Bama Vol....

To the best of my understanding, three versions were offered depending on your personal history at Marriott properties.

In addition to what you were offered, there was "20 stays gets 35,000 points", as well as " get 10,000 points for every third stay...30,000 points max". Platinums had the opportunity to request a change in the particular program offered.

The general idea was to custom tailor where the bar was set so as to drive an increase in the number of stays from each "level" of customer.

Marriott did a classy thing for its best customers, by allowing flexibility for platinums. I was especially greatful for this, since my travel is somewhat seasonal. I get more nights during the period Sept-Feb than I do during the rest of the year. In my case, what this meant was picking up 30,000 points for nine stays (13 nights) during the period of the promotion. Had I remained with the what was orignally assigned to me....20 nights, I'd have gotten squat!

So the bottom line for Marriott with guys like me was less in driving near term business and had more to do with reinforcing loyalty from its best customers.

THAT certainly worked. I came out of the promotion as one very happy and appreciative camper!