Since there aren't many postitive posts on a lot of these boards, I thought I'd show a little of my appreciation towards the service I received on a recently completed trip. I stayed at the Zurich Marriott, downtown, and had a great time. They made an immediate impression by having my room ready (King, non-smoking as requested) for early arrival at 8:30am which was a huge relief. After leaving the US at 2pm the previous day, it was great to be able to check in, take a shower, and relax a bit after a hectic transcontinental journey. The staff was extremely friendly and enthusiastic, and all spoke at least fairly good English.

For those thinking about going to Zurich for vacation and sightseeing and are choosing between the Renaissance and the Marriott, I would recommend the Marriott (though I did not visit the Renaissance). It is easy walking distance to the main train station which will take you anywhere in Switzerland in 3 or so hours. We used it as our main base for side trips to Bern, Lucerne, and some smaller points. One day touring Zurich is probably enough for most people if you don't want to visit all of the museums and exhibits, but it's nice to have that 'central base' to visit other towns and sights and not have to drag luggage around to. We used a Swiss Pass and the trips on train and bus couldn't have been easier to use, even for a mass-transit illiterate person like me.

Two thumbs up to the Marriott! It made for a fantastic trip!

Thanks,
Frank