Aside from the fact that most of them do next to nothing (or absolutely nothing) for plats, I still like Courtyards. At least I like the concept....which I understand to be essentially a Marriott-quality room without the facilities....and hence theoretically without the price...of a FS property.

Problem is, it becomes increasingly difficult for me to justify choosing this brand. Generally, they're priced within a relatively few dollars of FS locations. So, if that's the case, why not spend an extra couple of bucks and get the CL lounge, the 500 bonus points, and the availability of day/night food and beverage service?

Conversely, if an FS property is not nearby or is otherwise not an option, why not opt for an FI? For the same price or less, I get a comparable room and a free breakfast. Same goes for SHS, and to a lesser extent (because of points) for RI and TPS.

The other problem with CY....as has been previously pointed out here....is that quite a few properties are in serious need of a re-do. Or at least a really good deep cleaning. (And lose those blurry 19-inch vintage TVs while you're at it.) The new-style CY offer some measure of improvement....but I don't think the original concept or design is what needs fixing.

Unfortunately, its gotten to the point that if I'm contemplating booking an unfamiliar CY, I generally check Trip Advisor first. I normally don't feel the need to do that with the other Marriott brands.