Thanks for the replies. Is it easy to trade hotel points on flyertalk? Like can I deposit x points in somebody's loyalty account and have them deposit (say) 15,000 points in my Marriott account? And is there any unofficial conversion rate (hotel programs seem all over the map as to what a point is worth).

Over the years, I think I've gotten 2 Marriott credit cards. My recollection was that the first time I got something like 20,000 points and a free night cert to a Cat. 4 hotel, and the second time I only got the 20K points (cert. limited to first time cardholders). If I apply again, these days, will they give me another sign-up bonus?

I've got about 10 weeks before my stay.

Thanks for the suggestions!