I was not so happy with SPG's new offering for a regular Plat (ie less than 50 nights yr) so decided to give Marriott a try this year. Have a dormant Marriott Rewards account to run with. Did a few new member referrals to which worked out well so far.

Emailed [email protected] with a photo of my SPG Plat, PCR Plat Amb, and Delta Hotels Plat Plus cards and recieved an offer within 24 hrs

Offer - instant Marriott Plat status within 24-48 hrs (actually showed in less than 24) to July 31 and a challenge. Stay 18 nights during April 18-July 31 and I earn Plat for the balance of 2012....less than 18 and no Plat.

Reasonable challenge and a chance to taste Plat with Marriott and see what its like. Only sent a photo and one email, no stay history requested and it was painless....kudo's to Marriott Rewards for recognizing an opportunity.