Questions for hitting LTP
Based on my app stats below I understand I need 20 nights at Marriott to qualify for LTP this year. I am considering booking award stays at a local cat one property to hit this milestone as I have no travel booked the remainder of this year and it’s doubtful I will have 50 nights next year based on my current project demands; however, I expect my travel to pick back up in 2020 and would like the plat status as I use the 4PM checkout frequently. My accounts are unmerged.
Marriott – LTS, 317 LTN, 6yrs Plat, 30 Nights YTD
SPG – LTG, 306 LTN, 3yrs Plat, 62 Nights YTD
My questions:
1) If I merge accounts into my Marriott account now would I still be eligible to count the remaining nights stayed at Marriot this year towards another year of Plat status?
2) If the above scenario is valid, if I use my 50 night award earned for 5 EQN I assume this would lower my need to 15 nights?
3) I assume booking a five night, fifth night free award stay would still accrue 5 EQN?
4) Other than signing up for credit cards (no interest), any other shortcut to earn the 20 nights I am overlooking?
Thanks