Indeed, the real removal came when it stopped locking in pricing. It does still have some marginal utility over i) dates with big events or ii) NYE / Christmas when hotels may end up sold out, but outside of this there must be a tiny number of properties (e.g. Maldives) where securing points availability is ever an issue.

Nevertheless, Bonvoy continues to promise 'jam tomorrow' to guests whilst in reality seemingly only ever making negative changes to the programme. Seen nothing in the last six months that is making me question my decision to have zero nights stayed at Marriott this year so far.