Well, it’s officially a few days past February 13, 2019 which means Marriott Bonvoy is upon us. It also means that Starwood Preferred Guest (a favorite among frequent travelers) is dead. Likewise, Marriott Rewards is also dead. What’s left is a single combined loyalty program called Marriott Bonvoy.
While I’ll admit I’m not a fan of the new name, I am a fan on what it’s trying to accomplish. See, when Marriott and SPG joined forces there were a lot of unhappy customers. Marriott Bonvoy however is supposed to be the new combined loyalty program which makes it feel as though everyone is part of a new loyalty program; a fresh start if you will.
Well, with the introduction of Marriott Bonvoy comes a new list of things we all must do to get the most out of the new program. Thankfully, Marriott prepared a quick checklist, sent via email, to customers to assist with the process.
Marriott Bonvoy Checklist
The email from Marriott isn’t all that helpful, but it is a nice remember of things to do to as the Marriott Bonvoy program launches.
First, up on the checklist, customers should add MarriottBonvoy@email-marriott.com to their safe-sender list. This will make sure any promotional emails and reservation details don’t show up in your junk folder.
Second, customers should finally combine their SPG and Marriott accounts. I’ve written about this process in the past, but think it’s important to drop a helpful hint. That is, stick to a rewards number that is already linked with various cross-promotion accounts. I chose a new number so I had to re-link all of my travel profiles.
Third, make sure to download the new Marriott Bonvoy app. Don’t worry the app is nearly identical to the Marriott Rewards and updated SPG app, but you need to download it in order to manage your reservations.
Fourth, the checklist reminds you to book upcoming award stays now. This is a key item and one you should really consider if you are looking to book a reward stay this year. Marriott is increasing several award rates at a ton of properties come March 5. So, if you have a planned upcoming stay, book it now to take advantage of a lower rate.
Finally, add a phone number to your Marriott Bonvoy account for faster customer service.
Final Thoughts
By far and away the most useful item on this list is regarding the award bookings. This is especially important if you plan on staying in a category 8 hotel this upcoming year. For example, the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong currently costs just 60,000 points a night. After March 5, that same room will cost a whopping 80,000 points a night. So, if you plan on booking a high-end hotel stay for 2019, do it now.
Otherwise, really the only other thing you really should do right now is combine your accounts (if you haven’t already) and download the Marriott Bonvoy app.
