Originally Posted by
C17PSGR
In terms of the franchise vs. managed issue, I think its worth breaking out FS vs limited service.
In my experience, Courtyards, Residence Inns, Fairfield Inn, Springhill Suites offer a pretty consistent experience even though the overwhelming majority are franchised. But, there's not much to mess up on as there usually aren't upgrades available, I don't really expect much, and they always offer me a market item and points..
I agree wholeheartedly. From a consistency standpoint, Courtyard is actually really, really consistent. Much more than than full-service Marriott or Renaissance properties.
From my experience, as well as reading reports of others, the most consistent brands are J.W. Marriott, St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton, which have the highest percentage of Marriott-operated management.