Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Composition of Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Composition of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-Lived Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Carrying Amount of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of Fiscal Years Schedule of Fiscal Years [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fiscal Years [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Consolidation Items Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items Consolidation Items [Domain] Total segment Operating Segments [Member] Other unallocated corporate Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Business Segments Segments [Axis] Segment Segments [Domain] North American Full-Service Segment North American Full Service Segment [Member] North American Full Service Segment North American Limited-Service Segment North American Limited Service Segment [Member] North American Limited Service Segment International International Segment [Member] International Segment Statement, Geographical Geographical [Axis] Geographical Geographical [Domain] International Operations International Operations [Member] International Operations Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Revenues Revenues Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments [Table] Schedule of Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments [Table] Award Type Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Deferred Stock Units Deferred Stock Units [Member] Deferred Stock Units Title of Individual Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Director Director [Member] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments [Line Items] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments [Line Items] Share-based compensation expense (in millions) Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Non-employee director deferred stock units granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Weighted average grant-date fair value (per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Aggregate intrinsic value of shares distributed (in millions) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Series G Notes, interest rate of 5.8%, face amount of $316, maturing November 10, 2015 (effective interest rate of 6.6%) Series G Senior Notes [Member] Series G, Senior Notes, 5.810 Percent, Due November 10th 2015 Series H Notes, interest rate of 6.2%, face amount of $289, maturing June 15, 2016 (effective interest rate of 6.3%) Series H Senior Notes [Member] Series H, Senior Notes, 6.200 Percent, Due June 15th 2016 Series I Notes, interest rate of 6.4%, face amount of $293, maturing June 15, 2017 (effective interest rate of 6.5%) Series I Senior Notes [Member] Series I, Senior Notes, 6.375 Percent, Due June 15th 2017 Series K Notes, interest rate of 3.0%, face amount of $600, maturing March 1, 2019 (effective interest rate of 4.4%) Series K Senior Notes [Member] Series K, Senior Notes, 3.000 Percent, Due March 1, 2019 Series L Notes, interest rate of 3.3%, face amount of $350, maturing September 15, 2022 (effective interest rate of 3.4%) Series L Senior Notes [Member] Series L, Senior Notes, 3.250 Percent, Due September 15, 2022 Series M Notes, interest rate of 3.4%, face amount of $350, maturing October 15, 2020 (effective interest rate of 3.6%) Series M Senior Notes [Member] Series M, Senior Notes, 3.375 Percent, Due October 15, 2020 Series N Notes, interest rate of 3.1%, face amount of $400, maturing October 15, 2021 (effective interest rate of 3.4%) Series N Senior Notes [Member] Series N Senior Notes [Member] Series O Notes, interest rate of 2.9%, face amount of $450, maturing March 1, 2021 (effective interest rate of 3.1%) Series O Senior Notes [Member] Series O Senior Notes [Member] Series P Notes, interest rate of 3.8%, face amount of $350, maturing October 1, 2025 (effective interest rate of 4.0%) Series P Senior Notes [Member] Series P Senior Notes [Member] Long-term Debt, Type Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Commercial Paper Commercial Paper [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Senior Notes Senior Notes Commercial paper, average interest rate of 0.6% at December 31, 2015 Long-term Commercial Paper, Noncurrent $2,000 Credit Facility Long-term Line of Credit Other Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Other Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Other Long-term debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Less current portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term debt, noncurrent Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt instrument, stated interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Senior Notes, face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Senior notes, effective interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Senior notes, weighted average interest rate Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Multicurrency revolving credit agreement, aggregate effective borrowings Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Leases [Abstract] Future Obligations Under Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Composition of Rent Expense Associated with Operating Leases Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block] Receivables [Abstract] Senior, mezzanine, and other loans Financing Receivable, Net Less current portion Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Notes receivable, noncurrent Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Employee stock option and appreciation right plans Stock Option Program And Stock Appreciation Right Program [Member] Stock Option Program and Stock Appreciation Right Program Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Securities not included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Land Land [Member] Buildings and leasehold improvements Building and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Building and Leasehold Improvements [Member] Furniture and equipment Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] U.S. Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Non-U.S. Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Earnings before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest U.S. statutory tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent U.S. state income taxes, net of U.S. federal tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Nondeductible expenses Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Percent Non-U.S. income Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Change in valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Percent Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Relationship with Major Customer Disclosure [Abstract] Relationship with Major Customer Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers, by Reporting Segments [Table] Major Customers Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Host Hotels & Resorts Inc Host Hotels & Resorts Inc [Member] Host Hotels & Resorts Inc Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Host Partnerships Host Partnerships [Member] Host Partnerships [Member] Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Number of lodging properties operated under long-term agreements of affiliated unconsolidated partnerships Number of Customer Owned or Leased Lodging Properties Managed Number of Customer Owned or Leased Lodging Properties Managed Revenues Number of business segments Number of Reportable Segments Reconciliation of the Earnings (Losses) and Number of Shares Used in Calculations of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Self-Insurance Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses Disclosure [Abstract] Self-Insurance Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses Disclosure[Abstract] Self-Insurance Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses Self-Insurance Reserve For Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense [Text Block] Self-Insurance Reserve For Loss and Loss Adjustment Expense Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts and notes receivable, net Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Other Other Assets, Current Assets held for sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current Assets, current, total Assets, Current Property and equipment, net Intangible assets Contract acquisition costs and other Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Goodwill Goodwill Goodwill and intangible assets, net, total Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Equity and cost method investments Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Notes receivable, net Deferred taxes, net Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Other noncurrent assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ DEFICIT Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of long-term debt Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Trade, Current Accrued payroll and benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Liability for guest loyalty programs Customer Loyalty Program Liability, Current Accrued expenses and other Other Liabilities, Current Liabilities, current, total Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Liability for guest loyalty programs Customer Loyalty Program Liability, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Shareholders’ deficit Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Class A Common Stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in-capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Stockholders' deficit Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Liabilities and deficit, total Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Legal Entity Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Consolidated Subsidiaries Non Recourse to Parent Consolidated Subsidiaries Non Recourse to Parent [Member] Consolidated Subsidiaries Non-recourse to Parent [Member] Lease Obligations By Obligation Group Lease Obligations By Obligation Group [Axis] Lease Obligations By Obligation Group [Axis] Lease Obligations, Obligation Group [Domain] Lease Obligations, Obligation Group [Domain] Primary Obligations Operating Leases Primary Obligations Operating Leases [Member] Primary Obligations Operating Leases Range Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Lower Limit Minimum [Member] Upper Limit Maximum [Member] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Leases, initial terms Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Term of Contract Number of lease renewal options Number of Renewal Options Number Of Renewal Options Renewal option period Lessee Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases, Renewal Term Obligations of consolidated subsidiaries Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Stock Appreciation Rights Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Number of SARs (in millions) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Outstanding beginning balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted Exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Exercises in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Outstanding ending balance Weighted Average Exercise Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding beginning balance (per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited (per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding ending balance (per unit) Employee benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Benefits Net operating loss carry-forwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax credits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards Reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Reserves Frequent guest program Deferred Tax Assets, Customer Loyalty Program Liability Deferred Tax Assets, Customer Loyalty Program Liability Self-insurance Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Self Insurance Deferred income Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Joint venture interests Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investment in Noncontrolled Affiliates Other, net Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Other Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Other Deferred taxes Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Gross Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Gross Less: valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Net deferred taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income Statement [Abstract] Sales Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Net income Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis] New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] Balance Sheet Location Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Noncurrent Assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt [Member] Deferred Bonus and Profit Sharing Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis] Deferred Bonus and Profit Sharing Arrangement, Individual Contract, Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain] Deferred Profit Sharing Deferred Profit Sharing [Member] Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Licensing fees from MVW after spin-off Licenses Revenue Liability for guest loyalty program Customer Loyalty Program Liability The company's future redemption obligation for its frequent guest loyalty program. Reduction in estimate of breakage Customer Loyalty Program Liability, Reduction in Estimate of Breakage, Percentage Customer Loyalty Program Liability, Reduction in Estimate of Breakage, Percentage Increase in liability for guest loyalty program, contingent upon reduction in the estimate of breakage Customer Loyalty Program Liability, Effect of Change In Estimate Of Breakage, Amount Customer Loyalty Program Liability, Effect of Change In Estimate Of Breakage, Amount Compensation costs from profit sharing Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Compensation Expense Gains (losses) from foreign currency transactions Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Accounts receivable reserve Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Goodwill impairment charge Goodwill, Impairment Loss Discount rate Self Insurance Projected Settlement Discount Rate Self Insurance Projected Settlement Discount Rate Self-insurance reserves Liability for Unpaid Insurance Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Gross Liability for Unpaid Insurance Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Gross Long-term debt Deferred Finance Costs, Net Deferred tax assets, net, current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred tax liabilities, net, current Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Number of operating segments Number of Operating Segments Relationship With Major Customer Relationship With Major Customer [Text Block] This element may be used to capture the complete disclosure about the extent of the entity's reliance on its major customers. If revenues from transactions with a single external customer amount to 10 percent or more of entity revenues, the entity must disclose that fact, the total amount of revenues from each such customer, and the identity of the reportable segment or segments reporting the revenues. The entity need not disclose the identity of a major customer or the amount of revenues that each segment reports from that customer. For these purposes, a group of companies known to the entity to be under common control is considered a single customer, and the federal government, a state government, a local government such as a county or municipality, or a foreign government is each considered a single customer. Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Pricing Investigation by Korea Fair Trade Commission Pricing Investigation by Korea Fair Trade Commission [Member] Pricing Investigation by Korea Fair Trade Commission [Member] Challenge to Starwood Combination Challenge to Starwood Combination [Member] Challenge to Starwood Combination [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Number of hotels included in pricing investigation, managed by company Loss Contingency, Number of Company-managed Hotels Included in Pricing Investigation Loss Contingency, Number of Company-managed Hotels Included in Pricing Investigation Lawsuits filed Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Statement, Geographical Asia Asia [Member] Europe Europe [Member] Caribbean and Latin America Caribbean and Latin America [Member] Caribbean and Latin America [Member] Canada CANADA Middle East And Africa Middle East And Africa [Member] Middle East And Africa Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] Segment financial results Income Loss before Interest Income, Interest Expense and Income Taxes Income Loss before Interest Income, Interest Expense and Income Taxes Interest expense and interest income Interest Revenue (Expense), Net Income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Income before Income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Equity Components Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in- Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock, at Cost Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Class of Stock Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Class A Common Stock Common Class A [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Beginning balance, shares Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Dividends Dividends, Cash Employee stock plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock And Cash Incentive Plan Aggregate value of stock issued during the period as a result of employee stock and cash incentive plan. Employee stock plan issuance, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock And Cash Incentive Plan Number of shares issued during the period as a result employee stock and cash incentive plans. Purchase of treasury stock Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Purchase of treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Ending balance Ending balance, shares Common stock, authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, par value (in USD per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Composition of our Notes Receivable Balances (Net of Reserves and Unamortized Discounts) Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Notes Receivable Principal Payments (Net of Reserves and Unamortized Discounts) and Interest Rates Schedule of Financing Receivables, Minimum Payments [Table Text Block] Notes Receivable Reserves Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document - Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Relationship to Entity [Domain] Employee Employee [Member] Employee Award Type [Domain] RSUs Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), Excluding Service and Performance RSUs [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), Excluding Service and Performance RSUs [Member] PSUs Service and Performance RSUs [Member] Service and Performance RSUs [Member] SARs RSUs Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Performance RSUs Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Stock Option Program and SAR Program Service and performance RSUs granted Share-based compensation expense Deferred compensation costs related to unvested awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Deferred compensation costs related to unvested awards, weighted average period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Tax benefit (costs) from share-based compensation in financing activities Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Proceeds from exercise of stock options granted under share-based payment arrangements Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Weighted average remaining term for grants outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Expiration period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Period until exercisable Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment, Period Until Exercisable Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment, Period Until Exercisable Intrinsic value of stock appreciation rights outstanding Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Intrinsic value of stock appreciation rights exercisable Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Intrinsic value of stock appreciation rights exercised Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Outstanding units at year-end Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of deferred stock units outstanding as of year end Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares reserved under the stock plan Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Table] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Table] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Table] Right or Obligation to Invest [Axis] Right or Obligation to Invest [Axis] Right or Obligation to Invest [Axis] Right or Obligation to Invest [Domain] Right or Obligation to Invest [Domain] Right or Obligation to Invest [Domain] Equity Investment For Noncontrolling Interest In Partnership Commitment Equity Investment For Noncontrolling Interest In Partnership Commitment [Member] Equity Investment For Noncontrolling Interest In Partnership Commitment [Member] Real Estate Investment Real Estate Investment [Member] Investment in Other Joint Venture Commitment Investment In Other Joint Venture Commitment [Member] Investment in Other Joint Venture Commitment Information Technology Hardware, Software, Accounting, Finance, and Maintenance Services Information Technology Hardware, Software, Accounting, Finance, and Maintenance Services [Member] Information Technology Hardware, Software, Accounting, Finance, and Maintenance Services [Member] Commitments Commitments [Member] North American Full-Service Property North American Full-Service Property [Member] North American Full-Service Property [Member] Products and Services Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Full Service and Limited Service Full Service and Limited Service [Member] Full Service and Limited Service [Member] Limited Service Limited Service [Member] Limited Service Range [Domain] Other Ownership Interests Name [Axis] Other Ownership Interests Name [Axis] Other Ownership Interests, Name [Domain] Other Ownership Interests, Name [Domain] Group 4 Group 4 [Member] Group 4 Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items] Investment commitments Investment Commitments Commitments to invest Investment commitments expected to be funded in 2016 Investment Commitments Expected to be Funded, Next Twelve Months Investment Commitments Expected to be Funded, Next Twelve Months Investment commitments, funding not expected Investment Commitments, Funding Not Expected Investment Commitments, Funding Not Expected Acquisition interests in joint ventures Remaining Joint Venture Interest To Be Acquired The remaining joint venture interest that we have a right and under certain circumstances an obligation to acquire. Contingent acquisition period Ownership Interest Purchase Contingency Term Ownership Interest Purchase Contingency Term Amount of deposit used for contingent joint venture interest acquisition Amount of Deposit Used for Contingent Joint Venture Interest Acquisition Amount of Deposit Used for Contingent Joint Venture Interest Acquisition Deposits in conjunction with contingent obligation to acquire the interest in joint ventures Deposit For Contingent Joint Venture Interest Acquisition Deposits made in conjunction with a contingent obligation to acquire our joint venture partner's remaining interest. These deposits are refundable to the extent we do not acquire our joint venture partner's remaining interests. Construction commitment Construction Commitment, Amount Construction Commitment, Amount Construction commitment funded in 2015 Construction Commitment Expected to Be Funded in Current Year Construction Commitment Expected to Be Funded in Current Year Construction commitment expected to be funded in 2016 Construction Commitment Expected to Be Funded in Next Twelve Months Construction Commitment Expected to Be Funded in Next Twelve Months Construction commitment expected to be funded in 2017 Construction Commitment Expected to Be Funded in Next Two Years Construction Commitment Expected to Be Funded in Next Two Years Loan Commitment, Amount Used for Renovation Shortfalls Loan Commitment, Amount Used for Renovation Shortfalls Loan Commitment, Amount Used for Renovation Shortfalls Purchase obligation Purchase Obligation Purchase obligation, expected to fund commitments in 2016 Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months Purchase obligation, expected to fund commitments in 2017 Purchase Obligation, Due in Second Year Purchase obligation, expected to fund commitments in 2018 Purchase Obligation, Due in Third Year Purchase obligation, thereafter Purchase Obligation, Due after Fifth Year Letters of credit outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Surety bonds issued Surety Bonds Amount of surety bonds issued as of the balance sheet date. Business Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Gains and Other Income, Net Gains and Other Income, Net [Member] Gains and Other Income, Net [Member] Mandatorily Redeemable Preferred Equity Ownership Interest Mandatorily Redeemable Preferred Equity Ownership Interest [Member] Mandatorily Redeemable Preferred Equity Ownership Interest [Member] Debt Security Debt Security [Axis] Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] Debt Securities Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Short-term Debt, Type Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Carrying value of our marketable securities Marketable Securities Number of hotels Held-to-maturity Securities, Number of Hotels Accounted for within Transaction Held-to-maturity Securities, Number of Hotels Accounted for within Transaction Proceeds from redemption of ownership Proceeds from Maturities, Prepayments and Calls of Held-to-maturity Securities Realized gain (loss) of held-to-maturity securities Held-to-maturity Securities, Sold Security, Realized Gain (Loss) Amortized cost basis Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Single Maturity Date, Amortized Cost Basis Commercial paper, maturity term (generally 30 days or less) Debt Instrument, Term Equity [Abstract] ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Activity Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Financial Data Resulting from Transactions with Related Parties, Income Statement Data Income Statement Data Resulting from Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Income Statement Data Resulting from Related Party Transactions Financial Data Resulting from Transactions with Related Parties, Balance Sheet Data Balance Sheet Data Resulting from Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Balance Sheet Data Resulting from Related Party Transactions Summarized Information for the Entities Equity Method Investments, Income Statement Equity Method Investees, Income Statement Data [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investees, Income Statement Data Summarized Information for the Entities Equity Method Investments, Balance Sheet Equity Method Investees, Balance Sheet Data [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investees, Balance Sheet Data Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Minimum rentals Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals Additional rentals Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Contingent Rentals Operating leases, rent expense, total Operating Leases, Rent Expense Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Reimbursed Costs Reimbursed Costs [Member] Reimbursed Costs [Member] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Segment, Geographical Interest capitalized Interest Costs Capitalized Estimated useful lives Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Depreciation expense Depreciation Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses Reversals Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses Reversals Reduction to the allowance for credit losses related to improved cash flows of underlying property. Write-offs Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs Transfers and other Financing Receivable Allowance For Credit Losses Other Adjustments Financing receivable allowance for credit losses, other adjustments Ending balance Additional Information on RSUs Schedule Of Additional Information On Restricted Stock Units [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Additional Information On Restricted Stock Units [Table Text Block] Changes in Outstanding Restricted Stock Unit Grants Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Changes in Outstanding SARs Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Appreciation Rights Award Activity [Table Text Block] Number of Employee SARs and Director SARs Granted, Associated Weighted Average Base Values, And Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Values Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Other Than Options, Stock Appreciation Rights, Grants in Period and Weighted Average Values [Table Text Block] Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Other Than Options, Stock Appreciation Rights, Grants in Period and Weighted Average Values Table Assumptions for Stock Options and Employee SARs Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Award, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Award, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Share-Based Compensation Expense, Number of Deferred Stock Units Granted, Weighted Average Grant-date Fair Value, and Aggregate Intrinsic Value of Non-Employee Director Deferred Stock Units Share Based Compensation Expense Deferred Stock Units Granted Average Grant Date Fair Value And Intrinsic Value Of Non Employee Deferred Stock Units [Table Text Block] Share Based Compensation Expense Deferred Stock Units Granted Average Grant Date Fair Value And Intrinsic Value Of Non Employee Deferred Stock Units [Table Text Block] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Contract acquisition costs and other Contract Acquisition Costs And Other [Member] Contract Acquisition Costs And Other [Member] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Contract acquisition costs and other Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Contract acquisition costs and other, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Schedule of Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Brands Trademarks and Trade Names [Member] Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Total Intangible Assets Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive (loss) income: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other derivative instrument adjustments, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized (loss) gain on available-for-sale securities, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Reclassification of (gains) losses, net of tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Income Statement [Abstract] REVENUES Revenues [Abstract] Base management fees Management Fees, Base Revenue Franchise fees Franchise Revenue Incentive management fees Management Fees, Incentive Revenue Owned, leased, and other revenue Revenue From Leased and Owned Hotels, Including Operating Lease Income Amount, net of promotional allowances, of revenue from managing and operating hotels, including, but not limited to, revenue from occupancy, casino, food and beverage, and retail. Includes operating lease income. Cost reimbursements Reimbursement Revenue Total revenue OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Owned, leased, and other-direct Direct Costs of Hotels Reimbursed costs Cost of Reimbursable Expense Depreciation, amortization, and other Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization And Other Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization And Other General, administrative, and other General and Administrative Expense Costs and Expenses, Total Costs and Expenses OPERATING INCOME Operating Income (Loss) Gains and other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Investment Income, Interest Equity in earnings (losses) Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES Provision for income taxes NET INCOME EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Earnings per share - basic (in USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings per share - diluted (in USD per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Self-Insurance Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses Schedule of Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense [Table Text Block] Operating income Diluted earnings per share (in USD per share) Federal, current Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State, current Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Non-U.S., current Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current income tax expense (benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Federal, deferred Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State, deferred Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Non-U.S., deferred Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax expense (benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Provision benefit for income taxes Notes Receivable Financing Receivables [Text Block] Assets (primarily composed of hotel real estate managed by us) Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets Liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities Intangible Assets and Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Supplementary Data - Quarterly Financial Data - Unaudited Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] 2016 Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, Current Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, Current 2017 Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, in Two Years Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, in Two Years 2018 Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, in Three Years Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, in Three Years 2019 Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, in Four Years Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, in Four Years 2020 Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, in Five Years Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, in Five Years Thereafter Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, After Year Five Notes Receivable, Future Principal Payments Receivable, After Year Five Weighted average interest rate at year-end 2015 Notes Receivable Weighted Average Interest Rate Weighted average interest rate for total notes receivable as of the balance sheet date indicated. Range of stated interest rates at year-end 2015, minimum Notes Receivable Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Lower limit of range of stated interest rates for total notes receivable as of the balance sheet date indicated. Range of stated interest rates at year-end 2015, maximum Notes Receivable Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Upper limit of range of stated interest rates for total notes receivable as of the balance sheet date indicated. Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Range of amortization life of intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Aggregate amortization expense of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Estimated aggregate future amortization expense of intangible assets for 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Estimated aggregate future amortization expense of intangible assets for 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Estimated aggregate future amortization expense of intangible assets for 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Estimated aggregate future amortization expense of intangible assets for 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Estimated aggregate future amortization expense of intangible assets for 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Components of Earnings Before Income Taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] The (Provision for) Benefit from Income Taxes Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of the U.S. Statutory Tax Rate to Our Effective Income Tax Rate for Continuing Operations Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Series O Senior Notes and Series P Senior Notes Series O Senior Notes and Series P Senior Notes [Member] Series O Senior Notes and Series P Senior Notes [Member] Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Proceeds from debt, net of issuance costs Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Leases Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Operating Segments North American Full-Service Segment North American Limited-Service Segment International Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Goodwill, Gross Accumulated impairment losses Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Goodwill Additions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Adjustments Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Foreign currency translation Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party [Domain] JWM Family Enterprise, L.P. JWM Family Enterprise, L.P. [Member] JWM Family Enterprise, L.P. [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Management fees Revenue from Related Parties Undistributed earnings Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Derivative Instrument Adjustments Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Base management and franchise fees Franchise Fees Franchise Fees Interest expense Income before income taxes 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments where we are the primary obligor Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Amount Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Senior, mezzanine, and other loans Marketable securities Marketable Securities, Noncurrent Total noncurrent financial assets Financial Instruments, Assets, Noncurrent Total of all noncurrent financial instruments that are assets. Senior notes Senior Notes, Noncurrent Commercial paper Other long-term debt Other Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Total noncurrent financial liabilities Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Noncurrent Total of all noncurrent financial instruments that are liabilities. Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions [Member] Related Party Transactions Base management fees Incentive management fees Owned, leased, and other revenue Revenue From Leased And Owned Hotels Corporate Housing Other Revenue generated from owned and leased hotels as well as corporate housing and other revenue sources. Cost reimbursements Reimbursed costs Depreciation, amortization, and other General, administrative, and other Interest income Interest Income (Expense), Net Equity in earnings (losses) Equity Method Investment, Realized Gain (Loss) on Disposal Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Derivative Instrument Adjustments Available-For-Sale Securities Unrealized Adjustments Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Roll forward] [Abstract] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Balance at year-end, beginning balance Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Net other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Balance at year-end, ending balance Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities, deferred tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), foreign currency translation and translation gain (loss), before reclassification and tax, intra-entity foreign currency transactions long-term-investment nature Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax, Intra-Entity Foreign Currency Transactions Long-Term-Investment Nature Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax, Intra-Entity Foreign Currency Transactions Long-Term-Investment Nature 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable [Domain] Receivable [Domain] Loans Receivable Loans Receivable [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Mezzanine loan Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount Notes receivable, unamortized discounts, balance Receivable with Imputed Interest, Discount Investment in impaired loans Impaired Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment Notes receivable reserve representing an allowance for credit losses Investment in impaired loans with no related allowance for credit losses Impaired Financing Receivable, with No Related Allowance, Recorded Investment Average investment in impaired loans Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized tax benefit at beginning of year Unrecognized Tax Benefits Change attributable to tax positions taken during the current period Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Decrease attributable to settlements with taxing authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Decrease attributable to lapse of statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Unrecognized tax benefit at end of year Accounts and notes receivable, net Other Contract acquisition costs and other Equity and cost method investments Deferred taxes, net Current liabilities Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued expenses and other Increase (decrease) in provision for unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses, current year Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Period Increase (Decrease), Current Year Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Period Increase (Decrease), Current Year Increase (decrease) in provision for unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses, prior years Prior Year Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Long-Term Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Debt Principal Payments (Net of Unamortized Discounts) Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Acquisitions and Dispositions [Abstract] Acquisitions and Dispositions [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Depreciation, Amortization, and Other Depreciation, Amortization, and Other [Member] Depreciation, Amortization, and Other [Member] Asset Held For Sale Asset Held For Sale [Member] Assets Held For Sale [Member] Accrued Expense and Other Accrued Expense and Other [Member] Accrued Expense and Other [Member] Other Current Liabilities Other Current Liabilities [Member] Disposal Group Name Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] New York City EDITION Hotel New York City EDITION Hotel [Member] New York City EDITION Hotel [Member] North American, Plot of Land North American, Plot of Land [Member] North American, Plot of Land [Member] London EDITION Hotel London EDITION Hotel [Member] London EDITION Hotel [Member] Miami Beach EDITION Hotels Miami Beach EDITION Hotel [Member] Miami Beach EDITION Hotel [Member] EDITION Hotels EDITION Hotels [Member] EDITION Hotels [Member] Land Parcel Sale to Third Party Land Parcel Sale to Third Party [Member] Land Parcel Sale to Third Party [Member] Right to Acquire Landlord's Interest in Real Estate Property and Attached Assets Right to Acquire Landlord's Interest in Real Estate Property and Attached Assets [Member] Right to Acquire Landlord's Interest in Real Estate Property and Attached Assets [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Impairment of assets to be disposed of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Proceeds from divestiture of interest in subsidiaries and affiliates Proceeds from Divestiture of Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Cash proceeds received from sale of equity method investment's hotels redeemed Equity Method Investment, Net Sales Proceeds Proceeds from sale of property Proceeds from Sale of Property Held-for-sale Equity method investment, number of hotels redeemed Equity Method Investment, Number of Hotels Redeemed Equity Method Investment, Number of Hotels Redeemed Gain (loss) on disposition of property Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties Disposal Group, including discontinued operations, liabilities, current Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Assets, reclassified Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets Liabilities, reclassified Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Number of residences sold Number of Residences Sold Number of Residences Sold Proceeds from dispositions Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Assets held-for-sale, number of hotels Assets Held-for-sale, Number of Hotels Assets Held-for-sale, Number of Hotels Impairment charge Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Assets, property, plant and equipment, reclassified Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment Cash proceeds from sale of rights to acquire property and attached assets Cash Proceeds from Sale of Rights to Acquire Property and Attached Assets Cash Proceeds from Sale of Rights to Acquire Property and Attached Assets Noncash proceeds from sale of rights to acquire property and attached assets Noncash Proceeds from Sale of Rights to Acquire Property and Attached Assets Noncash Proceeds from Sale of Rights to Acquire Property and Attached Assets Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Self-Insurance Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses [Roll Forward] Self-Insurance Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses [Roll Forward] Self-Insurance Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of year Liability for Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Less: reinsurance recoverable Reinsurance Recoverables Net balance at beginning of year Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Net Incurred related to: Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Incurred Claims [Abstract] Current year Current Year Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Prior years Total incurred Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Incurred Claims Paid related to: Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid [Abstract] Current year Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid, Current Year Prior years Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid, Prior Years Total paid Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid Net balance at end of year Add: reinsurance recoverable Balance at end of year Current portion classified in “Accrued expenses and other” Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Gross, Current Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Gross, Current Noncurrent portion classified in “Other noncurrent liabilities” Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Gross, Noncurrent Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Gross, Noncurrent Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Entity [Domain] Starwood Hotels & Resorts Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. [Member] Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. [Member] Business Acquisition Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Delta Hotels and Resorts Delta Hotels and Resorts [Member] Delta Hotels and Resorts [Member] Protea Hospitality Holdings Protea Hospitality Holdings [Member] Protea Hospitality Holdings [Member] Brazil, Property Under Construction Brazil, Property Under Construction [Member] Brazil, Property Under Construction [Member] Contractual Assets Contractual Rights [Member] Trademarks and Trade Names Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business acquisition, equity interest issued, number of shares Business Acquisition, Equity Interests Issuable per Share Owned by Acquiree Business Acquisition, Equity Interests Issuable per Share Owned by Acquiree Cash payments to acquire businesses, gross per share Proposed Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Per Share Proposed Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Per Share Cash consideration paid Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Working capital acquired Business Combination Consideration Transferred Working Capital Business Combination Consideration Transferred Working Capital Acquisition amount Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Recognized identifiable assets and liabilities acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets Including Goodwill Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets Including Goodwill Finite-lived intangible assets acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Indefinite-lived intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Recognized identifiable tangible assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Tangible Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Tangible Assets Number of open hotels and resorts acquired Number Of Open Hotels And Resorts Acquired Number Of Open Hotels And Resorts Acquired Number of rooms acquired Number Of Rooms Acquired Number Of Rooms Acquired Number of managed hotels and resorts acquired Number Of Managed Hotels And Resorts Acquired Number Of Managed Hotels And Resorts Acquired Number of managed hotels and resorts acquired, 30 year management agreement Number Of Managed Hotels And Resorts Acquired, Thirty Year Management Agreement Number Of Managed Hotels And Resorts Acquired, Thirty Year Management Agreement Number of hotels and resorts acquired Number Of Franchised Hotels And Resorts Acquired Number Of Franchised Hotels And Resorts Acquired Number of hotels and resorts under development acquired Number Of Hotels And Resorts Under Development Acquired Number Of Hotels And Resorts Under Development Acquired Number of hotels and resorts under development acquired, 30 year management agreement Number Of Hotels And Resorts Under Development Acquired, Thirty Year Management Agreement Number Of Hotels And Resorts Under Development Acquired, Thirty Year Management Agreement Business acquisition, adjustment, intangible assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table] Deferred stock incentive plans Deferred Stock Incentive [Member] Deferred Stock Incentive [Member] Restricted stock units Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] Computation of Basic Earnings Per Share Net income Weighted average shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Basic earnings per share (in USD per share) Computation of Diluted Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted average shares outstanding Effect of dilutive securities Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract] Effect of dilutive securities Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Shares for diluted earnings per share Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Composition of our Property and Equipment Balances Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile to cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Share-based compensation Share-based Compensation Income taxes Noncash Income Tax Expense The non-cash component of income tax expense, less the tax benefit from exercise of stock options. Liability for guest loyalty program Increase (Decrease) in Customer Loyalty Program Liability Working capital changes Increase (Decrease) In Working Capital Increase (Decrease) In Working Capital Other Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Dispositions Loan advances Payments for Loan Advances The cash outflow from advancing money to others in the form of loans. Loan collections Proceeds from Sale and Collection of Notes Receivable Equity and cost method investments Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Contract acquisition costs Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Acquisition of a business, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Redemption of / (investment in) debt security Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Held-to-maturity Securities Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Commercial paper/Credit Facility, net Proceeds From Repayments Of Commercial Paper And Long Term Lines Of Credit The net cash inflow (outflow) from issuing (borrowing) and repaying commercial paper or line of credit having initial term of repayment greater than one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayment of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Issuance of Class A Common Stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Purchase of treasury stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND EQUIVALENTS Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) CASH AND EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period CASH AND EQUIVALENTS, end of period Reconciliation of Restricted Stock Activity [Table] Reconciliation of Restricted Stock Activity [Line Items] Weighted average grant-date fair value (per RSU) Aggregate intrinsic value of converted and distributed RSUs (in millions) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Converted and Distributed, Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Converted and Distributed, Intrinsic Value Revenues Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Net Income Reconciliation Of Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes From Segments to Consolidated Net Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] This element may be used to capture the complete disclosure for the identification, description, and amounts of all significant reconciling items in the reconciliation of total income before income taxes, which includes equity method income or loss and gains and other income, from reportable segments, to the entity's net income attributable to the parent before extraordinary items, discontinued operations, and the cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles. Depreciation and Amortization Reconciliation Of Depreciation and Amortization from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Depreciation and Amortization from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Capital Expenditures Reconciliation Of Capitalized Expenditures from Segment to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Capitalized Expenditures from Segment to Consolidated ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS Acquisitions And Dispositions Disclosure [Text Block] This element is used to capture disclosure pertaining to significant acquisitions and disposals. Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Table] Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Table] Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Table] Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items] Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items] Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items] Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Risk-free rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected term (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Share-Based Compensation Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Carrying Values and Fair Values of Non-Current Financial Assets and Liabilities Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Adjustments for Error Corrections [Axis] Adjustments for Error Corrections [Axis] Adjustments for Error Correction [Domain] Adjustments for Error Correction [Domain] Immaterial Error Related to Excess Tax Benefits for Share Based Compensation Immaterial Error Related to Excess Tax Benefits for Share Based Compensation [Member] Immaterial Error Related to Excess Tax Benefits for Share Based Compensation [Member] Cumulative adjustment to retained earnings Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax Fiscal period, change in length of period from corresponding year earlier period Fiscal Period, Change in Length of Period from Corresponding Year Earlier Period Fiscal Period, Change in Length of Period from Corresponding Year Earlier Period Fiscal period duration Fiscal Period Duration Maximum Potential Amount of Future Fundings as the Primary Obligor for Guarantees and the Liability for Expected Future Fundings Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table Text Block] Weighted average exercise price (per unit) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Grants In Period Weighted Average Exercise Price The weighted average exercise price at grant for share-based awards issued during the period on other than stock option plans (for example, phantom stock plan, stock appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). S&P RSUs Number of RSUs Distributed Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Outstanding beginning balance (per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (per unit) Distributed (per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding ending balance (per unit) Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fiscal Year Fiscal Period, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Real Estate Sales Real Estate, Policy [Policy Text Block] Rewards Programs Revenue Recognition, Loyalty Programs [Policy Text Block] Profit Sharing Plan Profit Sharing Plan [Policy Text Block] Disclosure related to profit sharing plan policy. Non-U.S. Operations Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Assets Held for Sale Assets Held for Sale [Policy Text Block] Assets Held for Sale, Policy Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Intangibles and Long-Lived Assets Valuation of Intangibles and Long Lived Assets [Policy Text Block] Valuation of Intangibles and Long Lived Assets Investments Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Loan Loss Reserves Finance, Loans and Leases Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Guarantees Minimum Guarantees, Policy [Policy Text Block] Self-Insurance Programs Self Insurance [Policy Text Block] Disclosure related to self insurance policy. Legal Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Share Dilutive Securities Earnings Per Share Dilutive Securities [Policy Text Block] Policy for computing the effect of dilutive securities. Intangible Assets Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment, Capitalization and Useful Lives Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Liability Priority Liability Priority [Axis] Liability Priority [Axis] Liability Priority [Domain] Liability Priority [Domain] Liability Priority [Domain] Primary Obligor Primary Obligor [Member] Primary Obligor Secondarily Liable Secondarily Liable [Member] Secondarily Liable Other Long Term Liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Loss Contingencies By Secondary Nature Of Contingency Loss Contingencies By Secondary Nature Of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Secondary Nature of Contingency Loss Contingencies by Secondary Nature of Contingency [Domain] Loss Contingencies by Secondary Nature of Contingency [Domain] Loss Contingencies by Secondary Nature of Contingency [Domain] Not Yet In Effect Condition Not Yet In Effect Condition [Member] Not Yet in Effect Condition Lease is Terminated After End of 2013 Lease is Terminated After End of 2013 [Member] Lease is Terminated After End of 2013 [Member] Guarantor Obligations by Nature Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Guarantee, Indebtedness of Others Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others [Member] Guarantee, Operating Profit Guarantee Operating Profit [Member] Guarantee, Operating Profit Other Guarantees Other Guarantees [Member] Other Guarantees [Member] Property Lease Guarantee Property Lease Guarantee [Member] Debt Securities Payable Debt Securities Payable [Member] Lease Obligations and Debt Securities Payable Lease Obligations and Debt Securities Payable [Member] Lease Obligations and Debt Securities Payable [Member] Guarantee type, other Guarantee Type, Other [Member] Guarantor Obligation By Other Guarantor Guarantor Obligation By Other Guarantor [Axis] Guarantor Obligation By Other Guarantor [Axis] Guarantor Obligation, Other Guarantor [Domain] Guarantor Obligation, Other Guarantor [Domain] Guarantor Obligation, Other Guarantor [Domain] Sunrise Senior Living Inc Sunrise Senior Living Inc [Member] Sunrise Senior Living, Inc CNL Retirement Properties Inc CNL Retirement Properties Inc [Member] CNL Retirement Properties, Inc Renaissance Hotel Group N.V. Renaissance Hotel Group N.V. [Member] Renaissance Hotel Group N. V. MVW Spin-off MVW Spin-off [Member] MVW Spin-off [Member] Credit Facility Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Letter of Credit Letter of Credit [Member] Lender Name Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Key Bank Key Bank [Member] Key Bank [Member] Guarantor Obligations by Property Guarantor Obligations by Property [Axis] Guarantor Obligations by Property [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Property [Domain] Guarantor Obligations, Property [Domain] Guarantor Obligations, Property [Domain] ExecuStay ExecuStay [Member] ExecuStay [Member] Guarantee obligations, term Guarantee Obligation, Term Guarantee Obligation, Term Guarantor obligations, maximum exposure, undiscounted Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Liability for guarantees Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Loan commitment, put option agreement, obligation to acquire property, amount Loan Commitment, Put Option Agreement, Obligation to Acquire Property, Amount Loan Commitment, Put Option Agreement, Obligation to Acquire Property, Amount Loan commitment, put option agreement, obligation to acquire property, term Loan Commitment, Put Option Agreement, Obligation to Acquire Property, Term Loan Commitment, Put Option Agreement, Obligation to Acquire Property, Term Loan commitment, put option agreement, obligation to acquire property, extended term Loan Commitment, Put Option Agreement, Obligation to Acquire Property, Extended Term Loan Commitment, Put Option Agreement, Obligation to Acquire Property, Extended Term Cash collateral in the event funding is required Guarantor Obligations, Collateral Held Directly or by Third Parties, Within Five Years Guarantor Obligations, Collateral Held Directly or by Third Parties, Within Five Years Letter of credit provided by Sunrise, amount available Line of Credit Facility Provided by Third Party, Current Borrowing Capacity for Period After One Year and Within Six Years Line of Credit Facility Provided by Third Party, Current Borrowing Capacity for Period After One Year and Within Six Years Line of credit facility provided by third party, current borrowing capacity for period Line of Credit Facility Provided by Third Party, Current Borrowing Capacity for Period Line of Credit Facility Provided by Third Party, Current Borrowing Capacity for Period Collateral for continuing lease obligation contingency, future minimum annual payments due Guarantor Obligations, Collateral Held Directly or by Third Parties, Annual Collateral to be Received for Next Five Years Guarantor Obligations, Collateral Held Directly or by Third Parties, Annual Collateral to be Received for Next Five Years Annual rent payments, approximately Remaining rent payments, approximately Guarantee obligations, cash collateralized Guarantor Obligations, Collateral Held Directly or by Third Parties, Amount Guarantor Obligations, Collateral Held Directly or by Third Parties, Amount Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Nature of Uncertainty [Axis] Nature of Uncertainty [Axis] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Nature of Uncertainty [Domain] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Nature of Uncertainty [Domain] International Issue Relating to Financing Activity and US Federal Tax Issue International Issue Relating to Financing Activity and US Federal Tax Issue [Member] International Issue Relating to Financing Activity and US Federal Tax Issue [Member] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] Tax benefits (costs) from share-based compensation Employee Service Share Based Compensation Tax Benefit From Compensation Expense Or Realized From Exercise Of Stock Options The total recognized tax benefit related to compensation cost for equity-based payment arrangements or realized from the exercise of stock options and the conversion of similar instruments during the annual period recognized in income during the period. Tax credits included in provision for income taxes Income Tax Credits and Adjustments Tax provision (benefit) applicable to other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Cumulative unremitted earnings of subsidiaries Undistributed Earnings Of Foreign Subsidiaries Reinvested Indefinitely Undistributed Earnings Of Foreign Subsidiaries Reinvested Indefinitely Change in unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Period Increase (Decrease) Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Change in unrecognized tax benefits, amount of unrecorded benefit Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Tax credits subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Subject To Expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Subject To Expiration Tax credits not subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Not Subject To Expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Not Subject To Expiration Net operating loss benefits Operating Loss Carryforwards Taxable Income Reduction The sum of domestic, foreign and state and local operating loss carryforwards used to reduce taxable income under enacted tax laws. Net operating losses Operating Loss Carryforwards Net operating losses subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration Net cash payments (receipts) for income tax (refunds) Income Taxes Paid, Net