Let me also express my approval for Marriott's services in general. I used to only stay with them when I plan meetings considering the SPP (Starwood Preferred Planner) really sucks and Starwood hotels are usually much more expensive.

But recently, with Starwood's service going downhill while price remained way overpriced and marketing going no where, I tried out Marriott on non-meeting stays (personal stays). Their price is very competitive to Starwood and Hiltons but nfortunately, I didn't have any status with Marriott. I am a Starwood Platinum but today I had an odd feeling when I received my Marriott Silver elite card - I am already an elite with Marriott? I haven't realized Starwood has lost my business for the last 2 months to the extent that 15 nights with Marriott was easily acheived and so fast.

At least Marriott doesn't start comping people like Starwood does which is quite frustraing. I talked to Marriott long time ago about comping my status, they refused but they left the door open by saying they'll review my case when I showed them some activities. So they didn't actually say no to bend the rules, they just want to see some proves first. At that time, I had absolutely no activity with them, not even as a planner. I asked them because I wanted to get an upgrade for a meeting I was going to attend soon after. I must confess I wasn't really going to switch to them either. But now, after a few meetings planned under my name (I got the planner bonuses), they have received revenue in the 5 digits for those ones + some personal stays enough to make Silver, I say it's time to ask Marriott to review my case. After all, I did give them quite a bit of revenue. It would make my transition from Starwood smoother and easier if I decide to make a permanent change which I'll make up my mind by the end of this month.

Does Marriott upgrade Gold/Platinum elites to Suites? My elite guide says: "finest available room", just how 'fine' is it? Are they consistent in upgrades?