As I mentioned last week, I’m a brand-spanking-new Intercontinental Royal Ambassador, due to a very generous TPG reader. Being very anxious to try out my new status, I decided to split my 5 days in Madrid to 1 night at the Intercontinental, 3 at the Westin Palace (my Madrid go-to property) and one more at the Intercontinental. In case you are scratching your head at the switch, I’ve extolled the benefits of hotel hopping in this post.
The Points and Fees Breakdown
Intercontinental encourages hotel hopping, because they give 2,000 base points (double with the current promo), whether you stay for 1 day or 20. My Starwood stay was 2 days on Cash and Points and one night at a paid rate of 199 euros. I paid for one night because a) I am severely lagging on elite status and b) I needed a third stay to get a free resort night for their current promo.
Location, Location, Location
The Intercontinental Madrid is located on Paseo de la Castellana, which is an upscale business district about 10 minutes away from the craziness of central Madrid. A taxi ride from the airport took 20 minutes in light traffic and cost 31 euros total. The hotel is located near the airport highway entrance, so it’s good for a quick exit out of the city.
Upon approaching the reception desk, I gave them my name and immediately they recognized me as a Royal Ambassador and directed me to the first-floor club lounge, where an agent would check me in personally. Nice.
Lobby
A view of the hotel from the interior courtyard
The outdoor restaurant
Checking-In
Once in the club lounge, the agent began processing my one night stay. I was explained the benefits, including the lounge being open from 7am until 10pm every day and all beverages and snacks were free – except you can’t take anything out of the lounge. She also mentioned that computer use and internet was free in the lounge, but I would have to pay in the room. I don’t think she fully understood that internet was an Ambassador benefit, but I let it slide and was not charged for it. She also explained that the minibar drinks were free, but everything else would be charged.
The club lounge where I was checked-in privately by my own agent
I went up to my Junior Suite on the fifth floor and was impressed with the relatively large foyer and sunny living room. The bedroom was a bit tight, but the bathroom was large by European standards with a separate shower, bathtub and toilet/bidet areas.
Walking into the living room with a small sitting area, a flat-screen TV and a small office-desk area with a view
View of living room from window
Though fitted in plain white linens, the bed was actually luxuriant, and perfect for overcoming my jetlag
The shower and separate bathtub
There was fresh fruit and an amenity kit in the living room and a handwritten note from the GM.
Amenity kit in a fancy little box - a nice touch
It’s The Little Things
I was perhaps most excited to check out the mini-bar – for some reason the “unlimited free drinks” from the mini-bar is the benefit I’m most enamored with. Not because I’m a raging alcoholic, but the mini-bar to me is the ultimate in indulgence and is usually off-limits (unless someone else is paying). The fact that they allow Royal Ambassadors to drink whatever they want is really cool and I hope my addition to the program doesn’t make them change that benefit
The goods - I'd definitely be pounding the Red Bull to make it through that first day
La Cama
Since it was my first day in Spain, I was pretty exhausted after a full day on the town and my fair share of jamon serrano and ice-cold Mahous (have you seen why I love Madrid?). When I finally got back to my suite around midnight, I sank into the king bed and drifted off into my own world for 8 hours of restful sleep. To put it plainly, it was one of the best hotel beds I’ve ever slept in. And you know I’ve slept in my fair share!
Desayuno
When I finally made my way to the lounge in the morning, the breakfast spread was pretty impressive. They had tables with tablecloths and place settings just waiting for guests to arrive, and servers bringing around fresh juice. I ended up just assembling a plate of fresh fruit, smoked salmon and fresh bread. I also whipped myself up a double espresso with some steamed milk, which helped me out of my post-jetlag-deep-slumber (ahem, Lunesta!) haze. I had a nice table by the window and spent a solid 45 minutes enjoying my time in the sparsely occupied lounge.
Table for one, please! Fancy for a lounge
The hot breakfast options had an "English Breakfast" egg-and-beans sort of thing going on, so not the best, but the cold buffet was great
The cold breakfast spread with cold cuts, cheeses, bread and fruit
La Cuenta, Por Favor
As I expected, despite all the perks, when I checked-out, the only charge on my folio was for the room rate. I hopped in the first cab outside (there were about 40 waiting) to continue my Spanish sojourn elsewhere.
Overall, my first stay as a Royal Ambassador was a success. I got a nice two-level upgrade to a Junior Suite (the standard upgrade seems to be a Club Room per the Flyertalk thread on Royal Ambassador upgrades). In fact, on my return stay Sunday night, the agent told me I was in a Club Room, but then double-checked for a better upgrade and gave me yet another Junior Suite, which was nearly identical, but had minor layout differences.
This hotel may not be perfect for a first time tourist to Madrid because it’s a little bit far from the action and it’s not on the best subway line, but overall it’s a comfortable hotel with solid Royal Ambassador treatment, “heavenly” beds (don’t tell Westin I said that) and a really nice lounge.
Bonus Tip!
FYI on my Sunday evening stay, I was able to cancel my reservation which I had at 199 euros and rebook at 120 euros using the link I included on my post about Maximizing Priority Club. If you are in Europe, make sure you double-check your rates, because I’ve found some good deals.
As a newly minted Intercontinental Royal Ambassador, I couldn’t wait to try out my status when I went toMauritius in July. July is winter and off-season in Mauritius, so I was hopeful that upgrades would be plentiful.
Planning My Nights
My plan for Mauritius was for six days and five nights. I’d spend the first night at the Intercontinental (because as a Royal Ambassador I’m guaranteed 8am check-in and my flight arrived at 7am), the following two nights at the Starwood Grand Mauritian (which is right next door to the Intercontinental) and then the last two nights at the Intercontinental using my Ambassador buy-one-get-one weekend night certificate. This would yield me three stays versus just one and the hassles of hotel hopping would be minimized since the hotels were adjacent to each other and I have top tier status (late check-out) at both properties.
For the first night at the Intercontinental I re-booked at the last minute to a non-refundable rate of 216 euros for a Deluxe Terrace Ocean View Suite, which is the category below the Presidential Suite (which was going for 550 euros a night). I probably could have gone a couple categories down to regular rooms at 175 Euros a night, but I figured I’d pay the extra $60 to have the increased chance of the Presidential Suite.
I landed at MRU airport at 7am and after my rental car fiasco with Hertz, I hopped in a cab and snaked across the island in rush hour traffic. The Intercontinental is on the northwest coast and the airport if on the southeast, so it takes about an hour with no traffic. I was happy to be in a cab because I was a little groggy from my flight and traffic was pretty bad. All of the major rental car companies will deliver cars to hotels, so I’d recommend cabbing to the hotel straight off of a flight, unless you are particularly adventurous.
Ninety minutes later, we pulled up to the hotel and immediately several bell hops got my bags and ushered me into the open air lobby and had me sit on a couch as they fetched someone to help check me in as a VIP/Royal Ambassador. They immediately knew who I was, but I’m not sure how because I didn’t contact the hotel prior to my arrival and during my stay I made friends with the Director of Rooms and she was unaware I was a blogger. I guess I look American and I was probably the only American in the hotel at the time, so they put 2 and 2 together.
Non-flashy, some might say understated, entrance to the resort.
My pot of gold at the end of the rainbow ... my second Mini convertible rental car of the trip out in front of the resort.
The (very) open-air lobby of the Intercontinental.
The lobby morning crowd.
Checking in, sir?
The staff brought me sweet Mauritian tea and I relaxed in the lobby as my paperwork was handled. There were about four people running back and forth and they asked for my voucher (which at the time I thought they meant Buy One Get One, but they really just meant printed reservation, which I didn’t have on me). They also asked for my Royal Ambassador card, which I hadn’t yet received, because I left before I got it in the mail. I guess I take for granted that hotels in the U.S. and Europe know that everything is handled electronically. They admitted that they rarely see Royal Ambassadors, so this was a big deal for them.
While I was waiting ,the General Manager also introduced himself and welcomed to me the property. I have to say they really did make me feel like a VIP, though they did fumble the paperwork and overcomplicate things. It took about 20 minutes from sitting down to get everything sorted out. However, I didn’t really care, because they told me I was upgraded to one of the nine Presidential Suites and that they were certain I’d like my room. Sweet.
My Entourage
A small group of people escorted me to the room and indeed it was pretty nice. It was a two-story loft-style room with floor-to-ceiling windows and three large outdoor balcony-patios facing the ocean. There was a small kitchen with full-size refrigerator, though I was a little disappointed that instead of a full mini-bar, I got a couple beers, water and Redbull – no wine or spirits! As a Royal Ambassador you are entitled to all mini-bar items for free, so I thought it was a little skimpy – especially for the Presidential Suite.
First view of the suite after walking in.
Disappointing "mini bar." Just beer and Red Bull practically!
However, the suite itself was nice and they had fruit and water waiting for me. The two upstairs patios were substantial and one even had an outdoor bathtub! It was also completely private, so it would be perfect for honeymooners, if you catch my drift. I almost felt bad being there alone – I could have housed a small army in the room, which was over 3,200 square feet!
The bathroom was large with a unique spa-type bathtub with wooden chaise chair built in and full-size Elemis spa products and bath salts.
Fragrant fruit and water welcome amenity.
My living room ... now where are the people to fill it?
Oceanview balcony off the living room.
Upstairs master bedroom.
One of the two large upstairs patios off the master bedroom.
Private rooftop patio, complete with tub.
View from the top balcony of the Presidential Suite.
Bathtub with chair built in for lounge-soaking.
Overall it was a stunning room, though there was no WiFi and my Macbook air doesn’t have an ethernet plug (which I didn’t realize until I had left on this trip so I didn’t buy an adapter). This meant I had to go to the lobby for my internet needs, which was annoying, though I did figure out how to get internet on the TV so I could at least read my email on the big plasma, though the in-room internet was broken for my last two days.
La Cuisine
The check-in agent told me I was not on a rate plan that included breakfast so I’d have to pay. Though on one of the other days the waiters told me I didn’t have to after I told them my room number (I bet they just figured I was on full-board). I did get a healthy, fresh room service breakfast one day, which was fantastic (I figured I had to put the balconies to use!).
Fresh fruit and juice ... a great way to start a day in the tropics. Especially with a view of the ocean from my balcony.
I ate room service a bunch of other times and each time it was good. As much as I don’t mind traveling alone (this is my first extended vacation I’ve ever taken alone, though I did meet up a with several groups of friends in Spain), I do not like eating alone, and I never did during my road warrior days. Since I always have so much work to do on my laptop, I really don’t mind room service and I’m usually good at picking out decent items. One of my daily rituals each evening was watching the sun set on the beach and enjoying a local beer (Blue Marlin). Or two. And eating a Mauritian sampler platter (spicy samosas, calamari and spanakopita type puff pastry).
Mauritian sampler - not the healthiest, but tasted amazing with an ice-cold Blue Marlin local beer.
Beach ... a bit rocky and rough water, but there was a man-made inner lagoon for swimming, though snorkeling probably wasn't great.
Pool ... ultimate relaxation. And the WiFi worked poolside!
My daily Zen moment ... ice-cold beer, cool breeze and stunning sunsets.
Spa Time!
One rainy afternoon I decided to go to the spa, and had the best massage of my life. The masseuse, whose name I can’t remember, gave me a much “kneaded” deep tissue massage that was legendary. At several points I wondered how many hands she had, because there were so many things going on. After spending so much time on airplanes – even in business/first – I know that it wreaks havoc on my back and she agreed that I had way too many knots. I used to never do spa treatments, but lately I try to work in some spa time on every trip. I guess it also helps that this is now ‘work’ for me, since these treatments aren’t cheap. The 90-minute deep tissue and foot massage ran me $200 when all was said and done. And it was worth every penny.
Coming Back
I ended up getting the Presidential suite again on my weekend stay using the Ambassador buy-one-get-one free weekend night certificate, so altogether I got three nights in the biggest suite of the hotel for 456 Euros ($650) total. This is definitely a function of going in the off-season, but even in the “winter” it was still nearly 80 during the day, though I wasn’t expecting the sun to go down by 5:30pm every day. Anyone can buy Intercontinental Ambassador for $200 (you need to earn or be nominated to Royal Ambassador) and I found the free night certificate to basically pay for itself. Additionally, you get 5,000 Priority Club points and then on paid stays: free upgrades, late check-out, fruit and water amenity, a free movie and other benefits for a year. If you stay at Intercontinental hotels, you should look into upgrading to Ambassador.
Water Issues
While my stay was overall great and the staff bent-over backwards to provide me good service, I did have two aggravating experiences regarding hot water. On the Saturday night of my weekend stay, I got home from 8 hours touring the island and walking with lions and tigers (more on that later) and couldn’t wait to wash off and get ready for dinner. However, the shower had no hot water. I called to let them know and they promised to send someone up right away. I was skeptical they would be able to do anything, barring bringing 40 pails of hot water, and indeed they were useless. Twenty minutes later I get a call that it was a hotel-wide issue and it should be fixed in 40 minutes. Mildly annoying, but I understand that kind of thing happens … especially on an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
Fast forward to my last day – I spent the entire day on a catamaran that ended up getting hit with a fairly rough rainstorm. Soaked to the bone and cold, I got back to the hotel with enough time to warm up with a hot shower, pack and get to the airport, which was an hour-plus away. But as I turned on the faucet, only ice cold water came out. I was momentarily warmed up by the rage from within, but anger took over and I called the front desk who promised to send someone up. I think I got bitchy at that point and demanded to be let into a nearby hotel room to shower because I didn’t have time to watch a clueless maintenance man tinker with some valves that wouldn’t do anything. What can I say, I get crabby when I’m cold.
I escalated with management and they promised to let me use a room – on the other side of the resort! My response? “No. You will have to do better.”
Five minutes later, I got an apologetic call and they promised to send someone with a key to a room 2 stories down in the same unit. They apologized and apparently there was a water heater issue with my suite that they didn’t realize the night before. While it worked out in the end, it was a major inconvenience and something a high-end hotel should not put their presidential suite guest through – at least not two nights in a row.
Conclusion
I’ll focus more on what to do in Mauritius in my next post, but overall I had a really nice stay at the Intercontinental and I would highly recommend it – especially if you are an Ambassador or going for your honeymoon. It can be had for just 30,000 Priority Club points per night, which is an amazing deal – especially during peak season when regular rates are much higher.
I recognize that most of my readers are not Royal Ambassadors, so I asked the hotel to show me a standard room and I have to say I was pretty impressed. Honestly, having a gigantic suite is a bit of a waste in a place like Mauritius because there is so much to do and see outdoors, you really only need a comfortable place to sleep.
Standard room living area, not too shabby.
Bed and bathroom view from living room of a standard room.
Balcony view from a standard room.
Spacious bathroom with soaking tub and separate WC.
So that was my VIP stay at the Intercontinental courtesy of Royal Ambassador status. Stay tuned for further posts on my Starwood experiences on the island and all my Mauritian adventures.
Earlier this week, I asked for suggestions on what to do in Vegas for a couple days. I got an overwhelming amount of suggestions, so I unfortunately didn’t get a chance to do even a small fraction of them. Ultimately my trip ended up being: Monday: Landed at 6:30pm, Checked in at the Palazzo Hotel as an Intercontinental Hotel Royal Ambassador – Fortuna Suite, dinner at Cut by Wolfgang Puck at the Venetian, after dinner drinks at the Cosmopolitan hotel and all-night partying at Marquee at the Cosmopolitan. Tuesday: Slow motion recovery day- had original plans for a helicopter tour of Grand Canyon, but ended up sleeping in and shopping at the Forum shops at Caesars, spa time at the Mandarin Oriental Spa, late lunch at Bouchon at the Venetian, round 2 of raiding the free mini-bar at the Palazzo, near front row seats at the Celine Dion concert at Caesars and dinner at Il Mulino. Wednesday: Had all intentions of going to Lotus of Siam for lunch, but had to deal with my website meltdown and just ended up lunching at Morels at the Palazzo before going to the airport for my flight home.
Palazzo Review: Two days before check-in the Palazzo hotel called me to confirm my stay and my arrival time and let me know they were anticipating my arrival as a Royal Ambassador. As a relatively new hotel to the Intercontinental Hotel Group, I was worried that my Royal Ambassador status would be ignored and I’d have to fight for benefits. I was wrong.
Upon arrival, Royal Ambassadors can avoid the long check-in lines and use the private VIP lounge entrance to the right of check-in. I was greeted by a friendly agent and they checked me in, confirmed my upgrade to the Fortuna suite and explained that the entire mini-bar and snacks above it were complimentary. Score!
My suite was on the 43rd floor and had the typical Palazzo sunken living room (I stayed at the hotel once before it was an IHG hotel), but the master bedroom had extended living space and a huge walk-in closet. Overall, the suite was large and comfortable, with a non-strip view (to be honest, I could care less about strip views).
Fortuna Suite Living Room
Master Bedroom view from living room
Comfortable king bed
Non-strip view, which was fine with me
Living room
The greatest part of the suite was the free minibar. I’ve only stayed at a handful of IHG hotels as a Royal Ambassador and this mini-bar blew the others away. Mini bottles of Moet champagne, Belevedere vodka, mini-bottle of white wine, 8 minis of hard alcohol, Corona, Heineken, Amstel Light, Redbull, Coke Zero and some water and juices. And it was restocked after it was raided the first night! Considering my room rate was about $150, I think the value of what was consumed from the mini-bar just about equaled that each night! I am really starting to get used to Royal Ambassador benefits!
The goods
A nice assortment of snacks as well
So many difficult choices!
After getting settled in, we went to Cut for a nice steak dinner. The most unique part of the dining experience was having the sommelier hand me an iPad so I could browse the wine list and actually order what I wanted.
Wine list a la 2011
Dinner was good and pretty pricey, but that’s to be expected when dining at a celebrity chef steakhouse in Vegas. Two bottles of decent Cabernet, some starters, sides and desserts for 4 people came out to $1,250 (including 20% tip). Granted, I got the $135 steak sampler cooked rare and it was simple and delicious. The sampler included choice cuts of:
American “Kobe Style” From Snake River Farms 4 Oz*
U.S.D.A. PRIME Dry Aged 35 Days 4 Oz*
Australian Wagyu From Oakleigh Ranch 2 Oz*
The steaks came with a bunch of side sauces and we got creamed spinach and mac and cheese (which was amazing).
Steak sampler
After dinner, we headed to the Cosmopolitan for drinks and got a nice couch at the second level bar. We befriended the cocktail waitress and she gave us a tip for avoiding the line at Marquee, which was pretty long- we entered the pool area by dropping her cocktail waitress friend’s name and before I knew it we were walking along the pool area and headed into the club via a back entrance. When we went in, we even got free drink coupons. Score.
I suppose it always helps to have good looking female friends when clubbing in Vegas
Marquee reminded me of NY’s Marquee a la 2006. You would have never known the stock market dropped 600+ points that very day – packed club with lots of bottle service, girls dancing on tables and lots of athletes, rappers and wannabe investment bankers. It was pretty crowded inside, so we ended up hanging in the rooftop outdoor area, which was nice.
Overall, day 1 in Vegas was a lot of fun. Good hotel upgrade, good food, good drinks and scene.
As you all know, I was in Vegas last week and I stayed at the Palazzo, which is now a part of the Intercontinental Hotels Group. As an Intercontinental Royal Ambassador, I get free minibar at any IHG hotel and the one at the Palazzo was the most impressive I’ve seen.
What are your thoughts? Is it unethical to take that benefit to the limit or is it completely okay because I’m technically staying within the rules of the program?
If you were a Royal Ambassador, would you clear out the minibar?
I’ve been a top-tier member of multiple hotel chains over the years and there’s one benefit I’ve never used – the guaranteed room availability perk that is included with many of them.
Generally, I book my travel in advance and I can usually find ways to get a reasonably priced room at my preferred property. Well I found out relatively last minute that I needed to be in Toronto this evening and lo and behold – nearly every single hotel in the city was sold out.
No sweat, I’ll just use my Starwood Platinum status to force a room – nope, below you need at least 72 hours. So then I checked my Royal Ambassador benefits and they have a 24 hour forced reservation. Perfect.
However, the process was far from easy. I called reservations and they transferred me several times until I got to the Ambassador service center, who had to physically call the two Toronto Intercontinentals and speak to their managers. I was put on hold for about 10 minutes and was told the first hotel GM was busy so I’d have to follow up with him directly and she gave me a reference number.
I was put on hold again while she called the Yorkville Intercontinental and after 8 minutes I had to hang up due to an important incoming call. She ended up calling me back and leaving me a voicemail and another confirmation number asking me to call the property.
Long story short, one property wanted $500+ and another $349 and before either of them got in touch with me I found a reasonably priced Holiday Inn outside the city for $150ish, so I decided not to invoke my “forced” reservation. Since most of these benefits require a full rack rate, I don’t think I’ll be using them in the future, but I thought it would be useful to list them out for comparison purposes.
Have you ever used one of these perks? If so, what was your experience like?
Club Carlson: Concierge status:48-hour room availability guarantee at participating hotels. Guaranteed room availability is for a standard room only at standard rates, and is subject to the participating hotel’s standard guarantee and cancellation policy. Free Award Nights or Points + Cash Award Stays are not eligible for the room availability guarantee. Room availability guarantee is not available at the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel, and does not apply in cases where a nationally or internationally recognized event is occurring within fifty miles of a participating hotel (as determined by Club Carlson). Gold status: 72-hour room availability guarantee at participating hotels Fairmont: Platinum status: Guaranteed room access (last-minute reservation requests with 72-hour notice even on sold-out dates – city-center hotels only). Hilton:Diamond status:48 hours prior to arrival, except during Extraordinary Demand Date periods, when the hotel becomes overbooked on inventory by more than 10%, and for some hotels when the hotel becomes overbooked on inventory by more than 2%. These reservations are only applicable to paid stay reservations for all room typesandreward stay reservations for standard rooms. Hyatt: Diamond status: 48-hour guarantee. Guarantee valid for one standard guest room when paying the hotel’s Hyatt Daily Rate. Not valid at Hyatt Resorts, Hyatt Residence Club Resorts, or during extraordinary room demand. Intercontinental: Royal Ambassador status: 24 hour advance notice. Reservations must be made before 12:00 midday (local hotel time) 24 hours prior to intended arrival for room availability to be guaranteed. Only in exceptional circumstances where the hotel has been completely reserved by the Government and with explicit Priority Club Rewards approval, may a reservation be declined. Rate paid is Best Available. Marriott: Platinum status: 48 hours prior to arrival for paid stays. Priority Club: Platinum status: Requires 72 hours advance notice. Platinum Elite members are guaranteed one guest room for personal use for reservations made at least 72 hours prior to the date of arrival, except during special events that result in extraordinary room demand, as determined solely by the hotel. Guaranteed room availability is not valid for Reward Nights. These reservations are to be made at the hotels directly or through the Priority Club Service Center. Starwood: Platinum status: Applicable to one standard room booked by 3 p.m. local time 72+ hours before day of arrival at participating hotels. Member must pay regular RACK rate. Black-out dates apply. Not available at resorts. Room upgrade and Free Night Award redemption do not apply when this benefit is utilized. Minimum length-of-stay requirement must be met.
I go to Europe frequently, but have never been to Rome. I know, it doesn’t make much sense and I need to correct it. That’s why, when I was planning my most recent award trip to Budapest, I specifically wanted to route via Rome on my way back to Miami (by the way my Alitalia trip from Rome to Miami was actually pretty good).
The way award space ending up working out was that I could fly non-stop from Budapest to Rome on Monday evening, arriving around 8:15pm and then fly on the non-stop from Rome to Miami the following morning at 9:20am. I briefly contemplated getting an airport hotel, but what fun would that be?! I couldn’t justify splurging on a paid night since I’d barely be using the hotel room, but I did see the Intercontinental Rome, which is perfectly situated for a quick trip into the city, was available on cash & points for 30,000 Priority Club points and $60 instead of the normal 40,000 points a night. It was a no brainer and since I’ve never redeemed my points as a Royal Ambassador, I wanted to see if they’d truly deny me all Royal Ambassador benefits since they are technically only applicable on paid stays.
My flight from Budapest to Rome was actually on the Alitalia subsidiary Air One and the most unique part was that I was the only person in business class, so service was expectedly attentive. The meal was nice as well – some ham, parmigiano and other assorted goodies.
Typical intra-European business class seats. I had the bulkhead so plenty of legroom
Perfectly enjoyable meal for the 90 minute flight
We landed early at Rome Fiumicino, but I was slowed down by our parking at a remote gate and the requisite slow bussing to to the terminal. However, I ended up just hopping in a cab and 30 minutes and 40 Euros later, I was at the Intercontinental, which is situated just atop the Spanish steps on Via Sistina.
Intercontinental Rome
At check-in, I was greeted and told that since I was using points, most of my Royal Ambassador benefits, like the free mini bar, would not apply. Although he did say I could have a late check-out, which I didn’t need and that I got upgraded to an executive room on a high floor. Fair enough. The hotel was going for 250 euros a night ($335) so my 30,000 Priority Club points saved me roughly $300 – not amazing, but not bad.
The room was nice, if a little bit cramped. The main benefit was the shared huge outdoor patio with stunning views of the city. The views were even better at sunrise when I nearly tried changing my flight to spend at least one more day, though I didn’t want to wage a battle since Delta has the super annoying rule that you can no longer change award tickets within 72 hours of departure – even for Diamond medallions.
Executive room
A nice amenity, though I didn't even get a chance to use it
Decent sized bathroom
Huge terrace
Terrace view of Rome at night
After getting settled in the room, I immediately went out for a walk around town. I turned right out of the hotel and just a couple hundred feet away was the top of the Spanish Steps. I walked down them, took in the view and the vibe – lots of lovers drinking wine and enjoying the warm evening.
View from atop the steps
The steps from below
I turned left at the bottom of the steps and walked to the Trevi fountain, which was packed, but pretty gorgeous at night. I ended up ambling around and getting a bit lost and then realized I had worked up a huge appetite. My plan all along was to just walk by somewhere that struck me and hope for a great meal.
Trevi fountain at night
Sure enough, I walked by a really quaint restaurant on the Piazza dei SS Apolostoli named Abruzzi. I got a good feeling and then I saw a table of priests inside eating, so I figured it must be good if the local clergy was supporting it! Plus, there was one empty table on the outdoor patio just calling my name.
Abruzzi
I ended up ordering the bucatini with Italian ham (bacon) to start, veal scallopini with lemon sauce as my main and tiramisu for dessert. The whole meal was great, though I can’t honestly say it was earth-shattering. I’ve eaten a lot of really high quality Italian food in NYC and in my travels, so while it was way better than your typical pizza join Italian fare, it was roughly on par with many other meals I’ve had. For my return trip in November, I’m definitely going to reach out to TPG readership to direct me to really unique and memorable places to eat since you’ve never led me wrong!
Delicious bucatini (thick spaghetti)
Veal scaloppini with lemon
Splendid, creamy tiramisu and espresso. Don't tell my trainer
After walking for a couple more miles, I ended up calling it a night since I had to be up at 6:45am for my 9:20am flight. Overall, it was a good first taste of Rome, but I know there’s much more to see and do and I look forward to many returns, though I think I’m going to spend a couple days of my next trip in Florence. Stay tuned!
I can’t believe it’s April already. 2012 has been going by in a blur, so I thought I’d do a little wrap-up on all my travel for the first quarter of 2012 and discuss my personal strategy for the rest of 2012.
Mileage: 75,034 actual miles flown. Destinations visited: Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, San Francisco, London, Dallas, Seattle, Los Angeles, Kauai, Dublin, Singapore, Bangkok, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Hong Kong.
Airlines Elite Status American: Executive Platinum due to a status challenge and currently sitting at 94,000 miles (15 segments) towards 2013 requalification, thanks mostly to the double EQM promotion in January. Delta: Platinum. Currently at 43,000 MQMs (6 segments) towards 2013 qualification, mostly due to rollover from 2012 (34,000 MQMs).
My Strategy: My main concerns are AA’s bankruptcy, though I think in a worst case scenario they will merge with another airline like US Airways. I’m not too worried and I’m enjoying Executive Platinum, though I really do miss the near 100% in-flight WiFi access that I had on Delta and I don’t really like their international angled lie-flat business class product. Delta’s lie flats are miles ahead and I even find their 757 and 767 recliner style seats to be more comfortable than being curled up in an angled shell (with 3 seats across in the middle section so no seat is safe from people walking over you). #Businessclassproblems indeed, I know.
As for Delta, I dropped from Diamond to Platinum this year and rolled over a nice chunk of miles. I’m flying the airline between New York and Miami because they have the cheapest fares usually and I always have WiFi and upgrades (it’s harder on AA flying into Miami). I will definitely go back to Platinum and possibly even Diamond, though I’m nervous because if Delta devalues their program to a fixed-value program, I’ll most likely jump ship completely. Honestly, accruing and redeeming American miles has been so much better than Delta – I can actually use them for international first class on amazing carriers like Cathay Pacific (Delta blocks all first class international redemptions) and award availability for domestic tickets is good (barely existent at the low level with Delta). I need some more time to evaluate the direction Delta is headed before really making a sprint toward Platinum and Diamond.
Hotel Elite Status Starwood: Platinum with 48 nights and 20 stays towards 2013 requalification. I’ve fallen in love with SPG again ever since they started counting award stays (including my favorite cash & point redemptions) toward elite status. Their new Platinum enhancements that kicked in on March 1, and the solid Q1 double/triple points promo solidified it even more and I’m steaming forward towards hitting 75 nights so I can get suite upgrades, 4 Starpoints base per dollar and Your 24 ability to check in 24 hours a day.
Hyatt: Diamond with 6 nights/ 3 stays towards Diamond requalification. Unfortunately they don’t count award stays toward elite status and they don’t have coverage in many of the places I’ve been. I like Diamond status, but think Hyatt needs to introduce cash & points and start counting award stays towards elite status before I really commit. I did just get the Hyatt Visa (which gives me two free nights in a suite since I was a Diamond when applying) so I look forward to using them and potentially transferring Ultimate Rewards to Hyatt for future award nights. A rockstar promo could get me paying for stays again, but it’s wait and see at this point.
Intercontinental: Platinum/ Royal Ambassador. 2 stays and 3 nights. It’s a fun program with the free minibar and nice suite upgrades, but since Royal Ambassador requalification requirements are secret, I don’t even bother. My biggest gripe is that Intercontinental makes you feel like a criminal when redeeming points and doesn’t offer the same Royal Ambassador benefits as if you paid, unlike Hyatt and Starwood.
Credit Cards New: -Hyatt Visa: 2 free nights in a suite.
-Amex Business Gold: 75,000 points. Update: 50,000 Membership Rewards points when you spend $5,000 in the first three months of Card membership.
Has your loyalty shifted at all this year? I’m curious to hear how happy/unhappy United/Continental flyers are with the merger and if any other Delta flyers are concerned with potential changes to the program.
Thanks to the advice of several TPG readers, I decided to extend my stay in Siem Reap and just pass through Phnom Penh for a day and a night before continuing on to Hong Kong and the final leg of my Asia trip. I will post a video trip report about my time in the Cambodian capital later this week, but for now, I wanted to share my thoughts on my hotel: the Intercontinental Phnom Penh.
Getting There
I originally wanted to take a boat from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, which takes about the same time as a car and costs less than flying. However, the river levels were low and I was told the trip could take up to 10 hours. No thanks! Instead, I hired a driver with a nice Toyota Highlander for about $200 (it seemed like almost every car in Cambodia was a Toyota or a Lexus). We stopped for lunch along the way, but overall it was a long 5 hours in the car, and traffic in Phnomh Penh was pretty rough. I was glad when we finally got to the Intercontinental, though getting into the hotel was like entering Ft. Knox with metal detectors and huge ASEAN Summit delegations in the lobby–lots of movers and shakers there.
My King Deluxe room at the Intercontinental Phnom Penh.
As luck would have it, I made it to Phnom Penh in time to take advantage of the fact that the Intercontinental Phnom Penh was one of Priority Club’s PointBreak properties for January-March, so at the last minute I was able to use 5,000 points (which I equate to about $30 in value) instead of either the usual 25,000 a free night at this property usually requires, or paying the $180 nightly rate a King Deluxe room would have cost. Hat tip to TPG reader Sean who reminded me that it was on the PointBreaks list in my Cambodia tips post!
I wouldn’t normally encourage transferring Amex or Chase points to Priority Club, but in the case that a PointBreak hotel works for your needs, it can make a lot of sense. In this case, my Priority Club points ended up being worth 3.6 cents each. Even though I’m a Royal Ambassador, Intercontinental doesn’t include all the normal benefits on award stays, but I was upgraded to a Club Room (no suites were available), and given access to the club lounge, where there was free internet, and decent spreads of breakfast in the morning, and evening snacks and drinks.I also got a silver elephant welcome amenity and a fruit tray, so I thought that the redemption was a great value considering I only spent 5,000 points.
The club lounge at the Intercontinental Phnom Penh.
The room was perfectly fine–nothing too special–but it was spacious and clean, the fabrics were colorful, it had a king bed, a little sitting area with a loveseat and coffee table, a work desk, cable TV (though a chunky old one) and wired internet for a fee. The all-tile bathroom was nice and bright with a walk-in shower and separate tub, and a dark granite single vanity.
Lunch at La Residence, recommended by the IC Phnom Penh concierge.
One of the other reason’s I’d chosen this hotel is because of its central location–it’s just about 10 minutes to the infamous S21 prison, which is now a genocide museum, and about 30 to the Killing Fields, which were the two things I wanted to see when I was there. The hotel desk arranged a driver for the half-day of touring and a drop off at airport for $30. I told the concierge I also wanted to eat in a good restaurant for lunch, and he made reservations at Le Residence which was an absolutely delicious French/Cambodian high-end fusion restaurant. I’d highly recommend it.
Prawn parmesan risotto at La Residence.
Overall, I thought it was a good experience, especially for my point redemption, and I’d recommend it for anyone popping through Phnom Penh.
For our second post in the Travel Tuesday Top 10 List series, we’ve rounded up a list of the top 10 benefits conferred upon members of various hotel loyalty programs, including several available not just to top-tier members but to mid- and intro-level members as well.
As always, feel free to share your thoughts and whether I missed any good ones (also chime in with future lists you’d like to see us do).
Our #1 perk: free WiFi.
1. Free WiFi: Egregiously priced WiFi will hopefully be a thing of the past one day, but until then it’s important to get it for free or else your wallet will take a major hit. More and more hotels have gotten wise lately that offering free WiFi is not only a great way to build loyalty, but also to keep their elite members happy. While many chains offer it to elite members Fairmont and Wyndham win in our book for giving it to all loyalty program members, as do Omni and Kimpton.
2. Suite Upgrades: Many chains offer room upgrades to higher floors and club levels, but Hyatt goes a step beyond and offers Diamond members 4suiteupgrade certificates a year. These certificates are good on stays of up to 7 nights and they are confirmed at time of booking. The only downside is that they aren’t eligible on award stays.
A suite at the Park Hyatt Paris Vendome
3. Guaranteed Room Availability: There’s nothing more frustrating than needing a hotel room when a city is completely sold out. Good thing many chains will force rooms to become available for elite members, though you usually have to give at least 2-3 days notice. However Intercontinental Royal Ambassador status requires just 24 hour advance notice. Reservations must be made before 12:00 midday (local hotel time) 24 hours prior to intended arrival for room availability to be guaranteed. Only in exceptional circumstances where the hotel has been completely reserved by the government and with explicit Priority Club Rewards approval, may a reservation be declined.Rate paid is Best Available.
4. Bonus Points On Spending: Lots of hotels incentivize elite members to spend more money on rooms and experiences by offering bonus points per dollar spent, as well as giving them bonus points bundles as a sort of welcome amenity. Starwood is the clear winner here since even regular SPG members get 2 points per dollar spent (that’s a 100% bonus!), Gold status members earn 3 points per dollar spent, and Platinum members who stay 75 nights or more get 4 points per dollar spent. Tag that along with the Starwood Amex which gives an addition 2 points per dollar and you’ll be swimming in Starwood points!
Elite members earn even more points on dollars spent at hotels.
5. Early/Flexible Room Check-In: It’s always a drag to wait until 3 or 4pm to check into a hotel room, so most chains try to accommodate their elite members for early check-in. However, Intercontinental offers 8:00 am guaranteed check-in and Starwood offers YOUR24, which allows you to check-in at any time during the day. The only catch is, you have to check out 24 hours later. For example, if your flight arrives at 1:00 am, you can confirm that arrival time and check out at 1:00 am the next day, as long as you confirm it within 48 hours. The real benefit is if you check in anytime 9am and after, you still get 4pm late checkout.
6. Award Stays Counting Towards Elite Status: Maintaining elite status can be challenging- especially if you aren’t a business travel road warrior. However, some chains make it easier by counting award nights towards elite status. Starwood recently made this change and they even included their Cash & Points option, which is one of my all-time favorite hotel point redemption options.
7. Rollover Elite Nights: Achieving and maintaining elite status from scratch every year can be a pain, but Marriott and Club Carlson let members rollover nights earned past elite levels.
Not every hotel breakfast is a continental buffet.
8. Free Breakfast: Though most of the major programs at least give their elite members continental breakfast, Hyatt wins this category handily because Diamond members are given a full free breakfast in the hotel restaurant- and some properties even allow room service. No cutting corners here.
9. Lifetime Status: Many airlines offer lifetime elite status to members who fly a certain amount of miles (usually 1 million, 2 million and so on). Hotels have introduced this benefit as well for their members who have shown commitment over a number of years and stays. Starwood recently introduced lifetime elite status as part of it new benefits package. Gold status requires 5 years of elite status (at any level) and 250 nights, while lifetime Platinum status requires 500 nights and 10 years of Platinum status (not consecutive).
Intercontinental Royal Ambassadors get unlimited free minibar beverages.
10. Free Minibar: This isn’t a huge one, but everyone who’s gotten in late to a hotel room and wanted a soda or bottle of water has had to think twice before taking a $10 pint-size bottle out of the minibar. This little benefit for Priority Club Royal Ambassadors means you can drink as much as you like (responsibly!) for free.
Here’s a recap of the interesting points and miles news from this week:
New Delta Medallion Qualification Thresholds.
Delta Announces Revenue Requirement for EliteStatus: As a recap from earlier this week, starting in 2014, US-based Delta Medallion members will need to either spend $25,000 dollars a year on a Delta American Express credit card, or spend a certain amount of money in addition to accruing regular Medallion Qualifying Miles or Segments to qualify for elite status. For Silver Medallion, members must reach $2,500 in spending; Gold Medallions must reach $5,000; Platinum Medallions will need to spend $7,500; and Diamond Medallions will need to spend $12,500 per year on airfares to retain their status. “These changes are a result of considerable research that we’ve conducted including conversations with hundreds of customers, many of whom expressed a desire to see the Medallion program truly target our best customers,” said Jeff Robertson, vice president – SkyMiles. “Adding a revenue component to the SkyMiles Medallion program ensures that our most valued customers receive the best program benefits and a more exclusive experience.” Before I make a final judgement about this new set up, I’ll have to see how the SkyMiles redemptions will change since if the airline basically requires its elites to accrue miles via credit card spending and then in turn devalue those earned redeemable miles, I think this whole plan will backfire. Only time will tell.
United has teamed up with BagsVIP to offer a new baggage delivery service.
United Airlines Launches New Baggage Delivery Service: United now offers baggage delivery by BagsVIP for flights departing from and arriving at select U.S. airports, meaning passengers can skip baggage claim all together and head to their actual destination faster. This service provides passengers with the convenient option of having their baggage delivered right to their home, hotel or office. Once you land, baggage will arrive within four hours after the flight’s arrival if your destination is located within 40 miles from the airport. If your destination is located between 41 and 100 miles from the airport, you’ll receive your baggage within six hours after the arrival of your flight. This baggage delivery service is available exclusively on flights operated by United and United Express and the charge is per reservation, for up to eight bags. Baggage delivery is available at Boston Logan International, Chicago O’Hare, Honolulu International, Houston Intercontinental, Los Angeles International and Orlando. The price for one bag is $29.95; two bags is 39.95; three-eight bags will run 49.95. These fees are in addition to any regular checked baggage fees United charges.
Earn Bonus TrueBlue points with JetBlue when flying from Boston.
Bonus TrueBlue Points for Boston Flyers: Now through February 13, 2013, JetBlue fliers may earn 3,000 TrueBlue points when they register and book three flights between Boston and the following cities: New York City, NY (JFK or EWR), Buffalo, NY (BUF), Washington DC (DCA or IAD), Baltimore, MD (BWI), Chicago, IL (ORD), Charlotte, NC (CLT), Raleigh, NC (RDU), Pittsburg, PA (PIT), and Richmond, VA (RIC). Customers may also earn an additional 6,000 points when they take three more eligible flights to/from Boston, for a total of 9,000 points. To make it even easier to earn bonus miles, for this promotion, a roundtrip flight will count as two flights! Just register for this bonus offer and then book your eligible flights on jetblue.com with your TrueBlue number. Allow 4-6 weeks after the promotion period ends on 2/13/13 for points to be posted to your TrueBlue account. Hat Tip: Deals We Like
Earn bonus miles with Air Canada.
Earn Bonus Air Canada Miles with Partners: Now though April 14,2013, when Aeroplan members fly with Air Canada or any other Star Alliance member airline and earn miles with other Aeroplan Travel Partners, they will receive up to 2,500 bonus miles in addition to the normal miles earned through their partners. To be eligible, Air Canada Aeroplan members must register for this promotion. 1,000 bonus miles will be issued upon completion of one flight transaction and one eligible non-flight travel partner transaction, and an additional 1,500 bonus miles will be issued after completion of a 2nd eligible non-flight travel partner transaction, for a total of 2,500 bonus miles. Take a look at all the current partner bonuses Air Canada is currently offering with hotel and car rental partners.
Delta Extends Option to Buy MQM’s through January 31st: Delta extended their Buy MQM promotion through January 31, 2013. You may buy up to 10,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) that will post to your 2012 MQM balance and apply toward 2013 Medallion status (2012 qualification). These miles should post to your SkyMiles account within 24 hours. The prices for the MQMs are: 2,500 MQMs for $395; 5,000 MQMs for $595; 7,500 MQMs for $795; or 10,000 MQMs for $995. MQMs purchased through this Buy MQMs offer are non-refundable and the MQMs are not redeemable and only count towards Medallion status and Million Miler status. A much cheaper way to get MQMs is to get the Delta Reserve card which gives 10,000 MQMs with your first purchase, 15,000 MQMs after $30,000 in spend, and another 15,000 MQMs after $60,000 in spend.
A few weeks ago, I flew American Airlines’ new 777-300ER first class from New York JFK to Sao Paulo, Brazil to check out the city for a few days and attend the amfAR Inspiration Gala. Thanks to a lot of reader suggestions, I was considering staying at the Grand Hyatt Sao Paulo and using my final Free Suite Night Award, but I found the rates at the Intercontinental Sao Paulo to be much lower and decided to stay there instead.
Exterior of the Intercontinental Sao Paulo – nothing to write home about.
My entire stay was going to be for four days, so originally I booked the first two nights using my Priority Club points at 35,000 points per night and then I paid a rate of $280 per night for the second pair of nights, so I was getting a rate of 0.8 cents per point – just above the 0.7 cents per point you can buy them for (see this post #7 for details).
Reservation booked using 70,000 Priority Club points for 2 nights.
The hotel has 195 rooms and 38 suites. My points reservations was for a Superior Room, while my paid reservation was for a Superior King Plus Room one category up that goes for about $20 more per night, so I made sure to request staying in the same room for the entire length of my stay.
My paid reservation for $280 a night.
A few days prior to my stay, I was contacted by a representative from Guest Relations who recognized that I am a Platinum Ambassador and asked what time I would be arriving and if I would like to be upgraded to a Club Floor Deluxe room for $120.00 more for the 4 nights of my stay, which I accepted. Here’s what his email said:
“It was noticed that you quoted a regular superior room. It is possible to upgrade to a Club Floor Deluxe room for additional USD 120,00 and include breakfast, happy hour with drinks & finger food and besides it, get a totally renovated room. This would be accumulated with your Ambassador Upgrade, so in case you book the Club Floor Deluxe, you will get then two room Upgrades. Let us know, and we can arrange that for you!”
Well, paying $30 per day for Club Lounge access and all those services seemed worth it to me, especially because a Deluxe King Club room goes for $120 a night more than the room I had booked, so I was getting it for a quarter of the premium. Plus, breakfast alone can cost more than $30 a day, so considering I’d get it included every day, and snacks, etc., it seemed like a good deal to me.
Canapes in the club lounge.
When I accepted the upgrade I emailed to confirm that the $120 would be the total extra cost and received confirmation, so I booked it. However, when checking out I noticed that they had charged me $120 per day – or $480 total! I brought it up at the desk but was in a hurry to catch my plane back to the States, so I had them make a note and I followed up with the hotel upon my return. I was again quoted $120 per night by the reservation agent I was emailing with but I escalated it to a supervisor and within two days, they had reviewed my email correspondence and room bill and determined that the misunderstanding was not my fault (I had been very clear about the rate wording) so I ended up being charged just the $120 I had expected.
It was clearly a mistake on their part, but I applaud the hotel for resolving it so quickly and fairly – and I would caution people who plan to stay at this hotel to check and double check the rate details before upgrading like I did in case this happens to you.
King bed with small sitting area
I arrived on Wednesday morning around 10:00 am Brazil time and was able to go right up to my Deluxe King Club room on the 20th floor. All Deluxe rooms at the Intercontinental Sao Paulo are about 350 square feet and newly renovated.
Opposite the small sitting area is a work space with mirrored wall.
Although the furniture did feel fresh, it was all still a little drab for my taste – all in taupes and grays with just a spot of color in the bed runner and the workdesk chair. I liked that it had a little sitting area with two armchairs and the work area was slightly separated from the main bedroom area by a sort of half-wall, on the other side of which sat the wall-mounted LCD television. My room overlooked the street, but wasn’t too loud because of the floor it was on.
The bathroom vanity.
The bathroom was decent – fairly spacious with pink marble fixtures, though just one sink.
The bathroom was stocked with L’Occitane amenities.
It was stocked with the usual L’Occitaine bath products, which I like, because they’re sort of herbaceous and clean smelling rather than too soapy or floral.
Closet space and shelves with mini bar.
The closet was in the entry foyer along with the small minibar – alas no raiding the minibar for me anymore now that I’m not a Royal Ambassador!
View of the city from my room on the 20th floor.
As I mentioned, my room had city/street views rather than overlooking the pool, but that was fine by me since it’s my first time here and I am excited to see the city in all its glory and chaos.
The pool was small, but at least there was one.
Other than the room amenities, the hotel has a business center, a fitness center that was renovated in 2010 (I need to work off the sundae I had in American Airlines first class!) and an outdoor pool. It also has a nice lobby bar called the Godet Bar near reception and a French-Brazilian fusion restaurant called Tarsila.
Here’s a recap of the interesting points and miles news from this week:
Earn double miles on flights to Brazil on US Airways.
Double Miles When Flying US Airways to Brazil: US Airways recently launched nonstop service between Charlotte and Sao Paulo, Brazil, and is offering all customers double miles when flying to Brazil this summer. To partake in the offer, you must register prior to travel. Once you register, you must then book and fly by July 31, 2013. Double miles will be awarded for US Airways operated flights to/from Sao Paulo (GRU) or Rio de Janeiro (GIG). Bonus miles should post one-two weeks after travel is complete, but do not count toward Preferred status.
30% Bonus On Shared American AAdvantage Miles: Now through July 31, 2013, American Airlines is offering up to 30% bonus when sharing miles. You’ll receive a 20% bonus when sharing 5,000-25,000 miles; a 25% bonus for sharing 26,000-40,000 miles or a 30% bonus if you share 41,000-50,000 miles. To share miles there is a fee of $20 per 1,000 shared miles for the first 5,000 miles, then $10 per 1,000 shared miles for anything on top of that. If you need to top off an account, this is one way to get some bonus miles, but I wouldn’t recommend sharing miles just to do it since those miles will be costing you over 3 cents each. There is a maximum of 100,000 shared miles per year.
Delta’s Tap the App Giveaway.
Delta’s Tap The App Giveaway: Now through July 31, 2013, Delta is running a promotion where they are giving away hundreds of prizes through their iPad App. To be eligible, simply download the Fly Delta App for iPad, and you’ll automatically be entered each day you log in with your SkyMiles account during their Tap the App Giveaway. 25 lucky winners will get a 1 year WiFi membership; 100 winners will get a Gogo all-day pass; and 250 winners will receive a $50 iTunes gift card. Good luck and maybe some TPG readers can win some of these prizes!
Earn Up To Two Complimentary Nights With Ritz-Carlton: From July 1 – October 31, you can earn one complimentary night at a Tier 1-3 property for every two paid stays, limited to a maximum of 2 complimentary nights. If you are already a member of Ritz-Carlton Rewards you can register for this promotion here by simply entering your membership number. If you’re not yet a member, you can enroll by following this link and by doing so you will be automatically registered for this promotion. The free night certificates will be deposited into your account 3-5 business days after your second qualifying stay. They can only be used at Tier 1-3 hotels and will expire after one year. To qualify, your stay must consist of consecutive nights and only one room per hotel per stay will be counted.
You’ll now be able to earn Hyatt points and elite status at MGM Resorts like the Bellagio.
Hyatt and MGM Resorts Las Vegas Begin Partnership In June:Earlier this week, Hyatt announced that starting on June 20, 2013, it will be entering a partnership with MGM Resorts, which have 12 resorts in Las Vegas with a total of 40,000 hotel rooms at properties like the MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and Bellagio. Hyatt Gold Passport members and those who are members of MGM’s M life program will be able to earn both Hyatt Gold Passport points and M life Tier Credits on eligible rates and spending for stays beginning on or after that date. Gold Passport members will be eligible to opt in to reciprocal tier statusin MGM Resorts’ M life and enjoy elite benefits at participating properties. Depending on the matched tier level, members may receive special rates, upgrades, pre-sale access to concerts and events, members-only events and access to M life Moments exclusive experiences.
Earn Bonus Points with InterContinental: InterContinental has some special hotel offers for Ambassador members. They are offering 2,000 bonus points when staying at the Presidente Cancun Resort, 4,000 bonus points at the the InterContinental Century City property in Los Angeles, and 4,000 obonus points at the InterContinental London Park Lane if London is more your bag. While the email I received was vague whether these bonuses are just for Ambassador members, you can try to book these offers through the links above and if you see the offer appear on the rates page, you should be all set.
Earn a 25% bonus on purchased Rapid Rewards Points.
25% Bonus on Purchased Rapid Rewards Points: Now through July 16, 2013, Southwest is offering a 25% bonus on purchased Rapid Rewards Points. As an example, you can buy 10,000 points and will receive 2,500 bonus points or buy 60,000 points and receive 15,000 bonus points. Points can be purchased in 500-mile increments starting with 1,000 points. Normally, Southwest charged 2.75 cents per mile, but with this bonus it brings the cost down to 2.2 cents. However, since Southwest has a fixed redemption rate at 1.67 cents for their Wanna Get Away fares, it’s hardly worth it unless you just need a few extra miles to top off for an award.
50% Off Flight Upgrades on Cathay Pacific: Cathay Pacific is offering AsiaMiles members 50% off Business Class upgrade redemptions on Cathay Pacific and Dragonair routes when flying on their regional business class. This is for flights booked now through June 15, 2013 for travel from June 1, to August 31, 2013. To participate in this deal, you must complete and submit Cathay’s Airline Award Request form online and then someone from that department will contact you to process your upgrade request. This offer is only applicable to flights on the following routes: Hong Kong to/from Mainland China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Nepal, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, UAE and Saudi Arabia; and Korea to/from Taiwan, Japan to/from Taiwan, India to/from Thailand, Singapore to/from Thailand, Pakistan to/from Thailand, and Sri Lanka to/from Singapore or Thailand.
A new year means it’s time to check out some of the newest hotels around the world, including many where you can earn and redeem your hotel points. Some are open already, some have opening dates set for the coming months, and a few will hopefully open their doors by the end of the year if all goes as planned. I hope to visit at least some of them (and already visited one!) in 2014 and beyond.
The W Verbier in Switzerland.
1. W Verbier, Switzerland
Cool setting, cool hotel. This newly opened hotel is all about location, location, location. Since its doors opened on December 1, guests have been able to explore this new Starwood resort’s 412 kilometers of ski runs and free-run terrain. Right outside the hotel is the main gondola which ferries guests out to the open ski slopes. Each of the 130 rooms, suites and residences offers the signature W beds, fireplaces and balconies, and many have breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. There are six different restaurant options on-property, including one by Michelin-starred Spanish chef Sergi Arola. If skiing isn’t your cup of tea, relax in the only AWAY Spa in Switzerland, fight fatigue in the FIT Fitness Center, or take a dip in the WET Pool. While I am not a huge skier, this hotel seems pretty sexy and glamorous, and like many W’s, it looks like there’s a thriving social scene within the hotel, all of which promise to make a stay here fun. The nearest airport is Geneva Airport, which is about a two-hour drive from Verbier. If you’d prefer to arrive in serious style, Helialps offers helicopter transfers from a variety of locations. Room rates start at 800 CHF ($893) or 30,000 Starpoints for an award night (Note: Starwood offers the 5th night free on award stays).
Coming soon: the Peninsula Paris.
2. Peninsula Paris, France
Though it is approximately two years behind schedule, I am still anxiously awaiting the opening of this Parisian luxury property, which is now scheduled for August 1, 2014. Apparently they finally picked this date in hopes of being ready to accommodate people for Paris Fashion Week which will be in September. The hotel location not far from the Champs-Elysées in the former Hotel Majestic, built in 1906, and is just the latest grand palace hotel to open under the auspices of an Asian-based hotel group in the City of Lights following the lead of the Shangri-La, Raffles Le Royal Monceau, and Mandarin Oriental. In addition to the Peninsula’s planned 200 rooms, 43 of which will be suites suites, (some with private access to the roof), the hotel will have an 18,000-square-foot spa below ground, a swimming pool and a rooftop terrace restaurant with a view promises to be spectacular. This new establishment is also rumored to have an all-day dining restaurant in the lobby, a Chinese restaurant, a cigar lounge, and a rooftop bar and terrace. Though Peninsula does not have its own loyalty program, my hope is that it will participate in Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts and/or Visa Signature Hotels and cardholders of certain credit cards will get special perks.
The infinity pool at the future Shangri-La London.
3. Shangri-La The Shard, London, England.
Another behind-schedule yet much-anticipated hotel, Shangri-La’s new London property was supposed to be open in 2012 in time to welcome guests for the Summer Olympics in 2012. Lo and behold, here we are in 2014 and still no confirmed opening date. Word on the street is that there were problems with builders…who knows…but more importantly, let’s hope it will open soon, if only for the spectacular views it will afford.. The location is just across the Thames from the City of London, on 34th to 52nd floors of Renzo Piano’s already-iconic, angular glass skyscraper. This will be Shangri-La’s first hotel in the UK and will have 202 guestrooms including 17 suites (all suites will come with personal butler), all with floor-to-ceiling windows, Shangri-La’s brand-standard free high-speed WiFi, and Bulgari bath amenities. The hotel will have three Asian dining options: Gong, Ting, and Lang. There will also be a large infinity pool on the 52nd floor, and a gym available to guests. Hopefully this hotel will be opening at some point in 2014!
A sunset view from the Andaz Papagayo in Costa Rica.
4. Andaz Papagayo, Costa Rica
Hyatt opened the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo in Costa Rica on December 20, 2013, and I already had a chance to stay here over New Year’s and had a great experience. It’s the brand’s first property in Central America, and sits on a 28-acre plot of land adjacent to Marina Papagayo, and features 153 guestrooms (of which 21 are luxury suites), 8,200 square feet of meeting space, and a variety of amenities including three themed restaurants, a marina bar, ocean activities, and an 11,000 square foot spa and fitness center which also has outdoor training sessions. The decor of the 153 guestrooms is meant to blend contemporary design with touches of local character including woven textiles, solid wood fixtures, and carved artifacts, all while featuring Andaz’s signature modern conveniences such as complimentary WiFi, a 40-inch flatscreen TV, cable and satellite TV channels, complimentary non-alcoholic minibar and floor-to-ceiling windows. The international airport in Liberia (LIR) is a 20-minute drive away, and there are frequent connections to San Jose (the country’s capital) and the US. Room rates start at $600 per night in January, and 25,000 Hyatt Gold Passport points are required for an award night.
The Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam awaits you in 2014.
5. Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, Netherlands Perched canal side right in the city center, the luxurious Waldorf Astoria is set to open August 20, 2014, and will have 93 guestrooms, lofts and suites, each featuring a 40-inch flatscreen TV, free WiFi and a Nespresso coffee machine. This Hilton-family property will offer all the amenities a luxury traveler expects these days: indoor pool, fitness center and spa offering a variety of facial and body treatments. There is also a courtyard in which you can relax with a cocktail. Dining options will be Peacock Alley, The Restaurant or the Vault Bar. Only valet parking will be available and it’s priced at jaw-dropping 65 euros ($88) per day, so take a bicycle instead! One of my favorite properties in Amsterdam is the Pulitzer, but I may have to branch out and stay at this hotel because it looks like it will be pretty amazing. Rates in late August start at 425 euros ($587) per night or 70,000 HHonors points.
The Park Hyatt in New York City should open in mid 2014.
6. Park Hyatt New York, New York
It’s about time New York had a Park Hyatt again! This would-be world-class hotel is slated to open in mid-2014. First off, the 90-story glass tower that will house the hotel was designed by world-renowned, Pritzker Prize-winning architect Christian de Portzamparc, and the interior was design by the firm Yabu Pushelberg. They say the 210 guestrooms will be among the largest in New York City, starting at 475 square feet. Not too many details are available, but it’s been alluded that the hotel will boast a top New York culinary scene, including a tea lounge and a bar featuring trained mixologists, and 5,000 square feet of retail shopping. There will also be a fitness center, 20-meter indoor swimming pool and luxury spa. I spend a lot of time in New York, and I am definitely going to have to stay in this new property for a night to check things out once it opens.
Escape the winter blues in Miami, as this hotel is open in February of 2014.
7. Hilton Cabana Miami Beach, Florida My current hometown is also expecting a few fun hotel openings this year, including this brand-new, upscale Hilton property just a short 119 feet from the beach, just north of the trendy South Beach area. All 231 guestrooms and suites have a 42-inch flat-screen TV, MP3 player, laptop-size safe, large work desk with ergonomic chair, windows that open, and ocean or pool view. Many rooms and suites have balconies. Amenities include two outdoor pools & beach-side service with children’s activities. The fitness center and business center are open 24 hours a day. The hotel will have one main restaurant, Brasserie L’echon, that will feature traditional French cuisine. This hotel is an HHonors Category 9 property and is presently accepting reservations for March 19, 2014 and on. Rates for March start at $379 per night or 41,719 HHonors points.
This serene Ritz Carlton property opens in February 2014.
8. Ritz-Carlton Kyoto, Japan I’ve only been to Japan once and only in Tokyo, but I’d really like to go back. That’s why I was interested to learn that the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto is supposed to open in February and will sit on the banks of the Kamogawa River. The 134 guest rooms measure 50 square meters on average, the largest in Kyoto, and have Nespresso coffee machines, flatscreen TVs, blu-ray DVD players, 600 thread count bed linens, complimentary WiFi, and Purple Water luxury bath amenities by Asprey of London. The hotel also features a babysitting service, ESPA fitness center and spa and Italian and Japanese restaurants. February rates start at 53,000 JPY ($505) per night or 60,000 Ritz-Carlton Reward points.
The London Edition opened in 2013.
9. The London Edition, UK The EDITION hotels are a boutique brand created by Ian Schrager in a partnership with Marriott International (and yes, you can use Marriott Rewards points!). This has been one of the most buzzed-about openings of the year, and is just the second in the Edition brand (Miami is set to open later this year). Located in central London’s Fitzrovia, The London EDITION was formerly the Berners Hotel, just opened late in 2013. The hotel features 173 unique rooms and suites, including lofts, some with terraces. All rooms include iPod docking stations, free WiFi, bathrooms with rainfall showers, and Le Labo bathroom amenities. There is also a 24-hour fitness center, and the Berner’s Tavern with Michelin-star British chef Jason Atherton at the stoves, as well as the Punch Room restaurant. I’ve got some BA Companion Tickets to use, so most likely I’ll be passing through London, and this hotel is on my list to visit in 2014 for sure. Room rates start at 270 GBP ($445) or 45,000 Marriott Reward points for an award night in mid-January.
The Ace Los Angeles is located in the former United Artists Building and Theater.
10. The Ace Hotel Los Angeles, California This new downtown LA hotel is the latest from this hipster mini-chain and is located in the historic former United Artists building, which includes a theater that will soon morph into the Theater at Ace Hotel Downtown LA. Their rooms come in five categories: small, medium, large, loft, and terrace suite, all offer a flat screen TV, Revo Radio, WiFi, Rudy’s toiletries and Pearl+ soaps. Small rooms start at $189 per night for dates in mid-January.
The Marriott Dongdaemum Square is scheduled to open in February 2014.
11. JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square, Seoul, South Korea
This new hotel in central Seoul will open in February of 2014. The hotel will have 170 guest rooms, including 18 Executive View Rooms, 14 Suites and 1 Presidential Suite. Foodies will be happy to hear the hotel will offers some great dining selections: BLT Steak, Tavolo 24, The Lounge, The Griffin Bar and Seoul Baking Company. For a little R & R, the hotel will have a Club JW Fitness Center, The JW Spa and 25-meter indoor lap pool. Seoul is a very special city, and I hope to get back there soon and try out this new hotel, as Dongdaemum Square is a great spot to be in, with lots of shopping and access to different parts of the city. You can reserve rooms now at this Category 6 property for dates starting in February and theystart at 280,500 KRW ($265) per night or 30,000 Marriott Award points for an award night.
You’ve probably noticed it before, an advert on a hotel website that reads something like: “lowest rates, guaranteed.” Maybe that touted guarantee made you more comfortable with the room you just booked, maybe it convinced you not to devote any more time to shopping around, or maybe you ignored it entirely. In any case, best rate guarantees are ubiquitous in the hotel industry, and understanding how (and when) they work can help you maximize your travel.
Hotels would love for you to book exclusively on their websites. Should you?
Best rate guarantees are offered by almost all major hotel brands. These guarantees became fashionable as a way for hotels to mitigate the loss of business to third party sites, which take a sizable cut of each booking (incidentally, most of the third party sites now also offer their own best rate guarantees).
The basic idea is that if you book a room and subsequently find that same room listed elsewhere for less, the hotel will drop its price even lower to beat the competing rate (or will match rates and compensate you in another way). Each hotel has its own guarantee and corresponding litany of rules. The table below summarizes the best rate guarantees for most major hotel brands. Use the provided links to view complete terms and conditions on each hotel’s website.
Within 1 business day of booking and at least 2 business days prior to arrival
Clearly some guarantees are more generous than others. IHG and Choice Hotels will simply make your first night free, even if you’re only staying one night. I’m no mathematician, but that seems like a substantial discount. Club Carlson and Marriott offer to beat competing rates by 25%, so if the competing rate is already 5% lower, the guarantee could cut your cost by almost a third. Plus, you’d earn points and credit towards elite status, which normally aren’t offered for stays booked on third party sites.
Best Western offers a $100 gift card, which in many cases could actually exceed the room rate. Hilton also offers cash in the form of a $50 American Express cheque (in the USA, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Canada) or $50 off your bill elsewhere. Hyatt offers a respectable 20% off the competing rate. The Wyndham and Accor guarantees seem meager in comparison. Starwood also offers only 10%, though they allow you to choose 2,000 Starwood points instead. Starwood points are worth about 2.1 cents apiece, so the guarantee would get you about $42 worth of value. That’s almost certain to be worth more than 10% off for a one night stay, and often for a two night stay.
Find a better rate and your first night at a Choice hotel is free.
At face value, best rate guarantees are great for both hotels and customers: the hotel protects its revenue, and customers get the best price available while scoring loyalty program benefits. It seems like a win-win scenario. In practice, however, best rate guarantees are often a win-lose proposition, and I bet you can guess who usually does the losing.
Best rate guarantees come with a deluge of fine print (with the exception of Kimpton, which adds just a single paragraph with the cryptic postscript “further restrictions may apply”). Most stipulate that the competing price must be publicly available, immediately bookable, and must pertain to an equivalent service (i.e., same room type, number of guests, view). The original booking must be made on the hotel’s own website.
Guarantees don’t apply to rates found on opaque or auction sites where the hotel brand is unknown until booking is complete (such as the name your own price feature on Priceline), nor do they apply to package rates that include airfare, entertainment, meals, or other amenities. Group rates, discounted rates (like AAA), and corporate rates are ineligible. Finally, the lower price must be some amount (generally $1 or 1%) less than the rate on the hotel website. Each hotel may have further rules unique to the brand, but these are the most common.
Rate guarantees: heaven for terms & conditions enthusiasts. Image Courtesy of Shutterstock
Beyond the fairly reasonable restrictions mentioned above, hotels are notoriously finicky about honoring best rate guarantees. Some seem to go so far to not honor guarantees that the amount of effort put into denying them dwarfs what they would have to cough up by honoring them.
I have heard anecdotes of claims being swatted down for purely asinine reasons; my favorite is a Best Western claim that was initially denied because the hotel’s website formatted dates as month/day/year, while the lower price was formatted as day/month/year. This trivial disparity was evidently enough for Best Western, who rejected the claim and stonewalled appeals from the customer until a travel writer stepped in and the threat of negative publicity made them reconsider.
The most prevalent crusher of claims is the service window between when a claim is made and when the hotel responds. Most hotels advertise what seems like a fairly prompt 24-48 hour response time. However, in the world of online booking sites, even a few hours delay can spell the death of the lower, competing rate. Remember, it’s not the rate that you see that matters, but the rate a hotel representative sees when he or she attempts to substantiate your claim. Thus, a majority of claims are denied simply because the price changes before the hotel can process it. Kimpton is once again the exception, as they process claims in real time via a toll-free number rather than use an online form.
The most important guarantee is a great vacation! Image courtesy of Shutterstock.
This is all to say that while best rate guarantees offer value, your case should be airtight when you file a claim. A few screenshots might help your cause, and having any kind of elite status can’t hurt. If you can’t get traction on a claim, try politely engaging the hotel’s social media team on Facebook, Twitter, or another platform, as they may be able to offer an acceptable solution outside of the guarantee. In the long run, though, your time and sanity is worth more than whatever you’d save by pushing the issue, so be prepared to let a best rate guarantee claim go if you meet with stout resistance.
Have you had experience with Best Rate Guarantees? Please share your successes and horror stories in the comments below.
In the United States, the most patriotic night of the year is also the most dazzling, with Fourth of July fireworks lighting up the skies from sea to shining sea. Many cities stage awe-inspiring displays of bombs bursting in air, attracting huge crowds in parks and public spaces, as well as on roads and public transportation. To leave the hordes behind this Fourth of July, head to the highest floors of theseAmericanhotels to earn and use your points as you gaze in wonder at the rockets’ red glare.
The Nation’s Capital has one of the country’s best fireworks displays over the National Mall
WASHINGTON, DC
For a relatively hassle-free view of the fireworks on the National Mall, head several blocks away and take the elevator to the P.O.V. Roof Terrace at the W Washington DC. You can’t make reservations here, so in order to snag a red leather couch or spot out near the railing, it’s best to arrive well ahead of the 9:10pm fireworks kick-off and linger over a spherical ice-cube cocktail. Factoring in downtown D.C.’s usual Fourth of July crush of humanity on the Mall and Metro, be aware that available rooms at this Category 5 Starwood property start at $369 or 12,000 Starpoints per night; even SPG members who don’t stay here, though, can use the Starwood Amex (either personal or business) to earn 5 Starpoints for every dollar spent on their bar tab.
For a potentially less expensive night with a wide-reaching view of the festivities from across the Potomac River, consider booking at the DoubleTree by Hilton Washington, DC – Crystal City. The Friday-night cover charge is $10 per person at the Skydome Lounge, theDC area’s only revolving top-floor restaurant, and available rooms (many of which feature river and Mall views) at this Category 5 property start at $129 or 37,500 HHonors points a night. HHonors members earn 10 points per dollar spent on rooms and room charges (plus a special summer double-points promotion through July 31), but those with Hilton credit cards (like the Citi Hilton Reserve) can earn an additional 6-12 points per dollar on all on-property charges, including their tab at Skydome Lounge.
View from the Sky Room, on the 33rd and 34th floors of Marriott’s Fairfield Inn & Suites Times Square
NEW YORK
Editor’s Note: The below information would be correct if only the location of the New York City fireworks hadn’t been moved to the vicinity of the Brooklyn Bridge for 2014. To actually see NYC fireworks this year, the restaurant or upper floors of the Andaz Wall Street would be a good option, as would the Brooklyn Terrace of the Sheraton Brooklyn, which will be open to the public on the Fourth, without a cover charge, from 6pm-2am
To catch an incomparable view of both Macy’s annual fireworks show and the sparkly light show on the Empire State Building, take the elevator to the Sky Room at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Times Square; set on the hotel’s 33rd and 34th floors, this is the highest rooftop bar in the Big Apple. From 6-10pm, Fourth of July festivities at this lofty hotspot cost $100 per person and include and open bar, full BBQ spread and live DJs.During the holiday weekend, available rooms at this Category 8 property start at $260 or 40,000 Marriott Rewards points a night, but as the Sky Room isn’t directly affiliated with the Marriott, a spend here won’t earn you any Rewards points.
Near Columbus Circle, the swanky, modern and much larger Sky Terrace at the Hudson Hotelis throwing its own fireworks-viewing party for $40 per person from 6-11:30pm, with a one-hour open bar from 6-7pm and live DJs spinning until 11:30pm. The entrance price is one of the least expensive for an NYC hotel rooftop party on the Fourth, though this property (which starts at $225 a night during the holiday weekend) offers no opportunities to spend or earn points.
Fourth of July fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art (by G. Widman for Visit Philadelphia)
PHILADELPHIA
Billed as “the largest free concert in America,” the Philly 4th of July Jam will be followed by the Grand Finale Fireworks over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Rather than staking out lawn chair space along Benjamin Franklin Parkway or in a handful of City Center parks, head to one of two neighboring hotels.
The 33-story Loews Philadelphia Hotel is set in the city’s first skyscraper, and many of its upper rooms offer some of the city’s best fireworks views; holiday weekend rates start at $170 a night, and the Loews YouFirst Rewards program offers perks like free room upgrades after only two stays (of as little as one night apiece) at qualifying rates. The hotel’s popular Bank & Bourbon restaurant is set on the ground floor, but in-room dining service will be available on the Fourth of July.
Closer to the Museum District action, all 288 suites at the Embassy Suites Philadelphia feature balconies (ask for a view of the Museum grounds) and holiday weekend rates at this Hilton Category 6 property start at $229 or 45,000 HHonors points. HHonors members normally earn 10 points per dollar spent on rooms and room charges (plus a special summer double-points promotion through July 31), but those with Hilton credit cards (like the Hilton Amex) can earn an additional 6-12 points per dollar spent at the Embassy Suites.
The Boston skyline at night, seen from the Hyatt Regency Cambridge
BOSTON
Shot from four barges, the annualBoston Pops Fireworks Spectacular joyfully erupts over the Charles River at 9:35 pm. A great view of these fireworks can be seen from the Hyatt Regency Cambridge, a glassy, almost pyramid-shaped business/leisure property set beside the Charles River near Harvard Square and several area colleges. The hotel’s holiday festivities are open to the public and will include a barbecue on the Charles River (beginning at 5pm and featuring snow cones and and a pie/ice cream bar) and complimentary seating and a cash bar in their Charles View Ballroom, where you can see the fireworks through floor-to-ceiling windows. This 470-guestroom Category 4 Hyatt hotel has availability for the holiday weekend starting at $259 or 15,000 Hyatt Gold Passport points per night. For advice on using a credit card at this hotel, see this post on which credit card is the best for Hyatt stays.
Just a portion of the Fourth of July crowds at Nashville’s Riverfront Park
NASHVILLE
In Music City’s downtown, you could join the throngs at Riverfront Park for hours of concerts and some of the country’s best fireworks, or you could beat the crush and head to one of two nearby hotels.
Opened in September 2013, the tall, glassy Omni Nashville has the city’s only rooftop pool/lounge, which makes a cool and modern splash – but is only open to hotel guests. Note also that while there’s availability (starting at $279 a night) for the holiday weekend, these are blackout dates for the Omni Select Guest program, and a stay here won’t count toward the 20-night total needed for a free night.
If you want to earn or use points, ask for a room with a river view on one of the highest floors of the 25-floor Renaissance Nashvilleand/or enjoy cocktails and live music at The Bridge bar and lounge, which overlooks downtown Nashville. Over the weekend of the Fourth, rates at this Category 8 property start at $237 a night or 40,000 Marriott Rewards points. If you use the personal or business versions of the Marriott Rewards Premier card, you’ll receive 5 points for every dollar you spend at this property.
The view of St Louis’ Gateway Arch from 360 at the Hilton at the Ballpark
ST. LOUIS
The city’s annual Independence Day party, the Fair St. Louis, is held on the grounds of Forest Park, site of the 1904 World’s Fair. The celebration kicks off at 12 noon, but the fireworks don ‘t start until 10pm – allowing early-bird attendees to stake out the best viewing spots.
Stake out an even better one at Three Sixty at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, which is set beside Busch Stadium, overlooking both Forest Park and the iconic Gateway Arch. Starting at $250 for two people, there will be reserved VIP seating along the east edge and fire pits, but at 8pm, those without reservations can begin trying their luck for an entrance fee of $10 per person. Holiday weekend rates at this Category 5 Hilton property start at $269 or 37,500 HHonors Rewards per night. HHonors members earn 10 points per dollar spent on rooms and room charges (plus this summer’s double-points promotion), but those with Hilton credit cards (such as the Hilton Surpass) can earn an additional 6-12 points per dollar on all on-property charges, including their tab at Three Sixty.
At the Mondrian South Beach, the pool and lounge get you right up close to the fireworks over Miami Beach
Beside Bayfront Park, the rooftop pool at the 34-story, 641-guestroomInterContinental Miami, which overlooks the park and Biscayne Bay, is open to the public on the Fourth of July; note, though, that the poolside Bluewater bar closes at 7pm. (You can, however, ask one of the other three restaurants/bar to serve you to-go drinks in plastic cups.) If you choose to stay at this marble-paved luxury hotel, where the lobby is built around a Henry Moore sculpture, room rates start at $159 per night; IHG Reward Nights aren’t available for the nights of July 4th or 5th, but for an extra $10 each night, IHG Rewards members, who will already earn 10 points for every $1 spent on-property, can opt to earn an additional 1,000 bonus points per night. Members using the IHG Rewards Club card will earn an additional 5 points for every $1 spent at the InterContinental Miami.
The ground-floor hotel pool and lounge at the Mondrian South Beach, set on bayside West Avenue at 11th Street, has one of the city’s best views of the 10th Street Beach fireworks from its elegant seating areas. Non-guests can attend the hotel’s popular Friday night DJ parties on a first-come, first-served basis, but on the Fourth of July, it’s best to arrive as much as a few hours’ early or make dinner reservations [call (305) 514-1920] in the adjoining restaurant so that you’re guaranteed a seat when the fireworks begin. Holiday weekend rates start at $246 a night, and Visa Signature Hotels members will receive automatic upgrades (when available), free in-room Wifi, a $25 food and beverage voucher, and more.
The 4th of July “Dueling Barges” on either side of the Mississippi in New Orleans
NEW ORLEANS
NOLA’s annual Go 4th on the River celebration will surely be a rollicking party, but come 9pm, if you’re looking for a more genteel view of the Dueling Barges fireworks display over the Mississippi, hightail it a few blocks west of the river to The Westin New Orleans Canal Place. At this 438-guestroom, 29-floor French Quarter hotel, both guests and non-guests canlinger in the 11th-floor lobby or grab drinks (like a New Orleans-brewed Abita beer) and/or dinner in the adjacent Green Bar; if you’re a hotel guest, you can also take the recently renovated elevators up to the rooftop pool. During the holiday weekend, room rates at this SPG Category 4 property start at $129 or 10,000 Starpoints a night. And again, SPG members who don’t stay here can still use their personal or business Starwood Amex to earn 5 Starpoints for every dollar spent on their Green Bar tab.
Dec Rooftop Lounge + Bar at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago
CHICAGO
For a view high above the city’s fireworks at Navy Pier (which start at 9:30pm), settle in on a banquette beside an outdoor firepit at the Dec Rooftop Lounge + Bar at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago. Set along the Magnificent Mile in the Water Tower Place skyscraper, this 438-guestroom Four Seasons property features a 52-foot-long indoor lap pool, a kids’ program that includes daily cookie baking with the on-site pastry chef, and 90 luxury suites on floors 15-30, many with stellar views of the pier. Dec is open to the public, so a visit here wouldn’t require an overnight stay, but if you want to make a holiday weekend of it, rates start at $295. Members of Amex Fine Hotels & Resortswho stay at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago will receive their third night free, as well as (based on availability) perks like early check-in, late check-out and a room upgrade.
Fourth of July fireworks over the San Francisco Bay
SAN FRANCISCO
When the City by the Bay’s annual Fourth of July celebration kicks off along the San Francisco Bay waterfront at 9:30 p.m., the biggest crowds will gather in the Aquatic Park (at Jefferson and Hyde Streets) and at Fisherman’s Wharf, just off Pier 39. None of the hotels that are the closest to the action – including Kimpton’s Argonaut Hotel, or the Fisherman’s Wharf Hyatt, Radisson and Sheraton – have public spaces with exceptional fireworks views, so instead, consider aiming a bit higher. The bay and fireworks views from the Top of the Mark, the elegant restaurant and bar (with a menu of 100 different martinis) on the 19th floor of Nob Hill’s Mark Hopkins San Francisco, are some of the best in the city. While you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy dinner or cocktails at Top of the Mark, during Fourth of July weekend at this 383-guestroom InterContinental property, rooms with views start at $314 or 50,000 IHG Rewards a night. IHG Rewards Club members who pay an extra $10 each night will earn the usual 10 points for every $1 spent on-property plus an additional 1,000 bonus points per night, and members using the IHG Rewards Club card will also earn an additional 5 points for every $1 spent at the Mark Hopkins.
Have a favorite hotel for watching fireworks where you live? Please share in the comments below – and have a wonderful Fourth of July!
Today, TPG contributor Jason Steele explains how to maximize the IHG Rewards Card to redeem for free nights at their properties.
Credit card users have become accustom to earning some sort of anniversary bonus, especially from Chase cards. For example, their Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards credit cards offer cardholders 3,000 or 6,000 points each year, depending on if they have the Plus or Premier versions, and the Hyatt card offers a free night each year, but only in a category 1-4 hotel.
IHG brands range from budget properties to the high end Intercontinental and Indigo boutique hotels.
The IHG Rewards Club Select MasterCard also offers a free night certificate, but this one can be used at any IHG property, except those that have all-inclusive meal plans for all guests, making it perhaps the most valuable annual renewal benefit available from any credit card.
The annual free night may be the most valuable anniversary gift of any credit card.
Other benefits of this card include:
Great sign-up bonus with low minimum spending requirement. The standard offer for this card is for 60,000 points after spending just $1,000 within three months of account opening. However, there is another offer still available for 80,000 points.
Good bonus categories. Cardholders receive double points for charges at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants, and 5x for spending at IHG properties.
10% rebate on IHG point resumptions. Up to 100,000 points back each year.
Automatic Platinum Elite status. Although this top tier status isn’t as great as other programs, it still gives you priority check-in, room upgrades, and a 50% bonus on points earned for paid stays.
No foreign transaction fees.
Waived first year annual fee. This card does have a $49 annual fee, but it is waived the first year.
How this certificate works
One year after you open your account, you will be billed for the $49 annual fee. Within a few days of the annual fee being billed to your account, your annual free night certificate will appear online. In fact, you can verify that it has been deposited into your IHG Rewards Club account by logging in and then clicking on this link.
Chase’s terms indicate that “All reservations that will utilize the Anniversary Free Night can be booked by calling the IHG® Rewards Club Service center at 1-888-211-9874.” Nevertheless, IHG has added a way to book these online, so these terms appear to be outdated.
The Carlton Intercontinental in Cannes France sells for about $750 a night, but you can use your free night certificate.
Restrictions
Validity. The terms of the certificate indicate that it will be valid from the day it is issued for stays up until one year following issue.
Capacity controls. The use of these certificates appears to correspond with the availability of award nights booked with points. IHG, like Marriott and some other major chains, boasts no blackout dates on awards but does impose capacity controls, just as most airlines do with frequent flier miles awards.
Tips for maximizing these certificates
1. Stay at the top brands. IHG has hotels under a dozen brands, and you will want to use these certificates for the most valuable luxury hotels at resorts and major cities, not for the Holiday Inn Express or Candlewood Suites by the highway. Their top tier luxury brand is Intercontinental Hotels and Resorts, which currently has 180 properties in 60 countries, with 51 more in various stages of planning and construction. I also find it fascinating that Intercontinental was originally started after World War II by Pan Am, in order to have a luxury hotel for its passengers and crews to visit.
I’ve been blown away by the handful of Intercontinental properties I have stayed at, but have also had good experiences at Crowne Plaza and their Indigo boutique hotels.
The lobby of the historic Willard hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington D.C.
2. Booking free nights after the certificate expires. According to the terms and conditions of this offer, “Anniversary Free Night is valid at hotels in the IHG® Rewards Club Family of Brands and must be redeemed, and stay must be completed, within 12 months from date of issue.” (emphasis mine).
It, it turns out though that this stated term of the certificate’s validity is not actually enforced. There are numerous reports of people being able to book a free night during the certificates period of validity for a stay after the certificate has expired. In these cases, the reservation confirmation shows it as being “Free,” which should back you up in the unlikely event that it is questioned. Just be aware that once the certificate has expired, you will be unable to make changes to that award without losing the certificate. Yet so long as the certificate is still valid, it can be cancelled within the hotel’s cancellation policy, and the certificate is immediately able to be re-used.
3. Combining free nights. Two certificate holders can simply book two reservations for adjacent nights, and simply inform the front desk at check-in that they have two reservations. At worst, the hotel might need to re-activate their room’s key card the next day. Furthermore, the de facto ability to use a free night after it expires allows cardholders to combine two of their own free nights into one stay, and potentially four or more free nights when multiple guests accumulate two certificates each. But at a minimum, each cardholders will have to wait two years after each being approved for a card before they will both receive their second free night certificate.
Here are the exact terms and conditions of the annual free night certificate, but cardholders report that these terms are not enforced in some circumstances.
4. Securing award nights. Like airline loyalty programs, the IHG rewards program can frustrate travelers by restricting award availability at peak times and at popular destinations. By all accounts, IHG’s capacity controls aren’t nearly as bad as most airlines, but it can be a factor for many travelers.
Thankfully, it appears that you can reserve a free night with points, in order to secure the scarce award availability during high demand periods, while waiting to receive the certificate. A contributor to FlyerTalk found that cancelling an award booking with points immediately resulted in the room being available for a free night award using the certificate.
5. Card membership not required for certificate use. Finally, cardholders will receive their certificate when their annual fee posts. Just like awards of mile and points from credit card issuers, the certificate is irrevocably transferred from the bank to the travel provider and is not conditional on continued card membership. Furthermore, Chase allows cardholders to cancel their cards and receive a credit for the annual fee within 60 days of being billed for it.
With the recent upgrades to the Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite MasterCard, cardholders will receive a bevy of new benefits. We researched the ones specific to the World Elite MasterCard (versus the previous World MasterCard) and found a few gems. Read on and see which of the added benefits can add a dash of luxury or convenience to your next trip!
World Elite cardholders can get a free Business Class companion ticket on Aeromexico.
Free Business Class Companion Ticket on Aeromexico
Cardholders can get a free Business Class companion ticket on Aeromexico flights when buying a roundtrip full-fare Premier Plus Business Class ticket with your World Elite Mastercard. Premier Plus fares are sometimes twice as expensive as Premier fares, which renders the discount moot, but Premier Plus fares earn greater mileage, and are fully changeable and refundable with no charge. On itineraries where the two fare classes are closer in price, this benefit offers clear value. Flights must originate from specific gateways in the USA and Canada, and end in specific gateways in Central and South America. This benefit is available through March 31, 2015. Other stipulations apply; full details are available on the World Elite travel benefit page for this promotion.
World Elite benefits include discounts and upgrades at a collection of 4 and 5 star hotels worldwide.
Discounts, upgrades and more at premium hotel properties
Pay with your World Elite MasterCard and receive access to the MasterCard Luxury Hotels and Resorts Portfolio, which offers benefits such as room upgrades, free breakfast, food/beverage credits, early check-in/late check-out, and more at several hundred 4 and 5 star properties worldwide. The list of participating properties is impressive, including the Andaz 5th Ave in New York, Kowloon Shangri-la in Hong Kong, Mystique in Santorini, and an array of Intercontinental, Omni, Park Hyatt and Radisson properties. Peruse the full list for some great daydream material. The downside is that you have to book by phone, which means you might not be getting the best rate. Be sure to check rates online for comparison before booking.
World Elite Air Program benefits can get you service like Etihad’s lie-flat seats for less.
World Elite Air Program: upgrades and up to 30% off airfare
Receive discounts and upgrades on economy, business and first class fares on carriers such as Aerlingus, Aeromexico, Cathay Pacific, Etihad, LAN, Lufthansa, Virgin Atlantic and more. Each airline offers a unique benefit, so check the Air Program page for more details. Highlights include 20-30% off LAN business class from the USA to South America, and complimentary upgrades from full economy to business class on Lufthansa between the USA and Europe. Fares must be booked with your World Elite MasterCard through Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT). As with the hotel deals, be sure to compare prices online before booking with CWT.
For more World Elite benefits, including rental car discounts and elite status, airport concierge services and more, check out the complete list on the World Elite benefits website.
Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG) and Kimpton Hotels just announced an agreement for IHG to acquire the Kimpton brand for a reported $430 million in cash. Kimpton, which currently has 62 properties in 28 US cities (with another 16 in the process of being added), will join existing IHG brands Hotel Indigo and EVEN Hotels (among others), as IHG moves to expand its presence in the growing boutique hotel market.
Kimpton properties like the Hotel Monaco in San Francisco will soon be under the IHG name.
Kimpton certainly has the boutique aesthetic down pat. The brand is known for being fashionable and quirky, with mostly high-end properties and highly personalized service, including very pet-friendly policies.
Details are scarce at this point, in particular regarding how this acquisition will impact the Kimpton brand, and what (if any) future impact this will have on the IHG Rewards and Kimpton Karma Rewards programs. In an email to Karma Rewards members, Kimpton CEO Mike Depatie specified that the two loyalty programs will continue to run separately. However, I suspect that while Kimpton will retain its brand identity, it will soon leverage the more established and straightforward IHG Rewards in lieu of the somewhat eccentric and confusing Karma Rewards program.
Overall I’m excited about this news. Kimpton has some great properties, and a (speculative) connection with IHG Rewards would make them much more accessible to award travelers. Kimpton hotels tend to be more expensive than IHG’s other boutique brands, and would likely end up in the higher tiers of the IHG Rewards award chart if the two programs merge. That would make them great candidates for redeeming the free annual award night from the IHG Rewards Club Select credit card (see this Flyertalk post for more details on the card and how to get the best sign-up bonus for 80,000 points).
Clearly there’s more to be come, and I’ll be keeping an eye on these two programs to see how the merger takes shape.
Like a bag of shiny gelt (gold-wrapped chocolate coins), it’s a treat to gather with your extended mishpachah (family) for the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, which this year spans December 16-24. Based on the eight U.S. cities with the largest Jewish populations, TPG Assistant Editor Melanie Wynne suggests a menorah’s worth of hotels to inspire celebrating the Festival of Lights with out-of-town loved ones.
Here’s a hotel for each candle on the Hanukkah menorah – even the shamas. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.
Largely points properties, the following hotels in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami Beach, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Boston, Washington, D.C. and Tel Aviv presently have availability during Hanukkah. Remember that you can maximize your chosen stay by using credit cards like the Marriott Premier, IHG Rewards Club Select, Starwood Amex, Hyatt Visa, Citi Hilton Visa and Hilton Amex.
The artsy Hotel Indigo Brooklyn is close to Brownstone neighborhoods and three Metro stations.
1. Hotel Indigo Brooklyn. Though Jews liveall overNew York City, a dense population live throughout Brooklyn’s brownstone neighborhoods, making this Brooklyn Heights hotel a beautifully central Hanukkah stay in the borough. Close to the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill, and three subway lines, the friendly, 128-room Hotel Indigo offers free Wi-Fi, artsy furnishings, relatively large guest rooms for the Big Apple (some with kitchenettes), and if you’re willing to brave the winter cold, good views from the rooftop deck. Rooms start at $152 or 35,000 IHG Rewards per night.
The elegant InterContinental in L.A.’s Century City is near Beverlywood, Beverly Hills and West LA.
2. InterContinental Los Angeles Century City. This 361-guestroom high-rise hotel is surprisingly elegant and romantic for its business district location near a popular shopping mall, and features a rooftop spa, an outdoor heated infinity pool, and backyard garden patio. Many room views spread far across Los Angeles; to glimpse the Pacific, ask for a high floor facing the back of the hotel. Close to the heavily Jewish neighborhoods of Beverly Hills, Beverlywood and West L.A., you’ll be close to several temples, chabads, Jewish delis and kosher restaurants, and quite possibly your aunt and uncle’s condo. Rooms start at $289 or 40,000 IHG Rewards points per night.
The swanky lobby of the Renaissance Chicago North Shore.
3. Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel. The bulk of Chicago‘s Jewish community lives in its North Shore suburbs, such as Lake Forest, Skokie and Northbrook. In the latter, you’ll find this comfortably swanky 382-room, three-suite hotel, which has three on-site restaurants, an indoor heated swimming pool and close proximity to a half-dozen temples. Rooms start at $79 or 20,000 Marriott Rewards points. Starting January 15, 2015, Marriott Rewards members will receive free Wi-Fi at the property, but until then, you’ll pay between $9.95-$13.95 per day.
Miami Beach’s Fontainebleau has great views of the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Fontainbleau Miami Beach. Close to a historically Jewish district of Miami Beach, this fancy beachside hotel is a popular during the High Holidays and Passover—so why not Hanukkah, as well? Originally opened in 1954 on Collins Avenue’s Millionaire’s Row, this fully renovated, 20-acre, 1,504-guestroom oceanfront property features a huge outdoor poolscape, 40,000-square-foot Lapis spa, 12 on-site restaurants and lounges, and LIV nightclub–just in case your bubbe and zayde like to dance. Rooms start at $444 per night; if you’d prefer a points property that’s less expensive, check out the nearby Blue Moon Hotel from Marriott’s Autograph Collection.
The chandeliers at San Francisco’s Palace Hotel are like their own Festival of Lights.
5. Palace Hotel, San Francisco. The Jewish community in San Francisco doesn’t have much of a core, but is instead peppered throughout much of the city and across the Bay into Oakland and Berkeley, so you might as well stay somewhere with beautiful architecture, stunning views and close proximity to a BART station. Set just a few blocks from Union Square’s shopping and holiday ice rink, one of the best features of this Beaux-Arts grande dame hotel is the atrium-ceilinged Garden Court Restaurant, which despite being decorated to the hilt for Christmas, would still make a lovely place to gather for a Hanukkah toast. Rooms start at $182 or 12,000 SPG Starpoints per night.
At Philly’s grande dame Hyatt at the Bellevue, you could have a Hanukkah dinner surrounded by wine.
6. Hyatt at the Bellevue, Philadelphia. Much of Philly’s Jewish community has spread to the suburbs, but a vibrant presence remains in and around the Center City, where you’ll find this glamorous 1904 French Renaissance hotel, which has 172 guestrooms, retail shops on the ground floor, four on-site restaurants, a full-service salon and spa, and a 93,000-square-foot fitness center. In addition to being close to the Walnut Locust Metro stop and two PATCO train stations, the Bellevue is walking distance from the Etz Chaim Center for Jewish Studies and Rittenhouse Square’s Conservative Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel. (For a calendar of Hanukkah events in the Philly area, click here.) Rooms start at $209 or 15,000 Hyatt Gold Passport points per night.
At the Courtyard Marriott in Boston’s Brookline area, the rooms and lobby are large and full of light.
7. Courtyard Boston Brookline. Set in cozy Coolidge Corner in the heart of Brookline, home to one of Greater Boston‘s largest Jewish communities, this airy, comfortable eight-story brick hotel has 187 rooms, a small indoor pool and fitness center, and is near five temples as well as the Coolidge Corner station on the MBTA’s Green Line. Like most Courtyard properties, the lobby has a bistro counter that serves three daily meals, Starbucks coffee, and wine and beer beside a sprawl of casual public seating areas with a courtyard view. Nightly rates start at $169 or 35,000 Marriott Rewards points.
DC’s Embassy Suites is one of the only properties in Chevy Chase with an indoor pool.
8. Embassy Suites Washington, D.C. at the Chevy Chase Pavilion. This well-appointed mid-range property, which features two onsite cafe/bars and an indoor pool, just completed a full-scale renovation in October 2014. Set in Northwest D.C.’s Friendship Heights area, the hotel is surrounded by pockets of a large Reform Jewish community, celebration-friendly restaurants, and shopping malls (e.g., Chevy Chase Pavilion, Mazza Gallerie, etc.). The adjacent Friendship Heights Metro station connects you directly to Bethesda, Silver Spring and downtown D.C. via the Red Line. Rooms start at $189 per night, and while you can’t redeem Hilton HHonors points here during the holiday, a special nightly rate of $198 allows you to earn 2x bonus points per night.
Right on the Mediterranean, the Sheraton Tel Aviv offers cool, modern decor and beach access.
And because no menorah is complete without a shamas to light the other candles:
9. Sheraton Tel Aviv. You could do worse for Hanukkah than to visit the Holy Land and lounge beside the sparkling Mediterranean. One of the most stylishly renovated points properties in this seaside Israeli city, the 318-guestroom high-rise property is perched on the lively Tel Aviv-Jaffa beach promenade and features four on-site eateries, complimentary Wi-Fi and a huge spa that includes two Dead Sea treatment rooms and a hammam-style bath. Note that unlike other Starwood properties, this Sheraton doesn’t automatically offer the usual perks extended to SPG Platinums (e.g., confirmed suite upgrades, comped breakfast, etc.); nightly rates start at $227 or 12,000 Starpoints.
May your Hanukkah be full of dreidel playing, latke eating—and safe travels!
Earlier this month, TPG Travel Editor Melanie Wynne wrote about the top 10 hotel club lounges in the U.S., along with tips for getting access. Today, TPG Contributor Nick Ewen takes that list abroad with his look at 10 international hotel lounges that will bring your future hotel stays to a new level.
If you’re a road warrior like me, chances are you’ve seen the gamut of club lounges in the U.S. Some are spectacular, while others disappoint. While lounges beyond our borders can be just as hit or miss, many international hotel clubs do step up their game. So today I want to show you some of my favorite international hotel club lounges out there to help you figure where to stay on your next trip abroad.
This won’t be a comprehensive list, nor will it be a quantitative analysis. There are too many variable to make a practical ranking of these locations. Also, amenities vary across brands, but also within them; what you find in one Conrad hotel, for example, may differ significantly from other Conrad locations.
That said, here are some amenities offered by the vast majority of top international hotel club lounges:
Complimentary breakfast
Complimentary internet
Complimentary snacks, hors d’oeuvres, and drinks (usually both alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Private or exclusive check-in
Concierge services
Business center services (e-mail, printing, faxing, etc.)
So which lounges give the best bang for your buck? In no particular order:
The incredible balcony (and view) at the Four Seasons Hong Kong
We begin with one of the foremost luxury hotels in a city full of them: the Four Seasons Hong Kong. Located in the heart of the central district, the hotel is just a short (covered) walk from the Airport Express stations. It boasts an impressive lounge called the Executive Club on the 45th floor. Open 24 hours, the club provides sweeping views of Victoria Harbor from the floor-to-ceiling windows or wraparound balcony.
You can also enjoy an astonishing array of included services. A full breakfast buffet is served from 6:30 – 10:30 (7:00 – 11:00 on the weekends and holidays), with the standard continental items, rotating hot dishes, and cooked-to-order eggs. Afternoon tea is served from 3:00 – 5:00, and a “light” supper buffet (including a noodle bar) and cocktails are served from 5:30 – 8:30. You can also enjoy complimentary drinks from 11 am to 1 am, free garment pressing services (up to 6 per day!), and a free hour of boardroom access per stay.
How to access: Room rates for standard Deluxe Peak-View Rooms in January start at HKD 4,700 per night, or just over US$600. All guests can add Executive Club access to their room for the following rates:
HKD 1,500 per night for up to 2 adults (approximately US$193)
HKD 2,000 per night for 3 adults (approximately US$257)
HKD 250 per night for children 11 and younger (approximately US$32)
You could also book rooms on the club level (floors 37-43), with premiums of HKD 1,700 – 1,900 (US$219-255) per night over the standard room. Club access is included when you book suites, though January prices for these rooms start at HKD 10,800, or almost US$1,400! Finally, this hotel is a part of Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts, so if you have the American Express Platinum card, you could take your chances of getting a club floor room with the included upgrade benefit. Just be aware that there are two categories of non-club rooms above the standard room, so getting the right upgrade would be a crapshoot.
Another luxury hotel with a terrific lounge is the Ritz-Carlton Singapore. Located on the 32nd floor, the Club Lounge is open from 7 am to 11 pm, and is almost a culinary destination by itself. With five daily food & drink presentations, including Champagne breakfast, light refreshments, afternoon tea, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, and dessert & cordials, you could wind up taking all of your meals there while enjoying spectacular views of the city skyline. As a club level guest, you can also use the library for business meetings (up to 10 attendees), take advantage of complimentary garment pressing (up to five items upon arrival), and utilize the complimentary limo service for short trips in the vicinity of the hotel (subject to availability).
How to access: Standard rates in January start at 390 SGD per night (approximately US$295), and club rooms appear to be a standard 180 SGD (US$136) higher per night. Unfortunately, this particular property does not participate in the Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Rewards programs, though it is a participant in the Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts program. Again, there are two room categories between the standard deluxe room and a club level room, so you’d be taking your chances with an upgrade.
The Horizon Club at the Island Shangri-La Hong Kong includes numerous added amenities and services.
Another luxury property in the Pearl of the Orient with a fantastic club lounge is the Island Shangri-La Hong Kong. From the Horizon Club, set high above the city with views of the skyline (and Victoria Peak from the adjoining outdoor garden), you can take advantage of free Wi-Fi, suit pressing and shoe shine services, and meeting facilities for up to two hours per day. Breakfast is served in the lounge or the adjacent Restaurant Petrus, and you’ll also enjoy all day beverages plus evening cocktails and canapes. A dedicated concierge can help with your travel and translation needs, and your choice of tea or coffee is delivered to your room with your wake-up call each morning.
How to access: Standard rates in January start at HKD 3,700 (US$477), with club rooms priced at HKD 1,000 more per night (a premium of approximately US$129). Shangri-La also has its own loyalty program, Golden Circle, and you can redeem 7,125 points per night for a standard room or 9,800 points for a club room. This hotel is also a part of American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts, so you could hope for an upgrade to the club level.
The club lounge at the Ritz in Hong Kong isn’t just about the view from 1,500+ feet above sea level.
Yet another top hotel lounge found in Hong Kong (notice a trend?) also happens to be the highest on the planet. Rooms at the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong occupy the top 16 floors of the International Commerce Center. The Club Lounge is located on the 116th floor, which stands approximately 1,525 feet above sea level, or over a quarter of a mile! Enjoy six different (and extensive) food and beverage presentations daily, and take advantage of complimentary limousine drop-off service within the vicinity of the hotel.
How to access: Unlike the Ritz-Carlton in Singapore, this hotel does participate in Ritz-Carlton and Marriott Rewards, and a free night will set you back 70,000 points per night (though this won’t get you club access). Standard rates in January start at HKG 4,800 (approximately US$618), and adding club access will typically set you back at least an additional HKG 1,400 (US$180) per night.
This would actually be a great use of the club upgrade certificates offered by the Ritz-Carlton Rewards Visa, which is currently offering a sign-up bonus of 140,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. While you can’t use these certificates on award reservations, you could book a paid stay of up to 7 nights and upgrade to the club level for free. 7 nights of club access would be worth approximately US$1,262.50!
This property is also a part of American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts.
The gorgeously furnished club lounge at the InterContinental Bali is just part of the “resort within a resort.”
Though TPG decided to stay at the St. Regis and W on his recent trip to Bali, neither of those properties offer club lounges. Fortunately, many other properties on the island do, and one of the most popular is the InterContinental Bali. When you book a club room, suite, or villa at this resort, your vacation will commence as soon as you arrive at Denpasar International Airport, as airport transfer service is included with your stay. The Club InterContinental Lounge is actually like a mini resort within the resort, as you have a private wing of rooms and separate pool reserved for club guests only. You can also choose from five different venues in which to enjoy your complimentary breakfast, and the 24-hour lounge serves complimentary all-day refreshments, including afternoon tea and evening canapes & cocktails.
How to access: While the InterContinental Bali is a part of IHG Rewards, you can’t redeem points for a Club room. Instead, you’ll have to use one of the following strategies:
Reserve a club room at a revenue rate. This will generally set you back at least $100 extra per night. Rates in January start at $161 per night, and club rooms begin at $266 per night (though the premium is higher during peak travel periods).
Reserve a reward night (35,000 points) and inquire ahead of time (or at check-in) about paying to upgrade to a club room. I’ve read reports of upgrades being offered for $100-$120 per night—essentially the same up-charge as paying for the club room. Note that I don’t see any award availability for the month of January.
The InterContinental Bali is also a part of Visa Signature Hotels, so you could book a room through them and hope for an upgrade to the club level (though it’s not guaranteed).
Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Sydney Harbour from the club lounge at the InterContinental Sydney.
Another InterContinental property (this one in Australia) makes this list due to it’s wraparound terrace and panoramic views. At the InterContinental Sydney, the 32nd floor Executive Lounge boasts impressive vistas of the Sydney Harbour (including the iconic opera house and bridge). Take advantage of complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments, and evening drinks & canapes. As a club guest, you’ll also enjoy complimentary internet and garment pressing services (one item per day). This is a great option for those without children, as guests 12 and younger are not allowed in the lounge after 5 pm.
How to access: Like the InterContinental Bali, this property does participate in the IHG Rewards program, but doesn’t give you an option to redeem points for a club room. A standard room will set you back 50,000 points per night, and according to the property’s FlyerTalk thread, Royal Ambassadors appear to have the choice between an upgrade to a club room or suite (with no club access).
You also have the option to simply pay for a club room; unfortunately, this comes with a hefty price tag. Standard rates in January start at AU$299 per night, with club rooms generally commanding a premium of at least AU$150 per night.
Another option is to book through the Virtuoso network. For 2014 and 2015, all reservations made through a Virtuoso agent include complimentary club access.
Enjoy an impressive spread of food and beverages throughout the day in the Level 5 lounge at the Grosvenor House Dubai.
Dubai is known for its bling, but Level 5 at the Grosvenor House (a Luxury Collection property, part of Starwood Preferred Guest) blends elegance and sophistication in an understated fashion. Enjoy views of the Dubai Marina as you indulge in a full buffet breakfast, afternoon snacks & tea, and evening cocktails. With three separate lounge areas (only one of which is accessible to guests under the age of 16), you can easily find a quiet spot to read (a selection of books are provided) or catch up on work (with complimentary internet).
How to access: The lounge is available to SPG Platinum members on either paid or award nights; standard rooms will set you back 20,000 points per night, and January rates begin at 840 AED (about US$229). You could also simply pay for a Premier Room, though the paid rate is almost double that of a standard room.
The roomy lounge at the Sheraton Frankfurt Airport is proof that an airport hotel isn’t just about the location.
This SPG property may seem like a surprise inclusion on this list. However, the Sheraton Frankfurt Airport provides much more than just a convenient location (it’s literally attached to FRA). The spacious Club Lounge is located on the ninth floor, and includes an impressive array of amenities, including buffet breakfast and a variety of hot and cold snacks and drinks until 10:30 pm. You can also use the complimentary high speed internet or book one of two board rooms, with meeting space for up to 8 people.
How to access: Club access is complimentary to SPG Platinum members on both paid or award stays. As a Category 4 property, free nights will set you back 10,000 points, or you can book SPG Cash + Points rates for 5,000 points + $75. Standard rates in January start at 135 Euros (approximately US$164), and booking club rooms directly appears to be a standard premium of 99 Euros (~US$120) per night. Alternatively, you can pay that same 99 Euros for day use of the lounge without an overnight stay.
Enjoying some canapes and a glass of champagne on the balcony of the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik.
Our final lounge is also located in Europe, and while the amenities may not equal those offered by a Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton, the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik offers a fantastic lounge for the location and views alone. Book an Executive Room to take advantage of all of the lounge benefits, including free breakfast, complimentary snacks and drinks, and a cozy balcony with views of the Adriatic Sea and the old town of Dubrovnik. The city walls are practically spitting distance from the lounge, giving you a terrific location to explore the wonders of the ancient city.
NOTE: According to the hotel’s website, the lounge is currently undergoing renovations and has been relocated to the ground floor until March 31, 2015.
How to access: Hilton HHonors Diamond members are automatically granted access to the lounge on both paid and award stays. Gold members (including Citi Hilton Reserve and Hilton Surpass American Express cardholders) can access the lounge if they receive an upgrade to the executive floor. Paid rates in January are as low as 90 Euros (US$109), with Executive Rooms going for a premium of 33 Euros (US$40). As a Category 8 property, award stays will cost 40,000 or 70,000 points per night (depending on the month). Hilton HHonors also offers “Premium Room Rewards” that allow you to book directly into an Executive Room for a small premium over the standard redemption rates, and sometimes these are even lower, so be sure to check your desired dates for the specific points requirements.
Final thoughts
Everyone has their own criteria for what makes for a solid hotel club lounge; the ones featured here offer a mix of useful perks, style and comfort, and impeccable location that put them at the top of my list. I’d love to hear your ideas, so please share your favorite hotel club lounges in the comments below!
