How Marriott’s New Loyalty Program Will Change Your Travel Experience

After acquiring Starwood Hotels and Resorts in 2016, Marriott International now boasts an impressive lineup of hotels around the world. With 110 million members, Marriott Rewards now includes Starwood Preferred Guest and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards members.

After years of planning, teasing and building an inclusive system, the new loyalty program brings together members from across all acquired brands under one set of benefits. The expansive loyalty program operates with one currency for the portfolio of 29 brands, more than 6,500 hotels in 127 countries — so take your pick.

The official launch date of the new system, Aug. 18, has just been announced and with so many unique and once individual brands included, the entire operation called for a serious overhaul.

As it’s likely your family is of the many loyalty members of one or more of these brands, stay in the know with what to expect with the transition to the new loyalty program.

Starwood Preferred Guest members will receive a new account number on their next log-in attempt. Many of the changes will be seamless — even user passwords remain the same unless members opt to change them.

Marriott Website © Piotr Trojanowski | Dreamstime.com

Marriott Rewards members may also receive a new account number, but will be alerted by an email with their new account information first.

Marriott Rewards and SPG loyalty members can officially combine each account into one on Aug. 18 for a one-stop-shop profile. The new account reflects each previous program’s points in one balance, plus Elite Nights earned and Starpoints will be tripled as a bonus.

Loyalty members, expect a new SPG app resembling that of Marriott Rewards, as well as 5–10 points per dollar spent on accommodations; an average of 20 percent more points per dollar; new benefits; updated status levels; more properties to choose from — all culminating in more diverse ways to earn points, thus moving members through tiers faster and affordably.

Essentially, with more brands and hotels in more countries, loyalty members see points rack up faster and easier in one simple account system.

There are no black-out dates for members and they can redeem stays using the new Free Night Award Chart. Category eight hotels can be booked for category seven prices; most properties will be more affordable and guests will see an all-over cohesive experience as the program learns your stay habits, interests and special needs.

Pro tip: Check out redemption power early and book before changes come into effect. With the new system starting Aug. 18, the site may be overwhelmed in interest and guests should plan early.