Originally Posted by speby
Old Man Marriott
Another factor that is annoying is the "Old Man Marriott" theme of many Marriott's and many Renaissance's. Guys I work with often make fun of me for being a Marriott point whore (they are Starwood usually) because of the "Old Man Marriott" syndrome of many of their hotels. You walk into the lobby and you kind of have a sense that its like your grandfather's hotel. Now, sure, I'm a younger aged person so maybe the oomph-oomph music in the lobby of the W hotel by Starwood is a better option (I'm kidding, it sounds like you're in a nightclub 24/7 at the W). But hear me out, don't you sense that "old man" feel at many Marriotts? I really think they should re-theme it a bit, just make it a bit more unique, maybe a tad trendy here and there, and modern.
I would like to see Marriott having more luxurious brands like the Luxury Collection and St. Regis offered by Starwood, the only brand comparable now is JW Marriott, but that does not even measure up. Ritz really does not count as a Marriott since there is no recognition for MR.
Also, I would like to see Marriott have better hotels and in better locations in European cities. I have often resort to Starwood hotels in Europe because their location and class of service. Marriott has good coverage in London and Paris, but that is it.