Looking for a suite upgrade?
Marriott International is offering its top-tier elite members complimentary suite upgrades in the Asia-Pacific region. Subject to availability and in many cases at the hotel's discretion, the perk debuted Aug. 6 is available to Platinum members of the Marriott Rewards frequent guest program.
Platinum qualification requires staying a minimum 75 nights per calendar year at one of Marriott's 16 distinct brands.
Not all 16 brands will offer upgrades, though.
Participating hotels in the Asia-Pacific region include: JW Marriott Hotels and Resorts, RenaissanceHotels, Marriott and Courtyard by Marriott. Sadly, Ritz Carlton properties opted out of this promotion. And Presidential Suites and other signature suites are excluded, as well.
Hotel locations include: Australia, China (including Hong Kong S.A.R.), Guam, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. In Japan and South Korea, suite upgrades may be limited and offered at the hotel's discretion.
Travelers won't know if they get an upgrade until time of check-in or "later in the day," according to the terms and conditions.
“Asian markets are popular destinations, especially among Platinum Elite members, who are our most frequent business travelers, says Craig S. Smith, Marriott International’s chief operating officer — Asia, in a press release.
Reader tip: Be proactive in asking for new benefits after they've been announced. In my experience, I've often had to specifically ask for perks I qualify for, but didn't immediately receive.
For more information on Marriott's suite upgrade program, click here.