Tonight I am staying at one of my regular locations in Northern California. I choose this location due to their excellent Concierge Lounge, even though it is an extra 10 miles to my office. In the morning they have traditionally offered Oatmeal, a waffle machine and Bacon/Sausage/Potatoes in addition to the normal fare. In the evening there was always salad and two hot entrees in addition to the cheese, vegies, etc.

The last two weeks all of the extras have been gone. I assumed that this was due to their normal lower occupancy during the holidays. However, I just learned that this was all a Marriott corporate directive to not let lounges offer "extras". Booo.

I have done a lot of soul searching lately about the changes in the reward program. I had really decided that I will take better and more concierge lounges with Marriott over suite upgrades with Starwood. I am platinum with Starwood and Marriott. There are two good Starwood options closer, and I just may move my business.. But really I am just sad that this (and I assume other special lounge properties such as the Marriott Marquis, Sydney Harbor Marriott, etc) will be downgrading their offerings.

Marriott Concierge, what can you tell us about this sad development?