Just to update, I was one of the first to complain about reservation availability at the Ritz on this board. Tried to book ANY NIGHT in Central Park, ANY TIME! Finally the agent confirmed that there was no availability for the next twelve months!

At this points, I stopped using the card - except for the few vendors who do not accept AMEX. Reserved one Saturday night in August at the Ritz in Philadelphia and gave the night to my daugher and son-in-law. They had a great time and I, at least, was happy that it wasn't wasted.

My partner, on the other hand, is sitting with 4 nights and also found out the hard way that NY is off-limits. At least it's good to know that the certificates have an extra six months for him to try somewhere else.

I can't imagine the grief ML has gotten over this and can't fathom that they would reinstate it. I hope they learn from experience and choose a chain that will be more responsive. I also agree that it is unlikely to be Starwood due to their relationship with AMEX. We'll see.