Planning a trip can be exciting, and if you're lucky enough to have access to a Marriott Friends and Family code, you're in for an even better deal! This exclusive discount can significantly reduce the cost of your stay, making your travel dreams more accessible. But how exactly do you go about using it? Don't worry, we're here to guide you through every step.
Let's dive in and unlock those special rates!
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility and Obtain the Authorization Form
Before you even think about booking, the absolute first and most crucial step is to ensure you're eligible and have the necessary documentation. This isn't a secret handshake, but a very important form!
Who is Eligible? The Marriott Friends and Family rate is generally for friends and extended family members of Marriott associates. Keep in mind that immediate family (like spouses, parents, children, and siblings) often qualify for a different, usually deeper, "Explore Rate" (MMP). The Friends and Family rate is typically referred to by the code MMF.
The Golden Ticket: The Authorization Form: This is non-negotiable. You must obtain an Explore Rate Authorization Form from the Marriott associate who is sponsoring your stay. This form is essential for verifying your eligibility at check-in.
Where does the associate get it? The associate can typically download this form from the Marriott Global Source (MGS) intranet site or their MHub portal using their Enterprise ID (EID). They can print it from MyPDR.
What does the form need? The form will require details like the associate's name and ID, your name as the guest, your relationship to the associate, and the dates of your proposed stay.
Validity: The form usually has an expiration date, often around 2 months from the date of issue. Make sure your travel dates fall within this period.
Don't "Game" the System: Marriott takes its associate discounts seriously. Attempting to use a code without the proper authorization form, or if you're not genuinely eligible, can lead to your reservation being canceled or you being charged the full, non-discounted rate. Always be prepared to present the completed form and a valid photo ID at check-in.
Step 2: Navigate to the Marriott Website or App
Once you have your authorization form in hand and understand the terms, it's time to start looking for your perfect stay.
Online Booking is Key: Reservations for the Friends and Family rate are primarily made online.
Open your web browser and go to the official Marriott website:
www.marriott.com Alternatively, you can use the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app on your smartphone or tablet. The process is very similar across both platforms.
Step 3: Initiate Your Search and Locate the "Special Rates" Option
Now you're ready to input your travel details.
Enter Your Destination: On the Marriott homepage (or within the app), you'll see a search bar or a "Where can we take you?" field. Enter your desired destination (city, region, or specific hotel name).
Select Your Dates: Choose your check-in and check-out dates from the calendar.
Indicate Number of Guests: Specify the number of guests who will be staying.
Find "Special Rates": This is the crucial part for applying your code. Look for a field or dropdown menu labeled "Special Rates," "Corporate/Promo Code," or something similar. It's usually located near the destination and date fields, or accessible by clicking on an "Edit Search" or "More Options" button.
Step 4: Enter Your Friends and Family Code (MMF)
This is where you apply the discount.
Select "Corporate/Promo/SET#": Within the "Special Rates" section, you'll typically find options like "Corporate/Promo/SET#," "Promotional Code," or "Discount Code." Select this option.
Input the Code: In the dedicated text field that appears, carefully enter the Marriott Friends and Family code: MMF.
Important Note: While MMF is the general code for Friends and Family, some sources might mention MM4 (for employee-only rates) or MMP (for both employee and immediate family). For Friends and Family, MMF is the correct code to use.
Click "Apply" or "Find Hotels": After entering the code, click the "Apply" button or proceed to "Find Hotels" to see the available rates.
Step 5: Browse and Select Your Hotel and Room
The search results will now display hotels with the applied Friends and Family rate, if available.
Availability is Key: The Friends and Family rate is subject to availability. This means it might not be available at all properties, for all dates, or for all room types, especially during peak seasons or high-occupancy periods. Don't be discouraged if you don't see it immediately for your first choice.
Tip: Try adjusting your dates or exploring different Marriott properties in the area if your initial search doesn't yield the desired rate.
Compare Rates: Even with the discount, it's always a good idea to compare the Friends and Family rate with other publicly available rates to ensure you're getting the best deal. Sometimes, a promotional offer or a Marriott Bonvoy member rate might be more advantageous.
Select Your Room Type: Once you find a suitable hotel with the MMF rate, select your preferred room type.
Step 6: Complete Your Reservation
Almost there! Now it's time to finalize your booking.
Review Your Details: Double-check all the reservation details: hotel, dates, room type, and the MMF rate being applied.
Enter Guest Information: Provide your personal information as the guest. Ensure the name on the reservation matches the name on your authorization form and your photo ID.
Provide Payment Information: Enter your payment details (credit card information).
Confirm and Book: Read and agree to the terms and conditions, then click "Confirm Booking" or "Complete Reservation." You'll receive a confirmation email shortly after.
Step 7: Prepare for Check-in
This step is as vital as obtaining the code itself.
Print Your Authorization Form: Make sure you have a physical, printed copy of the completed Marriott Explore Rate Authorization Form.
Bring Valid Photo ID: Have a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) ready. The name on your ID must match the name on your reservation and the authorization form.
Present at Check-in: When you arrive at the hotel, inform the front desk agent that you are staying on a Friends and Family rate and proactively present your authorization form and photo ID. They will need to verify your eligibility.
Be Aware: Some hotels may make a photocopy of your form, while others may simply verify it. Do not be surprised if they ask to see proof. If you fail to present the required documentation, the hotel reserves the right to charge you the standard room rate.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a fantastic stay at a Marriott property with the Friends and Family discount!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about using the Marriott Friends and Family code, with quick answers:
How to obtain a Marriott Friends and Family authorization form?
The Marriott associate sponsoring your stay must obtain it from their internal Marriott Global Source (MGS) or MHub portal.
How to know if I am eligible for the Marriott Friends and Family rate?
You are eligible if a Marriott associate provides you with an official Explore Rate Authorization Form, confirming your relationship (friend or extended family).
How to enter the Marriott Friends and Family code on the Marriott website?
After entering your destination and dates, click on "Special Rates" or "Corporate/Promo/SET#" and then enter the code MMF in the designated field.
How to tell the difference between Marriott Friends and Family (MMF) and Employee (MMP) rates?
MMF (Explore Friends Rate) is for friends and extended family, while MMP (Explore Rate) is for direct employees and their immediate family members (spouse, parents, children, siblings) and generally offers a deeper discount.
How to ensure my Marriott Friends and Family booking is valid?
Always have the completed and valid Explore Rate Authorization Form from the sponsoring associate, and ensure your name on the booking matches your photo ID and the form.
How to cancel a Marriott Friends and Family booking?
Friends and Family rates are often non-refundable. Check the specific terms and conditions of your reservation at the time of booking, as cancellation policies vary.
How to get the best discount with the Marriott Friends and Family code?
Discounts vary by property, season, and availability. Booking in advance and being flexible with your dates and hotel choices can help you find better deals.
How to resolve issues if the Friends and Family rate isn't showing up?
The rate is subject to availability, so it might not always appear. Try adjusting your dates, checking different Marriott properties, or verifying with the sponsoring associate if the rate is expected to be available for your chosen dates.
How to verify if my Marriott Friends and Family form is still valid?
Check the expiration date clearly printed on the authorization form provided by the Marriott associate. It typically has a validity period of about two months from its issue date.
How to ensure a smooth check-in with the Marriott Friends and Family rate?
Be prepared to present your physical, completed Explore Rate Authorization Form and a valid government-issued photo ID that matches the name on your reservation at the front desk.
