I've given other mongers the thumbs up on the Marriott, but now I'm not so sure. I checked in last night with no problem, but when they asked me how many people I said "Two" suggesting, with a big wink that my brother might join me later.

"OK, sir. May I have your brother's name, please?" Taken aback, I made up something. "OK, sir. When he check in, please have him show passport." I just blinked. Next she asked me if I wanted two single beds or one king size bed.

"Oh, king size please!" I replied with a grin. She asked me about my brother. "That bum can sleep on the floor!"

Anyone else run into this sort of thing?

For what it's worth, the regular rate is around 6000THB per night. The lounge is nothing special. The bed linens are awesome (you don't want to get out of bed) and the pool is much better than I remember from five years ago.

I was last there in Aug 2008. Never a problem with nor suggestion about bringing guests into my room.

6K should at least get you a Terrace Suites if you check for discounts.

I must admit, I never actually paid cash money for a room there, only points. Best "Hobby" hotel I have ever stayed at. Left the AC Lewis Grand in Motel 6 land. I found it a nicer place to hobby at than the BKK JW Marriott.

Lounges are never anything special but the free snacks were always pretty good, as good as any buffet at any business functions I've been to.

The only thing that gives me pause (other than 6K for a room) is one of the plainer customer services girls sent me an unsolicited email after my last stay. We sent a few back and forth and next time I was in Pattaya (Nov 2009) she always had some problem come up that prevented her from keeping a date. I was not staying there so I know it was not a prob about fraternizing with a guest but I did the obvious math. No point on calling her on it... (f*cking Thai face bullshit)

It's a pity that I lose my Plat status in 2 weeks.
The upgrades were nice.

I stayed there Christmas/New Years booked for 2 w/ points (same price as 1). When I checked in I said my GF will be joining me later. They asked for details and I said when she arrives we'll work it out. Never heard anything more from them and I used all 3 entrances (the front, the mall and the off of beach road next to Swensens) and no one ever asked me anything again. Shouldn't be a problem.