The Marriott Bonvoy program’s Terms and Conditions webpage scrolls on seemingly forever. When your program encompasses dozens of different brands worldwide, there are endless exceptions and carve-outs that need to be put into writing.
However, there’s one section that’s easy to understand, but I’d bet that most members aren’t aware of it.
You’re entitled to free internet access during your stay for enrolling in the Marriott Bonvoy program and booking directly through one of Marriott’s channels (website, app, phone).
You’re eligible for “enhanced” internet access starting at the Gold Elite level.
But notice something else that’s missing. You no longer have to book your room directly through Marriott to get the benefit. In fact, this is explicitly stated in the T&Cs.
1.3.c. Complimentary In-Room Internet Access. A Member who books a stay at a Participating Property through a Marriott Channel will receive complimentary standard in-room internet access during the stay. In addition, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite, Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite, Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite, Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador Elite Members, and any co-brand credit card holder that has premium internet access as a benefit, will receive complimentary enhanced in-room internet access regardless of booking method (collectively, the “Internet Access Benefit”)
Bet you didn’t know that, did you? So, no matter if you book through Hotels.com or the Capital One Travel Portal, if you have status, you should still get free internet during your stay.
How about this one? Suppose the hotel charges a “resort” or “destination” fee, which includes internet access. In that case, you’re entitled to a “replacement benefit” if you get free internet access because of your Bonvoy status.
Participating Properties that have mandatory resort charges, which include internet access, will provide a replacement benefit, to be determined at each Participating Property’s discretion. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy do not provide a replacement benefit for the internet access included in their resort fee.
The only properties exempt from this rule are those that provide free internet access to all guests.
I’d bet that you now know more about the rules of Marriott Bonvoy than most employees working at hotels. The issue is getting them to honor free internet access for a room booked through a third party or give you an alternate benefit when you get free Wi-Fi. I wouldn’t count on Marriott corporate to help if the hotel denies these benefits, as clearly spelled out on the website.
And, as they say, is the rest of the story.
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3 comments
I didn’t realize hotels even charged for internet anymore. That’s like charging for electricity.
Thank you for enlightening me on all the loopholes!
Stayed at a Marriott property recently – It was a Moxy. Was told that there is no difference in speed. That it’s just an opportunity to charge more for same speed !