Marriott Launches New Loyalty Program Called Marriott Bonvoy

If you frequently stay at Marriott or Starwood hotels, you’ve likely been following the merger to see how it is going to affect your awards points. On Jan. 16, 2019, the company announced the plan for the joint loyalty program, under its new name: Marriott Bonvoy.
The official change will take effect on Feb. 13, 2019 when Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) will become one program, loyalty points will be rolled together and all apps will transition to a single platform.
» Learn more: Find the best hotel credit card for you
Elite status
For elite status holders, Platinum Premier Elite will be divided into two groups: Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite and Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador Elite.
Titanium is for members who spend between 75 and 99 nights in Marriott Bonvoy properties and spend less than $20,000 per year.
Ambassador members spend more than $20,000 annually or stay 100 nights or more in qualifying properties. They’ll have a dedicated customer service representative for planning travel.
» Learn More: Here's how much your points and miles are worth
Exclusive experiences
Marriott Moments, which rolls together Marriott Rewards Moments and SPG Moments, will feature thousands of destinations and experiences available for purchase or by redeeming points.
Marriott Bonvoy is also planning specialty experiences to offer loyalty members this year. With partners and sponsors such as the NCAA, the FIA Formula One World Champions, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport, the Oscars, Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and The PGA Tour World Golf Championships, there are sure to be options for everyone.
How to Maximize Your Rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2021, including those best for:
Airline miles and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
No annual fee: Wells Fargo Propel American Express® card
Flat-rate rewards with no annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
Premium travel rewards: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express
Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
Planning a trip? Check out these articles for more inspiration and advice: 5 things you need to know about the Marriott-SPG merger NerdWallet’s top travel credit cards Travel loyalty program reviews