Originally Posted by
chayler
I'm a Platinum Marriott member and haven't had the best experiences. I rarely seem to get upgraded. I got my points through a combination of stays 40 nights and credit card usage.
I'm thinking about switching to Hyatt or Starwood and am willing to open a credit card with them.
I know Starwood has a platinum challenge but it's 18 nights in 3 months, is there a better way to get there? And does Platinum matter at Starwood?
Does Hilton have a challenge, does having high status help there?
Thanks
Chris
Hilton has a challenge, but you have to request a tier status match in writing to get it (and they may or may not offer it).
Simply email the request along with a copy of your MR Plat. card and your request. Make sure to include your hhonors account # also.
As for SPG, Plat. does make a big difference. Many people tout their service. However, IMO I think they have terrible service for Gold members. In fact, they don't seem to recognize you even as a member (or barely, if ever).
Therefore, I have no intention of ever giving them more business if they don't earn it along the way. They lost my respect with other business with them as well. So I may not be a good one to ask about that.
Diamond at hilton can be great! But, I don't think you can expect an upgrade every stay at any chain (including Hilton).
However, at Marriott, are you talking about not getting upgrades at fullservice hotels or someplace like the CY and others?
I find the respect from Marriott to be quite good. Especially if you have an issue and have to call in to change or get something fixed.