Other Hotel Programs - Global Hotel Alliance unveils loyalty program

Over on BT (http://www.businesstraveller.com/news/global-hotel-alliance-unveils-loyalty-programme):

Sharing a platform with the Chief Executive Officer of the Star Alliance Jaan Albrecht, Global Hotel Alliance CEO Christopher Hartley announced details of the new GHA Discovery recognition programme.

As first reported on Business Traveller Asia’s website last year the programme will operate across all of the 12 hotel brands in the Global Hotel Alliance, and will have three tiers: gold, platinum and black (with a special invitation-only red level). The programme will be about recognition rather than being points-based system, but members will be able to earn miles in partner airline programmes, something that Hartley said GHA’s research had shown was wanted.

“Of all hotel points awarded across the industry, in all programmes, more than half are converted into frequent flyer miles” Hartley said, explaining that the intention was for members to be able to earn miles with partner airlines.

“The purpose of the alliance is to create a meaningful proposition for customers, and now we have the technology in place which allows us to recognise guests wherever they stay around the world with us,” Hartley said. “GHA members aren’t mega brands. Instead they tend to be independently owned, and the alliance’s key asset comes from the strength of these regional brands, all sharing the sales and marketing resources.”

Hartley said the rewards available in the GHA programme would include a choice of over 1000 “unique” experiences put together by experts at the member hotels. “In many cases these have been specially packaged and cannot be bought”.

For members, earning rewards should be simple, since “All members are equal” (so one night in the most expensive hotel in the Alliance is worth the same as one night in the least expensive). The tier levels have been set at 10 nights and 30 nights for moving from gold to platinum and platinum to black, respectively.

There is, however, weighting to take into account travellers who stay with many brands rather than just one or two, and even a jackpot prize for members reaching a certain number of nights and who had stayed at each of the member brands. Details of the earning structure will be published in May on the GHA website, Hartley said.

For more information visit www.globalhotelalliance.com

Registered for Pre-enrolment, have an upcoming stay in early April, hope it gets launched before my stays. Any ideas as to how i am able to get a membership number of some sort pretty soon.

great idea! I've used a lot of these brands but have nothing to show for it, until now

I just got the following e-mail from Kempinski - unfortunately (for my English speeking friends in here) it is written in German:

Kempinski Private Concierge News - Sommer 2010


Sehr geehrter Herr Flamewing,

als einem unserer hochgeschätzten Private Concierge Mitglieder freue ich mich Ihnen unser neues Kundenbindungsprogramm der Global Hotel Alliance mit dem Namen GHA Discovery vorstellen zu dürfen.
Mit der Einführung im Juni 2010 wird GHA Discovery Ihnen einen einzigartigen neuen Ansatz eines Kundenbindungsprogrammes anbieten: Fantastische Erlebnisse an Allen Ihren Reisezielen – Amazing Local Experiences Wherever You Travel. Kempinski ist stolzer Partner der weltweit größten Allianz unabhängiger Hotelmarken um unser weltweites Netzwerk auszubauen. Ihr bisheriger Private Concierge Status verleiht Ihnen den Vorteil direkt als Mitglied im höchsten Level – Black Level - von GHA Discovery aufgenommen zu werden ohne sich vorab erneut qualifizieren zu müssen. Mit Ihrem Einverständnis sichern Sie sich ebenfalls den Vorteil zahlreiche Privilegien weltweit innerhalb der 250 Partnerhotels der Global Hotel Alliance zu genießen. Um Ihnen die Entscheidung Ihres Reisezieles zu erleichtern, werden Sie in unseren Partnerhäusern den selben Service erwarten können, wie Sie ihn bereits von unseren Kempinski Hotels kennen.
Eines der einmaligen Vorteile des GHA Discovery Programmes ist die Welt der Fantastische Erlebnisse an Allen Ihren Reisezielen – Amazing Local Experiences Wherever You Travel. Als Mitglied der Black Kategorie können Sie sich bei Ihrem ersten Aufenthalt bei einem neuen GHA Discovery Partner ein Reiseerlebnis verdienen. Es stehen Ihnen mehrere Hundert dieser von führenden Concierges zusammengestellten Erlebnissen zur Auswahl. Mit GHA Discovery möchten wir Ihre Reise unvergesslich machen. Lernen Sie Ihr Reiseziel besser kennen und blicken Sie hinter die Kulissen. Nehmen Sie vor Ort an einzigartigen, authentischen Aktivitäten teil und genießen Sie in über 250 Hotels, Resorts, Palästen und Spas der 12 Partner der Global Hotel Alliance eine exklusive Behandlung.
Sie werden innerhalb der nächsten Wochen von uns eine Einladung für die Teilnahme an GHA Discovery erhalten. Bitte schreiben Sie sich nicht über eine andere Quelle für GHA Discovery ein, da Sie in diesem Fall in die Gold-Kategorie eingestuft werden würden, welches der Einstiegskategorie entspricht. Mit der Einführung von GHA Discovery im Juni 2010 werden wir das Private Concierge Programm einstellen.
Zu guter Letzt möchte ich Ihnen mitteilen, daß das Kempinski Hotel Sanya Hainan Island nicht mehr zur Kollektion der Kempinski Hotels gehört.
Wir hoffen, dass Sie genauso begeistert sind von Ihrer neuen GHA Discovery Mitgliedschaft. Wir freuen uns darauf Sie bald wieder begrüßen zu dürfen.

Mit freundlichen Grüßen,

Juerg Siegenthaler
Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing

The main thing I got from that is that launch is now in June.

They (representatives at one particular Kempinski at which I stayed in April plus representatives of other Kempinskis who were exhibiting at a road show) told me also that it would launch in June. Well, it's now June, and I see no evidence of the loyalty program on the GHA or Kempinski web sites. Does anyone else see anything? (I know, they didn't say that it would launch on June 1.)

Registered for Pre-enrolment, have an upcoming stay in early April, hope it gets launched before my stays. Any ideas as to how i am able to get a membership number of some sort pretty soon.

How does one register for pre-enrollment?

GHA has finally launched the new website http://www.gha.com where you can see all the levels and benefits of the new loyalty program.

The main feature of the program seems to be that one doesn't earn points which can be redeemed for future stays, but rather "Local Experiences" -- certificates that one can redeem for special events and amenities.

I generally wouldn't be interested in such rewards. Some of them seem pretty generous. For example, in the "Culinary Delights" category in Asia for Kempinski hotels, the options for Gold level (one stay) include "A private romantic picnic between the dunes of the Emirates Palace" or "A private brewery tour with our own brew master, including 1 pint for free." At Platinum (ten stays) you can "Get exclusively your own Gazebo for a Candle Light Dinner and enjoy a five star set menu" at Emirates Palace. It seems that the Black (thirty stays) rewards haven't been defined yet.

Others seem pretty poor. For example, "Unique experience where your future is told by an old gypsy" in Cairo (Gold); "See this fascinating country through the eyes of a local woman" in Ajman, UAE (Gold), whatever that means; "Visit a typical Spanish wine cellar, as well as beautiful vineyard in Ronda" (Platinum), which might be a nice reward for Gold, but seems a bit skimpy for Platinum level. But, hey, to each his/her own, right.

It says that you earn one certificate each time you stay at a brand (of which there are 12 in the Global Hotel Alliance) for the first time. So I guess the optimal strategy for achieving top-tier status would be to accrue 30 stays in one brand, then earn 11 more Black-level rewards by staying in each other brand after that.

I suspect that a lot of travelers won't be particularly interested in these awards. But the other benefits are OK -- e.g., free internet access at Gold level; upgrade, late checkout, and 48-hour guaranteed availability at Platinum; and double-upgrade, 6:00pm check-out, and 24-hour guaranteed availability at Platinum.

I guess with the wide variety of hotel types in the Global Hotel Alliance, it's hard for them to guarantee a certain benefit (e.g., executive club access, which probably doesn't exist at the majority of properties), so they're left witih pretty generic benefits combined with the "Local Experiences."

Certainly an unusual program. I give it overall a :td:, since you don't earn any free nights. I guess I will continue to earn my United miles at Kempinski (which I am assuming won't change, although I cannot be sure).

OK, at first glance this looks like a pretty neat loyalty program. Unfortunately after having joined and gone through their web site, I can't find any way to get credited for a stay unless it has been booked through their web site, and their prices are higher than what I can find elsewhere. There is no instructions on getting retroactive or missed credits. I'm going to try and email their customer support.

From what I see on the website and a brochure I have the black level really seems to be interesting.

Black level (30 nights) offers exactly what I would want to see as benefits for a top elite level:
GUARANTEED two category upgrade
9 a.m. checkin and 6 p.m. checkout

I hope that this program already runs smooth in reality and I will definitely try it out and if its O.K. switch over many of my leisure stays where I pretty much decide where to go to vacation based upon available nice hotels.

OK, at first glance this looks like a pretty neat loyalty program. Unfortunately after having joined and gone through their web site, I can't find any way to get credited for a stay unless it has been booked through their web site, and their prices are higher than what I can find elsewhere. There is no instructions on getting retroactive or missed credits. I'm going to try and email their customer support.

did u manage to email their customer support? Seems like u only get benefits if u book at their website which has a ridiculously high rate.

I don't believe you can only book through their Site, maybe the Website is Not Ready yet for the New Programm?

The Rates I checked for two Kempinski Hotels and One Anantara were quite OK.

Well somebody have to pay for those "local experiences". So my feel is that you only get the benefit if u book thru the gha website at a slightly inflated rate so that the hotel will be reimbursed... tat's my feel.. it's anybody's guess if this is the case.

I've had quite a few stays at a Sebel branded property here in Australia. The front desk signed me up to the GHA program, and started giving me the Gold benefits (bottled water and free internet) straight away.
I usually book through the Qantas website, to get the bonus miles, and they still give me the GHA benefits.
The kicker is that this week the GHA website price is $50 less that the Qantas rate!
The GHA website doesn't show the number of stays or nights, so I'm not sure how you tell when you get to higher "status" with this program.
But compared to SPG, the free internet just for joining the program makes it all worthwhile for me.

Its possible to get the BLACK card with just two stays..This is how..

First Hotels in Scandinavia is a partner with GHA and the level at First is also the level at GHA hotels.

Sign up for First Member and have two stays between 11.10.2010 till 31.12.2010 and they will give you 10.000 bonuspoints(Between 10-15000 is needed for a free night) and they will also match your status with any other hotelprogram(That have hotels in Scandinavia which Hilton, Starwood and Marriott has).

Information only available in Swedish as far as I can see. First have hotels in Sweden, Denmark and Norway.

http://www.firsthotels.com/sv/sleepwithus/

Has anyone had a stay using their status to try out the local experiences yet?

Would be very interesting to hear.

To receive the benefits do I have to book at GHA website or at one of the Hotel websites? Do I receive the benefits if book on a third party platform like expedia?

Thanks

I tried to book my local experience today at the Kempinski Soma Bay. They wanted another €920 extra!!!!!! what a joke.

I tried to book my local experience today at the Kempinski Soma Bay. They wanted another €920 extra!!!!!! what a joke.

Greetings FF's,

UA 100K, I mean no disrespect, but HONESTLY, does a local experience (any level) costs THAT much (close to USD 1,500). I think it is ONLY fair that you elaborate and clarify your post by giving the details. On first reading, your staement looks VERY questionable & incredulous. BTW, I don't really think the GHA is an attractive program, other than the EARLY check-In and LATE Check-out time allowances and possible room Updgrades.

I hope you will take time to post fuller details.

Cheers

Greetings FF's,

UA 100K, I mean no disrespect, but HONESTLY, does a local experience (any level) costs THAT much (close to USD 1,500). I think it is ONLY fair that you elaborate and clarify your post by giving the details. On first reading, your staement looks VERY questionable & incredulous. BTW, I don't really think the GHA is an attractive program, other than the EARLY check-In and LATE Check-out time allowances and possible room Updgrades.

I hope you will take time to post fuller details.

Cheers

This is the only black local experience offered by the hotel:

Level: Black
Hotel Information: Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay
Hurghada, Egypt
Cost to Member: 920 EUR

Description:
We would like to make your stay amazing with a unique and unforgettable hot air balloon adventure, drifting peacefully over the west Bank of Luxor, where you can see most of the monuments of Thebes. Get your cameras ready and enjoy the unique opportunity to view the magnificent panorama of Luxor town from a unique angle. For an unbeatable view of Luxor and the Nile River, take a flight in a Hot Air Balloon over the West Bank. Enjoy the sites of the West Bank from the air, away from the daytime crowds.

Terms and Conditions
After booking a Local Experience, you will receive a redemption voucher electronically. When redeeming your Local Experience, please provide your redemption voucher or voucher number during check-in at the hotel front desk. This Local Experience is valid from 06/14/2010 to 06/16/2011 inclusive and must be booked in conjunction with a reservation at the associated hotel. This Local Experience must be booked at least 2 weeks in advance. This Local Experience is for 2 persons only. Access to this Local Experience may be subject to availability and last-minute changes. The transport required to redeem this Local Experience will be arranged by the hotel. You would need to leave the hotel at around 00:05 am. As the roads to Luxor are officially closed during the night a police convoy will escort you. There may be associated costs at the guest's charge when redeeming this Local Experience (e.g. transport, event tickets, admission fees).

Please see below edited reply.

Dear UA 100K,

Firstly, Thank You for replying and giving in-depth details.

Secondly, please accept my personal APOLOGY for doubting your post. You are infact, ABSOLUTELY CORRECT.

Today, I spoke with GHA (via USA 800 number) and they confirmed that there may well be extra (I would say, excessive) charges due to extra Security, required Police escorts etc. etc, above what the hotel pay for this exclusive tour. If indeed this is a valid and justified cost, taking this "High Security risk" trip, is both dangerous and unwise. You are obvioulsy well travelled, and I assume, well versed with global tourist/business threats. Several Red flags pop-up regards this trip. That does not mitigate this programs (GHA) Smoke and Mirror rewards (some are now proven to be worthless and, actually, cost the beneficiary huge amounts of money. I think it is possibly the worst in the industry. I know most (although, not all) of our travelling executives dislike it.

Again UA 100K, I'm sorry I found your original post incredulous and you are well vindicated. I can imagine you must have been dissapointed as, at first read, the hot air ballon trip would have been highly memorable. However, who are the biggest predaters, the Croc's in the river (should there be an incident with the hot air ballon going into the Nile), or, the Sharks behind this rewards program?

All the best.







This is the only black local experience offered by the hotel:

Level: Black
Hotel Information: Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay
Hurghada, Egypt
Cost to Member: 920 EUR

As the roads to Luxor are officially closed during the night a police convoy will escort you. There may be associated costs at the guest's charge when redeeming this Local Experience (e.g. transport, event tickets, admission fees).

Dear UA 100K,

Firstly, Thank You for replying and giving in-depth details.

Secondly, please accept my personal APOLOGY for doubting your post. You are infact, ABSOLUTELY CORRECT.

Today, I spoke with GHA (via USA 800 number) and they confirmed that there may well be extra (I would say, excessive) charges due to extra Security, required Police escorts etc. etc, above what the hotel pay for this exclusive tour. If indeed this is a valid and justified cost, taking this "High Security risk" trip, is both dangerous and unwise. You are obvioulsy well travelled, and I assume, well versed with global tourist/business threats. Several Red flags pop-up regards this trip. That does not mitigate this programs (GHA) Smoke and Mirror rewards (some are now proven to be worthless and, actually, cost the beneficiary huge amounts of money. I think it is possibly the worst in the industry. I know most (although, not all) of our travelling executives dislike it.

Again UA 100K, I'm sorry I found your original post incredulous and you are well vindicated. I can imagine you must have been dissapointed as, at first read, the hot air ballon trip would have been highly memorable. However, who are the biggest predaters, the Croc's in the river (should there be an incident with the hot air ballon going into the Nile), or, the Sharks behind this rewards program?

All the best.

no problem. Not really happy so far about the program. will see if i get a double upgrade to the Laguna Rooms (with Lounge Access).

It looks that I wont renew my Black Status with them this year and will focus on Starwood, Hyatt and Shangri-La. Overall their programs are much better

Greetings from the Anantara Hua Hin. Black level benefits here:

Free pick-up from the Hyatt Hua Hin
Access to the lagoon pool and free drinks from 4 PM - 5 PM (after asking several times)
2 categories upgrade

That's all, no more.

Free Internet in the room was refused. Get only Internet access in the lobby area/library (which probably everyone gets) :rolleyes:

The local amenity was two pieces of soap and some fruits in my room.

A local black level experience does not exist in this hotel (neither do the Anamara hotels in Bangkok offer such an experience). On the other side, the hotel offers three different gold level experiences.

The lowest room category was not bookable on the hotel's website. Obviously only bookable at the travel agent's websites. What I booked on Orbitz was obviously the cheapest rate (i.e. a standard room), got upgrade only to superior sea view, not to a lagoon room.

The value of the black level is questionable to me. The benefits in the Hyatt as a diamond member seem to be higher than here.

To summarize: I am - one more - not too much impressed about the GHA black level.

I was previously a SPG member but the benefits of the member tiers were less attractive than GHA. At least I get free internet at the basic GHA level. As points are relatively unimportant to me, the range of benefits are much more important.

Not to mention I can achieve Platinum (Tier 2) on GHA with half the stay (10 nights) compared to SPG Gold (Tier 2) (25 nights). GHA Black (Tier 3) can be achieved with 30 nights, 5 nights more than SPG Gold.

So far all the benefits mentioned at each Tier has been honoured in all GHA hotels I have been staying in. While the Local Experience offered by GHA is interesting, to me it's just icing on the cake. Personally prefer the benefits such as free internet, free room upgrade, early check in and late checkout.

As I am not a frequent traveller, SPG requires too many nights for me to achieve any tangible Tier upgrade compared to GHA.

I've booked rooms through their respective hotel websites, not through GHA, and all the nights have been fully accounted for, even those that were under special promotions (Stay 4 nights pay 3. Got 4 nights.)

Hey, has anyone else experienced difficulties with crediting nights on the GHA? I've just recently checked after having spent three more nights in a panpacific (booked over Panpacifics Website) and the nights do not show on the GHA member website.
While I was checking (for the first time since I registered to the program) I noticed that my previous nights this year in both marco polo hotels and pan pacific hotels have not credited at all.
Sent an email to GHA a few days ago already, no answer whatsoever yet!!!

What also seems to be funny: booking any GHA member hotel over the GHA website seems to be always a lot more expensive than on the actual hotels website!

I was sent a Black card last week - I had a 3 day stay at the Parkroyal Sydney over New Year and that is my only history with GHA. There doesn't seem to be any way to register this card on the website -it allows you to apply for new membership but not sign on using an existing card as far as I can tell.

Been OMNI now GHA black for 2 years and I get nothing, no cards, half the time I need to chase for the points and black level amenity.

Been OMNI now GHA black for 2 years and I get nothing, no cards, half the time I need to chase for the points and black level amenity.

Except for it usually taking a few extra days for my stay credits to post, I've had the opposite experience (also Black tier). To be fair, the only GGA properties I've been staying with YTD are Omni. So far I've always received an upgrade and always receive my welcome amenity; one property recently called me in advance to inquire what I'd like for my amenity. When they went through a couple of systems conversions earlier this year I was having some problems with stays getting counted/posted and the system switching me randomly between airline points & free night credits, but my Loyalty Ambassador was able to get that resolved for me. I reach out to her whenever I need anything, whether it's at her property or elsewhere.

Is lounge access one of the benefits they give (do they even have lounges at their hotels?)?

We have the platinum level of gha but it's worth nothing. Before we were private concierge members of Kempinski this was better.

To give examples. According to the platinum level you get a complimentary upgrade based on availability. Although some hotels are not fully booked you do not get an upgrade. Free Internet in the room, if the Internet is working and if it is via cable not wireless (still don't understand that). Late check out or early checking. Always: sorry hotel is fully booked we need the room or we did not clean it yet, even if you sent flight details upfront.

Never tried a local experience as some are just regular tours you can buy elsewhere too.

I'm not a happy customer. Love some hotels therefor I return, but you are not recognized as loyal customer in my opinion.

Has anyone had experiences with the local experiences of the omni berkshire (GHA New York).

On the website the following are listed:

Gold: Federal Reserve Bank Tour
Gold: 'Skip the line at the MoMa in NYC'

Plat: Wicked, The Broadway musical

Since I will be staying in NYC over newyears, these might be quite nice. I have no clue though if the MoMa does have a line to skip ;) or if this Federal Reserve Bank Tour is worth it...

thx for input.

Gold: Federal Reserve Bank Tour
I have no clue though if this Federal Reserve Bank Tour is worth it...

thx for input.

Depends if it includes free samples

Depends if it includes free samples

:D ... well actually I do need some real input here though ;)

Is lounge access one of the benefits they give (do they even have lounges at their hotels?)?

I'm not sure myself about all the hotels but any upgrades to suite level and I'll always get all the benefits entitled to the suite rooms.

Which included lounge access, free breakfast etc etc.

Is lounge access one of the benefits they give (do they even have lounges at their hotels?)?

I'm not sure myself about all the hotels but any upgrades to suite level and I'll always get all the benefits entitled to the suite rooms.

Which included lounge access, free breakfast etc etc.

anyone know the local (gold) benefit for William Penn Omni in Pitt?

anyone know the local (gold) benefit for William Penn Omni in Pitt?

As a Black it was a dish of candied pecans (I think it may be the same for all levels at this property).

Enjoy the Wm Penn -- I used to stay there several nights/month and they have some truly wonderful people on their team. When you receive the advance welcome email from their Ambassador (she's AWESOME), definitely let her know if there's anything she can help you with. Also, ask for a room on 6, 7 or 10 -- those are the floors that have been renovated the most recently (unless others have been done in the past year).

Can anyone with Black status speak to their experience with the "double upgrade" benefit?

I'm particularly interested in learning about two things:


How common it is for domestic properties to honor this benefit.
Whether the upgrades are meaningful (e.g., From "Deluxe" to "Superior" to "Suite, instead of "Deluxe" to "Superior without a view" to "Superior with a view").

Can anyone with Black status speak to their experience with the "double upgrade" benefit?


I'd like to hear about this as well. Is it good value from GHA or just a teaser?

Can anyone with Black status speak to their experience with the "double upgrade" benefit?

I'm particularly interested in learning about two things:


How common it is for domestic properties to honor this benefit.
Whether the upgrades are meaningful (e.g., From "Deluxe" to "Superior" to "Suite, instead of "Deluxe" to "Superior without a view" to "Superior with a view").


Only stayed at Kempinski Hotels - I always got a double upgrade. Just look at their room description and whatever room you book you get a double upgrade based on this. e.g. kempinski Instanbul -- booked Deluxe with view and got Studio Suite

Not every Hotel offers right now Black LOCAL EXPERIENCES. Does anyone know if this how it should work or should I contact the hotel directly and ask if they offer one.

Only stayed at Kempinski Hotels - I always got a double upgrade. Just look at their room description and whatever room you book you get a double upgrade based on this. e.g. kempinski Instanbul -- booked Deluxe with view and got Studio Suite

vielen Dank!

Can anyone with Black status speak to their experience with the "double upgrade" benefit?

I'm particularly interested in learning about two things:


How common it is for domestic properties to honor this benefit.
Whether the upgrades are meaningful (e.g., From "Deluxe" to "Superior" to "Suite, instead of "Deluxe" to "Superior without a view" to "Superior with a view").


I can only speak to Omni and have found it varies by property. A few examples:
+ Omni William Penn (Pittsburgh) -- was always upgraded from the basic room to at least a junior suite or full suite (I also spent approx 30 nights/year with them so that may have helped a bit). This is a property that also runs (or did) high occupancy during the week so a double upgrade wasn't always possible but always at least to an executive room.
+ Omni Parker House -- upgraded from a basic room to a one-room suite
+ Omni San Antonio at the Colonnade -- upgraded from basic room to one-room suite
+ Omni Berkshire Place (New York) -- upgraded from basic rooms to full one-bedroom suites (twice) and a junior suite (once)
+ Omni Austin Southpark -- no upgrade
+ Omni Indianapolis -- no upgrade beyond a high floor
+ Omni Chicago -- upgrade from a deluxe suite to an executive suite

I'm a Black card member thanks to stays with new Omni in Dallas (1,001 rooms but very nice BTW) and with Kempinski and First Hotels in Europe over the last year. I usually get at least a single upgrade and had a double this week in Geneva. I don't know how many on this forum are in the UK but there has been a big promotional push on by GHA over the summer with emails most weeks since the Jubilee in early June. It looks as if they've overhauled the "Local Experiences" and there are a lot more to choose from, although some of them are perhaps a bit less exclusive than the old ones.

For example if you stay in London you can get a free Kindle Touch with leather case in exchange for a Black award, or you can get a £150 shopping voucher for Harrods or Liberty (both pretty nice London shops). I don't really need to stay in London since I live near there - but is sounds like these are pretty easy rewards to take. I think they just give you the Kindle at the check-in desk if you book it online.

On the downside I see that they have said that they are phasing out Gold "Local Experiences" completely. You still get the Gold level rewards like free wifi and free water and you still earn nights on your account but there won't be any dedicated Gold "Local Experiences" after 31 December. Most of them looked a bit useless anyway, to be honest...

I'm a Black card member thanks to stays with new Omni in Dallas (1,001 rooms but very nice BTW) and with Kempinski and First Hotels in Europe over the last year. I usually get at least a single upgrade and had a double this week in Geneva. I don't know how many on this forum are in the UK but there has been a big promotional push on by GHA over the summer with emails most weeks since the Jubilee in early June. It looks as if they've overhauled the "Local Experiences" and there are a lot more to choose from, although some of them are perhaps a bit less exclusive than the old ones.

For example if you stay in London you can get a free Kindle Touch with leather case in exchange for a Black award, or you can get a £150 shopping voucher for Harrods or Liberty (both pretty nice London shops). I don't really need to stay in London since I live near there - but is sounds like these are pretty easy rewards to take. I think they just give you the Kindle at the check-in desk if you book it online.

On the downside I see that they have said that they are phasing out Gold "Local Experiences" completely. You still get the Gold level rewards like free wifi and free water and you still earn nights on your account but there won't be any dedicated Gold "Local Experiences" after 31 December. Most of them looked a bit useless anyway, to be honest...

Forgot to add that Omni actually run their own loyalty scheme (Select Guest) in parallel with the GHA scheme, so you can "double dip" by earning points or nights towards free Omni nights at the same time as you are earning nights that count towards GHA Discovery tiers/ Local Experiences.

This confused me a bit as the place I enrolled happened to be an Omni in the USA, even though I live in the UK.

Can anyone with Black status speak to their experience with the "double upgrade" benefit?

I'm particularly interested in learning about two things:


How common it is for domestic properties to honor this benefit.
Whether the upgrades are meaningful (e.g., From "Deluxe" to "Superior" to "Suite, instead of "Deluxe" to "Superior without a view" to "Superior with a view").




It's exactly what it says - two level upgrades. Every hotel lists on his website the different room types. I always book two levels below the room which I want.

It's exactly what it says - two level upgrades. Every hotel lists on his website the different room types. I always book two levels below the room which I want.

I'm afraid this wasn't the case with my experience on two ensuing stays (Berkshire and Chicago). Even though the inventory online showed that suites two levels higher than my booked room were for sale, I only received an upgrade of one level. My protests to the Loyalty Ambassador were met with "But you're already getting an upgrade to a suite".

Suffice to say, I've relegated this program into the dustbin, along w/ SPG and its unfulfilled upgrade promises. :td:

As a black member with 57 stays this year at various gha hotels i thought id share my experience... Firstly, the brand of hotels are generally of great quality and much better than hilton... Have generally found that i have got an upgrade 95 per cent of the time, 50 per cent of that double upgrade... The problems then start at the hotels comes with the consistency... One london property in kensington leads the way for me, always a welcome card, fantastic local amenities re stocked every day, chef inspired dish... But, and a big but this is the exception to the rule, most offer you nothing apart from a bottle of water and often i end up calling to say what should i be receiving which usually follows an apology and then a minibar choc selection might arrive, hardly inspiring...but the biggest issue for me, is that the GHA parent lets the hotels down very badly.. As mentioned in a previous post, my stays dont get credited, my airmiles dont get credited... I have redeemed two black level experiences at two different brand hotels to be given no experience as we dont recognize this sir or a completely dunmed down version of the one i was meant to get (probably why they are making the black awards less attractive and phasing out gold... Gold awards are the new platinum and so forth with platinum)..when i call GHA to complain they do nothing, seem to be able to do nothing... After many mails, a lot of the airline miles im due are still missing and i shouldnt have to keep chasing on everything... This would not happen with hilton, starwood.

...After many mails, a lot of the airline miles im due are still missing and i shouldnt have to keep chasing on everything... This would not happen with hilton, starwood.

Can we earn airline miles when we stay at GHA hotels? I did not know about that. In which hotels can we earn how many miles?

http://www.gha.com/About-GHA/Our-Partners GHA airline miles.. i usually if credited get 500 miles a night with BA:

I recently had a great (gold) local experience at the Vier Jahreszeiten (I am black but the gold experience is what was available).

It was an afternoon with the hotel's tea sommelier and I really enjoyed it.

A complete report is online here. (http://www.frequentbusinesstraveler.com/2012/09/tea-tasting-at-the-hotel-vier-jahreszeiten-kempinski-munich-a-gha-local-experience/)

http://www.frequentbusinesstraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_0696-300x199.jpg

http://www.gha.com/About-GHA/Our-Partners GHA airline miles.. i usually if credited get 500 miles a night with BA:

Oh, wow, that is something new to me, thank you for pointing out.

The fine print says "* Eligible Rates do not include tour operator rates, groups and packages, free/complimentary stays, travel industry rates and internet wholesaler/ third party rates."

I do not see that 3rd party rates, such as expedia and orbitz, are not eligible for the purpose of airline miles. Should I get miles for such bookings?

[snip] ... I have redeemed two black level experiences at two different brand hotels to be given no experience as we dont recognize this sir or a completely dunmed down version of the one i was meant to get (probably why they are making the black awards less attractive and phasing out gold... Gold awards are the new platinum and so forth with platinum)..when i call GHA to complain they do nothing, seem to be able to do nothing...

Actually I think their awards are moving in the other direction. They are phasing out Gold and giving better awards for Black and Platinum, hence the Kindles and £150 shopping vouchers etc. At least that's what it looks like in UK/ Europe. It might be different in the rest of the world.

What were the Black experiences that didn't work out for you?

I redeeemed a will we rock you tour in london.. 3 course meal for 2 with bottle of champagne included then tickets to the show and VIP backstage tour. I got two tickets that was it, nothing more....it was embarassing as the concierge said goto the theater and use the do u know who i am approach...we got nowhere, so embarrasing...second one was in l.a two weeks ago.. Redeemed chauffaur tour of l.a followed by chopper ride with champagne... Hotel knew nothing of it when i arrived despite me having a full confirmation.. The omni to its credit hastily arranged a makeshift tour at 12 hours notice but not the point... When i complain to GHA about everything, its pointless, they do nothing.

I redeeemed a will we rock you tour in london.. 3 course meal for 2 with bottle of champagne included then tickets to the show and VIP backstage tour. I got two tickets that was it, nothing more....it was embarassing as the concierge said goto the theater and use the do u know who i am approach...we got nowhere, so embarrasing...second one was in l.a two weeks ago.. Redeemed chauffaur tour of l.a followed by chopper ride with champagne... Hotel knew nothing of it when i arrived despite me having a full confirmation.. The omni to its credit hastily arranged a makeshift tour at 12 hours notice but not the point... When i complain to GHA about everything, its pointless, they do nothing.


What do you mean by "full confirmation"? Did you have it confirmed with the hotel? Only getting a voucher from the Internet is not sufficient.

If i redeem an award and then get a confirm back a day later with confirmed number surely that suffices.. It worked once partly, it didnt work a second time.. It shouldnt be the responsibility of the customer to have to chase the hotels should it, this is why its arranged by GHA. Its their responsibility to have the correct communication channels to the hotels in my opinion.

If i redeem an award and then get a confirm back a day later with confirmed number surely that suffices.. It worked once partly, it didnt work a second time.. It shouldnt be the responsibility of the customer to have to chase the hotels should it, this is why its arranged by GHA. Its their responsibility to have the correct communication channels to the hotels in my opinion.

No, it isn't good enough in most cases! I know because I also felt on the mouth on my first redemption!

I took the first black level experience which I found on the GHA website - Unique Dining Experience. (http://www.gha.com/Shaza-Hotels/Shaza-Al-Madina/Unique-Dining-Experience)

Parts of the T&Cs say: To book this Local Experience, please click the 'Redeem' button above. After booking a Local Experience you will automatically receive a redemption voucher electronically. When redeeming your Local Experience, please provide your redemption voucher or voucher number during check-in at the hotel front desk. Please note that this Local Experience must be confirmed by the hotel (the electronic redemption voucher is not sufficient confirmation of this Local Experience). The hotel will contact you to confirm and arrange the details of this Local Experience as soon as possible. In the meantime, if you have any queries regarding this Local Experience please email the hotel a ghadiscovery.almadina@shazahotels.com or call on +966 4 829 0001.

Most of the local experiences have such conditions in the fine print!

http://www.gha.com/About-GHA/Our-Partners GHA airline miles.. i usually if credited get 500 miles a night with BA:

I just made a booking on GHA and nowhere was I given the option to enter my BA frequent flyer number. How do you link your GHA account to one of their partner airlines?

I just made a booking on GHA and nowhere was I given the option to enter my BA frequent flyer number. How do you link your GHA account to one of their partner airlines?

Me? - I give my airline program number at check in

Me? - I give my airline program number at check in

I think that's the only way. It seems to work!

Local experiences can be earned by

sleeping for the first time in a hotel chain (e.g. when you stay the first time in a Kempinski hotel or firt time in an Anantara hotel)
reneving the status (e.g. the black level status)


That sounds appealing to me and makes me to try all the GHA hotel chains.

But what once I have earned all my "hotel chain local experiences"? Earning one single local experience is not really rewarding enough to extend my black level status.

Your inputs, guys?

I think you are right in some ways Mr TallestHiJ. Once you have collected from all the chains (I count 14) then the only way to earn a Local Experience is to renew your status or move up to the next tier. The only other benefits you are getting is the double upgrade - when available - and the extended check-in/out and little gifts plus wifi and water. I like the upgrade so would probably keep it just for that.

Also I still have quite a few GHA chains to cross off my list of stays!

But you are right that they should think of some way to benefit members who have stayed at lots of chains already. Maybe they could

Reset your chain count to zero when you've reached 5 chains, so that you get a new LE for the first stay in every chain after that
Give members who reach say 8 chains a 5 year Black status
Restart the chain count after 2 years as a Black tier member, so that all chains count as new again


I guess the scheme hasn't been going so long so they haven't worked this out.

What I may do is let me downgrade to Platinum by not qualifying to Black by the end of this year. Then collect all 14 Platinum amenities and then go back to Black.

What I may do is let me downgrade to Platinum by not qualifying to Black by the end of this year. Then collect all 14 Platinum amenities and then go back to Black.

Devious! But I don't think it works like that. Once you have stayed at a "new" brand (to you) then it can't become a "not new" brand just because you've changed membership tier, I don't think. So you won't earn a new Local Experience just because you are staying at a brand with a different coloured card.

I could be wrong though.

I contacted GHA in this matter.

A black member who falls down cannot earn local experiences in the new category, i.e. in platinum level.

A platinum member who becomes a black member - on the other hand - can earn another 14 local experiences (in the black category).

It makes no sense to me. And also, what keeps me loyal once I earned all my local experiences? It is a very, very nice program. But "something" is missing - points earning maybe? Or special promotions, e.g. sleep twice and get a free night?

I contacted GHA in this matter.

A black member who falls down cannot earn local experiences in the new category, i.e. in platinum level.

A platinum member who becomes a black member - on the other hand - can earn another 14 local experiences (in the black category).

It makes no sense to me. And also, what keeps me loyal once I earned all my local experiences? It is a very, very nice program. But "something" is missing - points earning maybe? Or special promotions, e.g. sleep twice and get a free night?

That's true, something has to be missing, it can't just stop there... If that's the way it is, it sure will have a very short shelf life... :eek:

Im quitting GHA. Ive stayed at quite a few hotels within the GHA network this year and not one single night got credited to my account. There have been problems with the crediting to the program since ive joined and as much as I love staying at the pan pacific hotels its just a nuisance to run after them every time ive stayed somewhere to get the nights credited.

Even though apparently according to the GHA website I havent stayed at any GHA brand this year :confused: they have offered me to extend my platinum membership by only staying one more night this year at any brand in the network. Going to kingly refuse this offer since the program brings exactly 0 value. Tried to use a local experience last NYE in new york and it failed. A few have already expired too... when are we supposed to use them?!

And if I decide to stay at the pan pacific in the future, gold level will do as fine, free internet and no other benefits too that which wouldnt change at platinum anyways.


[rant over]

I just tried to book a Local Experience in Yangon - I only booked at the Parkroyal to FINALLY try and use an experience - all my others expired before I got to even try them. And the website says there is NOTHING available! What a fraud.

Has ANYONE got any use out of this programme? Mainly I did it for the free internet but it seems pretty pathetic compared to SPG and other proper programmes.

Although the GHA program leaves a lot to be desired. I just wanted to COMPLIMENT the (USA based) GHA agents. I have found them to be wonderful in handling any requests made (Platinum level here). and so much better in customer service deliverance than many larger hotel programs. I personally, don't think the (novel as it maybe) "Local Experience" is such an attractive benefit, and hope this will improve, or be replaced, over time. However, the basic platinum and black level of "Room Upgrade" is hard to beat. I have never experienced a problem with room nights posting (Pan Pacific included), but do with airline miles.

Take care everyone and enjoy your travels.

However, the basic platinum and black level of "Room Upgrade" is hard to beat. I have never experienced a problem with room nights posting (Pan Pacific included), but do with airline miles.


I've stayed round about 7 nights at pan pacific or park royal hotels in singapore this year, not a single night got credited on the GHA account, neither did the airline miles. Ive always booked the rooms stating my platinum number and showed up at check-in with the card aswell. I have not received one single room upgrade at any of the GHA brands ive stayed at. The only promised benefits I have received were internet access for free and late check-out. Although I have to say one time I stayed at the park royal in singapore they gave me a very check-in at 9am due to an early flight to SIN.

Anyways, I'm quite done with GHA, I will obviously use the benefit of the gold level in the future of getting free internet access....

I just tried to book a Local Experience in Yangon - I only booked at the Parkroyal to FINALLY try and use an experience - all my others expired before I got to even try them. And the website says there is NOTHING available! What a fraud.

Has ANYONE got any use out of this programme? Mainly I did it for the free internet but it seems pretty pathetic compared to SPG and other proper programmes.

As I said a page or two back, I've actually done OK with the programme. Usually get upgrades and in SOME places there are now a range of Local Experiences that are attractive (like London and Singapore). I've never been to Yangon though - but I did just take a look on the website and I can see six different Local Experiences listed there:
http://www.gha.com/nxc_gha/search_le/0/10/random/asc?membership_level=-1&country=3229&city=3163&le_organizers_brand=9022&participating_hotels=9148&category=-1&local_experience_features=-1&start_date=&end_date=&keywords=

Did they not let you book any of them?

As a follow up to some of my previous posts and others, its still shocking that GHA cant communicate with its hotel chains, some of which are the finest in the world... Im still having problems and chasing stays.. I strongly believe GHA can have an adverse effect on some of the better hotel chains like Kempinski since all you do is spend your time chasing stays and airline miles.. I actually wrote a letter of complaint and got some compensation as i have 70 stays this year which warrants some loyalty back from GHA.

I just tried to book a Local Experience in Yangon - I only booked at the Parkroyal to FINALLY try and use an experience - all my others expired before I got to even try them. And the website says there is NOTHING available! What a fraud.

Has ANYONE got any use out of this programme? Mainly I did it for the free internet but it seems pretty pathetic compared to SPG and other proper programmes.



I had some use out of the program:

Black Local Experience @ Kempinski Geneva: Very delicious diner for me and my wife. Although it was supposed to be in the largest suite in Europe we ended up in a rather small room "because the largest suite was booked that day". Well...
Black Local Experience @ Kempinski Abu Dhabi: 90 minutes Rolls Royce tour is on my program for January
Internet: Free Internet in the hotels
Upgrades: Two levels only - but still a nice thing to have
Very early check-ins (as early as 9 AM) and late check-outs


And after all, I discovered some very nice hotels which I did not know before. So, there were some benefits for me

On the contrary: There is something missing once one got his Experiences at the different chains. And what others already mentioned there are often stays and/or airline miles missing.

I have 2 black experiences on my account and not too long ago had a gold experience which I wrote about in Frequent Business Traveler.

Tea Tasting at the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski - A GHA Local Experience
(http://www.frequentbusinesstraveler.com/2012/09/tea-tasting-at-the-hotel-vier-jahreszeiten-kempinski-munich-a-gha-local-experience/)

The VJ doesn't have a black experience available (or didn't on the days I was there, I don't recall) but I really enjoyed the afternoon and learnt a lot too. The picture below from the article should give you an idea of how it went.

http://www.frequentbusinesstraveler.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/DSC_0696-300x199.jpg

Nice ;)

I agree with @fiona.

I am just so sick of this programme. Nice idea, to be different, but the implementation is SO CRAPPY.
All my awards so far (in 3 years) expired before I could use them, mostly because I travel on business and "having fun" on a local experience is something I don't have time for.

But finally, a stay in a Parkroyal over a weekend... but can I find anything to redeem? NO. They changed the award between the time I booked and the time I am staying so the one I wanted no longer exists, and the others I am trying to redeem keep saying "not available on this date" when I try and book them online!

So, yet again, another award will expire without being used.

I am going to go out of my way to AVOID these hotels in future as they offer zero benefits. Absolutely crap. Whose bloody stupid idea was this scheme?

Hello everyone,

Although I do like the (Plat' & Black) upgrades and the early/late check-outs, both of which are important to me. The 'local experience' awards are often difficult to use, especially for business travellers, who have tight time constraints. A much better reward system would be, "choose a gift", a "free night", etc.

Enjoy your travels.

AirCrew:)

Hi Everyone,

Rydges Hotels are joining GHA on the 1st April but you can use your benifits at any Rydges property now. The only problem with this is that your stays don't get credited to your membership until they go live in April, then they aren't sure if Rydges will post previous stay credits to your GHA membership

Hi Everyone,

Rydges Hotels are joining GHA on the 1st April but you can use your benifits at any Rydges property now. The only problem with this is that your stays don't get credited to your membership until they go live in April, then they aren't sure if Rydges will post previous stay credits to your GHA membership

Thanks Rusell, for the heads-up on this welcome GHA expansion. I hope there will be several more additions during the year ahead.

Cheers
AirCrew:)

If u wanna get instant platinum status with GHA then u simply can use this link ;)

http://www.gha.com/Promotions/MasterCard/WorldSignia

cheers,
flo

I want to ask question about GHA Discovery program:
Can I earn miles from Frequency flyer program (for example British Executive club) additional to earn Local Experience award.
Thanks

just got my platinum status renewed to 2014 without even staying at gha brands last year... anyone else?

Last year they offered me to renew plat status with only 1 stay at GHA which I didnt do. I guess they are desperate to keep people loyal.

If u wanna get instant platinum status with GHA then u simply can use this link ;)

http://www.gha.com/Promotions/MasterCard/WorldSignia

cheers,
flo

Thanks ^

just got my platinum status renewed to 2014 without even staying at gha brands last year... anyone else?

Last year they offered me to renew plat status with only 1 stay at GHA which I didnt do. I guess they are desperate to keep people loyal.

Same here. Except I stayed 5 nights at Anantara on a mistake rate of 45$- but I forgot to add my plat number for upgrade:D

Do they send out the platinum card immediately or after the first stay?

I just got GHA Black through the JPM Palladium card. I booked a hotel on Priceline's name your own and got the Omni. Will I still get the GHA Black benefits through a Priceline booking?

If u wanna get instant platinum status with GHA then u simply can use this link ;)

http://www.gha.com/Promotions/MasterCard/WorldSignia

cheers,
flo

Thanks

Thanks
Tried the link today and the site says that promotion has expired. A day late and dollar short...the story of my life...lol

Tried the link today and the site says that promotion has expired. A day late and dollar short...the story of my life...lol

It was over used so i think they cancelled this promotion lol

Just received the email.

Let me read through and post the details in a few hours time.

Sorry, not getting enough sleep Zzzz..

Flash sale! 15-40% off worldwide by region. (http://www.gha.com/Flash-Sale/2013-02/EN/February-Flash-Sale?s=d-cta)

China: Up to 20% off
INDONESIA: up to 30% off
Maldives: up to 40% off
Philippines: 15% off
Singapore: 20% off
Thailand: up to 40% off
Vietnam: up to 25% off
Bosnia & Herzegovina: 33% off
Ireland: 20% off
Portugal: 15% off
United Kingdom: 20% off
United Arab Emirates: 20% off
CANADA: 15% off
MEXICO: 15% off
United States: 15% off
Brazil: 25% off

March Flash Sale (http://www.gha.com/Flash-Sale/2013-03/EN/March-Flash-Sale)

It is extremely difficult and frustrating to deal with GHA and sometimes also with GHA hotels. That's my conclusion, after being a Black level member for the 3rd year now!

Short question: When a local experience "expires 05/2013", will it be valid until end of April or end of May? Thanx for insights!

It is extremely difficult and frustrating to deal with GHA and sometimes also with GHA hotels. That's my conclusion, after being a Black level member for the 3rd year now!

Short question: When a local experience "expires 05/2013", will it be valid until end of April or end of May? Thanx for insights!

You should switch loyalty then.

Whoever came up with this GHA program didn't really enforce it I guess.

April Flash Sale (http://www.gha.com/Flash-Sale/2013-04/EN/April-Flash-Sale?src=em-flash-apr-20130422-d-EN-mainArtCTA)

Did anyone notice a change on the stay requirements for Local Exp reward?
I couldn't find any properties that don't have stay requirements now.

I'm fairly certain there were a few before. Looks like all rewards require stay now?

Hi. Is there any way to book Kempinski hotels with points?

Did anyone notice a change on the stay requirements for Local Exp reward?
I couldn't find any properties that don't have stay requirements now.

I'm fairly certain there were a few before. Looks like all rewards require stay now?


No buddy, no. There I did not realized that! The Kempinski hotels no need an overnight stay! Keep tuned.

PS: Three of my black level vouchrs will expire end of May becasue I have no use to them




Hi. Is there any way to book Kempinski hotels with points?

Hi. No, sorry to disapoint you, man! There is no point system in the GHA program!

SUMMER SALES - UP TO 40% OFF! (http://www.gha.com/GHA-Discovery-Member-News/2013-05/EN/Summer-Sales?src=em-news-may-20130513-d-EN-art01CTA)

Did anyone know what is the GHA staff rate?I have apply GHA gold membership,is that qualify to book this rate,I seen the price at GHA website quite cheap and the price including all the tax and breakfast,Thanks

The staff are only allowed to book the staff rate. In case you are a staff, go and ask your supervisor for the staff rate code. Having this in hand, you will be able to check the rates @:-)

May Flash Sale 2013 (http://www.gha.com/Flash-Sale/2013-05/EN/May-Flash-Sale?src=em-flash-may-20130527-d-EN-mainArtCTA)

GHA always more disapointing. Black Level voucher have not much value anymore. I am not happy anymore with the program. And the hotels provide not the best service.

GHA always more disapointing. Black Level voucher have not much value anymore. I am not happy anymore with the program. And the hotels provide not the best service.

Thanks for the feedback TallestHotelInJapan. Guess I won't be trying their hotels.

Black Level voucher have not much value anymore..
I have not seen any vouchers for Black Level. What kind of vouchers are these, exactly?

I have not seen any vouchers for Black Level. What kind of vouchers are these, exactly?

The black level vouchers basically have better benefits than Platinum or Gold. From what I've browsed through different hotels, it has more exotic redemptions/experiences and probably better value than Platinum or Gold.

But the problem with redeeming the vouchers or local experience (as the program calls it), may not be easy. There's always a fine print says the voucher/local experience is not confirmed and you would have to speak to front desk or whoever to confirm the experience. Sometimes they may not be available and such.

I personally have not tried it, just from what I've read here and there. Maybe TallestHotelInJapan can share more with us and hopefully more can contribute on their experiences on this. :)

I personally have not tried it, just from what I've read here and there. Maybe TallestHotelInJapan can share more with us and hopefully more can contribute on their experiences on this. :)

Everytime a GHA status level member (i.e. platinum or black) stays for the first time in a hotel chain, he obtains one voucher, according to his status. Gold level is not a status level and does not earn any vouchers. There used to be gold level vouchers in the past.

There are currently 18 brands. That sounds good. Once a member stayed for the first time in a brand (e.g. in the Kempinski) he won't earn a second voucher from that chain. Consequently, one can earn up to 18 local experience vouchers. That's it.

If a member is first a platinum level member, he can obtain up to 18 platinum vouchers. When he then becomes a black level member, he can again get a black level voucher for each brand. If a member directly becomes a black level member (e.g. he gets this status due to his HON Circle membership with M&M) he can only get the black level vouchers. Once he becomes a platinum level member, he won't earn any platinum vouchers.

You see already, you can get an outstanding value for staying the first time in a brand. Once the voucher is earned, there is no big incentive except the two level upgrades for black level members / the one level upgrades for platinum level members.

In addition, if a member extends his status, he gets one new voucher (according to the status).

The black level vouchers basically have better benefits than Platinum or Gold. From what I've browsed through different hotels, it has more exotic redemptions/experiences and probably better value than Platinum or Gold.

But the problem with redeeming the vouchers or local experience (as the program calls it), may not be easy. There's always a fine print says the voucher/local experience is not confirmed and you would have to speak to front desk or whoever to confirm the experience. Sometimes they may not be available and such.

I personally have not tried it, just from what I've read here and there. Maybe TallestHotelInJapan can share more with us and hopefully more can contribute on their experiences on this. :)

Everytime a GHA status level member (i.e. platinum or black) stays for the first time in a hotel chain, he obtains one voucher, according to his status. Gold level is not a status level and does not earn any vouchers. There used to be gold level vouchers in the past.

There are currently 18 brands. That sounds good. Once a member stayed for the first time in a brand (e.g. in the Kempinski) he won't earn a second voucher from that chain. Consequently, one can earn up to 18 local experience vouchers. That's it.

If a member is first a platinum level member, he can obtain up to 18 platinum vouchers. When he then becomes a black level member, he can again get a black level voucher for each brand. If a member directly becomes a black level member (e.g. he gets this status due to his HON Circle membership with M&M) he can only get the black level vouchers. Once he becomes a platinum level member, he won't earn any platinum vouchers.

You see already, you can get an outstanding value for staying the first time in a brand. Once the voucher is earned, there is no big incentive except the two level upgrades for black level members / the one level upgrades for platinum level members.

In addition, if a member extends his status, he gets one new voucher (according to the status).

I'm GHA Black and I don't know why you are calling these vouchers then. You get a Local Experience Award. There is zero mention of vouchers on the GHA website. I currently have 2 Black Local Experience Awards in my portfolio and I have also used several awards without any problem.

I'm GHA Black and I don't know why you are calling these vouchers then. You get a Local Experience Award. There is zero mention of vouchers on the GHA website. I currently have 2 Black Local Experience Awards in my portfolio and I have also used several awards without any problem.

I am calling them vouchers because they are vouchers. Electronic vouchers - and yet vouchers!

...After booking a Local Experience you will automatically receive a redemption voucher electronically. When redeeming your Local Experience, please provide your redemption voucher or voucher number during check-in at the hotel front desk.... Source: GHA website (http://www.gha.com/Tivoli-Hotels-and-Resorts/Tivoli-Oriente/Oysters-and-Steak-Tartar-at-the-Brasserie-Flo-Lisboa) ([ + ] Read Terms & Conditions)

I personally have not tried it, just from what I've read here and there. Maybe TallestHotelInJapan can share more with us and hopefully more can contribute on their experiences on this. :)

Black Level vouchers used to have an excellent value but their value decreased dramatically. One example: I used one black level voucher for the Pan Pacific Orchard Road (GHA Local Experiences - How it works) last year. The value was 300 SGD against the room cost. Wowow! This year, the value dropped down to 180 SGD :confused:

The Kempinski Geneva offered a five course dinner in their largest suite - which is, according to them, the largest suite in Europe. The food was outstanding and a bottle of Champagner was also included. The largest suite in Europa was, oh surprised "booked at very short notice" so that we ended in a small room (the living room of a small suite). The night before we were still ensured that everything would be ok. No information and no sorry whatsoever. I was amazed. This year, the offer don't exist anymore :confused:

Many other similar things... SPG hotels are often not too eager to give "something for free". Recently in the Kempinski Munich, we had contact with the assistant front desk manager in the morning, just to learn in the evening that our reservation was not forwarded to the restaurant :confused: Black Level offer (http://www.gha.com/Kempinski/Hotel-Vier-Jahreszeiten-Kempinski-Munich/3-Course-Dinner-for-2-at-Vue-Maximilian-Restaurant) was pretty meaningless, compared to the one in Geneva.

I am tired of such things....

I am calling them vouchers because they are vouchers. Electronic vouchers - and yet vouchers!

Source: GHA website (http://www.gha.com/Tivoli-Hotels-and-Resorts/Tivoli-Oriente/Oysters-and-Steak-Tartar-at-the-Brasserie-Flo-Lisboa) ([ + ] Read Terms & Conditions)

Yeah, it's also a good way to tell people about it too. Voucher is generally an understood terminology. ^

Report back from a BRG claim: I filled one week ago a BRG claim against the Parkroyal Singapore. I got ZERO answer! That's also a way to discourage people from staying with GHA hotels :td:

Report back from a BRG claim: I filled one week ago a BRG claim against the Parkroyal Singapore. I got ZERO answer! That's also a way to discourage people from staying with GHA hotels :td:

This really looks bad on GHA.

Courtesy of Loyalty Lobby via Morgan Stanley...

https://ssl.gha.com/Information.aspx?register=Y&brand=MSSBPLAT

If anyone's interested...

Report back from a BRG claim: I filled one week ago a BRG claim against the Parkroyal Singapore. I got ZERO answer! That's also a way to discourage people from staying with GHA hotels :td:

You won't get much more of a reply if you contact them because your member card never arrived, nor that your black status card has never arrived, nor that after downgrade your platinum card has never arrived.

And you will also get no reply if you contact them because your "award's" validity is running out, but your stay at the hotel you want to redeem it for is booked for a later date.

I gave up on this program.

You won't get much more of a reply if you contact them because your member card never arrived, nor that your black status card has never arrived, nor that after downgrade your platinum card has never arrived.

And you will also get no reply if you contact them because your "award's" validity is running out, but your stay at the hotel you want to redeem it for is booked for a later date.

I gave up on this program.


Actually, this is not fully correct. You do get an answer if you send an email to their customer service desk: ghadiscovery@gha.com

If you call them, they are also able to help you. I remember a situation where I did not get a welcome amenity. That was a smaller hotel in Washington DC. Once GHA called the hotel we figured out that the hotel did not know about the welcome amenity because they never saw a client with a Black Level card before I arrived there.

If you are a member with Kempinski, you better write to the Kempinski GHA service for Kempinski related inquiries: gha.discovery@kempinski.com

Actually, this is not fully correct. You do get an answer if you send an email to their customer service desk: ghadiscovery@gha.com


got to correct myself: yes, you get a kind reply, promising your card, but you won't get the card before you send another 3-4 reminders, which I have decided no longer to do.

Courtesy of Loyalty Lobby via Morgan Stanley...

https://ssl.gha.com/Information.aspx?register=Y&brand=MSSBPLAT

If anyone's interested...

Doesn't seem to work...