I have been a Hilton guy the last few years - and while I am aware that this is probably not the best time to request a challenge, considering all the other issues Marriott is having -

However, this is an ideal time for me to attempt a challenge with Marriott since I have some international travel planned this month and Marriott had the best options where I am going. I am currently Platinum Elite (but will likely be downgraded to Gold at some point, since I only had Gold status through Amex Platinum/SPG Match) and have about 10 nights at Marriott properties planned in the next month. Ideally, I would be able to challenge for Plat Premiere (1 level up) before Marriott downgrades me to Gold - but I would also be happy to just 'challenge' for Platinum, to prevent my temporary Platinum status from downgrading.

Has anybody heard anything about attempting a challenge since the merger?