I will be staying in Thailand for 28 days with my family. The rates for the Marriott properties are incredibly attractive at a 40% discount if you book early and get their Advance Purchase Rate. I'm trying to get an even better rate by using Marriott Gift Cards which I can buy at a discount. I am told the ONLY way to get the best rate is by paying early with a credit card. Personally I think this is a dumb policy since my Gift Card will already have an amount. Not sure why I can not just call reservations and give them the gift card number to prepay. They still get their money and I get a good rate. I even asked if I could book early with a credit card and then receive a credit at the hotel on checkout and then pay with gift cards. Anyone have any experience with how to get around this insane policy.

LS