Last edit by: hhoope01
This thread refers to the various Marriott brands within a specific geographic area. Marriott Bonvoy hotels in XX usually have posts asking which property is better, etc. Trip reports are usually better suited in the property specific threads.
Marriott Bonvoy hotels in Charleston, SC
#91
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Seattle WA, USA
Programs: Hilton Diamond, Marriott LT Plat, AS Lounge
Posts: 3,478
Has anyone stayed here since they reopened? There are a few reviews on TripAdvisor and Insiders so I was wondering if anyone here had been there.
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/trave...ston-marriott/
(same link as SkiAdcock's post)
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/trave...ston-marriott/
(same link as SkiAdcock's post)
Last edited by Westcoaster; Nov 30, 2016 at 10:49 am Reason: to add link & add'l comment
#92
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Benicia, California, USA
Programs: AA PLT,AS,UA PP,J6,FB,EY,LH,SQ,HH Dmd,Hyatt Glbl,Marriott Plat,IHG Plat,Accor Gold
Posts: 10,820
Any recent reviews/comparisons re Marriott properties in Charleston, particularly re the full service Marriott and the Renaissance? FWIW, my wife has a Wednesday-Friday conference in June at the Marriott and we'd stay on for Friday-Sunday in the city. Our very tentative plan is to split our time between the two, given the conference rate and convenience for Wed-Fri at the Marriott and then use points for Fri-Sun at the Renaissance. But we'd welcome any advice, including whether the move is worth it. Thanks!
#93
Join Date: Sep 2017
Posts: 575
Thunderroad depending on what you are looking for in your stay, I personally like the Courtyard Water Front right across the Street from the regular Marriott. Only reason I like it better is because of the pool over looking the Ashley River. Pool and view make it for me! I think the room is nicer at the regular Marriott plus you have the concierge lounge!
#94
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: IAD
Programs: UA 1K, Marriott Rewards - LTPP
Posts: 4,240
Any recent reviews/comparisons re Marriott properties in Charleston, particularly re the full service Marriott and the Renaissance? FWIW, my wife has a Wednesday-Friday conference in June at the Marriott and we'd stay on for Friday-Sunday in the city. Our very tentative plan is to split our time between the two, given the conference rate and convenience for Wed-Fri at the Marriott and then use points for Fri-Sun at the Renaissance. But we'd welcome any advice, including whether the move is worth it. Thanks!
#95
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: CMH/CVG
Programs: Marriott, Southwest, American, Delta, Amtrak,Multiple others
Posts: 564
Any recent reviews/comparisons re Marriott properties in Charleston, particularly re the full service Marriott and the Renaissance? FWIW, my wife has a Wednesday-Friday conference in June at the Marriott and we'd stay on for Friday-Sunday in the city. Our very tentative plan is to split our time between the two, given the conference rate and convenience for Wed-Fri at the Marriott and then use points for Fri-Sun at the Renaissance. But we'd welcome any advice, including whether the move is worth it. Thanks!
#96
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: CMH/CVG
Programs: Marriott, Southwest, American, Delta, Amtrak,Multiple others
Posts: 564
I will be staying at the North Charleston Marriott the first week of May. It is currently Cat 6 and isn't listed as having an increase on March 6. They are located near the airport with complimentary shuttle, and the Amtrak station is also close. I am only staying 2 nights but plan a longer trip next spring for vacation. I will report on this property after my stay, and also plan to visit the Renaissance to see if it is worth paying an additional 15k MR points per night. It may be more practical to stay at the Marriott and shuttle or Uber into the historical district.
Last edited by Armani; May 10, 2018 at 2:18 pm Reason: It is North Charleston, not downtown Marriott
#97
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Benicia, California, USA
Programs: AA PLT,AS,UA PP,J6,FB,EY,LH,SQ,HH Dmd,Hyatt Glbl,Marriott Plat,IHG Plat,Accor Gold
Posts: 10,820
Thanks for all of the feedback, folks, but especially Armani for the notes about the categories probably going up and for checking out FSM and Ren in early May. Any further thoughts/reviews/comparisons always welcome.
Although I haven't stayed in either yet, I noticed that most of the Charleston Marriott properties are going up a category on March 6. I think the Renaissance will be cat 9, similar to the Grand Bohemian Autograph. I suggest you make your points reservation soon to avoid the increase, since you can always cancel later.
#98
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: Florida
Programs: United 1K, Marriott Ambassador, Hilton Gold
Posts: 673
I've stayed at the Ren multiple times and will give a +1 for location, decor, etc. The rooms are recently renovated and are all laminate (I think?) which I love... no carpet. I don't find the rooms to be terribly small, but also depends on how many guests you have. The TV is huge, IMO, which is pretty nice to The bar was great the last time I was there too - good drinks and service. It's our go to for my couple of trips to Charleston every year.
#99
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: CMH/CVG
Programs: Marriott, Southwest, American, Delta, Amtrak,Multiple others
Posts: 564
North Charleston Marriott
We recently stayed for two nights at the North Charleston Marriott. This was a very convenient location for us because we were arriving by train and departing by air. The hotel provided complimentary shuttle to both, which are within 10 minute drive to the hotel.
This is a newly renovated hotel, category 6, with free parking. It is about a 20 minute ride to the Battery and most of the restaurants in the historic Charleston area. I found it interesting that Uber was less than $15 to the city, but would have cost $45 for the return (about 5 pm on a Saturday). We actually got a taxi from the Renaissance for $35. Beware of Uber pricing in Charleston.
The hotel was nice overall. We liked the public areas and 'M' lounge, but were very disappointed in the 'enhanced' rooms. The furniture in the room was not very functional, and there is only one drawer and a small front-to-back hanging closet. There was no luggage stand or place to put our medium-sized suitcase. The room also had a 'sofa' that was very uncomfortable and not within easy view of the TV. I guess this is an example of Marriott's new room design, but I am not a fan. I like to unpack my suitcase for 2 or more night stays, but there isn't any place to store clothes in these rooms. Service was very good overall (except they forgot my Platinum bonus points). The 'M' lounge was open for breakfast on weekends, but was overcrowded and understaffed on Saturday morning. There was no oatmeal on the weekend, but I was told they have it during the week.
I later learned there is another Marriott full service property closer to downtown on the river. It is much closer to the historic district and also offers free parking. It is currently category 7. I visited the Renaissance Historic District for future consideration, and really like the property and staff. There is no lounge but complimentary breakfast is offered. The downside is that it is a category 9 and parking is expensive. The fitness center has very limited weight training equipment, but there is a club across the street that charges $10 per day or $20 per week. We plan to visit Charleston next year and will likely stay here or the downtown Marriott depending on whether we have a car.
It has been several years since our last visit, and we learned that advance reservations (some up to a month) are required for many of the good restaurants. We ended up having an excellent early lunch at Fleetwood Landing on the water. We could not get into Hank's Seafood or Poogan's Porch for lunch or dinner on the day we were there. Charleston continues to be one of my favorite cities and has come a long way in the last 25 years.
We
This is a newly renovated hotel, category 6, with free parking. It is about a 20 minute ride to the Battery and most of the restaurants in the historic Charleston area. I found it interesting that Uber was less than $15 to the city, but would have cost $45 for the return (about 5 pm on a Saturday). We actually got a taxi from the Renaissance for $35. Beware of Uber pricing in Charleston.
The hotel was nice overall. We liked the public areas and 'M' lounge, but were very disappointed in the 'enhanced' rooms. The furniture in the room was not very functional, and there is only one drawer and a small front-to-back hanging closet. There was no luggage stand or place to put our medium-sized suitcase. The room also had a 'sofa' that was very uncomfortable and not within easy view of the TV. I guess this is an example of Marriott's new room design, but I am not a fan. I like to unpack my suitcase for 2 or more night stays, but there isn't any place to store clothes in these rooms. Service was very good overall (except they forgot my Platinum bonus points). The 'M' lounge was open for breakfast on weekends, but was overcrowded and understaffed on Saturday morning. There was no oatmeal on the weekend, but I was told they have it during the week.
I later learned there is another Marriott full service property closer to downtown on the river. It is much closer to the historic district and also offers free parking. It is currently category 7. I visited the Renaissance Historic District for future consideration, and really like the property and staff. There is no lounge but complimentary breakfast is offered. The downside is that it is a category 9 and parking is expensive. The fitness center has very limited weight training equipment, but there is a club across the street that charges $10 per day or $20 per week. We plan to visit Charleston next year and will likely stay here or the downtown Marriott depending on whether we have a car.
It has been several years since our last visit, and we learned that advance reservations (some up to a month) are required for many of the good restaurants. We ended up having an excellent early lunch at Fleetwood Landing on the water. We could not get into Hank's Seafood or Poogan's Porch for lunch or dinner on the day we were there. Charleston continues to be one of my favorite cities and has come a long way in the last 25 years.
We
#101
Join Date: Sep 2017
Posts: 575
We recently stayed for two nights at the North Charleston Marriott. This was a very convenient location for us because we were arriving by train and departing by air. The hotel provided complimentary shuttle to both, which are within 10 minute drive to the hotel.
This is a newly renovated hotel, category 6, with free parking. It is about a 20 minute ride to the Battery and most of the restaurants in the historic Charleston area. I found it interesting that Uber was less than $15 to the city, but would have cost $45 for the return (about 5 pm on a Saturday). We actually got a taxi from the Renaissance for $35. Beware of Uber pricing in Charleston.
The hotel was nice overall. We liked the public areas and 'M' lounge, but were very disappointed in the 'enhanced' rooms. The furniture in the room was not very functional, and there is only one drawer and a small front-to-back hanging closet. There was no luggage stand or place to put our medium-sized suitcase. The room also had a 'sofa' that was very uncomfortable and not within easy view of the TV. I guess this is an example of Marriott's new room design, but I am not a fan. I like to unpack my suitcase for 2 or more night stays, but there isn't any place to store clothes in these rooms. Service was very good overall (except they forgot my Platinum bonus points). The 'M' lounge was open for breakfast on weekends, but was overcrowded and understaffed on Saturday morning. There was no oatmeal on the weekend, but I was told they have it during the week.
I later learned there is another Marriott full service property closer to downtown on the river. It is much closer to the historic district and also offers free parking. It is currently category 7. I visited the Renaissance Historic District for future consideration, and really like the property and staff. There is no lounge but complimentary breakfast is offered. The downside is that it is a category 9 and parking is expensive. The fitness center has very limited weight training equipment, but there is a club across the street that charges $10 per day or $20 per week. We plan to visit Charleston next year and will likely stay here or the downtown Marriott depending on whether we have a car.
It has been several years since our last visit, and we learned that advance reservations (some up to a month) are required for many of the good restaurants. We ended up having an excellent early lunch at Fleetwood Landing on the water. We could not get into Hank's Seafood or Poogan's Porch for lunch or dinner on the day we were there. Charleston continues to be one of my favorite cities and has come a long way in the last 25 years.
We
This is a newly renovated hotel, category 6, with free parking. It is about a 20 minute ride to the Battery and most of the restaurants in the historic Charleston area. I found it interesting that Uber was less than $15 to the city, but would have cost $45 for the return (about 5 pm on a Saturday). We actually got a taxi from the Renaissance for $35. Beware of Uber pricing in Charleston.
The hotel was nice overall. We liked the public areas and 'M' lounge, but were very disappointed in the 'enhanced' rooms. The furniture in the room was not very functional, and there is only one drawer and a small front-to-back hanging closet. There was no luggage stand or place to put our medium-sized suitcase. The room also had a 'sofa' that was very uncomfortable and not within easy view of the TV. I guess this is an example of Marriott's new room design, but I am not a fan. I like to unpack my suitcase for 2 or more night stays, but there isn't any place to store clothes in these rooms. Service was very good overall (except they forgot my Platinum bonus points). The 'M' lounge was open for breakfast on weekends, but was overcrowded and understaffed on Saturday morning. There was no oatmeal on the weekend, but I was told they have it during the week.
I later learned there is another Marriott full service property closer to downtown on the river. It is much closer to the historic district and also offers free parking. It is currently category 7. I visited the Renaissance Historic District for future consideration, and really like the property and staff. There is no lounge but complimentary breakfast is offered. The downside is that it is a category 9 and parking is expensive. The fitness center has very limited weight training equipment, but there is a club across the street that charges $10 per day or $20 per week. We plan to visit Charleston next year and will likely stay here or the downtown Marriott depending on whether we have a car.
It has been several years since our last visit, and we learned that advance reservations (some up to a month) are required for many of the good restaurants. We ended up having an excellent early lunch at Fleetwood Landing on the water. We could not get into Hank's Seafood or Poogan's Porch for lunch or dinner on the day we were there. Charleston continues to be one of my favorite cities and has come a long way in the last 25 years.
We
I go to Charleston about 2-3 times a year. I agree with you the Renaissance is not worth it! I will say the Charleston Marriott was redone as well and I really like it! The pool is terrible though! If you have kids and want a great pool go stay at the Courtyard River front. You don't get all the amenities as the Marriott but to me the pool and view is worth it! Wish the would build a AC Hotel, Westin, or W hotel in Charleston.
#102
Join Date: Sep 2017
Posts: 575
Thanks for the post! I try to avoid staying in downtown as I don't want to pay $30 a night for parking! Charleston Marriott or Courtyard Waterfront are my two go to! The North Charleston Marriott is cheaper because it is 15-20 minute drive to downtown! April through September you will see huge boosts in Hotel prices in Charleston because they consider that their busy season. I have never seen that renaissance less that $300 on a weekend during that time period
#103
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: South Korea
Posts: 1,167
Waving at all the Charleston experts out there
I am looking for latest recommendations for a full service hotel in downtown Charleston.
There appears to be mixed reviews around the three major options,, but from the photos and the reviews I've seen the Grand Bohemian looks really nice.
Any recent stays in any of these? I do prefer a hotel with a lounge but can give it up if other aspects of the hotel are nice.
TIA!
I am looking for latest recommendations for a full service hotel in downtown Charleston.
There appears to be mixed reviews around the three major options,, but from the photos and the reviews I've seen the Grand Bohemian looks really nice.
Any recent stays in any of these? I do prefer a hotel with a lounge but can give it up if other aspects of the hotel are nice.
TIA!
#104
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: EYW
Programs: AA Exe Platinum, AA & Delta Million Miler, Hilton Diamond, Marriott LT Titanium, United Silver
Posts: 521
The Grand Bohemian is very nice, and its about a two block walk to main parts of downtown, such as Market street, King st, Broad and Queen St. I don't know if it has a lounge. The Renaissance is very close to the Grand Bohemian, and it too is very nice. Again, not too sure about a lounge. The Marriott downtown is not within walking distance to the touristy areas of downtown Charleston, but it is nice and does have a lounge. It would be a short Uber ride to get to the city center. Hope this helps, and if you want any other recommendations for Charleston, please let me know, happy to help.
#105
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: South Korea
Posts: 1,167
The Grand Bohemian is very nice, and its about a two block walk to main parts of downtown, such as Market street, King st, Broad and Queen St. I don't know if it has a lounge. The Renaissance is very close to the Grand Bohemian, and it too is very nice. Again, not too sure about a lounge. The Marriott downtown is not within walking distance to the touristy areas of downtown Charleston, but it is nice and does have a lounge. It would be a short Uber ride to get to the city center. Hope this helps, and if you want any other recommendations for Charleston, please let me know, happy to help.
I might take you up on your offer and ask about your favorite restaurants in the downtown area preferably those that are local fare!
I've picked up a few places through zagat youtube videos etc but would be keen to hear from FTers who know the area well. I like and eat all things, even the spicy stuff (I am Korean after all)