I would assume that if you posted this in the Hilton or Starwood or Bass hotels area, you would get very different answers.

while I agree w/silverpie that there are not many "middle" level garden brand, I have always been able to get the rates I've wanted at the full serve Hiltons.

I don't really believe that the points are "more valuable" w/Marriott. Hilton's point stretcher awards are very attractive.

I'm not writing in defense of Hilton, I've switched from Marriott (for three years now) and have not been disappointed.