I think I've been one here who typically downplays the benefits of Platinum. With Marriott, Gold is where the "meat" is - EEO's, lounge, a room type guarantee that, for me, always works.

On paper, Plat adds the availability guarantee, 2 extra points per dollar, and the welcome amenity. I personally have found the availability guarantee useless - I've only tried to invoke it 2 or 3 times and it has not worked. I'm more complimentary of the welcome amenity: I actually enjoy having a snack and wine delivered to the room. Some properties do the minimum: a half-bottle of Meridien. But many others deliver a full bottle or something more interesting.

I'd say on 19 out 20 stays the property does nothing to really distinguish Gold from Plat. Gold means you'll generally have a good stay. Then, on the 20th stay, someone will do something very nice - an extra amenity of some sort, an exceptional upgrade, etc. It's easy to criticize Marriott-wide corporate policies here on FT - I have to remind myself not to forget the thoughtful, competent hotel employees out there who still do the little extra things beyond what's required.

Check your rolling calendar, pick up the MR Visa if you don't have it already, and then see if you'll still need more EQN. You will likely find that you can hit Plat without doing anything unusual or wasting money on totally unneeded stays.