Is Aloft a Marriott Hotel? Everything You Need to Know
If you’ve ever come across Aloft Hotels during your travel planning or noticed one while on a trip, you might be wondering, “Is Aloft a Marriott hotel?” This question is common among travelers who are curious about hotel brands, their ownership, and what benefits they might enjoy by staying at certain properties. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the relationship between Aloft and Marriott, the unique qualities of Aloft Hotels, and what guests can expect when booking a stay.
What Is Aloft Hotels?
Aloft Hotels is a modern, vibrant hotel brand known for its contemporary design, energetic atmosphere, and technology-forward amenities. Launched in 2008 by Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Aloft quickly gained popularity for its stylish yet affordable approach to hospitality, targeting younger travelers and those looking for a seamless, urban experience.
Aloft Hotels often feature loft-inspired rooms, open lobbies with communal spaces, and a lively social environment including live music events and trendy bars. With a focus on connectivity, many Aloft locations offer high-speed Wi-Fi and tech-savvy services, catering especially to millennial and business travelers.
Is Aloft a Marriott Hotel? The Ownership Story
The simple answer to the question is: Yes. Aloft is indeed a Marriott hotel brand, but this affiliation is relatively recent in the brand’s history. Here’s how that came to be:
In 2016, Marriott International completed its acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. This massive deal brought together two of the largest global hotel companies under one umbrella, creating the world’s biggest hotel group in terms of rooms and brands.
As a result of this acquisition, all Starwood brands—including Aloft, Sheraton, Westin, W Hotels, and others—became a part of the Marriott portfolio. Since then, Aloft Hotels have operated as a Marriott brand, benefiting from Marriott’s extensive global reach, loyalty program, and operational resources.
What Makes Aloft Different From Other Marriott Brands?
Marriott International is known for having a wide range of brands that cater to different types of travelers and experiences—ranging from the luxurious Ritz-Carlton to the budget-friendly Fairfield Inn. Within this landscape, Aloft holds a unique position.
The Aloft brand is designed to appeal to travelers who seek a hip, urban vibe without the premium cost of luxury hotels. It’s more casual and youthful compared to some of Marriott’s more traditional brands. Key features include:
- Modern Design: Sleek, loft-inspired interiors that emphasize open space.
- Tech-Centric Amenities: Mobile check-in, keyless room entry, and fast, reliable Wi-Fi.
- Social Spaces: Communal lounges and bars encouraging social interaction.
- Affordability: Positioned as an upper-midscale brand offering style and convenience at a reasonable price.
This distinct positioning allows Aloft to attract a specific demographic, complementing Marriott’s wider portfolio.
Benefits of Staying at an Aloft, a Marriott Hotel Brand
Since Aloft Hotels are part of Marriott International, there are several perks and benefits tied to their Marriott affiliation:
1. Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program
Guests staying at Aloft hotels can earn and redeem points through Marriott’s loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy. This program covers over 30 brands worldwide, making it convenient for frequent travelers who want to accumulate points for free stays, upgrades, or experiences.
2. Consistent Quality Standards
Being under the Marriott umbrella means Aloft adheres to consistent quality and service standards, ensuring a reliable guest experience no matter the location.
3. Extensive Global Network
Marriott’s vast global presence means Aloft hotels are often found in major cities and travel hubs, providing travelers with convenient choices in prime locations.
4. Access to Marriott’s Customer Service and Support
Guests benefit from Marriott’s robust customer service, including flexible cancellation policies, 24/7 support, and integration with Marriott’s mobile app for easy booking and management.
Common Misconceptions About Aloft and Marriott
One misconception is that because Aloft feels very different from the typical Marriott experience—more trendy, young, and casual—it’s not connected to Marriott. However, the brand’s distinct personality is intentional and designed to fill a niche within Marriott’s diverse brand family.
Another point worth noting is that while Aloft originally belonged to Starwood, the Marriott acquisition means guests can now collect points across both former portfolios seamlessly.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the relationship between Aloft and Marriott helps clarify what to expect from your stay. Aloft is indeed a Marriott hotel brand, combining the creative, youthful spirit introduced by Starwood with the vast resources and loyalty perks of Marriott International. Whether you’re a tech-savvy business traveler looking for convenience, a leisure guest wanting a vibrant social scene, or a points enthusiast looking to maximize your rewards, Aloft offers a compelling choice in Marriott’s extensive portfolio.
Next time you book a room at an Aloft hotel, you can rest assured that you’re experiencing the best of both worlds: innovative design and technology paired with Marriott’s trusted service and global reach.