Marriott's luxury Ritz Carlton hotel chain has launched a program to reward its regular customers. This new program may well be a sign of how luxury hotels are trying to woo customers during difficult times. Ritz-Carlton guests will be able to earn points for stays at both Ritz-Carlton and Marriott properties.

Herve Humler, president and COO of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company said they've inked partnership deals with luxury tour company Abercrombie and Kent; fashion icon Vera Wang; National Geographic Expeditions, for photography workshops; and Neiman Marcus.

Adding that this is just a beginning, the luxury hotel chain will add global partners offering members the very best in customized and one-of-a-kind memorable experiences.

Ritz-Carlton Rewards guests can also redeem points for stays at the chain's own properties, as well as for flights on 30 airlines and luxury cruises on Crystal Cruises, The Yachts of Seabourn and Silversea.