Let’s unpack Marriott’s preferred partnership programs for travel advisors, known as STARS and Luminous. I’m a STARS and Luminous advisor, which means my clients get access to exclusive benefits at Marriott properties worldwide, on top of my existing relationships with individual hotels.
STARS covers Marriott’s luxury brands, including The Ritz-Carlton / Ritz-Carlton Reserve, St. Regis, EDITION, BVLGARI and The Luxury Collection. Luminous covers a wider range of brands, including W Hotels, JW Marriott, Westin and Autograph Collection.
What are the benefits?
The specific perks vary by property, but generally you can expect:
STARS
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two
- $100 hotel credit per stay
- Room upgrade, subject to availability at check-in
- Priority for early check-in / late check-out, subject to availability
- Welcome amenity
Luminous
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two
- Room upgrade, subject to availability at check-in
- Priority for early check-in / late check-out, subject to availability
- Welcome amenity
- Hotel credit at select hotels only
Which Marriott hotels participate?
Most STARS properties take part. Luminous is property by property, so not every hotel participates and fewer offer the $100 credit. Get in touch for property-specific details.
Can I book a STARS or Luminous stay with points?
Unfortunately these cannot be combined and I don’t handle points bookings. Travel advisors cannot add perks if you’re booking on points.
I’m a Bonvoy member. Is there any benefit to booking STARS or Luminous?
Yes! These bookings are treated like direct stays, so you still earn points, nights and elite credit. And the perks fill gaps, since breakfast isn’t included for top elites at EDITION and The Ritz-Carlton hotels.
Can STARS and Luminous benefits be added to any rate?
Not every rate. The benefits generally apply to the standard flexible rate on Marriott’s website. Points stays, member-only rates, advance purchase rates and some promotions don’t qualify. Reach out with your dates and I’ll let you know which rate works best for your stay.
Is there a minimum stay?
Nope. There’s no minimum stay for either program.
How do I book?
Reach out with your desired property and travel dates and I’ll let you know which program applies. There are no fees for my services.