I don't really give a **** if you believe me or not, but I was given Platinum this year even though I only had seven nights with Marriott last year. I assume one of two things: It's a computer glitch or it's because the company I worked for dumped Marriott and Marriott is still trying to hold onto us elites.

It didn't work, I instead went for Starwood Platinum, then Hilton Diamond (both still covered by my company). I will end this year with 12 nights at Marriott, will see what happens. Most of my stays are for their promotions or using the 2-for-1 Elite Exclusive Offers. I am still a fan of Marriott, but they are now third on my preference list after Starwood and Hilton.

Again, I don't think anyone should get their panties in a twist, but it did happen. It's as puzzling to me as to anyone else, and I remember early this year calling Marriott Rewards and going 'Are you sure I'm still Platinum?" and they said yes, and then puzzling over the welcome letter that says "Thanks for staying with us 75 nights last year".

Marriott is still by far the least likely to give people comped anything (aside from their promotions) and that is a GOOD thing, but if you think anything is written in stone in the frequent flier/stayer business, you really got a shock coming to you...