As one of the world's largest hotel chains, Marriott International offers a wide range of discounts and promotions to its loyal customers. One of the most coveted discounts is the Marriott Friends and Family (F&F) rate, which can provide significant savings on room rates. However, getting access to this exclusive discount can be challenging. In this article, we will explore five ways to get Marriott Friends and Family discount, helping you to save money on your next Marriott stay.
What is Marriott Friends and Family Discount?
Marriott Friends and Family discount is a special rate offered to friends and family members of Marriott employees. This rate is typically lower than the standard room rate and can provide significant savings, especially during peak travel seasons. The F&F rate is usually offered at participating Marriott hotels worldwide, including luxury brands like Ritz-Carlton and Bulgari Hotels & Resorts.
1. Know a Marriott Employee
The most straightforward way to get Marriott Friends and Family discount is to know a Marriott employee. Marriott employees are entitled to offer F&F rates to their friends and family members, which can be booked through the Marriott employee's account. If you have a friend or family member working at Marriott, ask them to book a room for you at the F&F rate. Keep in mind that Marriott employees may have limited F&F bookings per year, so be sure to ask politely and in advance.
2. Use a Travel Agent
Some travel agents specialize in booking Marriott rooms at discounted rates, including the Friends and Family rate. These agents often have access to exclusive deals and discounts that are not available to the general public. You can search online for travel agents who specialize in Marriott bookings and ask if they can offer F&F rates. Be sure to research the agent's reputation and reviews before booking.
3. Look for Publicly Available F&F Codes
Occasionally, Marriott Friends and Family codes become publicly available through various channels, such as online forums, social media groups, or travel blogs. These codes can be used to book F&F rates at participating Marriott hotels. However, be cautious when using publicly available codes, as they may be expired, invalid, or restricted to specific hotels or dates.
4. Book through a Marriott Partners' Website
Marriott has partnerships with various companies, such as credit card providers, airlines, and car rental companies. These partners may offer exclusive discounts, including F&F rates, to their customers. For example, Chase Marriott credit card holders may be eligible for F&F rates at participating hotels. Check with Marriott's partners to see if they offer F&F rates or other exclusive discounts.
5. Use a Hotel Booking Website
Some hotel booking websites, such as Hotel Planner or Hotel Discounts, offer Marriott Friends and Family rates to their customers. These websites may have access to exclusive deals and discounts that are not available on Marriott's official website. However, be sure to research the website's reputation and reviews before booking, as some websites may charge booking fees or have restrictive cancellation policies.
Tips and Variations
- Always check the terms and conditions of the F&F rate, as it may have restrictions or blackout dates.
- Be respectful when asking a Marriott employee for an F&F booking, as they may have limited availability.
- Some Marriott hotels may offer F&F rates only during off-peak seasons or for specific room types.
- F&F rates may not be combinable with other discounts or promotions.
Final Thoughts
Getting Marriott Friends and Family discount can be a great way to save money on your next Marriott stay. By knowing a Marriott employee, using a travel agent, looking for publicly available F&F codes, booking through a Marriott partner's website, or using a hotel booking website, you can increase your chances of getting access to this exclusive discount. Remember to always research and compare rates before booking, and be respectful when asking for F&F bookings.
Share Your Experience
Have you ever gotten Marriott Friends and Family discount? Share your experience in the comments below! Do you have any tips or variations to add? We'd love to hear from you!
What is Marriott Friends and Family discount?
+Marriott Friends and Family discount is a special rate offered to friends and family members of Marriott employees.
How can I get Marriott Friends and Family discount?
+You can get Marriott Friends and Family discount by knowing a Marriott employee, using a travel agent, looking for publicly available F&F codes, booking through a Marriott partner's website, or using a hotel booking website.
Are Marriott Friends and Family rates combinable with other discounts?
+No, Marriott Friends and Family rates may not be combinable with other discounts or promotions.