This type of thread was often discussed @ Hilton properties but I don't really see a similiar inquiry here....I'm sure it has been discussed throughout the years.

I am learning that, as Gold, there are a lot of things that are not part of the "package," per se. Marriott Resorts are kind of off limits to having to provide various perks to us, and Courtyard's somehow have excluded themselves from providing breakfast....the JW's, well there is some sort of 91 Club that NO ONE gets into (Cancun anyway) unless they pay something like $90 a day (might even be per person, can't remember).

So....with that information (and I'm still learning these things every week it seems), can you tell me of a great Marriott property that has a GREAT lounge (much discussion about GREAT lounges outside of the US @ the Hilton side), and also, nice upgrades, and that provide lounge access to Golds (even Hilton Golds are not entitled to lounge access anymore....fortunately, I'm Diamond with them but no way will I ever make Plat with MR...too difficult because they don't count stays, only nights).

Anyway, outside of the US, lounge access for Golds (probably not a guarantee, but more often than not), great place to visit, and just a great all-around location and a great Marriott property.

We are planning our next anniversary, sometime in late October/November 2009. We have plans for this year's anniversary and will be in Barbados next February....so this is for next fall.

Also, as Diamond Hilton, I've never once had a problem obtaining an award stay. I understand that I could very well have a very different experience in that regard as well, as a lowly Gold.

I would love to start reading up on some great places to stay that have a really great Marriott that treats their Golds very well. I want my husband to "experience" a Marriott property because we've been to many, many Hilton properties and I want us both to see how the Marriott experience compares.

Thanks for any information. We live in California...but not a big deal, but I'm only referring to non-US properties anyway.

Dawn