Many hotel loyalty programs, like Marriott Bonvoy, have strict rules about benefits for bookings made through third-party sites. Officially, these reservations don’t qualify for elite perks such as bonus points, lounge access, or complimentary upgrades. However, the reality on the ground is often different: simply asking for what you want can yield results, even when the terms don’t technically allow it.
The Third-Party Booking Loophole
The author recently booked a one-night stay at a LaGuardia airport Marriott through Citi’s travel portal, securing a lower rate than booking direct. This meant forfeiting standard Marriott Bonvoy benefits. Despite the official policy, the front desk agent readily added the author’s Platinum status to the reservation when asked, even though it wasn’t automatically applied.
The result? Access to the club lounge and a check-in amenity offer. The author points out that knowing the rules can sometimes put a savvy traveler at a disadvantage compared to someone who simply assumes they should receive benefits.
The Human Factor
The anecdote highlights the disconnect between written policies and actual implementation. Hotel staff often prioritize customer satisfaction over rigid enforcement of loyalty program rules. The lounge, in this case, was unstaffed and open to all, further undermining the formal system.
The author notes that many guests don’t even recall how their booking was made, let alone the fine print of third-party exclusions. This lack of awareness creates an opportunity to benefit from the gaps in enforcement.
Marriott’s History of Broken Promises
Former Marriott program executive David Flueck once pledged that third-party bookings would continue to earn full benefits. This lasted only briefly. The author suggests that given the program’s track record of under-delivering on promises, it’s not surprising that policies are sometimes ignored at the property level.
The Bottom Line
The key takeaway is simple: ask for what you want without hesitation. The worst that can happen is a polite “no.” The author saved money on the booking, earned rewards through a credit card, and still secured elite benefits. This approach works because many hotels prefer to avoid confrontation and prioritize guest experience over strict rule enforcement.
In essence, the system may say no, but a direct request often succeeds.
