Marriott Rewards is pretty much terrible all around. (160 nights with them last year (2011)) I pretty much can't use my point on anything that even resembles a time when a normal person would go on vacation someplace. Sure I can use the heck out of them in Detroit in late January. Any other time and the redemption rate is absurd or there are no rooms available. But mostly no rooms available with points. For example I tried booking a hotel for next (12 months advance) year and there were "no dates available for check in." I got the same thing 4 months in advance in 2011. I attempted to book over a 2 month period at 9! different hotels. I've had my best luck at Ritz Carlton properties.

As a result I have drastically cut my stays at Marriott. I will probably phase them out all together this year. I have sent several letters to Marriott about my issues with their program. I mostly get back letters defending their program and saying I am the only one having these problems. Perhaps they should read more flyertalk forums. I would also encourage more people to write and call Marriott. Perhaps if enough people do they will make some changes.