I actually plan on using the two Cat 1-4 certificates that I was "gifted" by Marriott this year for a promo.

Problem is, I am not at all comfortable with how they appear on the reservation. This brings back not so fond memories of my first attempt to use the free cert I was given from the MR Visa. It was an awful experience. I saw 40,000 points on the reservation--I didn't know any better. Days before the reservation, I noticed 40,000 deducted from my point balance (I was already out of the country) and had to really push the issue when I returned to get the 40,000 returned to my account because the free night had expired by the time we returned home. The rep said, "didn't you see 40,000 points on the reservation?" I told her of course I saw that but it didn't mean anything to me because I specifically made the reservation using the free night so I didn't know how they coded their awards. I was very green back then. Only slightly less green now.

Anyway, I'm having a deju vu. I looked at the reservation and I see nothing about these two certs. I do see a reference to 40,000 points (2 nights). I called and asked about seeing 40,000 points instead of the free night certificates, and I was assured no points would be taken out and that the two free certs would be used for this reservation. Meanwhile, the two certs are still sitting in my account.

Can anyone tell me if this is typical (to see 40,000 for 2 free Cat 1-4 nights) to see on a reservation?

I do not want a repeat of last time. It was so ridiculous.

Thanks!!

Dawn