Originally Posted by
MrJBoy
Thanks for the explanation.
Actually I used a 85K FNA, and I was wondering if I can use the 85K FNA for a better room...
Unfortunately the better room is available only with "Redemption with Points Upgrade"...
It's strange that an 85K FNA can be redeemed for a €1400 room at a St Regis (example: my 83K Redemption at the St Regis Rome last year), but not for a slightly upgraded €400 room at a Renaissance Hotel, even if the "Redemption with Points Upgrade" rate is far less than 85K points.
But that's how Marriott designed their loyalty program and their agreements with banks issuing FNAs.
From Marriott Bonvoy Loyalty Program Terms & Conditions:
iii. Additional restrictions for using Free Night Awards include, but are not limited to, Free Night Awards: (1) can only be applied to a standard room and does not apply to a Premium Room; (2) value cannot be combined with cash or other Award Redemption types; (3) are not eligible for the Stay for 5, Pay for 4 Offer (see Section 3.3.d); and (4) cannot be used at Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.