Originally Posted by
Dolphinyong
Did you ask for it? I'm currently doing the platinum challenge as well. Lounge access and breakfast were complimentary during all my stay (except in Courtyard and AC). That's for sure at least during our stay at JW Marriott, Marriott and Renaissance (Refer to their elite benefits official website).
When we were in Marriott Munich, the front office staff forgot to give me any information about their lounge (there were a lot of guests checking-in that time, so I asked for it and coupons were given. I think you have to ask=) Marriott staff are very friendly and helpful=)
Room upgrade for platinum is not something that you will always get. We got a corner room upgrade at Marriott Munich and a junior suite upgrade at JW Marriott KL. Again, you have to ask for it, in a nice and friendly way=)
You should get welcome gift whenever you check-in at Marriott hotels. Again, ask for it=) The staff of JW Marriott KL forgot to offer me the welcome gift, they were very helpful and friendly during the check-in process plus they are arranging something special for my girlfriend's birthday, so I didn't utilize the Platinum guaranteed benefits, but instead, I just got back to them and ask for the welcome gift.
Don't be shy to ask for some information. As long as you ask with a smile, they would help you with a smile=)
I NEVER ask for an upgrade and get it everytime. In fact, tomorrow (Sunday) my stay at the Renaissance Esmeralda starts and the room type on my reservation has already been changed (on Friday their elite coordinator emailed a rather poorly worded doc to see the Elite Loyalty Ambassador if I arrived between 1 and 5 pm)...another upgrade.