Originally Posted by
GoSh4rks
4. This hasn't changed. Check the new T&C, section 3.2.n. "No Blackout dates"
False.
"No Blackouts", which is what Marriott has had for many years, is not the same as SPG's "any standard room for sale can be redeemed".
Marriott's "No Blackouts" simply means that a property must offer award room(s) on every date. That could mean that 1 room is made available. Or 5. Or 100. But when the rooms allocated are taken, no more award nights are available, even though the standard rooms are still for sale. Available award nights are often sold out well in advance at popular vacation spots.
This is significantly different and, to me, the significant benefit loss from the old SPG program.