Email that I just received:

"As a top-tier traveler, you're kind of a big deal to us, so we want your experiences with Marriott® – even online – to be truly exceptional. In the coming year, expect to see:

Destination-specific recommendations designed to save you time

Recognition and unique rewards at every turn

Exclusive upgrades and points bonuses for members like you
With all you've seen, you have every right to expect the world from us – and we can't wait to serve it up. See you soon!"

Anyone know anything else about this? When I follow the link given in the email, it brings me to a page that suggests some hotels that "people like me" are fond of.

???

I received the same email and my sister who is a Silver got it as well.

I received a snail mail version of this but haven't received any follow up communication, at least that I could match back to being a "VIP".

I was about to ask the same question.

Honestly, from what I've seen, I think the program has gone downhill. I started with Marriott 6 years ago. I've switched over to starwood and enjoy the benefits there much better. I even switched credit cards. I got tired of having to ask all the time about an upgrade. Probably my #1 complaint. I don't feel like I'm entitled, but if you advertise it as a benefit, why do I have to ask for it 95% of the time. I'd say 75-80% of the time with starwood, I'm upgraded prior to arrival.

The fact that they have to tease you back into it makes me think it's more empty promises. I'll grab the popcorn and see what it brings. I'm short of lifetime gold so this may bring me back in if its not more empty promises

-A

I got tired of having to ask all the time about an upgrade. Probably my #1 complaint. I don't feel like I'm entitled, but if you advertise it as a benefit, why do I have to ask for it 95% of the time. I'd say 75-80% of the time with starwood, I'm upgraded prior to arrival.

I 100% agree with this. I have found with Marriott I have to practically beg for an upgrade and they act like they are doing you a favor. With SPG they do bring it up and do it with a smile. WAY better from what I have seen so far.

I did not receive this email and I am disappointed which is a perpetual state with Marriott recently. As I have 83 nights credit to my name so far this year, 16 roll over and 4 credit card nights included, I am not sure how one gets to be a more valued customer. This is in addition to the fact that there is ZERO summer mega bonus. Which is why I used this time to re-qualify as plat at starwood, which does treat their elites much better...

I may have to start staying there for good, I hear if you hit 100 nights you have a personal concierge to call... that must be nice.

You probably did receive it, but it went to your spam/junk folder, because frankly, the content within the email was junk.

I wish I could have that minute back in my day actually thinking the email meant something.

Don't feel bad. I didn't get this email either. I am currently at 221 for the year (inc. 125 rollover and 23 credit card). And my most recent stay just took me to 2xLTP. But I never seem to get emails like this (and I have not yet received the "Congrats, we've made you UA gold due to your PP status" mailer yet either). You are in good company.

How can anyone take seriously a form email which tells you that you are a VIP.

It's marketing hype to make you feel special. You're not. Just another customer.