I hope you are right... And I do like RC brand just not benefits. But if they do indeed grant suites and esp breakfast... I will stay more. I understand lounge won't be in cards as their offering expensove and step ups from normal lounges.

I don't think I am conflating any issues, however. Reality is Marriott corporate is pushing for standardization and brand adherence. In many ways that is what makes them successful and profitable.

Meaning... LCs that once offered lounge access and have one are getting rid of it as a benefit for plats, same with resorts. Similarly hotels that used to offer breakfast and points are getting rid of it and only offering choice.

I wonder if STR props that used to offer you your fav room service breakfast (gosh I know your habits too well) will keep doing that or if Marriott overlords will force standardization and leaving less property decision-making.

I originally stayed away from Marriott and went with Starwood as I found they didn't extend personalization/ go extra mile.

In general Marriott is stamping the culture across all brands. And if LCs generally are lowering benefits then RCs won't face pressure.

The LCs I know are indeed generally sticking to brand standaeds, ie not going extra mile as they once did