If all the companies in the Travel Rewards space were a family, we would be celebrating a new birth today. I’d like you all to meet the newest member of the family, Marriott Bonvoy. It’s a pretty name, isn’t it? Let’s dive in and meet the new addition.

Marriott Bonvoy is actually a new collaboration of three old loyalty programs, namely Marriott Rewards, SPG (Starwood Preferred Guest), and The Ritz-Carlton 

Rewards. I guess this is more like an ultrasound appointment than a birth announcement as the new Marriott Bonvoy program doesn’t officially launch until February 13th, so we’re giving you a four day premature sneak peak.

Marriott is claiming the new rewards program will feature extraordinary hotel brands, richer benefits, and endless experiences. With the new name, it also will be changing the status levels. Marriott Platinum Premier Elite will now be Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite and Marriott Platinum Premier Elite with Ambassador will now be Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador Elite. Can you keep that all straight?

How does this affect you? First it means that some of the old stuff will be decommissioned like the SPG and Ritz-Carlton apps. The old Marriott Rewards app will automatically update to the new Marriott Bonvoy app, so keep your eyes out for that. Secondly, it means we’ll all have to wait together to see how smooth the process is and how it affects your status. Thirdly, it might be the perfect time to get yourself either the Marriott Rewards Premier Plus personal card or the Marriott Rewards Premier Plus Business Credit Card.

I’m just excited to be called an Ambassador as my own kids won’t even call me Sir.