Last Updated on July 28, 2026 by Daniel Globe
Yes—Aloft is part of Marriott International, so you’re booking into a major global hotel chain with a fresh, urban twist. Since its 2008 debut, Aloft has focused on stylish, tech-friendly stays, offering complimentary Wi-Fi, Plug and Play connectivity, lively lobby spaces, and modern rooms. You’ll find Aloft in vibrant cities worldwide, often near business hubs, tech corridors, or international airports. Its unique mix of design, social energy, and convenience makes it stand out among mid-tier hotel brands.
Quick Answer
Yes, Aloft is fully owned by Marriott International, which acquired the brand through its 2016 purchase of Starwood Hotels & Resorts. Launched in 2008, Aloft now features more than 300 properties across dozens of countries, positioned as a stylish, tech-forward, select-service lifestyle brand within Marriott’s global portfolio.
Key Takeaways
- Aloft opened its first hotel at Montreal Trudeau International Airport in 2008 and joined Marriott’s portfolio when Marriott acquired Starwood in 2016.
- The brand has grown to over 300 properties open across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
- Aloft targets tech-savvy, modern travelers with Plug and Play connectivity, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 grab-and-go food options, and vibrant social lobby spaces.
- Guests earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for every eligible stay at Aloft properties.
- Aloft operates as a select-service brand, offering streamlined amenities and social bar concepts rather than traditional full-service room service.
Is Aloft Part of Marriott?
Yes—Aloft is part of Marriott. Its history traces back to 2008, when the first hotel opened at Montreal’s Trudeau International Airport with a fresh, urban energy aimed at modern travelers.
Marriott brought the brand into its fold after acquiring Starwood Hotels & Resorts in 2016. That acquisition helped propel Aloft’s global footprint while retaining its signature design-led aesthetic.
Today, there are more than 300 Aloft properties operating worldwide, each designed for travelers who appreciate tech-savvy comfort, open shared spaces, and a stay that feels distinct from traditional mid-range hotels.
Sustainability is also part of the picture: while Aloft doesn’t carry blanket LEED certification across the brand, individual properties have earned Green Key certification for environmental practices like water conservation and waste reduction, and the brand participates in Marriott’s broader Serve 360 sustainability program.
How Aloft Fits Into Marriott International
Within Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 brands, Aloft fills the niche for travelers seeking modern style, tech integration, and social connectivity without a high luxury price tag. Classified under Marriott’s “Select Service / Distinctive” category, Aloft blends bold design with a energetic, urban feel.
With a growing global footprint, Marriott backing gives Aloft guests regional reach, brand recognition, and operational consistency wherever they travel.
With over 300 properties worldwide, Marriott delivers global reach and rewards consistency for Aloft guests wherever they travel.
Aloft stands out because it’s built around connection and accessible design rather than formal luxury, appealing directly to digital nomads, solo business travelers, and leisure guests who want an engaging atmosphere.
- A lifestyle brand built for independent, modern travel
- Backed by the reliability and safety standards of Marriott International
- Social lobby spaces designed to encourage work and relaxation
- Streamlined amenities that reflect current travel habits
How Marriott Bonvoy Works at Aloft
Every Aloft hotel participates fully in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. Points earned or redeemed at Aloft function just as they do across Marriott’s broader ecosystem, unlocking free nights, room upgrades, and digital keys through the Bonvoy app. Because Aloft sits in Marriott’s mid-tier category, it often serves as an accessible option for earning or redeeming points on a budget.
Pro Tip: Booking directly through Marriott or the official Bonvoy app is required to earn elite night credits and points, while also giving you access to exclusive member rates and flexible cancellation policies.
What Amenities Do Aloft Hotels Offer?
Aloft Hotels keep stays practical, connected, and social with tailored guest amenities. Rooms feature signature Plug and Play connectivity hubs, making it seamless to connect laptops, gaming devices, or media players directly to the room’s TV display screen.
Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel. In-room, a laptop-sized safe protects personal electronics, while modern walk-in showers with spa-quality bath products add a refined touch.
Key brand amenities include:
- W XYZ Bar: The central social hub offering signature cocktails, craft beer, light bites, and live acoustic music sessions through the Live at Aloft Hotels program.
- Re:fuel by Aloft: A 24/7 self-service gourmet grab-and-go pantry stocked with snacks, barista-style coffee, breakfast pots, and fresh light meals.
- Re:charge Gym & Splash Pool: 24-hour fitness centers equipped with cardio gear and weights, alongside indoor or outdoor saline pools at select locations.
- ARF (Animals R Fun) Program: A pet-friendly policy welcoming dogs with complimentary beds, food bowls, and treats at check-in (weight limits and property-specific fees apply).
Where Are Aloft Hotels Located Worldwide?
You’ll find Aloft properties operating across key urban centers, tech corridors, and major airport hubs worldwide across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East.
Key locations highlighting the brand’s international presence include:
- Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral: The brand’s largest property globally, featuring 482 room options directly connected to Malaysia’s main transit hub.
- Aloft Abu Dhabi: Anchors the brand’s Middle Eastern presence adjacent to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
- Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11: Positioned squarely in the center of Bangkok’s popular nightlife and dining district.
- Airport Properties: Dozens of North American locations situated near international hubs like Montreal, Miami, and Chicago for convenient transit stays.
How Do Travelers Review Aloft Hotels?
Traveler reviews for Aloft are generally positive, though experiences vary based on expectation and location type. Reviewers regularly praise the sleek aesthetic, bright guest rooms, and energetic social lounge atmosphere.
Guests frequently cite tech features—like reliable Wi-Fi, easy device casting, and mobile key check-in—as major highlights for business trips and weekend getaways.
High-speed Wi-Fi, Plug and Play media stations, and mobile check-in keep independent travelers productive on their own terms.
Conversely, some travelers note that guest room layouts can feel modular or compact compared to traditional hotel rooms. Value ratings also vary depending on local demand and city-center pricing.
How Does Aloft Compare to Similar Brands?
Compared to competing brands like IHG’s Hotel Indigo, Accor’s Mercure, or Hyatt Centric, Aloft focuses heavily on a high-energy lifestyle vibe with tech-centric design. It maintains competitive mid-tier pricing while offering open-concept communal spaces.
Brand Positioning
Aloft sits comfortably between design-led boutique styles and affordable practicality, serving guests who want a distinct atmosphere without paying full luxury prices. Its core demographic includes millennial, Gen Z, and business travelers who favor fast technology, self-service dining options, and casual lounge areas.
Key Brand Differences
Compared to direct competitors within and outside Marriott’s ecosystem:
- Aloft vs. Courtyard by Marriott: Aloft is design-forward, colorful, and social; Courtyard leans toward classic, functional, and corporate business travel with larger desks and traditional dining.
- Aloft vs. Hotel Indigo: Hotel Indigo features hyper-local boutique designs unique to each neighborhood; Aloft uses a more consistent, modern brand layout.
- Aloft vs. Hyatt Place: Hyatt Place typically offers larger rooms with sofa-sleepers and included hot breakfast, whereas Aloft focuses on smaller, tech-oriented rooms and social bar spaces.
Note: Because most Aloft hotels operate as franchises owned by independent investors under Marriott agreements, minor variations in pet fees, parking rates, and local breakfast items exist by location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s Special About Aloft Hotels?
Aloft Hotels stand out with vibrant modern architecture, tech integration like Plug and Play connectivity, 24/7 grab-and-go pantries, and signature W XYZ bars hosting live acoustic performances through the Live at Aloft program.
Is Aloft a Full-Service Hotel?
No. Aloft is classified as a select-service hotel brand. While properties offer lounge bars, grab-and-go dining, and fitness centers, they do not feature traditional full-service room dining or extensive bell staff service.
Do I Get Marriott Points at Aloft?
Yes. Every Aloft property participates in Marriott Bonvoy. Eligible stays earn points toward free night awards, room upgrades, and elite status qualification.
Is Aloft Nicer Than Courtyard?
It depends on traveler preference. Aloft offers an energetic, modern, lifestyle-focused vibe with tech touches, whereas Courtyard prioritizes traditional spaciousness, quiet work areas, and conventional business amenities.
Conclusion
Aloft is an integral component of Marriott International’s global hospitality brand umbrella. Booking a room at Aloft delivers modern design, active social spaces, and global reliability, backed fully by the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty ecosystem across every destination.
Sources
- Aloft Hotels — Wikipedia — Brand origins, Starwood history, and brand development overview
- Marriott Bonvoy — Loyalty program features, redemption mechanics, and direct booking benefits
- Green Key Global — Sustainability standards and hotel eco-certification information
- Marriott Serve 360 — Corporate sustainability and social impact strategy details
- Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral — Marriott — Property specifications for the brand’s largest location