Originally Posted by
gobluetwo
Maybe I'm daft, but it's just granting you Marriott status. If nothing else, it's free status and may get you better treatment, a few upgrades, some free breakfasts, etc. should you happen to have occasion to take advantage of it. Nice to have in your back pocket, even if you rarely/never use it.
http://www.marriott.com/rewards/member-benefits/gold.mi
It takes 50 nights a year at Marriott's to qualify for this through their program.
Depending on where you stay, it is what you say and much more.
Some Marriott's have a full on dinner in their lounges. The JW in Bangkok has a chef and several guys cooking up fresh hot food.
My best experience was in Budapest where they had Filet Mignon and full on dinner in the lounge.
Many include free booze including hard stuff. If you add it up in some cities, it is a huge benefit.