I do not object to Marriott keeping their staff informed about previous stays, etc. and maintaining data profiles and such. But I cannot see any valid reason for receptionists to make any comment at all about previous travel, especially since they are usually just trying to make conversation. It seems to be a one-sided intrusion of privacy, and I absolutely hate it when some dizzy receptionist wants to chat in the public forum of a reception desk about my home address or my previous trips or indeed ANYTHING personal at all. I look at them like they are in a sort of fiduciary relationship with me, as they have credit card, identification card/passport information, past stays etc., and I feel that it is highly unprofessional and intrusive for them to "use" the information at their disposal for any purposes that are not directly pertinent to the transaction at hand. If they want to show recognition or appreciation for loyalty, then they should say something along the lines that they are offering lounge access or an upgrade in appreciation for your status, loyalty, or whatever. But this unnecessary business of reception clerks wanting to chat about your previous stay in New Orleans (that perhaps your travelling companion shouldn't know about!) or how you like living in Paris, or whatever, is obnoxious and unprofessional in the extreme.