About a year ago, I recounted my journey to obtaining Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador status, which is the highest tier of elite status in the program. I had actually held this status for several years before the pandemic (going back to the Starwood Preferred Guest era), but with the evolution of Marriott Bonvoy, I was eager to experience what it’s like today.
For reference, Bonvoy Ambassador status necessitates 100 qualifying nights and $23,000 in spending within a calendar year. It’s the only tier that has a spending requirement. On the other hand, Bonvoy Titanium status mandates 75 qualifying nights, while Bonvoy Platinum status requires 50 qualifying nights.
So, did I perceive a significant distinction between Ambassador status and Titanium status? In this article, I’d like to share my reflections… the brief answer is “not particularly,” although there are a few noteworthy points. Here they are, in no specific order…
My personal Marriott Ambassador, Mike, is incredible.
A primary advantage of Bonvoy Ambassador status is receiving a dedicated Ambassador who takes care of your needs. When I previously held Ambassador status pre-pandemic, I had an outstanding point of contact, Mike. Thus, when I once more attained Ambassador status, I requested him again. Thankfully, that request was honored.
Mike is exceptional. He is genuinely kind, capable, accommodating, and proactive. He embodies everything an Ambassador should be. For instance, if I encounter an issue needing resolution, like a stay not recording correctly, he handles it effortlessly. I never have to chase him for updates, and he frequently leaves me pleasant welcome notes during my hotel stays, which always brighten my day.
However, there’s a catch — Mike isn’t physically present with me (or managing my experience) at specific Marriotts. Therefore, while he assists with all my needs, it’s the individual Marriotts that determine the quality of the experience (and when some Marriott managers view elites as “unpleasant,” well…).
I’m not an overly demanding guest. I’m not one who constantly celebrates special occasions, seeks preferential treatment, or asks my Ambassador to arrange various services at hotels.
If you browse Facebook groups for elite members, you might encounter some air conditioning-fixated, hashtag Ambassador members who boast about receiving upgrades weeks early to grand suites (IYKYK). I believe those individuals are simply more assertive than I am, and they portray those experiences as typical. In reality, if you persistently press your Ambassador and the hotel, they’ll likely relent. But that’s not my approach, and certainly not what I consider standard.
I should also emphasize that I’m quite fortunate to have Mike as my assigned Ambassador. I recognize there are many individuals who rarely hear from their Ambassadors, and who might wait days for a response. Midway through the year, my Ambassador was unexpectedly changed to someone else, and I didn’t receive any communication from them. Luckily, I managed to revert back to Mike.
Mike consistently brings joy to my experience.
I’m noticing an uptick in welcome amenities as an Ambassador.
As a Bonvoy Ambassador member, I’m certainly seeing that I receive more welcome amenities than before. This isn’t just limited to luxury hotels (where it’s expected), but extends to various properties as well.
In fact, I receive welcome amenities most of the time, including at limited service hotels. I believe this is one aspect that Marriott aims to provide for Ambassador members. However, often these amenities tend to fall into the “why bother” category.
Loyalty has its benefits!
Ambassador treatment in the United States is disappointing.
I try to limit my stays at hotels in the United States, as it often seems like hotels consider themselves solely in the lodging sector, not the hospitality field (exceptions exist for non-Marriott brands, like Four Seasons).
In my opinion, Bonvoy Titanium treatment in the U.S. is generally underwhelming, and I’ve noticed hardly any difference as a Bonvoy Ambassador member. Sure, during check-in, I might be thanked for my status, and sometimes I find a bag of chips or a candy bar in my room, but that’s about it.
No significant efforts are made to provide upgrades, and more often than not, I’m merely elevated from a poor view room to a partial poor view room. The guaranteed benefits, such as the welcome amenity, guaranteed late check-out, lounge access, etc., remain consistent across Platinum, Titanium, and Ambassador members.
In the past year, I did receive one excellent domestic upgrade at the St. Regis Longboat Key (which is a fantastic hotel, by the way). Too frequently, I end up getting upgrades when I’m solo at an airport hotel.