Originally Posted by
Jon Maiman
It really depends on your expected travel for next year. If you have lots of nights planned, the extra bonus points earned from Platinum maybe worth it. If you only occasional stay at Marriott (or hotels in general), it probably isn't worth it. Even if you find a cheap property for points stays nearby, it will still probably be at least 10K to 15K a night. I.e. you would burn through approx. half your current points to keep platinum. Anyway, only you know your future travel plans and if they will justify keeping Platinum.
--Jon
This, but I'd add that if you are staying lots of nights next year then breakfast, lounge access and 4pm late check out kick in with Platinum which many consider to be the real value of Bonvoy elite status. Weigh up the cost of the two additional nights required this year to reach Platinum vs the cost of breakfasts and booze at hotels you'll stay at next year. In Asia where elite benefits for Platinums are excellent then this would be a no-brainer even for a few short stays next year. In the US, maybe not so clear with the powdered eggs and honesty bars in lounges.