I am anxious to hear from our loyal Insiders about your initial stays at Starwood properties. As a platinum or gold rewards member with a status match, did you feel "special" making a SPG stay? How did the hotel treat you? We look forward to hearing all about it.
It doesn't appear that too many of our folks are in a rush to try them out, and this is likely tied to how the initial hybrid program has rolled out. The SPG members seem to have gotten the better end of the arrangement - particularly for golds. However, when all is said and done, it will be about the experiences we have at the newly available properties. Will we feel as special as we do at Marriott?
I had just checked in to the Le Meridien in Chiang Mai, Thailand the Friday of the merger (Thursday USA time). On Saturday I was able to link my SPG to my MR and became Platinum at SPG. The front desk staff went into their computer, confirmed my new status, welcomed me to SPG Platinum, handed me a letter outlining their benefits, and gave me the room keys to beautiful suite. 20 minutes after checking in, a huge fruit basket was delivered. My experience was on par with what I have been receiving as Platinum throughout my travels to China the past 5 years. I give the whole experience a big thumbs up!!! So appreciative of the instant match.