Originally Posted by
socrates
Guys I'm not trying to be difficult - the brand has value otherwise it either wouldn't be around today or it would look very different....I too don't identify with the brand BUT that doesn't mean the brand is wrong, just means I'm not a customer for them....the actual results from the brand since the last reinvention (not sure they used that term this time around) have been terrific by all metrics (saying the brands direction is wrong would be like telling a bunch of HHonors elites that their brand is going in the wrong direction too because MR does things differently)
I was a very loyal Courtyard customer for many years because they offered the best option within our corporate guidelines. My point is that they are no longer the best choice for a business traveler, and the elimination of the breakfast buffet is a major blunder (time, cost, health, and variety). I now look for FS within budget guidelines first, Springhill Suites second, and other chains third. Even the Drury Inn offers better options than Courtyard. I don't mind the lobby and appreciate the bistro offering for lunch and dinner, but breakfast is the main meal I eat at the hotel on business travel, and I would rather eat breakfast at McDonalds than the new bistro.