Main issue first. The situation is much like that posted by FLYERWIFE just prior to your posting. Clearly a typo, and as low or lower rate than the lowest she quotes in her REPLY. It had no special stipulations, was shown in the RANGE of rates displayed on MARRIOTT.COM, but not actually available when you tried to book, but was SOLD on TRAVELOCITY.COM and confirmed. This rate is no longer viewable on either site, btw.
Secondary issue. I can only compare MARRIOTT REWARDS to HILTON HONORS, and I feel so much more rewarded for what I consider a peer hotel group by Hilton. I am: upgraded more often, even as Silver at the moment, offered drink/meal coupons, receive many more points (double dipping is FANTASTIC), and there are attainable reward levels, too. I do like Marriott, but I just can't stay with them when Hilton seems to offer so much more in my case. I am in the 30-40 night stay per annum.
Glad you find Marriott meets your needs. You cannot beat their Sunday breakfast buffets!
Happy travels.
Originally Posted by Dogspit
In what way do you find MR "stingy" - on the granting or redeeming side? I've never had a problem with either.
Regarding your question, if it is a legitimately published rate that you are legitimately eligible for, they should honor it IMHO. Even if it was a "typo" and somebody left the final digit off of a $189 rate.
I think it'd be helpful if you gave a little more detail as to how you were able to book this rate so its a little more clear as to whether it is a rate that you are legitimately eligible for.
Interestingly, does the same thing apply to retail stores? I once found a nice winter coat at a store (I think it was JC Penny) that was clearly a $100+ coat. But the tag on it was something ridiculous like under $20. The tag appeared to be legit as the description & all matched the coat. Long story short, the store refused to sell it to me for the (apparently incorrect) price.
Hotel reservations are a little bit different because (if you don't make a backup reservation), the hotel could really end up screwing you - either by leaving you without a room, or charging full rack rates upon arrival. With the coat, its not like I was really put out or anything.