Marriott International, a global leader in the hospitality industry, offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, known internally as associates. Among the most popular benefits are the deeply discounted travel rates, which allow associates to experience the company’s portfolio of over 30 brands worldwide. These travel discounts are structured across multiple tiers, providing savings not only on lodging but also on various on-property services. The program is designed to encourage employees to become familiar with the brand experience, contributing to a better understanding of the business.
The Core Employee Travel Discount Program
The primary lodging benefit for associates is offered through the Explore by Marriott Bonvoy program, which provides access to the Associate Rate (MMP). This program extends significant savings on hotel stays for personal leisure travel. Eligibility for this rate begins immediately upon an associate’s date of hire. The MMP rate is reserved for the associate and their immediate family members, including spouses, domestic partners, parents, and children.
Details of the Employee Explore Rate
The Explore Rate is not a simple percentage discount off the public price; rather, it is a fixed, highly subsidized nightly rate that varies based on the hotel brand and its category. For most brands, this rate is a static price, often falling well under $150 per night, though resorts may add a fixed surcharge. The most substantial savings are found at the most luxurious properties, where the fixed rate can represent a discount of up to 80% off the Best Available Rate. For instance, securing a high-end St. Regis or Ritz-Carlton for a few hundred dollars is a massive reduction from the rack rate.
This rate is typically applied to the most basic room type available at the property. However, some hotels may offer non-MMP “explore upgraded rooms” at their discretion for a slightly higher cost. The pricing structure is reviewed periodically to ensure the benefit remains appealing to associates. Associates must log into a dedicated company portal and use the unique MMP code when booking on the Marriott website or app to access these prices.
Discounts for Friends and Family
A separate tier of savings is available for individuals designated by the employee, known as the Explore Friends Rate (MMF). This rate is intended for friends, extended family, and other acquaintances authorized for a discount. The financial savings offered by the MMF rate are more moderate than the direct employee rate, typically ranging between 20% and 50% off the standard room rate. The exact discount percentage depends on the hotel’s brand, location, and projected occupancy levels.
Friends and family members must present a physical or digital Explore Rate Authorization Form, issued by the sponsoring employee, along with a valid photo identification upon check-in. This authorization form acts as verification, confirming the guest’s eligibility for the reduced rate. Although the MMF rate offers a lesser discount, it still provides substantial savings for personal travel and is a widely appreciated perk.
Non-Lodging Discounts and Benefits
Beyond room rate savings, associates receive discounts on ancillary services provided within Marriott properties. Employees receive a flat 20% discount on Food and Beverage expenses at most on-site restaurants, bars, and participating in-room dining options. Associates can receive a 20% reduction on spa treatments and a 30% discount on retail purchases at Marriott-operated stores. The 30% discount can often be applied to golf apparel, equipment, and tee times at Marriott-managed golf courses.
Rules and Restrictions for Using Discounts
The use of the Explore Rate is governed by specific logistical requirements. All discounted reservations must be made through the Marriott website using the appropriate corporate code (MMP or MMF). The availability of the lowest rates is not guaranteed, as pricing is subject to hotel occupancy and blackout dates, particularly during peak travel times. An associate is limited to booking a maximum of two rooms per night at the MMP rate, and the associate must personally occupy one of those rooms. Immediate family members are limited to one room per night under the same rate structure.