Yes, I know. First world problem. What the heck am I talking about? My first real stay as a Starwood Gold after one year plus of Starwood Platinum. I’ve made more than a handful of stays at this particular hotel, and I don’t believe I’ve ever been placed below floor 20. This stay – 10th floor. Yes, I know….first world problem. Other than that, the stay has been just as any other. Desk staff – polite and welcoming. Lobby bar staff – awesome as ever. Only other difference – WiFi not complimentary in the room (unless you make the right benefit choice). Good thing I always travel with a Verizon 4G MiFi nowadays, huh?
I was offered a choice of amenities at check in as detailed in SPGs new benefits: 250 points, comp internet, or a comp cocktail. I went with the points. In truth, about the only thing I’m missing is the possible upgrade to a real suite. With just a 2-night stay, I’d almost be a shoe-in for a decent upgrade as a Starwood Platinum. As a Gold…at least for this stay, not so much….not even a next category room this visit. I did check spg.com, and there are NO ROOMS available for booking for the dates of my stay, so I guess I’ll take what I can get!
Starwood Preferred Guest continues to be one of my favorite hotel loyalty programs.
Similarly, I’m in danger of falling to Gold from Platinum with United this year. Scrambling to ensure I get enough travel to make it back to at least 75k!
I know what you mean…it is painful. It will be hard to actually use my SPG points on award stays as a Gold. The added breakfast/Club value of top tier elite status of Hyatt, Priority Club, and Hilton make these props much more attractive to me.