Understanding Marriott Hotel Brands

The apartments come equipped with a range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible, including fully-equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping areas, housekeeping services, and on-site laundry facilities. Some properties may also offer additional amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and business centers.

Marriott Executive Apartments properties are typically located in city centers, near business districts, and close to popular tourist attractions. They offer the convenience of a hotel with the comfort and space of a private apartment, making them an ideal option for travelers who need to stay in one place for an extended period of time.

These properties are designed to meet the needs of corporate travelers, relocating families, government employees on extended assignments, and anyone who needs a temporary housing solution. They offer flexible lease options and rates, with no long-term commitment, making them a great alternative to traditional hotel stays for extended stays.

What are the main categories and features of Marriott hotel brands?

Marriott hotel brands are divided into four main categories: Luxury, Premium, Select, and Longer Stays. Each category has its own subcategories and distinctive features that cater to different travelers’ needs and preferences. Here is a brief overview of each category and its subcategories:

Luxury

Luxury hotels are the most upscale and expensive category of Marriott hotels. They offer exceptional service, elegant design, spacious rooms, fine dining, and exclusive amenities. Luxury hotels are ideal for travelers who want to indulge in a lavish and memorable stay. Luxury hotels are further divided into three subcategories:

• Classic Luxury: These are the flagship brands of Marriott that offer timeless elegance and sophistication. Examples include JW Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and W Hotels.
• Distinctive Luxury: These are the boutique brands of Marriott that offer unique and personalized experiences. Examples include Autograph Collection, Edition, Luxury Collection, and Bvlgari Hotels.
• All-Inclusive: These are the newest brands of Marriott that offer all-inclusive packages with unlimited food, drinks, activities, and entertainment. Examples include Westin Resorts, W Resorts, Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and Al Maha.

Premium

Premium hotels are the mid-range category of Marriott hotels. They offer high-quality service, comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and convenient locations. Premium hotels are ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a pleasant and hassle-free stay. Premium hotels are further divided into three subcategories:

• Classic Premium: These are the core brands of Marriott that offer reliable and consistent standards. Examples include Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Sheraton, Delta Hotels, and Le Meridien.
• Distinctive Premium: These are the lifestyle brands of Marriott that offer trendy and vibrant atmospheres. Examples include Renaissance Hotels, AC Hotels, Moxy Hotels, and Aloft Hotels.
• Premium Select: These are the upscale select-service brands of Marriott that offer stylish design and smart amenities. Examples include Courtyard by Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton, SpringHill Suites by Marriott, and Fairfield by Marriott.

Select

Select hotels are the budget-friendly category of Marriott hotels. They offer basic service, clean rooms, functional amenities, and affordable rates. Select hotels are ideal for travelers who want to save money and have a simple and convenient stay. Select hotels are further divided into two subcategories:

• Classic Select: These are the value brands of Marriott that offer essential comfort and service. Examples include Residence Inn by Marriott, TownePlace Suites by Marriott, and Protea Hotels by Marriott.
• Extended Stay: These are the longer-stay brands of Marriott that offer spacious suites with kitchens and living areas. Examples include Element by Westin, Marriott Executive Apartments, and Homes & Villas by Marriott International.

Longer Stays

Longer stays hotels are the extended-stay category of Marriott hotels. They offer spacious suites with kitchens and living areas, as well as complimentary breakfast and social events. Longer stays hotels are ideal for travelers who want to feel at home and stay for a week or more. Longer stays hotels are further divided into two subcategories:

• Classic Longer Stays: These are the traditional extended-stay brands of Marriott that offer cozy and homelike environments. Examples include Residence Inn by Marriott, TownePlace Suites by Marriott, and Protea Hotels by Marriott

What are the pros and cons of each Marriott hotel brand based on my own stays?

I have stayed at many Marriott hotel brands over the years, and I have enjoyed most of them. However, each brand has its own strengths and weaknesses, and some may suit your needs better than others. Here are some of the pros and cons of each Marriott hotel brand based on my own stays:

Luxury

• Pros: Luxury hotels offer the ultimate experience of comfort, service, and style. You can expect to find spacious and elegant rooms, attentive and personalized service, exquisite dining options, and exclusive amenities such as spas, pools, lounges, and concierge. Luxury hotels are also located in prime locations, often near major attractions or in scenic settings. Luxury hotels are perfect for celebrating special occasions, pampering yourself, or impressing someone.
• Cons: Luxury hotels are also the most expensive category of Marriott hotels. You can expect to pay a premium for everything, from the room rate to the food and drinks. Luxury hotels may also have strict dress codes, reservation policies, or tipping expectations. Luxury hotels may not be the best choice for travelers who are on a budget, who prefer a casual or laid-back atmosphere, or who value privacy over service.

Premium

• Pros: Premium hotels offer a great balance of quality, comfort, and convenience. You can expect to find comfortable and well-equipped rooms, friendly and helpful service, modern amenities such as fitness centers, business centers, and restaurants, and convenient locations near airports, city centers, or attractions. Premium hotels are suitable for most types of travelers and trips, whether you are traveling for business or leisure, solo or with a group, short-term or long-term.
• Cons: Premium hotels may not offer much in terms of uniqueness or personality. You may find that some premium hotels look and feel similar to each other, or lack the charm or character of local or boutique hotels. Premium hotels may also have higher rates than select or longer stays hotels, especially during peak seasons or in popular destinations. Premium hotels may not be the best option for travelers who are looking for a distinctive or memorable stay, or who want to save money on accommodation.

Select

• Pros: Select hotels offer a good value for money option for travelers who want to save money and have a simple and convenient stay. You can expect to find clean and functional rooms, basic service, and essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, free parking, and free breakfast. Select hotels are often located near highways, suburbs, or industrial areas, making them easy to access and close to local businesses or services. Select hotels are ideal for travelers who are on a road trip, who need a place to sleep or work, or who don’t spend much time in their hotel.
• Cons: Select hotels may not offer much in terms of comfort, style, or variety. You may find that some select hotels are outdated, noisy, or bland, or lack the amenities or services that you need or want. Select hotels may also be far from attractions, downtown areas, or public transportation, making them inconvenient or costly to explore or enjoy your destination. Select hotels may not be the best choice for travelers who want to experience more than just a bed and a shower, or who want to be close to the action.

Longer Stays

• Pros: Longer stays hotels offer a home away from home option for travelers who want to feel at home and stay for a week or more. You can expect to find spacious suites with kitchens and living areas, as well as complimentary breakfast and social events. Longer stays hotels also offer laundry facilities, grocery delivery services, and pet-friendly policies. Longer stays hotels are often located in residential or mixed-use areas, giving you a sense of community and local culture. Longer stays hotels are perfect for travelers who are relocating, working remotely, or traveling with family or pets.
• Cons: Longer stays hotels may not offer much in terms of luxury, atmosphere, or entertainment. You may find that some longer stays hotels are basic, isolated, or boring, or lack the features or facilities that you enjoy or expect from a hotel. Longer stays hotels may also have higher rates than select hotels, especially if you book for less than a week or during peak seasons. Longer stays hotels may not be the best option for travelers who want to indulge in a hotel stay, who prefer a lively or vibrant environment, or who only need a short-term accommodation.

How does Marriott compare with other hotel chains?

Marriott is not the only hotel chain in the world. There are many other hotel chains that offer similar or different options for travelers. Some of the most popular and comparable hotel chains are Hilton, Hyatt, IHG, and Wyndham. Here is a brief comparison of Marriott with these hotel chains based on some key factors:

• Number of brands and properties: Marriott has the largest number of brands and properties among these hotel chains, with 30 brands and over 7,000 properties in 131 countries. Hilton has 18 brands and over 6,800 properties in 122 countries. Hyatt has 20 brands and over 1,000 properties in 68 countries. IHG has 16 brands and over 6,000 properties in 100 countries. Wyndham has 20 brands and over 9,000 properties in 95 countries.
• Loyalty program: Marriott’s loyalty program is called Marriott Bonvoy, and it has 160 million members. Hilton’s loyalty program is called Hilton Honors, and it has 128 million members. Hyatt’s loyalty program is called World of Hyatt, and it has 22 million members. IHG’s loyalty program is called IHG Rewards Club, and it has 100 million members. Wyndham’s loyalty program is called Wyndham Rewards, and it has 86 million members.
• Award costs: Marriott uses a dynamic pricing system for award nights, which means the cost of a free night varies depending on the demand and availability of each hotel. The cost ranges from 5,000 to 100,000 points per night for standard rooms, and from 10,000 to 140,000 points per night for peak or off-peak rooms. Hilton also uses a dynamic pricing system for award nights, which means the cost of a free night varies depending on the demand and availability of each hotel. The cost ranges from 5,000 to 95,000 points per night for standard rooms. Hyatt uses a fixed pricing system for award nights, which means the cost of a free night is based on the category of each hotel. The cost ranges from 5,000 to 40,000 points per night for standard rooms. IHG also uses a fixed pricing system for award nights, which means the cost of a free night is based on the category of each hotel. The cost ranges from 10,000 to 70,000 points per night for standard rooms. Wyndham also uses a fixed pricing system for award nights, which means the cost of a free night is based on the category of each hotel. The cost ranges from 7,500 to 30,000 points per night for standard rooms.
• Credit cards: Marriott has several co-branded credit cards with American Express and Chase that offer various benefits such as sign-up bonuses, points earning rates, free night certificates, elite status, and more. Some of the most popular cards are the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, and the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card. Hilton also has several co-branded credit cards with American Express that offer various benefits such as sign-up bonuses, points earning rates, free night certificates, elite status, and more. Some of the most popular cards are the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, and the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card. Hyatt also has a co-branded credit card with Chase that offers various benefits such as sign-up bonus, points earning rate, free night certificate, elite status, and more. The card is called the World of Hyatt Credit Card. IHG also has several co-branded credit cards with Chase that offer various benefits such as sign-up bonuses, points earning rates, free night certificates, elite status, and more. Some of the most popular cards are the IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card and the IHG Rewards Club Traveler Credit Card. Wyndham also has several co-branded credit cards with Barclays that offer various benefits such as sign-up bonuses, points earning rates, free night certificates, elite status, and more. Some of the most popular cards are the Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Card and the Wyndham Rewards Earner Business Card.

As you can see, Marriott has some advantages and disadvantages compared to other hotel chains. Depending on your travel needs and preferences, you may find one hotel chain more suitable than another. However, it

How Marriott hotel brands have evolved

Marriott hotel brands have evolved over time to adapt to the changing needs and preferences of travelers. Here are some examples of how Marriott hotel brands have improved or addressed issues from previous models or releases:

• Marriott Bonvoy: Marriott Bonvoy is the unified loyalty program that combines the former Marriott Rewards, Ritz-Carlton Rewards, and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) programs. Marriott Bonvoy was launched in 2019 to provide a seamless and consistent experience for members across all Marriott hotel brands. Marriott Bonvoy offers more benefits, more flexibility, and more opportunities to earn and redeem points than the previous programs. Some of the improvements include peak and off-peak pricing, points advance, cash + points, suite night awards, free night awards, and elite choice benefits.
• Design Hotels: Design Hotels is a collection of independent hotels that joined Marriott in 2016. Design Hotels offers unique and personalized experiences for travelers who seek originality and authenticity. Design Hotels has improved its brand standards by aligning with Marriott’s quality assurance criteria, guest satisfaction surveys, and loyalty program integration. Design Hotels has also addressed some issues such as inconsistent service delivery, limited distribution channels, and low brand awareness by leveraging Marriott’s global network, resources, and reputation.
• AC Hotels: AC Hotels is a premium select brand that originated in Spain and expanded to Europe and North America. AC Hotels offers stylish design, smart amenities, and flexible workspaces for travelers who appreciate beauty and simplicity. AC Hotels has improved its brand standards by incorporating local influences, enhancing food and beverage options, and adding social spaces. AC Hotels has also addressed some issues such as lack of differentiation, limited appeal, and low occupancy by targeting millennial travelers, creating distinctive experiences, and partnering with other Marriott brands.

Important decision-making factors

When choosing a Marriott hotel brand for your next trip, you may want to focus on some important decision-making factors that can help you make the best choice. Here are some of the factors that you may want to consider:

• Location: Location is one of the most important factors when choosing a hotel. You may want to choose a Marriott hotel brand that is close to your destination, whether it is an airport, a city center, an attraction, or a scenic spot. You may also want to consider the accessibility and convenience of the location, such as the availability of public transportation, parking, or shuttle services.
• Price: Price is another important factor when choosing a hotel. You may want to choose a Marriott hotel brand that fits your budget and offers good value for money. You may also want to compare the prices of different Marriott hotel brands in the same location, and see if there are any discounts, deals, or promotions available.
• Amenities: Amenities are the features and facilities that a hotel offers to its guests. You may want to choose a Marriott hotel brand that offers the amenities that you need or want, such as free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, fitness center, pool, spa, restaurant, bar, lounge, concierge, or business center. You may also want to check the quality and availability of the amenities, such as the speed and reliability of the Wi-Fi, the variety and freshness of the breakfast, or the hours and capacity of the pool.
• Service: Service is the quality and attitude of the staff and management that a hotel provides to its guests. You may want to choose a Marriott hotel brand that offers friendly, helpful, and professional service. You may also want to check the reviews and ratings of other guests who have stayed at the hotel, and see how they rate the service they received.
• Style: Style is the design and personality of a hotel. You may want to choose a Marriott hotel brand that matches your taste and preference. You may also want to check the photos and videos of the hotel, and see how it looks and feels. Some Marriott hotel brands offer more classic and elegant style, while others offer more trendy and vibrant style.

By focusing on these important decision-making factors, you should be able to choose the best Marriott hotel brand for your next trip. However, remember that these factors are not exhaustive or definitive, and that you may have other factors that are more important or relevant to you. The best way to choose a Marriott hotel brand is to do your own research and comparison, and see which one meets your expectations and satisfies your needs.

What are the best ways to book and save money on Marriott hotels?

Now that you have an idea of which Marriott hotel brand suits your needs best, you may be wondering how to book and save money on your stay. Here are some of the best ways to do that:

• Book directly on the Marriott website or app: This is the easiest and most convenient way to book your Marriott hotel. You can browse and compare all the available options, filter by category, brand, location, price, and amenities, and see the best rates and deals. You can also modify or cancel your reservation online, and enjoy free Wi-Fi and mobile check-in. Plus, you can earn and redeem points for your stay if you are a member of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program.
• Use a travel agent or a third-party website: This is another option to book your Marriott hotel. You can use a travel agent or a third-party website such as Expedia, Booking.com, or Hotels.com to find and compare different options, read reviews from other travelers, and see special offers or discounts. However, you may not get the best rates or deals, and you may have to pay extra fees or taxes. You may also not be able to modify or cancel your reservation easily, and you may not earn or redeem points for your stay if you are a member of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program.
• Use a credit card or a coupon: This is a great way to save money on your Marriott hotel. You can use a credit card that offers rewards or cash back for travel purchases, such as the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, or the Capital One Venture Rewards Card. You can also use a coupon that offers discounts or free nights for Marriott hotels, such as the ones from Groupon, Travelzoo, or AAA. However, you may have to meet certain requirements or restrictions to use these options, such as minimum spending, blackout dates, or limited availability.
• Use points or certificates: This is the best way to save money on your Marriott hotel if you are a member of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. You can use points or certificates that you earn from staying at Marriott hotels, using a co-branded credit card, or participating in promotions or partnerships. You can redeem points or certificates for free nights at any Marriott hotel brand, category, or location around the world. However, you may have to pay taxes or fees for your redemption, and you may have to deal with limited availability or peak pricing for some hotels.

What are the benefits of joining the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program?

As you can see, one of the best ways to book and save money on Marriott hotels is to join the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. This is a free program that rewards you for staying at any of the Marriott hotel brands around the world.

Marriott Loyalty Program

Marriott International has a portfolio of 30 brands spanning 7,000+ properties in 130 countries and territories. Marriott Rewards is the loyalty program for all Marriott brands. It’s one of the largest and most popular hotel loyalty programs in the world with over 60 million members.

Marriott Rewards is free to join. You can enroll online or at any Marriott property. You’ll earn points for stays at all Marriott properties, regardless of the brand. You can also earn points with Marriott’s over 60 airline, car rental, and credit card partners.

There are three Marriott Rewards tiers- Silver, Gold, and Platinum. You’ll achieve Silver Elite status after 10 nights, Gold Elite status after 25 nights, and Platinum Elite status after 50 nights. You’ll also earn 1 Elite Night Credit for every $3,000 you spend on eligible Marriott purchases.

Marriott Rewards members can redeem points for free nights at Marriott properties, airline miles, and more. You can also transfer points to over 40 airline

Program Benefits:

Here are some of the benefits of joining the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program:

• Earn points: You can earn points for every dollar you spend on eligible purchases at any Marriott hotel brand. You can also earn points from using a co-branded credit card, participating in promotions or partnerships, or transferring points from other programs such as American Express Membership Rewards or Chase Ultimate Rewards.
• Redeem points: You can redeem points for free nights at any Marriott hotel brand, category, or location around the world. You can also redeem points for other rewards such as gift cards, merchandise, experiences, or donations.
• Enjoy perks: You can enjoy perks based on your membership level, which ranges from Member to Ambassador Elite. Some of the perks include free Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, late checkout, room upgrades, lounge access, welcome gifts, and elite status recognition.
• Access exclusive offers: You can access exclusive offers such as member rates, points bonuses, free breakfast, and more when you book directly on the Marriott website or app.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind about Marriott Rewards.

1. Marriott Rewards has an expiration policy. Points will expire after 24 months of inactivity. So, if you don’t stay at a Marriott property or earn Marriott Rewards points from a Marriott partner at least once every 24 months, your points will expire.
2. Marriott Rewards has alimited time offer policy. This means that Marriott can end or change a promotional offer at any time without notice. So, if you’re planning to take advantage of a Marriott Rewards promotion, be sure to do so before it ends.
3. Marriott Rewards has a blackout date policy. This means that there are certain dates when you cannot redeem your Marriott Rewards points for free nights. Blackout dates vary by Marriott property, so be sure to check the blackout dates for your desired Marriott property before redeeming your points.

Despite these few drawbacks, Marriott Rewards is still one of the most popular hotel loyalty programs in the world. It’s free to join and easy to earn points. Plus, there are plenty of ways to redeem your Marriott Rewards points.

If you are interested in joining the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, you can sign up for free on the Marriott website or app.

How to choose the best Marriott hotel brand for your next trip?

By now, you should have a good idea of what each Marriott hotel brand offers, and which one suits your needs best. But how do you choose the best Marriott hotel brand for your next trip? Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

• Consider your travel purpose: Think about why you are traveling, and what you want to achieve or experience from your trip. Are you traveling for business or leisure, solo or with a group, short-term or long-term? This will help you narrow down your options based on the features and benefits that each Marriott hotel brand offers.
• Consider your travel budget: Think about how much you are willing and able to spend on your accommodation. Are you looking for a luxury or a budget option, a full-service or a select-service option, an all-inclusive or a pay-as-you-go option? This will help you narrow down your options based on the rates and deals that each Marriott hotel brand offers.
• Consider your travel destination: Think about where you are going, and what you want to see or do in your destination. Are you looking for a scenic or a central location, a resort or a city hotel, a local or a global brand? This will help you narrow down your options based on the availability and location of each Marriott hotel brand.
• Consider your travel preferences: Think about what you like or dislike in a hotel, and what makes you comfortable or happy in your stay. Are you looking for a spacious or a cozy room, a personalized or a standardized service, a unique or a consistent experience? This will help you narrow down your options based on the style and personality of each Marriott hotel brand.

By following these tips, you should be able to choose the best Marriott hotel brand for your next trip. However, remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer and that different travelers may have different opinions and preferences. The best way to find out which Marriott hotel brand is right for you is to try them out yourself, and see which one meets your expectations and satisfies your needs.

I hope this article has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading, and happy travels! 😊