"I also use AAA if the corporate is not available. In 10+ years of using AAA I had never been asked to show the card until last month in FL at two different properties. One was a HGI in Palm Beach Gardens and the other a CY in Stuart. Stayed at both since on AAA rate and wasn't asked."

"Same- we stay at a very large Jw often just for a quick get away and have gotten to know a few of the staff. We’ve checked in numerous times and have been told there aren’t any upgrades - I’m Platinum. No worries, we’re just happy to be on vacation for a few days. Shortly after we’ve seen a specific front desk agent that is always friendly with us and she has upgraded us (yes, after we’ve checked in) at least three times…. And mentioned as she’s doing it, “idk why they didn’t upgrade you…. “ we never asked her since we were already checked in and we’re fine with the regular room. But certainly, a suite is a nice upgrade and very much enjoyed."

"GAP Inc's Marriott code GAP is listed in corporate code databases. No verification incidents documented in FlyerTalk or Reddit discussions. Clothing retail corporate codes at Marriott receive minimal attention from front desk staff — retail employee IDs are not standardized enough to be reliably verified. US domestic properties rarely verify retail-sector codes."