Marriott has a hotel portfolio of over 8,000 properties across 131 countries and territories. The portfolio includes properties for the “ultra luxury” consumer as well as the “budget conscious” guest. There is something for everyone. Its flagship loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy, offers members exclusive and lucrative benefits and rewards. As part of this program, Marriott partners with both American Express and Chase to issue multiple co-branded travel rewards credit cards. These cards provide various rewards and benefits to holders; even elite status (i.e. Platinum Elite). One of the most interesting and valuable perks of the Marriott Bonvoy program and the co-branded Marriott travel rewards credit cards is the ability to earn a Free Night Award.

What Is A Marriott Free Night Award

A Marriott Free Night Award is a voucher that can be redeemed for a complimentary night’s stay at participating Marriott hotels and resorts up to a specific point amount (i.e. 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night per award).

However, there are some limitations on the usage of a Free Night Award:

1. A Free Night Award is only good for a single night stay (i.e. no ability to use a 50K Free Night Award for 2 x 25K night stays);
2. A Free Night Award is not useable for a room upgrade (but a room booked with a Free Night Award is eligible for an upgrade);
3. A Free Night Award is not available for a cash + points booking;
4. A Free Night Award is not transferable;
5. A Free Night Award is not redeemable for Marriott Bonvoy points; and
6. A Free Night Award is valid for one full year from the issuance date.

The Marriott Bonvoy program offers the ability to earn Free Night Awards in the following amounts: 25K, 35K, 50K, and 85K. Further, a major benefit of the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program is the ability to “top up” a Free Night Award with up to 15K Marriott Bonvoy points.

How To Get A Marriott Free Night Award

There are a number of ways to earn a Marriott Free Night Award, but the most common are as follows:

1. On a co-branded (i.e. Marriott) credit card anniversary, earn 1 Free Night Award;
2. Hit a specific co-branded (i.e. Marriott) credit card spend threshold (i.e. $60,000) in a calendar year;
3. A specific sign up bonus or other promotional offer on a co-branded (i.e. Marriott) credit card; and
4. At specific status thresholds and levels (i.e. Titanium and Ambassador).

The Best Marriott 50K Free Night Award Redemptions

The overall value of a Marriott 50K Free Night Award redemption stems from a combination of average cash rate (i.e. relatively value), average point cost (i.e. usability), and customer hotel rating (i.e. quality). Here are ten amazing redemption opportunities; in no particular order.

W Bali – Seminyak

The W Bali – Seminyak is a luxurious hotel located in one of Bali’s most trendy and vibrant neighborhoods. The hotel boasts a beautiful beachfront location, and its rooms and suites are spacious, modern, and beautifully appointed, with all the amenities one would expect from a five-star hotel. The W Bali – Seminyak also has an impressive array of dining options, including an acclaimed rooftop bar and a beachfront restaurant serving up delicious seafood. The hotel’s spa and fitness facilities are also top-notch, making it the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay in Bali. Overall, the W Bali – Seminyak is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a stylish and luxurious beachfront retreat in Bali.

The Langley

The Langley is a stunning luxury hotel set in a beautifully restored 18th-century country estate in Buckinghamshire, UK. The hotel offers 41 rooms and suites, all exquisitely designed with a blend of classic and contemporary styles, and equipped with modern amenities. The Langley’s impeccable service, exceptional dining options, and extensive wellness facilities, including a world-class spa, make for an unforgettable experience. Guests can enjoy strolling through the hotel’s stunning gardens, exploring the nearby countryside, or simply relaxing in the peaceful and tranquil surroundings. Overall, The Langley offers an exceptional combination of historic charm, modern luxury, and unparalleled service, making it a truly special destination.

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal is an iconic luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Montreal, Canada. The hotel’s opulent interiors and classic decor pay homage to its rich history and the city’s French heritage, while its 129 guest rooms and suites feature modern amenities and unparalleled comfort. The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal also boasts an exceptional dining experience, including the renowned Maison Boulud restaurant, which offers contemporary French cuisine. The hotel’s spa, fitness center, and rooftop terrace with a swimming pool provide guests with an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. Overall, The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal is an outstanding choice for those seeking a luxurious and sophisticated experience in one of Canada’s most vibrant cities.

* Unlike other hotels on this list, The Ritz Carlton, Montreal has a significant portion of the year where a 50K Free Night Award is not viable and an 85K Free Night Award is required.

Castillo Hotel Son Vida

The Castillo Hotel Son Vida is a stunning luxury hotel situated in a historic castle in the hills overlooking the city of Palma, Mallorca. The hotel’s rooms and suites are elegantly designed, featuring stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Bay of Palma. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and multiple dining options, including the Michelin-starred Es Vi restaurant. The hotel’s location also provides easy access to the island’s many attractions, including beaches, historic sites, and cultural events. Overall, Castillo Hotel Son Vida offers an exceptional combination of history, luxury, and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing and unforgettable stay in Mallorca.

St. Regis Langkawi

The St. Regis Langkawi is a luxurious resort located on the beautiful island of Langkawi in Malaysia. The hotel’s exquisite design is inspired by the surrounding natural beauty, with spacious and elegantly appointed rooms and suites featuring panoramic views of the Andaman Sea. Guests can indulge in a range of dining options, including a beachfront bar and grill and an all-day dining restaurant offering international cuisine. The resort also offers a range of amenities, including a tranquil spa, fitness center, and outdoor infinity pool. Overall, the St. Regis Langkawi offers a unique and unforgettable experience, blending world-class luxury with the natural beauty of Langkawi.

Tambo del Inka

Tambo del Inka is a luxurious resort located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru. The hotel’s breathtaking location, overlooking the Urubamba River and surrounded by the Andes mountains, provides an idyllic setting for a relaxing and cultural experience. The hotel’s rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly appointed, featuring Peruvian-inspired decor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including visits to nearby archaeological sites and traditional Andean villages, as well as hiking and horseback riding in the surrounding mountains. The resort’s exceptional dining options, spa, and outdoor pool complete the experience, making Tambo del Inka a truly unforgettable destination.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali

The Ritz-Carlton, Bali is a stunning luxury resort located on the southern coast of Bali, Indonesia. The hotel’s expansive grounds, set amidst tropical gardens and featuring a pristine beachfront, provide the perfect setting for a relaxing and indulgent escape. The resort’s rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly designed, with traditional Balinese elements complementing modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a range of dining options, including a beachfront restaurant, and take advantage of the hotel’s spa, fitness center, and multiple pools. The Ritz-Carlton, Bali is an exceptional destination for those seeking the ultimate in luxury and relaxation on the Island of the Gods.

Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa

Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa is a luxurious and eco-friendly resort located on the island of Thilamaafushi in the Maldives. The resort offers guests a range of elegantly designed rooms, villas and suites, all featuring stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The resort’s multiple dining options offer a range of culinary experiences, including seafood and Japanese cuisine. Guests can also indulge in the resort’s spa, fitness center, and water sports activities, including diving and snorkeling. Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa offers a perfect blend of luxury and sustainability, making it a unique and unforgettable destination in the Maldives.

Naka Island Resort & Spa

The Naka Island Resort & Spa is a luxurious and secluded resort located on Naka Yai Island, just off the coast of Phuket, Thailand. The resort offers guests a range of beautifully designed villas, all featuring private pools and stunning views of the Andaman Sea. The resort’s dining options include a beachfront restaurant and a bar offering signature cocktails. Guests can also indulge in the resort’s spa, fitness center, and water sports activities, including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The Naka Island Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious and peaceful escape in a breathtaking island setting.

Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay

The Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay is a luxurious resort located on the stunning Momi Bay in Fiji. The resort offers guests a range of elegantly designed rooms, villas, and suites, all featuring modern amenities and stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. The resort’s dining options include multiple restaurants, bars, and lounges, serving international and Fijian cuisine. Guests can also indulge in the resort’s spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool, or enjoy a range of water sports activities, including snorkeling and kayaking. The Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay offers an unforgettable combination of luxury, natural beauty, and Fijian hospitality.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Marriott Bonvoy Free Night Award is a valuable benefit for Marriott Bonvoy members who frequently stay at Marriott properties. With the ability to “top up” a Free Night Award, the range of bookable hotels increases significantly, which in turn increases the value of an award. The 50K Free Night Awards occupies a sweet spot as both ultra luxury and more modest properties are in play for a redemption. As always, the key to maximize the value of a Free Night Award is flexibility!