Marriott is pretty tough. I recently inquired to see if there was a way to get comped or take a challenge to attain an elite status with them. I have shown loyalty in the past (500k earned program points) but only 24 nights this year so far (although most were at full service, expensive Marriotts). The response I received was a resounding "no". (see below)

Thank you for contacting Marriott Rewards.

That challenge is only offered to members who were previously Gold and have
been downgraded.

In fairness to our most frequent stayers, elite levels in our program are
only achieved by personal nights stayed at Marriott Hotels 1/1 to 12/31 of
each year.

Silver elite level is 15 personal nights, Gold elite level is 50 personal
nights, and Platinum elite level is 75 personal nights.

Most of our Gold elite level (50 personal nights) members stay over 60
nights per year and most of our Platinum elite level (75 personal nights)
members stay over 100 nights per year. The demand for Gold and Platinum
elite level benefits such as concierge lounge (full service hotels, only,
excluding resorts), upgraded rooms, etc., is very high at hotels and not all
Gold and Platinum level members can be accommodated on every stay.

The Elite Membership benefits are not equal at each Marriott brand.

For Elite Membership benefits information, click here:
http://www.marriottrewards.com/Elite/default.asp.

We are always happy to assist you with your Marriott Rewards account.

Sincerely,

Trevor S.
Marriott Rewards

I'm switching to Starwood full time next year!