what I could find as a random customer online. I booked a stay recently with Bonvoy points I had saved up and when there was no record of how many points the stay would be and the vacation was coming up, I called to verify I had enough points. Customer Service confirmed I did, but apparently I didn’t. They canceled the stay when we arrived without any option to pay for whatever nights would not have been covered. We had to scramble to find new accommodations and they could not have cared less about how much stress this caused.

[@newagain9964]

Shocking how low marriot pays for high level professional. Es Shair in the site last week. Half of them don’t even list compensation, ur supposed to tell them ur min!

[@mdleweight]

I had the same problem with Hilton. The relationship ended when I had a flight cancellation and they charged me for the room. I wrote a letter asking them if my future business was worth the one-night charge. They sent a form response said they were reviewing my issue. Then I never heard back.

[@mattk8810]

This is what travel insurance is for.

[@TheBravoMan21]

It's so hard to remain loyal to one or a certain group of companies when they are unwilling to work with us customers. A few weeks ago, I had to delay my trip down to Mexico by a day due to weather and the hotel I was staying out (not a part of a major hotel company) was willing to adjust my arrival date and didn't charge me for the day that I was not there. it's little things like that, that for me go a long way.

[@alanshinosky2336]

Loyalty should be a two way street, unfortunately most companies make it a one way street going only in their direction.

[@lawrencestafford3943]

Am a Titanium member and absolutely hear all of your points. I hate the current point system, where a Saturday is 65k points and a random Tuesday is still 61k, makes no sense and is a complete waste. We do frequently get decent upgrades but NEVER the level you’re speaking of. Would like to see more from the program for the amount we spend. We do 75 nights but the majority being higher end properties, should be reflected.

[@MamaEv0618]

As a Marriott card holder, we saw this too. Not only did they change hotel to category based but they also changed to varying points per day vs per stay. You could always count on a set number of points per night and now it’s a different number every day with weekends being higher. We don’t even use our Marriott card anymore and have fully switched to a Southwest card.

[@newagain9964]

Earning Hotel pts not worthy it. They are basically worthless

[@SEECNICFLY]

I'm also an 5year Ambassador, with 18yrs 1884nights, with Lifetime Titanium Elite. I stay at Marriott for the service and product that they provide, with no complaints. But you are correct, the perks were exciting at first but unfortunately have been downgraded. But i genuinely see the CSR's do what they can.😊

[@BIGMEGA77]

Great synopsis of the Marriot points and status programs. I was in pursuit for my Ambassador status but decided to abort it due to the fact every location is different and inconsistent. Your right it’s all about the Algo ‘s! So I’ve learned to utilize the App religiously to fit my travel needs! In conclusion, I’ve learned that service and upgrades are better internationally, so I exploit that and frequent the locations that I have a rapport with the managers.

[@applelandry4233]

This is exactly why I've stopped going to Hilton. But I don't miss it. Throughout the pandemic things got worse and the breakfast credit that doesn't cover breakfast made me angry enough to leave. I've been sticking with Hyatt for 2 years, and I love it. Hyatt Key West and their us locations, while sparse, are absolutely worth having. I've also got the Hyatt card so the free nights aren't always great but in the DC area, there are some really nice hotels with low categories.

[@michaelpulikunnel5661]

James I loved this video. Behind the scenes and super cool.

[@andrewlee88]

I read about guys getting ambassador status like you on reddit. U are my hero. Im really sad to hear they couldn't do u right. A recent ambassador came out on reddit and said they want to downgrade.

[@sf9878]

Glad to see the marriott algorithm did the right thing for you since the people can't anymore. One that has been great for me lately has been Sixt car rental, with awesome upgrades based on status.

[@prmaninla]

I've been an Ambassador with Marriott since the inception of the program after the SPG acquisition (and lifetime Plat with SPG before that). I stay at hotels all over the world. My experience is completely opposite of yours - Marriott has been simply phenomenal. Was never a fan of the personal ambassador program as I felt I knew more about the properties than they did. But I always - always - get upgraded. Always get late checkout. Personal arrival gifts etc. Of course, I don't book the very cheapest room and then expect a multi-level upgrade. Nor do I go on and publicly complain about businesses with whom I have a relationship. Take that for what it's worth.

[@bperez8656]

I get upgraded all the time too and I was an employee I think these spoiled brats just want Presidential suites everywhere they stay.

[@phrewilly8556]

Hi James, I concur with the cost cutting side of travel businesses everywhere! Ironically, I have been a Hilton Diamond member for 10 years and all of us with my company that travel recently changed to the Mariott Bonvoy properties. Tiem and experience will tell but we are steadfast to give them a shot. I hope cruise Lines don't start doing it as well as I am Platinum on Carnival and Diamond on MSC!

[@innoaviation7618]

This is called a Soft Landing and Mariott is currently, automatically doing this for all elite members. If you do not requalify for your current tier status the most you will drop is one level for next year.

[@NCKyle1980]

🎉 beat me to it!😊

[@newagain9964]

Doesn’t change that fact Marriott is still a bad brand

[@mrboss1766]

I have noticed this in most industries lately from retail to restaurants even a lot of car dealers having fixed non negotiable prices. Seems as though we’re being treated as cattle these days with no appreciation and an arrogance in thinking and customer service. As if they expect you to spend regardless. Giving a little back to the paying customer goes a long way. It’s ONLY about the bottom line these days so i go where the better deals are instead of complacency. The only way to complain is spend your money elsewhere. Great video by the way 💪🏼

[@chrisinman4634]

I’m also a Marriott Rewards Member. As of now I have Ambassador status all the way through 2024. I also have Lifetime Titanium Elite status. I have a 23 year association with Marriott, my lifetime stays so far are 2036 nights. I never have a problem, I have a personal concierge’s person that makes sure I’m well taken care of. It’s always the best rooms, chocolates, champagne you name it. Prior to the Ambassador Concierge I was given a contact number for a person in Bill Marriott’s office to reach out to if I had any concerns. Marriott had been loyal to me and I’m loyal to them.

[@BigMacMick]

Loving your videos James 👍

[@lauradubose7233]

I also saw that info from Delta and I immediately thought of you bcuz i know you’re top tier traveler. And wow! Didn’t realize you really spend most of your life on the road! All the best, James

[@MH_6160]

Everything you stated is correct…. I see alot of cards diluting rewards programs, perks and over all points value. I used to be able to just check in at Hilton or other hotels in the FHR network… and they would welcome me and immedialty acknowledge my status with Hilton/ Amex and then would just upgrade me. Now I feel like I have to ask them at check in… and they get really agitated that I am even bringing it up. Totally feel like it's unpersonal and very pedestrian… I too question if there is even a loyalty program out there that is worth it. Just sad.

[@samuelokelly4941]

James love your videos !! What is nice for me ,I retired and don’t travel much any more . They gave me Lifetime Titanium status which for me is a nice perk after all the years traveling going back to the beginning of the program .

[@sidahmedabad]

Life time Titanium elite !! how is that possible ? The maximum program allow is life time Platinum elite status

[@cosmicdrift8311]

Cutting back those Marriott stays explains how you've had the time to visit all those Vegas properties. Marriott's poor customer service has been verbed as 'You've been Bonvoyed'. Apparently they consider themselves just the name and booking system over a collection of different brands and allow each property to decide how, or even if, they honor perks and benefits.

[@learninghowtowalk]

Very well said! It’s very disappointing to see what they have done to the rewards program.

[@thewesternmind]

I'm shocked they reached out. I see this all the time. Instead of continuing to take care of their best customers, businesses will cut benefits to them while chasing new customers. I have been a 70-80 night a year Hilton Honors members for a very long time. I have noticed that points per night award stays have gone up significantly in the last couple of years. I have used their Amex Hilton card on top and even with that extra points it isn't the value that it used to be. Thinking of changing over just to regular Amex and collect the Membership Rewards points. Can convert them to gift certificates or travel that way. Great video as always James. Thanks

[@intheknow3128]

Ive been ambassador for about 3 years, but I'm also Lifetime Titanium Elite. So I still stay at Marriott a lot, but I have noticed I'm not getting many upgrades... so you are right about that. ..

[@Boblawlaw26]

Great video and have had the exact same experience. I stay in Marriott properties probably 25% of the time now vs 100% pre-pandemic.

[@fayemoss7282]

Customer service is pretty much few and far between. Even Disney World known for top notch service has severely fallen off. No surprise. Thank you for another informative video.

[@kimberlysoto6864]

Thank you for this! I have been debating whether to move my load of points to Hilton or Marriott. Decision made

[@NurseViv]

Thanks for another video James..I totally agree loyalty programs across the board have changed and not so much for the better…The only exception I can see to that is the MGM loyalty program..(a little, lol) 😅

[@JeromeTEvans_]

Interesting! We've just started choosing a hotel brand and we chose Marriott. But if we don't get the advertised upgrades on a regular basis then we're definitely open to making a switch.

[@AndresSosa-wp8bz]

I have status with Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt. No program is perfect…but you can find value in each one. I remember your video about all the different Marriott levels of status…and you saying that Platinum was the best one because it has most of the perks without having to stay 100 nights or spending 23k. And now you can have Platinum status just by having the Amex Brilliant card. Personally I am Platinum and I am upgraded more often than now. I think that where Marriott shine is internationally. Last stay was a couple weeks ago at the amazing W Muscat, upgraded to a $800 1 bedroom suite for just 35k points. Keep the great work…you are the best…even when I am tired of the endless all inclusive reviews 😊

[@robtriton]

Great informative video!

[@yvr2002rtw]

Ever since COVID, 4PM check out has been even more difficult to get. In some cities, hotel workers are even going on strike. One time I was upgraded to a suite and was told that I couldn't have 4PM check out as suites take longer to clean and the housekeepers shift ends at 5PM! I asked again on the date of check out and was ultimately given until 4PM by another staff member. I went out and came back the hotel around 3PM and the housekeepers were already cleaning the living room portion of the suite and the bathrooms while leaving the bedroom untouched. On another occasion, when I got 4PM check out, just as I was leaving my room, there were already a pair of housekeepers standing there waiting with their cleaning supplies.

[@newagain9964]

Don’t blame the workers!

[@ksh3312]

Thank you for the good content. I'm currently an Ambassador elite member. Certainly, I feel that the preferential treatment has disappeared more than before. I don't know if it's because of the budget or we're reducing the authority because we think we've got enough customers.

[@OblongPolkaDots]

I used to love the Mariott program and used it for most of my travel. Once it began to fall off (I noticed around 2021) I decided to look elsewhere. Hopefully they will go back to what they did best, top shelf customer service.

[@Parris-Allen]

Thanks for sharing. I love the Marriott because their beds are so soft, and The Ritz is my fav..

[@travisa7580]

My daughter is titanium and one of the best perks is getting front of the line entrance to the Cosmo buffet when we visit her in Vegas.Also, I just received an email from Southwest detailing that it will be easier to get A list and A list preferred next year. About time these big companies started hearing the consumer

[@johniii8147]

LOL that's funny you consider it a "perk" to move up the line at a buffet.

[@JCizzleSoCal]

If it was the Bacchanal Buffet then that would be a perk!

[@dreams2reality410]

Great video. Experienced something very similar with Delta. Hence I dont fly Delta anymore. Alaska Airlines earned my buisness and I haven't looked back since.

[@Bcelos182]

Very interested to see what happens with the mgm Marriot partnership next year. A little afraid to see how many Bonvoy pours it takes for the Aria !

[@bethanyarnp8852]

This is generally happening all over, not just the strip. It’s an unfortunate sign of the times. I enjoy my memberships through Grazie and Wynn, especially F&B credits.

[@MH_6160]

Facts, even airline cards are diluting the points and overall program.

[@miamivicefanatic9736]

I'm local to Las Vegas and am only interested in player's club comps (freeplay and food), and I've noticed Wynn is far superior to MGM. I don't have any experience with Grazie, so I don't know how it compares to Wynn. I'm extremely happy with Wynn and have been loyal to them for years.

[@bethanyarnp8852]

@@miamivicefanatic9736 you’ll get $20 off dinner if you lose all your money at slots.

[@TransConBrilliance]

LV hotels are interesting. They are better equipped to downgrade services when they want. They seem to be able to all get together and agree to downgrade together as a group(the largest casinos anyway) in the same time frame.

[@newagain9964]

@@TransConBrilliancetrue. But this happening in other sectors as well. Especially banks/credit cards

[@davidoneal1518]

I’m a Marriott person as well and I have definitely noticed a difference. I never get an upgrade unless I ask for it when I’m checking in. It should have been given to me automatically. I stay with them though because I own 2 timeshares through the company. I hope they watch your video. Abe you can make them rethink things.

[@newagain9964]

Lmao. Marriott don’t care about ur experience. Only stockholder dividends.

[@davidsigalow7349]

Oddly, Southwest just CUT the number of flights (or points) it takes to acquire A-List status or earn a companion pass. Perhaps there's been a backlash against the reduction of travel perks.

[@TransConBrilliance]

Southwest is doing whatever they can because of their own stupidity with the 2 travel meltdowns they had in the last 2 years. That's the only reason for their desperation.

[@flashoflight8160]

Southwest has not recovered from the disaster of last December. When your company is used as a joke that is used by comedians everywhere, it will take a long time to regain customer trust especially around Christmas.

[@davidsigalow7349]

​@flashoflight8160 You are probably right. My A-list staus was set to expire at the end of 2022 but was extended through this year. I figured that it was probably damage control. It will be interesting to see if MGM Rewards does something similar with its status tiers to assuage its customers after the hack.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

I have flown with Delta in my last job significantly and using the Reserve card I was entitled to go to the Sky lounge anytime I was flying Delta. Although they did restore some perks, the sky Lounge is limited now for people with the Reserve card. Paying 500 a year for a card is significant to me, and if I am going to be limited in how many times I can go, I think I will be letting the card go as well. I am not flying as much anyway, so I will probably use up that 150k miles I have and boot my Delta Loyalty. I live in SWFL now and flying to Atlanta to go to Miami for free isn't worth it.

[@bellamamma7666]

You can’t go down more than one status year over year. Meaning if you didn’t hit ambassador last year you automatically get pushed to Titanium. Next year you would go down to Platinum if you don’t hit Titanium even if you don’t have the required nights for Platinum. I’ve been a Marriott loyal member for years, I have lifetime status. I agree things have gone down significantly

[@cyprezza]

Ever since Marriott has taken over the Royalton we have noticed perks and little comp things that made our trips special either deteriorated or disappeared. Not to mention cutbacks in dining quality and beverage selections. We travel a few times a year and book Presidential Suites whenever we can! It just seems like they don't give a sh¡t anymore about loyalty as there is always someone else who will book your suite/room if you don't. We are doing a return visit to Chic Cancun next month. Let's see if they dropped the ball like they did at the Royalton Riviera! The staff at all the resorts are phenomenal, and they are the only thing keeping people coming back and loyal to their hotels.

[@corydurham7843]

We switched to other brands because the Marriott properties started letting us down since about mid 2022. Ive noticed more maintenance issues, cleanliness issues, and staffing issues and I have been Marriott loyal since I started my career in 2004. I think they got so big that some things just fall through the cracks.

[@kid319009]

doesn't help they're almost completely franchised. They don't have much control over day-to-day operations, thus we notice the inconsistencies across their portfolio

[@johniii8147]

It's just the brand. They are all most all a fransize location with someone else owning the property and managing it.

[@corydurham7843]

Yes I know it’s a brand but they used to hold their owner operators to a higher standard to keep that sign out front.

[@nubianpwr]

I agree, and that includes places like the Ritz Carlton unfortunately

[@malarimer]

I've held Marriott Titanium and Hyatt Globalist simultaneously for many years. Because of a reduction in work travel, I have to choose one or the other, and I'm definitely going Hyatt. Marriott has more hotels, but like you said, the points are really weak.

[@red19711]

James, I totally agree and have been a Diamond member with Hilton and don’t really see any benefit other than more points per night based on Diamond status. It’s not what it used to be. I agree 100%

[@johnlittle8267]

I am a Marriott person because of Westin and their beds, believe me I wish I didn't have to be, just can't sleep on a lot of other beds. Hyatt was great until they replaced all of their beds with a firmer model. I do like the Platinum benefits that I get with the Amex Brilliant card.

[@candiceabr]

Totally agree!

[@angelicslayer192]

Facing same thing with Caesar reward program. Diamond used to be amazing with Free Spa/Gym access, free diamond lounge, show tickets, buffets now all of those gone. Like someone else said maybe just sign of the times. Getting to a point my Vegas friend and I seriously considering doing something else besides annual Vegas trip.

[@justsnappy]

If you have a branded card, you start the year with 15 elite nights, plus you get a birthday gift elite night. If you have the older card you get an additional elite night credit for every $3000 spend. So, you can bring your yearly stay requirement down from 100 actual nights quite quickly.

[@ZackYounguk]

I’ve also noticed this with my status but across the board… massive cost cutting and the guaranteed benefits all become ‘if available’ the most simple benefit is late checkout but many hotels now turning their faces when you ask for more than 1 or 2 hours.

[@edtlonsway]

I have not had the same problem with late checkout but that could be locations I'm staying. I do agree the points are devalued with the tier program. What used to be a reasonable amount for shoulder season has shifted to large amount of points for higher end properties. I also rarely get upgraded w/o using suite night awards. As a lifetime Platinum Elite there is not a lot keeping me around save their size makes it easy to find a property everywhere.

[@therealmrsdiz4544]

Fellow Marriott Ambassador. Everything you spoke about is very accurate, they even screwed me out of some points when we had to adjust a stay 6 months ago. Except the late checkout, we have always been given those when needed. However, I have been trying to get into a massive property (1600+ rooms) for MONTHS, that has been sold out, with no explanation. They have been useless with getting us into this property. I'm about to give up! I miss Starwood.

[@kenv3179]

Hey man, thanks for the video. I'm a Marriott elite and have been for over 10-15 years, due to my extensive personal/business travel. I'm currently Titanium, but, I'm also a Lifetime Platinum Elite. Like you, I was a Marriott loyalist year after year, due to the great program and widespread locations, particularly after they acquired Starwood Hotels. Also, like you, I did notice I wasn't receiving the benefits, such as upgrades, as often and using points for stays became worthless, as they were so expensive. I notice this particularly in North America, not so much outside North America. Nowadays, like you, I check rates at all major hotel chains and now base my lodging decisions on cost, location, program benefits, and most often, the condition of the hotels. As a side note, I stopped flying Delta many years ago because their miles redemption became worthless [ie., 800,000 miles to fly business roundtrip to Europe...really?]

[@raouldelacruz9677]

I traveled for a living and was a staunch Hilton Honors member. Achieved their highest level of loyalty and held it for 3 years. I only recently used up the last of my points. I’m not sure if Hilton rewards has changed, but I surely hope not. “Loyalty” goes both ways. I hope Hilton remembers that.

[@StanislavBD]

I’m been on the fence about renewing my Ambassador status this year for the same reason. Shifted to Hyatt with 220 nights to try to shoot for Lifetime Globalist but noticed their deterioration as well. Shifted back to Marriott, staying at a Westin, and need 11 more nights and 4K to go.

[@OHANA-Beach-Suites]

Love hotels! We are building our own on the beach in the Philippines! Have a great week!

[@yvr2002rtw]

Upgrades are easier to get if you are staying for only 1 night. On a couple occasions, I was staying 3 nights and purposely made 3 separate 1 night reservations to increase my chances.

[@mattk8810]

Bingo

[@JimmyVYouTube]

Thanks James

[@raven98031]

Thank you so much for this. What you think about credit card reward programs?

[@ryanthomas2160]

Agree on some points…. In the US I rarely get significant upgrades or recognition. Outside the US I’m almost always upgraded and always receive late checkout, fruit baskets, welcome letters, etc.

[@Oheeeoh]

You did right by leaving the program. I don't mind spending money on vacation if I'm getting what I perceive is a fair value. One of my pet peeves is getting fleeced by a greedy corporation.

[@mdelugo1]

Your comments resonated with me as a Delta Diamond Medallion member. I have seen the same degradation of Delta’s Skymiles loyalty program over the past 4 years. Like Marriott, if Delta makes the miles your earn worth less and less, eventually one wonders if one’s loyalty to one brand is any longer worth it. Yes, in Delta’s case they have made some changes to their program but…what they have not yet proved or displayed any improvement on is the ACTUAL value for each mile flown. If they keep raising the minimum miles needed for a free flight, then everything they are doing is really just smoke and mirrors. Like Marriott, I have seen Delta’s service level drop during the past Fee years. Write a letter, submit a comment, I don’t usually ever see a reply, even though I am Diamond, as well as a million miler. I have written to Ed Bastian, and never even gotten a form letter back. Like you, I am really starting to question if loyalty programs still hold enough value worthy of my loyalty.

[@zesolodar]

they arent called sky pesos for nothing. my mom was a million miler on delta and without her amex card they wont even let her walk into the lounge and if they do if im with her they will still nickel and dime her and extra few bucks just so i her osn can come in with her.

[@JPBuffet]

I go back and forth with these programs. I have came to the conclusion that, at the end of the day, wherever I can get the most value for my money is where I am going to be. I enjoyed the thought process here as well.

[@SinCitizenGent]

Aww, I just started to get into marriott after they partnered w mgm (former employee of nyny). So have you considered ambassadorship w wyndham/ caesars? Or will do you do any ambassador comparison videos when considering another chain to join? Thanks, great seeing you @ resorts world

[@jrs4ex]

I remember in the 90’s my father used to travel 100+ nights out of the year. He built up enough points to take the whole family to Disneyland. Before we could book it the airline went out of business. I remember they sent us a little fake leather wallet to make up for it. I’m still salty about it and I’m 36

[@kathychan1490]

Great video. Whole heartedly agree. No we get very little benefits and at the Ritz Carlton in Singapore, you don't even get breakfast

[@happyron]

I don't stay a whole lot at Marriot, but I got the Brilliant Card and enjoyed the free lounge (no upgrades so far) access. Either me or my partner are going to get the Business Marriot which means we'll start out with 40 elite night credits next year and I was considering making a run for Titanium status. Watching this I'm not sure there is that much differences. When I make it to 50 nights I might just get the 5 suite nights and risk not quite getting the Titanium

[@chipb4617]

I’ve definitely seen an increase in the amount of points needed to book rooms. Heading to New Symerna Beach next weekend. 182,000 AND $135 for 3 nights at a springhill suites. Pretty ridiculous. I would expect that from a Ritz Carlton property

[@bperez8656]

That’s outrageous!!! Shocking really

[@pathunter2219]

I stopped using the bonvoy card altogether cause of the points de-valuation. They also pulled a fast one on me with a cruise voucher. I too have a Hilton points and will stay with them for the time being.

[@waldron007]

I've found that whilst Marriott has the best properties, with so many people in the Bonvoy program it's hard to get value/perks. Lets be honest, Marriott know they have the strongest selection of properties. In recent years, Hilton have done a better job for me. However, lets see what the MGM partnership brings, maybe my head can be turned again. I agree though, rewards programs aren't what they used to be. The goal posts keep getting moved. AMEX FHR can be a better option now, rather than being loyal to one brand/hotel group.

[@newagain9964]

They have the most properties, not the strongest selection.

[@valsquyres]

Good to know, thanks!

[@FreddyFuFu]

I miss being a Starwood gold member. Between 2009 and 2017, I obtained a free week at the westin aruba, 2 nights at the St-Regis in NY, upgraded 50% of the time... it was awesome until Marriott took over.

[@brandonhuang4414]

Unfortunately a lot of franchised hotels don’t necessarily follow the brand standards to a tee. You should have been getting the 4 pm check out no matter what.

[@valthelittledragon6056]

One of the main factor why upgrade and perks are getting worse is because of status from credit cards. More and more people have them and therefore less likely to get upgrade. Also marriott is getting always trying to get on the investor good side and neglect their users side. Also the late check out is guaranteed. Unless resort type properties

[@rdollie1]

I'm a lifetime Marriott guy with over 2,000 nights (Lifetime Titanium and T50 last time I checked into a hotel as well as Delta Million Miler/former 360; etc.) In my experience, all loyalty programs have had a bit of a reset since the pandemic, and it makes sense as it's basic math. Before the pandemic, we frequent travelers were X% of the mix consuming much greater than X% of the loyalty amenities. Essentially, the masses of casual travelers were subsidizing our premium experience. Now, the ratio has changed. There are fewer business travelers, so travel orgs dont have the margin for all the gratuities. Hence, rejiggering of programs to move the bar higher so fewer high loyalty patrons get some benefit.

[@bperez8656]

American economy in decline

[@damonroger3184]

Hey James, have you considered switching to another loyalty program? I've heard that Hyatt offers a pretty good one.

[@nathanhayhurst3212]

Thank you James, yes i joined Marriott bonvoy after your video... hard to accumulate more points as im Canadian , doing travel in Canada... not worth it here.

[@howardchen3456]

Good for you. Thx for the feedback

[@markrussell3428]

James: A DR question. Your work persuaded me to "Go Majestic". I did and went twice in 2022 to Majestic Elegance. It was awesome. Its #9 on your list. I have a chance to spend less money and book Royalton Chic. You call it the best Royalton in DR and its #5 on your list. It seems pretty self-evident but i thought I would ask. I also like lasagna.

[@nicoletambasco9210]

La Quinta is the only one that’s cool about dogs. No bs fees, no problems…so that’s my go to even when I don’t have my dog. Nothing fancy to the place, but it’s clean, customer service great, breakfast pretty good..always consistent..and I don’t have to deal with any bs over my dog

[@stewartdowbiggin2337]

All the smaller perks like gifts and personal agents were nice, but the kicker was the switch to dynamic pricing. We went from booking downtown luxury places in Venice, Paris, Taipei.......to hoping we can grab a courtyard or residence inn. We're lucky, as Marriott timeshare owners they extend titanium as a perk. But I would never pay the extra money to achieve the status.

[@Noonelson]

i am only platinum ATM but have been Titanium before. Didnt think Ambassador was worth the spend. I will probably get platinum for life in 18 months. Things have got worse across the board imo.

[@lstruggy]

Circus Circus and Excalibur execs has entered this chat 🗝️

[@JC-kb2qg]

I remember when it used to be Starwood before Marriott bought them. That was a great program, I always got upgraded to something special, the points were valuable, and the hotels were unique and eclectic. I was ambassador and barely got recognized, it was no different really than titanium and all the perks of the past were pretty much gone. Now it just feels so corporate it has definitely lost its spark, and I usually prefer to stay boutique.

[@alvinmousseau1100]

Great video

[@jhawk3910]

Lifetime Titanium Elite here and I could not agree more with every point you’ve made. Upgrades have been nonexistent since late 2019, and my points devalued significantly. I’ve made the move to Hyatt.

[@stephanieli2669]

I’ve been Marriott Titanium for 3 years and received suite upgrade only once. And I often need to ask to be upgraded to a nicer room. The only 2 benefits I appreciate is the 4 pm check out, (and a lot of hotels at full capacity will only give you until 2pm and argue the 4pm check out is based on availability), and free breakfast/lounge access. Marriott is substantially more expensive than local hotels, and even Hilton/Hyatt.

[@johndurante4114]

I agree with everything you are saying. I am Lifetime Titanium with 1,700 lifetime nights. I have seen the perks go down. I am Gold Hilton, and they treat me better than Marriott. I have been loyal to Marriott, and am disappointed that do not value the loyalty. They have Suite Awards that I try to use when I have my Wife with me. They are of available most of the time. I hope it improves, and I hope the MGM Partnership is good for Marriott Members.

[@garyb2392]

I dont like Marriot as a brand, so I’ve always been a Hilton person. I’m happy where I am…I stay 60 nights a year though! Any hotel loyalty program would be happy you’re with them. I appreciate the insight