Credit Card News: Travel&Rewards

Say farewell to Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards, and Starwood Preferred Guest programs––and say hello to Marriott Bonvoy.

The newly minted Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program will offer a single portfolio to guests who utilize all three programs. It will still reflect the value and benefits that customers have grown to expect from these programs, giving them access to reward points they can use for free stays at their favorite hotels and resorts. “Marriott Bonvoy marks and evolution in travel because it represents more than a loyalty program,” explained Stephanie Linnartz, global chief commercial officer at Marriott International. She went on to say that the travel program encompasses global brands across 129 countries and territories and aims to inspire members to travel and pursue their passions.

Experiences and Moments

“Our 120 million members have access to the world’s leading hotel portfolio at the best room rates and member benefits, as well as our collection of Moments experiences that bring exploration and discovery of the world to the forefront.”

Marriott Moments features approximately 120,000 experiences in a thousand different destinations. Members can book them using points, or by purchasing access. Experiences include things like hikes in glacial Patagonia, camel rides in the desert in Morocco, and cruises through Vietnam’s floating villages. Other Moments offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as cooking with renowned chefs or brushing up on their football skills in classes with football pros.

Travel Rewards credit cards offer more

For frequent travelers, it’s crucial to carry a travel rewards credit card that can earn them miles, cash back, hotel reward points, and more. The Marriott Rewards suite of credit cards, Starwood Preferred Guest cards, and Ritz-Carlton cards all offer benefits that globetrotters can embrace and celebrate.

These credit cards can also offer perks that make travel easier, including priority boarding, free bag check, and access to airport lounges. This is in addition to 24/7 concierge service, which offers help making reservations, finding pharmacies and medical care, or shopping for special occasions. The annual fees that these cards sometimes charge are well worth paying, if the perks are utilized. This new Marriott Bonvoy program will be a welcome addition to the travel rewards family of benefits.