Originally Posted by
sethb
So I can get credit for only one, which is fine; but if I have a long-term stay and don't check out (for various reasons, including potential hassle and even increased costs due to tax rules) then I can't get status benefits at the other hotel?
And, for what it's worth, I most certainly can occupy two hotel rooms in different hotels in one night. The canonical example is I don't want my (hypothetical) wife to meet my girlfriend.
Taking that example to an extreme you could spend time in many different properties. However, that does not change the program where you are only entitled to credit in one. Many have reported getting credit for multiple properties, and that's great. The fact remains (and as proven by OP), MR may discover the mistake months later and lock everything down. Also image you barely squeaked by making Plat and backing off the ineligible nights knocks you back to silver... What do you expect them to do then?
Also, this is not a new subject. Yes, it's a surprise to those that have not read the T&Cs. Yes, it's a surprise to those that have not followed the threads on FT. From reading the accounts of past events, the auditors can be reasonable and restore the account once it's all worked out. Bottom line it's their program, the points belong to them, they can pretty much do what they want. Their loyalty program is a marketing tool to promote their business. Some marketing works, some doesn't. Sounds simple to me.