Searching for a Starwood hotel or resort can sometimes feel confusing due to major changes in the hospitality industry over the last few years. If you are looking to book a stay at a Westin, Sheraton, or W Hotel, you are in the right place. This guide explains how to find these iconic brands and complete your booking quickly and easily.
The Connection Between Starwood and Marriott
In 2016, Starwood Hotels and Resorts merged with Marriott International. This merger created the largest hotel company in the world. As a result, the Starwood website and its loyalty program, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG), were integrated into the Marriott ecosystem.
Today, if you want to book a room at what was formerly a Starwood property, you will do so through the Marriott booking platform. This change has made it easier to access a wider variety of hotels under a single umbrella, though it requires knowing which brands belong to the original Starwood family.
Recognizing the Starwood Brands
To find the specific type of experience you are looking for, it helps to know which brands were part of the Starwood portfolio. Each brand offers a distinct style and level of service. Here are the primary brands you will encounter:
- Westin Hotels & Resorts: Known for a focus on wellness and signature “Heavenly” beds.
- Sheraton: One of the most global brands, focusing on community and reliable service.
- W Hotels: A luxury lifestyle brand known for modern design and a vibrant atmosphere.
- St. Regis: An ultra-luxury brand offering high-end amenities and personalized butler service.
- Le Méridien: A brand with French roots that focuses on culture, art, and European style.
- The Luxury Collection: A group of unique, world-class hotels that offer authentic local experiences.
- Aloft Hotels: Geared toward the tech-savvy traveler with an urban, industrial design.
- Element by Westin: Designed for longer stays with an emphasis on sustainability and wellness.
- Tribute Portfolio: A collection of independent boutique hotels with distinct personalities.
- Design Hotels: A curated selection of privately owned hotels with a focus on architecture and design.
How to Book a Room Online
Booking a room at any of these locations is a straightforward process. Because they are now part of the Marriott family, you have multiple ways to secure your reservation. Follow these steps to book your next stay:
- Visit the official Marriott website: Since the merger, all Starwood properties are listed on the main Marriott site.
- Enter your destination: Use the search bar to type in the city, state, or country you plan to visit.
- Select your dates: Choose your check-in and check-out dates to see live availability.
- Filter by brand: If you specifically want a Starwood brand like Westin or W, use the “Brand” filter on the results page to narrow your search.
- Compare rates and rooms: Look through the available room types, such as king beds or suites, and compare the prices.
- Complete your reservation: Enter your guest details and payment information to confirm the booking.
Using the Mobile App
For travelers on the go, the Marriott Bonvoy mobile app is the most efficient way to manage bookings. The app allows you to search for all former Starwood locations, check in digitally, and even use your phone as a room key at many properties. You can also track your loyalty points and receive real-time notifications about your stay.
Finding Specific Hotel Locations
If you are looking for a specific hotel location, the easiest way to find it is through the global map view on the booking site. This tool allows you to see exactly where a hotel is located in relation to local landmarks, airports, or business districts.
When searching for locations, keep in mind that many cities have multiple properties from the same brand. For example, a large city might have three different Sheratons. Always check the specific address and neighborhood to ensure the hotel is convenient for your travel plans.
The Marriott Bonvoy Loyalty Program
One of the biggest benefits of the merger for frequent travelers is the Marriott Bonvoy program. This program replaced the Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) program. If you were a member of SPG, your account was migrated to Bonvoy.
Members earn points for every dollar spent at any of the brands listed above. These points can be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, and other travel experiences. Additionally, members often receive discounted rates that are not available to the general public, making it worthwhile to sign up before booking.
Tips for Getting the Best Rates
Finding a room is easy, but finding the best price requires a bit of strategy. Here are some tips to help you save money on your next Starwood-brand stay:
- Book directly: Booking through the official website often grants you access to the “Best Rate Guarantee.” If you find a lower rate elsewhere, the hotel may match it and give you an additional discount.
- Join the loyalty program: As mentioned, member-only rates are almost always lower than standard rates.
- Check for packages: Look for deals that include breakfast, parking, or resort credits, which can provide better overall value.
- Be flexible with dates: Using the “flexible dates” calendar tool can show you which days are significantly cheaper than others.
- Book in advance: While last-minute deals exist, booking at least 14 to 21 days in advance usually secures a more stable and lower price.
What to Expect During Your Stay
Regardless of which former Starwood brand you choose, you can expect a certain standard of quality. These brands have maintained their unique identities even after the merger. For example, a stay at a Westin will still focus heavily on the “Westin Wellness” philosophy, while a W Hotel will continue to offer a high-energy, stylish environment.
Staff at these properties are trained to provide professional service and can assist with local recommendations, transportation, and special requests. If you have specific needs, such as an accessible room or extra pillows, it is best to note these during the digital booking process or call the hotel directly after your reservation is confirmed.
Conclusion
Finding and booking a Starwood hotel is a simple process once you understand that they are now part of the Marriott portfolio. By searching for brands like Sheraton, Westin, and W Hotels on the Marriott platform, you can access thousands of locations worldwide. Remember to use the loyalty program to maximize your benefits and always look for direct booking discounts to ensure you get the best value for your trip.
If you found this guide helpful, you may also want to explore our other articles on travel planning, loyalty program hacks, and finding the best luxury accommodations for your next vacation.