Maui - Marriott vs Starwood

[mbethers]

I hoping for some good input on Starwood vs. Marriott for resale purchasers. We are looking at purchasing in Maui. Either the new Marriott Villas or either of the Westin properties. We have had the oppotunity to stay at both properties, Marriott last week and Westin several years ago and like them both.

All else remaining equal and given that we will want to return to Maui 75% of the time is there a consensus on which program is better for a relsale purchaser?

I stopped in at both properties just to get the latest developer properties and of course, both had their pitch of why their program was better. I have to say Starwood made the better sounding arguement, but then again we really liked the new Marriott Villas actual distance from the Ocean.

Maybe there are too many factors, but any insight would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Darius08]

Both properties are great for resale. If the Starwood property has Star Options available they can be transferred with a membership. Marriott points on not transferable with resales. I guess it depends on the extra benefits you are looking for. Buying resale is a great idea just make sure you are not short changed by the resort for buying resale.

 

[thinze3]

A really nice 2BR Westin recently sold on eBay for $14,500.
There are deals to be had.


Terry

PS - Look at the asking vs. selling price. Don't be shy.

 

[DeniseM]

For lots of info., go to the Marriott Board and use the search function and search for Starwood.

Go to the Starwood board and use the search function and search for Marriott.

Also, read the FAQ's at the top of both boards.

And see this chart that compares the 4 major hotel systems - http://www.tugbbs.com/forums/showthread.php?t=83345

If your first priority is distance from the ocean, there is nothing closer than the ocean front units at the original WKORV.

 

[Lawlar]

We Chose Marriott

This topic comes up from time to time. Each property has its strengths and its supporters.

We chose Marriott because it is in the center of the resort. You can walk along the path to the other hotels/restaurants/shops. I love the beach from the Marriott to Black Rock (in front of the Sheraton). I've been going there for 25 years (and we got married there).

If you pick Marriott, get a fixed week unit. There are complaints voiced from those who own flex weeks that they can't get the weeks they want. Who wants to pay a small fortune for a TS and then be restricted on when you can take your trip?

The Westin Hotel is really nice (we've stayed there). Their pool and restaurants are better than what you will find at Marriott. But we can walk out of our Marriott unit and enjoy the pools/jacuzzi without having to take a shuttle bus. That is a big plus.