The comments just confirm what we've known for a while, that Marriott's C Suite now views elite benefits as primarily a marketing gimmick, and doesn't really care that much whether they're actually delivered.
That said, there is still value in the Marriott program, though it depends more than ever on the business philosophy of individual hotel ownership, as opposed to corporate-enforced standards.
Originally Posted by
Synapseturquoise
Agreed, I am measly gold with Marriot and no Status with Hyatt(Husband is discoverist though) . We have gotten better service at Hyatt on the last 2 trips than at Marriot. The issue for me is not even the benefits , the main issue is the way they've treated us the past few stays.
The critical point for me was when CY Solana Beach downgraded my paid room assignment and put me in one of the worst rooms on the property (as an ambassador). I walked, and rebooked at HR Mission Bay on points, where they upgraded me (as an explorist) to a corner marina view suite. Game, set, match Hyatt.