Anonymous wrote:I have had highest status with both. Marriott have more properties around the world, but hilton's program is a little better.

Same here. I also think Hilton's properties are nicer (generally).

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I have had highest status with both. Marriott have more properties around the world, but hilton's program is a little better.

OP here. This is true. I travel internationally quite often and Marriott has more properties. I also find that Marriott's international properties are better maintain than Hilton. I stayed at a few Hilton properties in London and they were all dumps compared to the Marriott properties in London. However, Marriott's international properties cost more.

I don't agree with the London comment at all. I travel there for work frequently and I find that Hilton has London covered much better than Marriott and hotels from both brands are comparable with regard to quality. Specifically, I think that the Hilton Metropole, for instance, is comparable to the Marble Arch Marriott a few blocks away. I think that the Hilton on Park Lane is comparable to the Marriott Grosvenor Square. I think that there are more and better options from Hilton in the City, around Euston, in the West End and at Heathrow.

As for the topic, I don't see much of a difference between Rewards and Honors. I am Gold with Hilton and have been Gold with Marriott (Silver at present). I think you need to be Platinum to really see a difference in perks. As for redeeming points, I use them primarily for sports-related travel with the kiddos. We've frequented a bunch of Hamptons, Hilton Garden Inns, Fairfields and Courtyards and I never have an issue with availability for either brand.

Instead of picking one brand of hotel, you should consider getting the Citi Prestige Card. 4th night free on all travel stays, 5x points for every dollar spent on travel. Best part is you don't have to limit yourself to Hilton or Marriott.