As part of work, I got acquainted with Marriott and it stayed as my personal travel choice until they rebranded with Bonvoy! So many issues with booking which was evident right before COVID. I am inclined to use Holiday Inn. I might have had a one or two nights stay in SoCal and Canberra (OZ) - it served the purpose and nothing like Marriott property.

Will Choice be a good alternative with affordability and hotels available in California and other parts of US?
I am considering signing up for Choice Privileges, and their Credit card?