A Bottom-Dweller Among Marriotts
I have stayed at this property approximately 10 times over the past year (2004-5). I am also a Marriott Platinum member and stay at their hotels throughout the U.S. So some of what I observe here is as a frequent traveler.
The best thing about this Marriott is the location. Just off the D.C. beltway, there is a lot of convenience here if you are doing business in the Washington area or with NASA/Goddard, and Baltimore is an easy drive from this locale.
The worst thing about this property is the service. Expect reservations to get messed up, even if they get booked online, and don't expect the person who answers the phone to confirm your reservation to know what they are doing. Also, the front desk staff seems competent enough to handle only routine issues, but sure enough they gave my room away at about 12 Noon when I am a Platinum (guaranteed room) and had it guaranteed to my American Express (no reason was given -- I was just told "sorry"). Service in the lounge, restaurant, and room service is not much better.
Lastly, this is a very worn property. The smoke detector in my room hung by its wires. The mattresses sag in the middle and leave you with back/neck problems in the morning. Expect problems with elevators, air conditioning, etc. If you ask for a refrigerator for your room -- AND YOU GET ONE -- don't expect it to look either clean or in good condition.
Because of the poor service, poor condition of the property, and relatively high beltway room rates (which the manager will not discount -- I've only been offered Marriott rewards points for my "issues"), I cannot recommend this property to anyone. While the property is allegedly getting a "facelift" in December 2005, it needs more than that -- it needs a whole new staff, management and fee structure to go with it. If you want to stay at a Marriott property in this area, I recommend the one at Univ of Maryland.
Hope this helps. Safe travels!