The last two properties I stayed in had a Courtyard w/in a stones throw of the Residence Inn. Last week, I stayed in Salinas, RI, and you literally shared the driveway with the Courtyard. Once you drive into the driveway, you make a right to go to RI and a left to go to the Courtyard. Week before last, we stayed at the Residence Inn in Stockon. Same thing...there was a Courtyard literally positioned in front of the RI.

Both of these stays were on business, but even then, I'll take an "mini apartment" any day of the week over a Courtyard.

In my limited knowledge, Courtyards don't provide squat to anyone. I just recently made Platinum (giving up Diamond this year w/Hilton), and if I remember correctly, Plats don't even get breakfast in Courtyard. But I know they are just basic rooms.

What am I missing about Courtyards? What is the draw? I've read posts from MR folks that said, hands down, they would chose a Courtyard over a RI. Is it because RI only gives you 50% points?

Just curious....because I can't figure it out. I thought the Courtyard was the lower end of the MR chain, but I'm beginning to think that the TownPlace Suites may be...their towels simply hurt your skin!

Dawn