Unlocking the World with Marriott: A Comprehensive Guide to Employee Discounts
Ever wondered what it's like to travel the globe, staying in luxurious hotels without breaking the bank? For Marriott employees, this isn't just a dream – it's a fantastic reality! Marriott International is renowned for its generous employee benefits, and among the most coveted are their incredible travel discounts. If you're an existing Marriott associate, considering a career with the hospitality giant, or simply curious about these perks, you've come to the right place.
Are you ready to explore how you can unlock unparalleled travel experiences? Let's dive deep into the world of Marriott employee discounts, covering everything from eligibility to booking, and even the often-misunderstood "Friends & Family" rates.
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| How Much Discount Does Marriott Employees Get |
Step 1: Understanding the Core of Marriott Employee Discounts – The "Explore Rate"
The primary employee discount program at Marriott is often referred to as the "Explore Rate" (or sometimes "Explore by Marriott Bonvoy"). This isn't just a small percentage off; it can be exceptionally good, making high-end travel surprisingly affordable.
What is the Explore Rate (MMP)?
The Explore Rate, specifically using the MMP (Marriott Member Program) code, is the most significant discount available to Marriott employees and their immediate family members. This rate can offer up to 80% off the standard room rate at participating Marriott properties worldwide. Imagine staying at a luxury resort for a fraction of the cost!
Who is Eligible for the Explore Rate (MMP)?
Eligibility for the Explore Rate extends beyond just the employee themselves. It typically includes:
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The Employee: Full-time, part-time, seasonal, temporary, and pool status employees. This also includes employees of Marriott franchisees and owners primarily engaged in the business of owning/operating Marriott hotels.
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Immediate Family Members: This usually covers your spouse or domestic partner, children, parents, and parents-in-law. Some policies may also include siblings.
It's crucial to remember that this rate is for personal travel only and cannot be used for business travel.
Step 2: Navigating the "Explore Friends Rate" (MMF)
While the Explore Rate (MMP) is fantastic for immediate family, Marriott also extends a travel perk to a wider circle through the "Explore Friends Rate" (using the MMF code).
What is the Explore Friends Rate (MMF)?
The Explore Friends Rate is designed for friends and extended family members of Marriott employees. The discount with the MMF code can be up to 50% off the standard room rate. While not as steep a discount as the MMP rate, it's still a significant saving and a fantastic way for employees to share the benefits with their loved ones.
Who is Eligible for the Explore Friends Rate (MMF)?
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
This rate is generally for:
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Friends
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Extended Family Members (e.g., aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.)
It's important to note that the employee is often responsible for generating an authorization form for their friends and family members to use this rate.
Step 3: Beyond Room Rates – Other Discounts and Perks
Marriott's employee benefits go beyond just discounted room nights. There are several other valuable perks to take advantage of:
Food & Beverage Discounts
Dig in! Marriott employees typically receive a 20% discount on food and beverages at participating hotels worldwide. This often includes alcohol and in-room dining, making your discounted stay even more enjoyable.
Spa Treatment Discounts
Need some relaxation? Many Marriott properties offer 20% off spa treatments for employees. This is a wonderful way to unwind and indulge without the full price tag.
Retail & Golf Discounts
Marriott also offers discounts at their retail stores, usually around 30% off, and for golf apparel, equipment, and tee times, also around 30% off. These can add up if you're a keen shopper or golfer.
Quarter Century Club – The Ultimate Perk
For those dedicated Marriott associates who reach a significant milestone of 25 years or more of service, there's the Quarter Century Club (QCC). This is the ultimate reward, offering a 100% discount on room rates for personal travel. Imagine free stays at Marriott properties for a year! QCC members typically receive one free stay per year at each property, with the option to book an additional room using the Explore Rate.
Step 4: The Booking Process – Your Step-by-Step Guide
Booking your discounted Marriott stay is relatively straightforward, but requires adherence to specific procedures.
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Sub-heading: Online Booking is Key
Phone reservations for discounted rates are generally not accepted. All bookings for the Explore Rate and Explore Friends Rate must be made online or through the Marriott Bonvoy™ App.
Step 4.1: Accessing the Booking Platform
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Go to
www.marriott.com -
Log in to your Marriott Bonvoy Account. If you're an employee, ensure your account is linked to your employee profile.
Step 4.2: Entering Your Destination and Dates
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Under "Find a Hotel," type in your desired destination and your check-in and check-out dates.
Step 4.3: Applying the Special Rate Code
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Select "Special Rates" or "Corporate/Promo Code" (the exact wording may vary slightly).
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Enter the appropriate rate code:
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For the Explore Rate (Employee & Immediate Family): Type MMP
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For the Explore Friends Rate (Friends & Extended Family): Type MMF
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Step 4.4: Authorization Forms and Property Discount Cards
This is a critical step that many overlook, leading to issues at check-in.
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Generate Your Authorization Form: You'll need to print an "Explore Program Authorization Form" online. This is typically done through Marriott's internal employee portal (often referred to as mHUB or a similar platform). You'll need your Enterprise ID (EID) and password to access this.
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For yourself: Select "Print Room Discount Form."
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For a friend or family member (MMF rate): Select "Manage Friends and Family," then choose your guest's name and "Print Authorization Form."
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Print Your Property (Non-Room) Discount Card: For food & beverage or spa discounts, you'll need a "Property (Non-Room) Discount Card." This can also be printed from the internal employee portal.
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Carry Your Documents: Be sure to have your printed authorization form and a photo ID (employee ID is usually best) ready at check-in. For non-room discounts, carry your Property (Non-Room) Discount Card and a photo ID.
Step 5: Important Considerations and Terms & Conditions
While incredibly beneficial, Marriott employee discounts come with specific rules and limitations to ensure fair usage.
Sub-heading: Personal Travel Only
The Explore Rate and Explore Friends Rate are strictly for personal travel. They cannot be used for business travel. Using these rates for business purposes is a violation of policy.
Sub-heading: Room Limitations
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Employees: Can book up to two rooms per night per employee with the Explore Rate (MMP).
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Immediate Family Members (using MMP): Can book one room per night.
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Friends and Family (using MMF): The limitations can vary, but typically involve one room per authorization.
Sub-heading: Availability and Blackout Dates
QuickTip: A short pause boosts comprehension.
Discounted rates are subject to availability. This means during peak seasons, high-demand periods, or at hotels with high occupancy, these rates may not be available. While there aren't typically "blackout dates" in the traditional sense like with airline miles, popular hotels or dates might simply not offer the discounted rates due to high demand. It's always recommended to book well in advance if you have specific dates or locations in mind.
Sub-heading: No Resale of Authorization Forms
The sale of Explore Program Authorization Forms is strictly prohibited and can lead to severe consequences, including loss of discount privileges and even employment.
Sub-heading: Conduct and Professionalism
The conduct and professionalism of employees, their friends, and family are a representation of Marriott International. Any inappropriate conduct or behavior while utilizing these discounts could result in the loss of privileges.
Sub-heading: Changes and Cancellations
Any changes or cancellations to reservations booked with these discounted rates must also be done online.
Step 6: Maximizing Your Marriott Employee Benefits
To truly make the most of your Marriott employee discounts, keep these tips in mind:
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Plan Ahead: Especially for popular destinations or peak travel times, booking well in advance increases your chances of securing the Explore Rate.
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Be Flexible: If your travel dates are flexible, you'll have a much better chance of finding availability and even better rates. Mid-week stays or off-peak seasons often have more options.
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Check Multiple Properties: If your initial choice isn't offering the discount, check other Marriott properties in the area. Marriott has a vast portfolio, so you might find another great option nearby.
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Understand the T&Cs: Always read the specific terms and conditions associated with the rate you're booking.
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Join Marriott Bonvoy: Even though you're an employee, joining the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program allows you to earn points on your eligible stays (even discounted ones) and potentially gain elite status benefits like late checkout or room upgrades (though upgrades on employee rates are often subject to availability and discretion).
10 Related FAQ Questions: How to Make the Most of Marriott Employee Discounts
How to get the Marriott employee discount?
To get the Marriott employee discount (Explore Rate), you must be a current Marriott employee (or eligible immediate family member) and book online using the code MMP on the Marriott website or Bonvoy app, then present a valid authorization form and ID at check-in.
How to use the Marriott Friends and Family discount code (MMF)?
To use the Marriott Friends and Family discount, you need a Marriott employee to generate an authorization form for you. Then, book your stay online using the code MMF and present the authorization form and your ID at check-in.
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How to check Marriott employee discount availability?
You can check Marriott employee discount availability directly on the Marriott website or Bonvoy app by entering your desired destination, dates, and the MMP or MMF code. If the rate is available, it will show up in the search results.
How to get the Marriott employee authorization form?
Marriott employees can typically access and print the Explore Program Authorization Form and Property (Non-Room) Discount Card through Marriott's internal employee portal (e.g., mHUB) using their Enterprise ID (EID) and password.
How to know the exact percentage of the Marriott employee discount?
The exact percentage of the Marriott employee discount (Explore Rate and Explore Friends Rate) varies, but can be up to 80% for the Explore Rate (MMP) and up to 50% for the Explore Friends Rate (MMF). The actual discount depends on the property, season, and availability.
How to apply Marriott employee discount to group bookings?
Marriott employee discounts are generally for individual, personal travel and not applicable to group bookings. For group rates, you would typically need to contact the hotel directly to inquire about their group sales policies.
How to combine Marriott employee discounts with other promotions?
Marriott employee discounts usually cannot be combined with other promotions, offers, or discounts. They are standalone special rates.
How to use Marriott employee discount for spa treatments or dining?
To get discounts on spa treatments or dining, you'll need to present your Property (Non-Room) Discount Card and a photo ID at the time of service or payment at participating hotels. The discount is typically 20%.
How to deal with Marriott employee discount blackout dates?
While there aren't official "blackout dates" listed in the traditional sense for employee rates, the discounts are subject to availability. If your desired dates or hotel don't show the discounted rate, it means it's not available due to high occupancy or demand. Try adjusting your dates or searching for other nearby Marriott properties.
How to maintain eligibility for Marriott employee discounts after leaving the company?
Generally, Marriott employee discounts are only for active employees. Upon leaving the company, these travel benefits typically cease. Some limited exceptions might exist for a very short transition period, but it's not a long-term perk.
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