We are going to Vancouver (for the first time) in May. I want to "cash in" some Marriott points. I've searched both the Marriott Pinnacle and the Renaissance and they seem to come out about even.
Can someone tilt me one way or the other that's been there recently?
Also, how far are they from the good restaurants and nightlife?
Thanks!

The Pinnacle without a doubt. I stayed there in 2003 when it was the Delta Pinnacle. I thought at the time that it was way too nice to be a Delta, and sure enough, it was rebranded shortly after. Huge rooms, outside walls are all window, great views.

I presume the Renaissance is the dumpy, old former Ramada hotel across the street with the 3rd rate casino?

They both are as central as you need in the very compact downtown Vancouver.

Actually that part of town is the city's financial district so it's fairly inactive after business hours. However Ron is right that you're still only 5 or 6 blocks from the heavy evening action areas of Gastown and Robson Street.

One thing that may be of consideration is that the huge new convention centre has just began construction about a block away and for the first few months the area is going to be extremely noisy as piles are being driven into the harbour. That means constant pounding noise from about 8AM every day. Hopefully the hotel has strong double glazed windows to keep out most of that noise.

There you are, Gary. I thought we'd lost you.

No, I've just been away a lot. Thanks for noticing though.

GaryA,
Having good travels I hope. (Sorry, Stevey, back to you.)