I realized just this week how true it is. Every stay at a marriott is different. Sometimes they recognize your status, sometimes they don't.

Sometimes I walk in and get. . .

Front Desk: "Welcome to the XMarriott, Mr. NeoOfTheCRS, thanks for staying with us. I see that you are a gold member and we have upgraded you to a corner king/junior suite/ocean view etc. Here are your keys. My name is X please let us know if we can do anything to make your stay more comfortable.

Me: Thank you very much for your hospitality! Have a great day

More often than not i get. . .

Front desk: "Your name please. Uhh, your reservation says king, will two double beds be ok"

Me: No. I'd prefer a non-smoking king if you have one

Front desk: <Scowl>. Typing and rapid arrow down on the key board. <Sigh>. 30 seconds later. "Ok. I have found a king. It is on the X floor here are your keys"

Me a little later at the Concierge Lounge door: "Damn, key! Won't open up the door" "Should I knock and look like I am trying to break-in" Nahh. I'll go down to the front desk and get it coded to the concierge lounge"

Me at the Front Desk again: Uhh, I am gold and I don't think that this key was coded for the concierge lounge

Front desk: Oh, here is a new key. Sorry about that.


These are the two experiences that I have at full service marriotts. They are either wonderful or average.