* I've stayed at Marriott & other hotel chains for years. I don't remember a mandatory 24-hour worldwide health club policy at any of the chains. Having run marathons, triathlons, been on a corporate racing team in the past, & off that track now but keeping in shape I've spent plenty of time in hotel health clubs over the years. I work with what's available or head outside. Shrug. Having an exercise room/health club may factor into a hotel choice, but for me it's not the only factor. If it is to you, go for it. Each FTer should choose based on what's important to him/her.

* You definitely missed the point re: the marathoner & his comment to the other ultra-elite marathoners, but it doesn't really matter.

* I'm not sure why you are comparing shark fin soup (which does have implications for the world's ecosystem) to brands of fitness equipment. That doesn't even make sense.

* If you're concerned about specific Asian properties buying (IYO) less than ideal equipment, your comments should be directed to the GMs of those properties rather than just posting on FT. Probably get better results. If you can provide folios for the non-Marriott Asian properties you chose instead of the Marriott properties due to the exercise equipment, so the GMs can see the revenue loss that would probably help your case.

And - it's time for me to head to my health club now First time since recovering from broken ankle, broken knee & getting a DVT. Think I'm going to add swimming to the mix (thanks VickiSoCal!) to see if it will help w/ the ankle, which I'm still having problems w/.

Cheers.