In a city where history lingers in the air like the scent of blooming magnolias, Savannah has long offered travelers a taste of the past. From grand mansions-turned-bed-and-breakfasts to quaint carriage houses available for short-term stays, the accommodation options feel as timeless as the city itself. But a new player has entered the scene, and it’s not just another boutique inn or high-end hotel. The Ann Savannah, a newly launched Marriott Bonvoy property, is stepping up as a serious contender to Airbnb’s stronghold on the travel market.
A Fresh Take on Extended Stays
Located in a former Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) dormitory, The Ann Savannah isn’t a traditional hotel. It’s a hybrid, blending the comforts of home with the convenience of a full-service property. Each of its 157 apartment-style suites comes equipped with a kitchen, washer, and dryer—amenities that have made Airbnb a preferred choice for travelers looking for longer stays.
“With The Ann, you get the flexibility of living at home with the amenities of staying at a hotel,” said Christopher Steele, the property’s general manager. That mix is what Marriott is banking on to lure travelers who have grown accustomed to short-term rentals but still crave the predictability of a global hotel brand.
Why The Ann Savannah Stands Out
For years, Airbnb has reshaped the hospitality industry by offering unique, home-like experiences. But it hasn’t been without controversy. Complaints about hidden fees, unreliable hosts, and unpredictable quality have pushed some travelers to reconsider their choices. This is where The Ann steps in, promising the best of both worlds.
- Hotel-Quality Standards – Unlike Airbnb, where quality varies by host, The Ann guarantees a consistent experience with professionally cleaned spaces, 24/7 front desk service, and high-end amenities.
- No Hidden Fees – Travelers weary of surprise service charges and cleaning fees will find solace in The Ann’s transparent pricing.
- Loyalty Perks – As a Marriott Bonvoy property, guests can earn and redeem points, a significant incentive for frequent travelers who might otherwise opt for an Airbnb.
Marriott’s Bigger Plan
The Ann Savannah isn’t just an experiment—it’s a blueprint. Marriott launched its Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy brand with an initial property in Puerto Rico, and now the expansion is in full swing. New locations are already in the pipeline, including Orlando, Nashville, Detroit, Daytona Beach, and Dallas.
Marriott’s move signals a broader industry trend. Traditional hotel chains are increasingly recognizing the demand for longer stays with home-like comforts, a segment Airbnb has dominated. By offering a more structured alternative without the risks of private home rentals, Marriott is aiming to reclaim ground lost to the short-term rental giant.
What This Means for Savannah’s Hospitality Market
Savannah has seen an explosion of short-term rentals in recent years, prompting concerns from locals about housing availability and neighborhood character. The Ann offers a potential middle ground—providing visitors with extended-stay options while operating under a regulated hotel framework.
Tourism is the lifeblood of Savannah, and as new accommodations enter the market, competition among hotels, boutique inns, and short-term rentals will only intensify. Whether The Ann succeeds in challenging Airbnb’s dominance remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the hotel industry is evolving, and Savannah is at the forefront of that change.
