Originally Posted by EQ4803

I spoke to a Merrill+ rep today and he informed me the the Ritz program and rewards would be discontinued this year. All certificates requested will expire 6/30/06. This includes certificates for awards earned in 2004.

At least Merrill didn't abandon it's cardholders. We have an additional 6 months.

He stated that Ritz had increased it's fees & costs for the certificates that it sells to Merrill.

The free night program will be replaced with another hotel group. They will announce the hotel later in the year. The rep. mentioned several companies, he first spoke of Sheraton, Westin and then Four Seasons.

Let's hope for the latter.