Originally Posted by
pjoalfa
The biggest difference I could find is the platinum force when a hotel is sold out. That and a few more points. Other than that, meh. Upgrades beyond club level are not so common. With 20 nights to rollover I'd say roll 'em and go for plat next year.
I had a case where I used the Plat override to book a FS in a town with only a FS Marriott - no other Marriott Brands. Due to delayed flight, I ended up not arriving to the hotel until near midnight. They had given my room away, and ended up walking me. That was a big payday, as back then:
1. They had to pay for my room at the Brand H property I was walked to.
2. Pony up $200.00 cash.
3. Give me certs for 2 free nights at any Marriott.
When I came back to the FS Marriott the following day, they checked me in, gave me a sweet suite and comp'd breakfast for the rest of the stay.
Nice payday.