Just as no two fingerprints or snowflakes are the same, neither are hotel loyalty programs. There is no one-size-fits-all program with perks, locations and earning potential that will work for every type of traveler.
If I’m being honest, I choose a lot of my hotel stays based on the theming (like this vintage train car room or this Nickelodeon-themed all-inclusive in Mexico). But when a SpongeBob-themed room isn’t an option, I try to stick with staying at hotels that participate in Marriott Bonvoy.
Why? Marriott has properties in locations my family visits often — like big cities, beaches and theme parks. My husband and I can share points from our individual accounts, and it’s easy to earn elite status with a Marriott co-branded credit card.
Just because it’s the best hotel program for me doesn’t mean it’s the best one for you, so here’s a bit more information to help you choose which (if any) hotel program you should pledge allegiance to.
Best for frequent travelers: With more than 9,000 properties across 27 brands in 144 countries and territories, this hotel program is perfect for anyone who travels often or books extended stays. You can easily unlock elite status perks like the fifth night free on award stays, bonus points earnings and elite rollover nights just by holding an eligible credit card.
Best value: This hotel program has fewer locations, but boasts (relatively) cheap award rates in comparison. If you value luxury stays in popular destinations over off-the-beaten-path properties, this is a good option … especially if you travel often enough to earn top-tier status.
Best for road warriors: If you have a card that earns Ultimate Rewards or Bilt Points, this hotel program lets you transfer points at a 1:1 ratio. And, if you hold one of these three credit cards, you can book a fourth award night for free. With locations at nearly every exit along the interstate and a solid lineup of mid-tier (a.k.a. budget-friendly) hotels, this one is great for road warriors.
Check out the full lineup here, and read these additional stories for more information on these hotel loyalty programs:
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Photo Credit: MARRIOTT.
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