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It’s no secret, many travel brands are in a cash crunch due to the pandemic. Over the past few weeks, it has appeared to be ‘business as usual’ but, as I predicted, we’re starting to see several brands launch promotions to increase revenue.
Marriott is the latest brand to do so as they just launched a fairly good promotion.
MARRIOTT OFFERS 20% OFF GIFTCARDS
Marriott announced they will sell discounted electronic gift cards (DIRECT LINK) between 11 May – 17 May 2020 and you are able to purchase a minimum of $50 and a daily maximum of $5,000 at the following tiers:
- Purchase a $50 eGIFTCARD, Pay $40
- Purchase a $100 eGIFTCARD, Pay $80
- Purchase a $250 eGIFTCARD, Pay $200
- Purchase a $500 eGIFTCARD, Pay $400
- Purchase a $1,000 eGIFTCARD, Pay $800
Terms and Conditions
As always, there are some terms and conditions to be aware of:
- You can redeem EGCs during your stay for hotel purchases, including rooms and room service, or at spas, restaurants and other outlets managed by the hotel
- The EGCs can be used globally (however, in my experience, the exchange rate at an international hotel can be good and it also can rival Travelex currency exchange booths at the airport)
- EGCs will be delivered electronically in 1-7 business days
- Funds on EGCs never expire
- The following Marriott Hotel Brands DO NOT accept Marriott GiftCards: Bulgari, Design Hotels, Homes & Villas by Marriott International, and The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club
IS THIS A GOOD DEAL?
This has the potential to be a really good deal. 20% off of anything is a good deal, however, whether you should purchase it is a different question.
If you are a Marriott “loyalist,” or tend to stay at Marriott brand hotels far more than other brands, then I can understand why you would purchase it.
Although I foresee a few hotels going out of business, Marriott is the largest hotel chain in the world so there is a good chance that you will find a hotel in any destination that you visit. Additionally, the fact that funds never expire is also an advantage.
One disadvantage of the EGCs is you are unable to use them on prepaid rates. In the instance that you do not pay upfront (i.e. book a refundable rate), you often pay more for the room but you can also use the EGC. Depending on your tendency to book prepaid vs refundable, it may determine whether you buy a giftcard.
It’s also worth noting that between 18 May and 30 June, Marriott will be selling Bonvoy points with a 60% bonus so depending on your future travel, that may (or may not) be a better deal for you.
FINAL STAMP
Marriott is offering 20% off future stays in an effort to secure revenue. This sale could potentially be a good deal depending on when are where you travels take you.
I still predict we’ll see even more sales and promotions over the next few weeks as things return to “normal.”
Do you plan on taking advantage of this 20% off sale?
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