Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy review

Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy is the pick for travelers who already collect Marriott points. Its FAQ says members earn a base 5 points per eligible dollar, with elite bonuses from 10% for Silver to 50% for Platinum, and you can pay with credit cards, Marriott Bonvoy points or a mix of cash and points. Every home is run by a property management company that Marriott selects for expertise, local compliance and service, and those companies verify that each home meets Marriott Bonvoy standards in quality, safety, design and service. The range runs from beachfront bungalows and cabins to chateaus and castles. There are rules to know: you must book at least two days ahead, or three when using points; Free Night Certificates and gift cards are not accepted; and reservations live on their own site rather than in your Marriott.com account. We could not confirm a US dollar price quote, so value is scored conservatively.

Who it is for

Marriott Bonvoy members who want to earn or spend points

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Earn a base 5 Marriott Bonvoy points per eligible dollar
• Pay with credit cards or Marriott Bonvoy points
• Cash and Points payment option
• Homes managed by property management companies vetted to Marriott Bonvoy standards
• Homes from beachfront bungalows to chateaus and castles

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Earns and spends Marriott Bonvoy points on home stays
• Strength: Elite members get point bonuses, up to 50% for Platinum Elite
• Strength: Every home is serviced by a vetted property management company
• Weakness: Book at least 2 days ahead, or 3 days when paying with points
• Weakness: Free Night Certificates and gift cards are not accepted
• Weakness: Reservations do not appear in your Marriott.com account

Key facts

• Points earned: Base 5 per eligible dollar
• Payment: Credit cards or Bonvoy points
• Booking lead time: 2 days, or 3 with points
• Homes managed by: Vetted property management companies
• Free Night Certificates: Not accepted

Where it ranks

Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy is No. 8 in our Best Airbnb Alternatives verdict.