I was very happy to receive Platinum credentials in the mail yesterday, since I had only 70 nights this year. I would have had more had the Marriott product been available at some places I stayed (Gloversville, NY, anyone?)

Over ninety percent of my hotel stays over the past ten years have been with Marriott. Even if they sent me to Gold, I would continue to stay with them. Keeping me at Plat won't cost them much.

Full disclosure: I did work for Marriott for 15 years, but not in their hotel division. That experience dedicates me more to them than any status.

Cheers,
Pogopossum