We all know the American Express Platinum Card (review here) is the Swiss Army knife of travel perks, handing out elite status like Oprah handing out free cars. One of the goodies? Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status. But what does that actually get you? Is it the VIP treatment or just a fancy name? Let’s break it down.
In This Post
Marriott Bonvoy Gold Perks: What’s in the Bag?
According to Amex, here’s what you get as a Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite:
- Room Upgrades – If there’s a better room available, you might get it. Think of it like a lucky dip at check-in.
- Extra Points – Earn 10 points per US dollar spent, plus a 25% bonus over base-level members. (Marriott automatically converts from GBP at Checkout, so you don’t have to think in dollars.)
- Late Checkout (2 PM) – Not quite the lie-in of dreams, but better than a 10 AM boot-out.
- Complimentary Internet – In-room Wi-Fi should never be a luxury in 2025.
- Welcome Gift (Points) – A small pile of Bonvoy points to kickstart your next redemption.
- Reality check: There’s no complimentary breakfast or lounge access, and if you’re eyeing suite upgrades, don’t hold your breath. Gold is lovely, but it’s not Platinum.
Your Gold nights also count toward Marriott’s Lifetime Elite status, so even if you’re not chasing the next tier, every stay still nudges you closer.
Amex Platinum Gold Status vs. Marriott Bonvoy Amex – What’s the Deal?
Confused about the Amex Platinum’s Gold status versus the Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card? Here’s the simple version:
Amex Platinum = Instant Gold Elite status. No stays required.
Marriott Bonvoy Amex Card = 15 elite night credits per year. Since Silver status kicks in at 10 nights, this card automatically makes you Silver and gets you five nights closer to Gold.
In other words, one gives you status outright (Amex Platinum), while the other helps you earn it faster (Bonvoy Amex). And remember, Amex Platinum’s hotel statuses remain active only while you hold the card, and it can take up to a week for the Gold tier to appear after linking your accounts.
Is It Worth It?
If you actually stay at Marriotts, Gold status gets you the occasional room bump and late Checkout. If you’re chasing serious perks (breakfast, lounges, suite upgrades), you’ll need to grind your way to Platinum Elite (50 nights per year) or higher.
For casual Bonvoy users, it’s a nice freebie. For serious loyalty chasers, it’s time to start mattress running.
Also Worth Knowing
The Amex Platinum doesn’t stop at Marriott. You’ll also get Hilton Honors Gold and Radisson Rewards Premium, giving you mid-tier perks across several hotel chains without ever needing to earn them the hard way.
For the latest sign-up bonuses and limited-time offers, check the WingTips Wallet Watch (October 2025).
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