Freeupgrade I think you are right on the money. There is nothing behind the PLT level anymore. I can't remember the last time that I was upgraded to a suite, usually the Platinum gift never arrives, etc.etc. I'm currently at the La Jolla Marriott, nice enough, at $199/night! No morning paper, no upgrade, had to ask for the concierge access and no PLT gift. Unfortunately, I've had this same experience too often lately.

Have you noticed that Marriott has not forgotten or neglected to raise their rates? Their prices on the West coast are through the roof. And at a lot of old, dumpy hotels.