I got bumped up to Gold a few weeks ago. I had less than 10 nights in 2004, and 43 nights in 2005. I had a few early this year but was well off my pace of 43 last year. Anyway, lo and behold, I sign into my account and get the Gold banners and EEO's! Awesome!

I also received a letter and plastic card from MR in the mail this week:

Dear Mr. [matchbox20_is],

I'm delighted to inform you that as one of Marriott's most valued guests, we've upgraded your Elite membership in Marriott Rewards from Silver to Gold.

We understand that your travel schedule this past year may not have allowed you to make the required number of stays needed for an automatic upgrade. However, we wish to reward your steadfast loyalty to Marriott with this complimentary upgrade to Gold Elite status, and hope you will continue to make Marriott your first choice when making your travel plans.

Your Gold level status will be renewed in 2007 if you personally stay at least 50 nights with us during 2006. We look forward to welcoming you at a Marriott hotel again soon. I thank you for your business.

Sincerely,
J.W. Marriott, Jr.

I'm more than impressed with this service, it was completely unneccessary and I'm fully aware that I didn't hit the Gold targets in 2005. My loyalty is even greater now than before.