Marriott made a Huge mistake imo by floating this idea with descriptions of what arguably are real enhancements without at the same time also presenting the accompanying very significant devaluation of the travel packages. If they did focus groups (surely they would before making these changes wouldn't they?) and presented the whole package of changes proposed, I have to believe all of this negative reaction would have come out then.

Since the packages are considered to be the Ultimate Prize by many Frequent Marriott guests, this hits many of Marriott's best customers really hard, in spite of the other real improvements. And, indeed the travel packages serve to distinguish Marriott from other hotel guest programs.