Currently on the phone with a CSR who clearly is ESL (English is a Second Language) trying to use my Marriott visa free night cert. I have tried to be patient but have now repeated myself 5 times to explain that I am using a certificate. Now on interminable hold while she is no doubt consulting someone who knows what they are doing. Nope, just disconnected (maybe that was for the best )

I sincerely hope Marriott is not following the ill fated route of DL and UA by employing poorly trained overseas call center CSRs. If you are going to outsource you need to spend a lot of money to provide proper training, or I will be defecting to your competitor. It is not my job to provide training or be inconvenienced due to your incompetence.

Addendum: Called back and reached US-based agent who handled everything in about 3 minutes. Like night and day!