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Marriott-Starwood Merger Update! Are You Affected by These Changes?

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    We have more updates to share about the Marriott-Starwood merger!

    Marriott has announced a few changes to the Marriott and Starwood loyalty programs which will begin in 2018.  And depending on your situation, a couple of them might have an impact on you!  I’ll give you the details.

    The Good News Is, If You Have Starwood Lifetime Status, Your Points Will Never Expire

    More Marriott-Starwood Merger News

    The Marriott-Starwood merger is slowly progressing.

    We know that the original goal was to combine Marriott Rewards, Ritz-Carlton, and Starwood Preferred Guest into 1 loyalty program by 2018.  And so far, there haven’t been any major changes to any of the programs.

    But today, these 2018 benefit changes were announced:

    These changes are mostly positive and aren’t too significant, but it’s good to stay informed!

    Aside from these changes, the merger has actually made both Marriott and Starwood points MORE flexible, because you can transfer them between programs.  Plus, you can get an instant status match if you have elite status with either hotel chain.  And enjoy elite perks with both hotels!

    Bottom Line

    Marriott has announced changes to both the Starwood and Marriott loyalty programs.  Beginning in 2018:

    What do you think of these loyalty program tweaks?

    Editorial Note: We're the Million Mile Secrets team. And we're proud of our content, opinions and analysis, and of our reader's comments. These haven’t been reviewed, approved or endorsed by any of the airlines, hotels, or credit card issuers which we often write about. And that’s just how we like it! :)