What happened
Marriott Bonvoy clarified a key benefit for Suite Night Upgrade Award (NUA) redemptions at Ritz-Carlton properties. While Platinum, Titanium, and Ambassador elite members typically do not receive club lounge access at Ritz-Carlton (unlike at Marriott or Sheraton brands), using an NUA to upgrade to a club room now grants that access. The clarification followed a reader's experience at the Ritz-Carlton Santiago, Chile. After clearing an NUA to a deluxe room with terrace and club lounge access, the hotel denied lounge entry and charged $150/night. Marriott corporate confirmed the room pool included access and reversed the charges. This effectively makes NUs at Ritz-Carlton more valuable for elites seeking lounge benefits