First Marriott stay?
 

My first stay at a Marriott was the Orlando Airport Marriott. Was on an Icelandair flight back in the eighties that returned to MCO due to engine problems. I remember the staff being top notch and really accomodating and Marriott subsequently earned a share of my business. It was only in the nineties though that I became a regular with Marriott due to another Orlando property, the World Center Marriott.

Your stories?

Mine was the Renaissance Marriott in Kuala Lumpur, for business. I had been with my company for about three months when two of the managers came up and asked if I had gotten my travel physical. I said yes, and they asked if I wanted to go to Malaysia. I said yes again and spent three weeks there (the first time!) Also stayed at the JW in KL many more times during subsequent trips. (The first trip was October 2008.)

My first stays were at the Park Central Marriott in Dallas (long gone from the chain) in the early-mid 80's. Not the greatest hotel but I signed up for this new "Honored Guest" program which, at the time, allowed you to double-dip 1000 Delta miles with your stay. I learned quickly about loyalty and building points, even though I did not ever earn elite status (Black level, I believe) in the early program. Redemption was much easier back then and I enjoyed some pretty good vacations.

Marriott Kensington (London) for me. Really looked after my colleagues and I with a brilliant GM who is now the GM at West India Quay. 8 years and 850 nights later I'm still staying at Marriotts.

T

The Fairfield in Olive Branch, Mississippi is in my dreams. Elegant double beds, and softly purring HVAC. Treadmills that doubled as personal trainers. And the orange juice in the breakfast buffet? To die for!

Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino followed by the Curacao Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino in 2010. Both for work. Kicked off quite a worldwide Marriott tour which has taken me to some of the finest Marriotts in North, Central, South America and Europe.