Hilton HHonors - Rome Cavalieri Award Information — The Definitive Thread

Every time I try to book a reward stay, even months in advance, I am told that it is sold out for rewards. Have you had this experience there or anyplace else? How did you solve it? Anyone has direct email address for the Cavalieri?

I feel your pain. I called today for ANY available date in April 2003 (6-7 months in advance), and they said it was unavailable.

On top of that, they must have some really old computer programs because when searching for 6 consecutive nights (GLONP), they can't even tell why it is available (for example, Friday night is sold out but the rest of my days are okay)...so they just haphazardly search.

Anyone else have ideas?

I am staying there next week on award stay. Diamond desk took two days to confirm. I tried as gold many times and was never able to book.

Cy-gone:
Have a safe trip and let us know how your trip was when you return.

I was able to make a reservation for a full year away , but only could reserve twin beds.

Best: the hotel's website is: http://www.cavalieri-hilton.it/index.html

When I called last November to request a GLONP stay for October 02 was told by Hilton Honors that it wasn't available. So I went on the hotel's website and filled out their reservation requesting the GLONP award stay. I received an email back from the hotel reservationist confirming my award stay.

But at the very least, you can get the hotel's direct email from their website. Hope this helps.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by sk3:
Best: the hotel's website is: http://www.cavalieri-hilton.it/index.html

When I called last November to request a GLONP stay for October 02 was told by Hilton Honors that it wasn't available. So I went on the hotel's website and filled out their reservation requesting the GLONP award stay. I received an email back from the hotel reservationist confirming my award stay.

But at the very least, you can get the hotel's direct email from their website. Hope this helps.</font>

If you could elaborate how you made a reservation online requesting the GLONP award it would be most appreciated.

Hi GUWonder,

I went on the hotel's own website (link posted above) and I first selected "English" on the top left of the screen. Then I selected "Reservation" which pulled up their reservation form. I filled in my info and dates and then on the bottom of the form there is a box for "Special Request". In there I stated that I was trying to use a GLONP award for these 6 dates that I selected. Next day I received an email back from the hotel confirming the award reservation and saying that I'd need to present the award certificate upon check in.

Hope this helps.

A few months ago I called Hhonors and requested a GLONP award stay in April 2003. I was prepared to be told none was available or that my preferred dates were not. I was surprised. I had my pick of any period during April. I even selected the dates, then called back a few minutes later to change them - no problem. I am only a Gold, but I was pleasantly surprised.

Now I am wondering if I am going to stay at this Hilton or at the St. Regis on an award stay. Any ideas or suggestions on selecting between these two hotels? Thanks! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by FlyingRev (edited 10-11-2002).]

Well, I tried last week to get April 2003 with HHonors - rejected. I then sent an e-mail to the hotel and was also rejected.

If anyone does have an award reservation in April and decides not to use it, please let me know!!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by sk3:
Hi GUWonder,

I went on the hotel's own website (link posted above) and I first selected "English" on the top left of the screen. Then I selected "Reservation" which pulled up their reservation form. I filled in my info and dates and then on the bottom of the form there is a box for "Special Request". In there I stated that I was trying to use a GLONP award for these 6 dates that I selected. Next day I received an email back from the hotel confirming the award reservation and saying that I'd need to present the award certificate upon check in.

Hope this helps.</font>

Thanks a lot for the info. It is much appreciated. I just got back from Italy and my parents had no luck in using their Hilton HHonors points at the Hilton in Rome.. but then again even the St. Regis and Excelsior were fully booked on certain days when we where there. I will make good use of this in the future. Hope you have a great trip there.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by FlyingRev:
A few months ago I called Hhonors and requested a GLONP award stay in April 2003. I was prepared to be told none was available or that my preferred dates were not. I was surprised. I had my pick of any period during April. I even selected the dates, then called back a few minutes later to change them - no problem. I am only a Gold, but I was pleasantly surprised.

Now I am wondering if I am going to stay at this Hilton or at the St. Regis on an award stay. Any ideas or suggestions on selecting between these two hotels? Thanks! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by FlyingRev (edited 10-11-2002).]</font>

The St. Regis Grand should be taken, if given the option, as it is closer to the main attractions; the Westin Excelsior is also reasonably good and it is located on Via Veneto right across from our embassy there. The Hilton is a ways from the city center and requires a shuttle service, taxi or bus to get to/from the main attractions.

I have a confirmed GLONP Award reservation for the Rome Cavalieri July 27 - August 2 2003.

My travel plans have changed and I no longer wish to keep my reservation. Before I cancel I want to give a "heads up" to my fellow FlyerTalkers in case someone wants to take over the reservation.

Please e-mail me if you are interested and we can try to work out the details.

Have a GLONP award here booked for early June. Needed to change it by four days later to match up flight awards. Diamond desk advised "it should be no problem-we'll get back to you".

Ticketed the flight and am now told the hotel has exhausted award space. What can I do?

Try speaking with the hotel manager directly.

The Diamond desk has always been helpful to me. Did you call the Diamond desk? The 800 agents are sometimes (although darling) clueless.

I have been speaking to Diamond Desk the whole time. the Diamond Desk "special services" were adament about not changing.

Four days...? You'd think I was asking for the moon!

I have e mailed the GM of the hotel but I will call. Does anyone have any experience with this?

marlin -- You've got mail! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

I tried to book an award stay through the 800 # and was told no space available and that this was THE toughest to get into on award stay. I called the hotel directly and they were able to help me. The number is 011-39-06-35091. Good Luck!

Have any Diamond members NOT been upgraded to executive floor while staying at this hotel. We will be late September and would like to know whether we will have access to lounge for planning purposes.

Also, do you recommend La Pegola for dinner?

With an 0900 arrival time on a Sunday to FCO, do you think rooms will be available so we can change before going site seeing?

thanks,
marc

We are diamond and are staying there in April, I will post a reply when we get back! I would like to know if we can use their pool for free also.

Sorry Il miss you!
im there in early may on a GLONP

Hello,

Although I'm not a Diamond (only HH Gold), I recently had a 6 night stay at the Cavalieri, and did greatly researced the hotel before going.

First, the Cavalieri is my favorite Hilton. It's location (view, not convenience), luxury, and service is superb.

I understand that most of the time, space available, Diamonds will be upgraded to Executive Level floors. Regardless, Diamonds (and only Diamonds, unless of course you're staying the the Exec Level) will be given access to the Executive Lounge. This lounge is an essential part of the experience, and is great for breakfast and pre-dinner drinks.

As far as check-in, we were able to get checked-in at about 1030am without any problems.

I highly recommend La Pergola resturant. It is quite costly, however. I believe that when we ate their our dinner for two was about $400. It is worth it though!

-FlyerBeek

[This message has been edited by FlyerBeek (edited 02-22-2003).]

FlyerBeek:


Was your 6 night stay an award stay or a paid stay? If the latter, did you pay for the exec floor or were you on another floor?

Finally, if one is on a reward or non-reward stay and they are not on the exec floor, can they be placed on the floor, or at least obtain lounge access by paying a surcharge, or by eating at least one meal at La Pergola?

Also, someone mentioned pool access for Diamonds but not for Gold members??

Thank you.

My gf and I loved this property! One of my fav's!
As a Diamond we were treated superbly! On checkin, we were given a quick overview of the property, escorted to our executive-level room with balcony overlooking the city.
We did not have to pay for use of the pool although the gym did cost extra.
The restaurant mentioned in a previous post, sounded fantastic - make sure you have a coat (and tie?) as it was required (didn't have one and they did not have one to let me use).
We stayed on a 3 night reward and wished we had stayed longer.
There is a shuttle that takes you into the city (though we ended up taking a cab a couple of the nights because we stayed out late clubbing and bar hopping).
Have a great time!

ccost,

I'm going to be there shortly. Curious what a taxi should cost to the city (and the airport of you know)?

Thanks,

Craig

I am going to be there next year and am interested how us lowly golds are treated as well...

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by NJUPINTHEAIR:
FlyerBeek:


Was your 6 night stay an award stay or a paid stay? If the latter, did you pay for the exec floor or were you on another floor?

Finally, if one is on a reward or non-reward stay and they are not on the exec floor, can they be placed on the floor, or at least obtain lounge access by paying a surcharge, or by eating at least one meal at La Pergola?

Also, someone mentioned pool access for Diamonds but not for Gold members??

Thank you.</font>

The only reason that I was on the exec. floor was because it was a paid stay.

I remeber another FlyerTalker (who was a DIAMOND) telling me that he was not on the exec. floor but they gave him lounge access anyway. I don't beleive one can pay a surcharge to visit the lounge, and La Pergola isn't even on the same floor as the lounge.

As far as indoor pool access (as well as the rest of the health club). From what I understand, there is NO compimentary access for ANY level of HHonors. Outdoor pool access (when it's open) is complementary, but they do charge a few dollars for a towel and seat cushion rental.
I beleive this is because the Hilton does not actually own the health club. That aside, I highly recommend going to the health club at least once. The indoor pool and the turkish baths are superb. The daily fee is around $30, but they have an early-bird special for $18. Also, something to remember, are that massage sessions start at $80 and they include access to the health club all day.

Hopefully this was all of some assistance.

-FlyerBeek

FlyerBeek:

Thank you. Fortunately, I intend to be there during the summer, so I will be able to use the outdoor pool. As I have been to Rome before, I intend to use the Cav as a base to explore sights such as Hadrians Villa, Ostia, various Etruscan sights, etc., that are outside central Rome.

I do believe they have free parking, correct?

I stayed somewhere about half as far as that hotel and a cab was about $7-8 one way.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Craig6z:
ccost,

I'm going to be there shortly. Curious what a taxi should cost to the city (and the airport of you know)?

Thanks,

Craig</font>

I too had a fabulous stay there last October. I think cabs to the city were about €15 depending on where you were going. My cab to the airport was about €45 and I had the concierge arrange to order one that accepted credit cards. I had the hotel arrange for a car to pick me up at the airport which cost €55 and was billed to my folio. I was met at the gate by smiling Fabrizio and taken in a mercedes to the hotel - great way to start the vacation! (I would have used it for the return to the airport but there was an added charge due to the early hour which would have made it about €75). Hope this helps.

Has anyone stayed here with children? I have a GLONP booked for June and am not sure if they will be allowed. HH says only three to a room (I have a 9 and 4 year old-good travelers, well behaved).

I have e mailed the hotel and they do not reply. Any ideas?

My wife and I will be on a 6 night award stay (Diamond) starting late May. Will let you know how it goes. Tinkybelle, there at the sametime?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Craig6z:


I'm going to be there shortly.
Craig</font>

Hey Craig, me too, maybe I'll run into you.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by marlin:
I have e mailed the hotel and they do not reply. Any ideas?</font>

Call them at 011 39-06-35091, talk to their reservation agents, Barbara, Leslie or Katrina, and hopefully they can accomodate you and your family.



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International airlines seat desirability map (http://www.seatexpert.com)

Thank you for the suggestion-

I did speak to reservations and thought I would post this for anyone else considering a stay here with kids.

I am a diamond and they offered me a Suite upgrade for 300 Euros per night. This would accommodate the children otherwise a no go.

Is this worth it? I am already using a GLONP.

$325 a night!!! (Last time I looked a euro was a little more than a dollar). Please. You could a very nice non-Hilton hotel room in Rome for that much - and save the 150,000 points.

Marlin, 300 euros for an upgrade seems a lot. Might as well pay for a separate room for the kids http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

FYI, for our family of 3, I was able to get them to confirm a rollaway bed for an 11 year old with no additional charge. My recommendation would be to make sure that the GLONP reservation shows 3 persons with a confirmed rollaway. When you do show up at the hotel with all 4 in the family, perhaps they might not even object, or most likely ask for a token surcharge for the extra child.

Good luck, and let us know how it all work out afterwards.

[This message has been edited by Jet2K (edited 02-26-2003).]

Jet2K-I think you lucked out. HH told me rollaways cost 120Euros per nite. Roberta in reservations at the hotel said that more then 3 people in a room was illegal no matter what the age-fire restrictions?

She wanted to make me think the 300 Euro upgrade was a bargain, considering we would all have Club access and that this was in high season.

As much as I want to stay at the Cavalieri, I think I'm gonna stay somewhere else in Rome and use my HH points for Hawaii where 4 to a room is no problem!

I'm going in the summer. Is this hotel close to the major shopping districts?

Miles8,
This hotel is nowhere near any shopping centres. However, it is one of the best hotels(and most expensive) we have stayed in and as a Gold VIP, we were upgraded to one of the Executive floors and given access to the Executive lounge last May. We did not try the rooftop Pergola restaurant because it was extremely expensive, but the restaurant on the goundfloor was much more reasonable and we even ate outside beside the outdoor pool which I thought was much better on beautiful summer evenings. We were on a bounceback rate which included full american breakfast in the restaurant. Normal price for this breakfast was 40euros! Service in the restaurant and the executive lounge was superb and could not be faulted.
We were given a room overlooking Rome, which had a fantastic View of Rome. However rooms situated on the otherside of the hotel have a view looking over a huge telecommunication mast/tower.
The shuttle bus from the hotel runs hourly down to central Rome and takes about 20 to 25 minutes depending on the traffic. Do make sure you get to the shuttle bus about ten minutes before departure as in the morning it can get quite busy and not everyone may get on. A taxi from the airport cost about 45euros.
The Health and Fitness Centre charged an entrance fee of 31euros last May. Use of the outdoor swimming pool is free to hotel guests but they did charge 13euros for a sunbed and 3euros for towel rental! As we were only there for 4 nights/3days we spent all of our daytime in Rome itself where there is so much to see and came back to the hotel early evening for a meal. Even then the pool looked very inviting and I had a couple of swims.
Hope this info is of use for you all.
Chris



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Try the Hotel Santa Chiara in Rome. They have a 'family room' that will accomodate you. www.albergosantachiara.com (http://www.albergosantachiara.com) MUCH better location than the Hilton, and you would not have to use your points!! Walking distance to nearly everything, and nice restaurants in the area. In the center district, as opposed to way past Vatican, where the Hilton is.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by cjd:
...as a Gold VIP, we were upgraded to one of the Executive floors and given access to the Executive lounge last May...</font>

This is the first instance that I've heard of a Gold being upgraded to the executive level in 2002 (the HHonors desk and FT had revealed that that USED to be the policy but that as of 2002 and onward that only Diamonds would be upgraded).

Any other Gold's recently receive upgrades?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by sk3:

This is the first instance that I've heard of a Gold being upgraded to the executive level in 2002 (the HHonors desk and FT had revealed that that USED to be the policy but that as of 2002 and onward that only Diamonds would be upgraded).

Any other Gold's recently receive upgrades?

</font>

Maybe because it was a paid stay??

I would love it to be repeated, or even for me to pay a modest surcharge. Anyone else have similar stories??

Look Like I Must Cancel Award Stay At Rome Cavalieri in April. I am booked for a 6 night award stay, but after we adopted our son (he is about a year old) we decided to cancel our extended stay and I will go but just for the 'business side" of the trip.

I know this is a hard to get award, but it must be done. I just hope we can get it again sometime in the future when our son is older so we can either bring him or leave him with family.

I say all of this to say this.....I am going to call and cancel, but if someone is looking for an award stay (GLONP) at this hotel, this might be your chance.

Email me and let me know.

FlyingRev........YGM http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Just wanted to do a follow-up post to say how great this forum is! After contacting Flying Rev, we were able to use the information to obtain an award stay on our trip there next month. People helping people,isn't that what it's all about? A special thanks to "Flying Rev" for going above and beyond!

Just tried getting an award stay. Nothing available after 3 Feb. through end of May 2004!

Myself and a number of other Diamonds had to have the "Diamond Desk" negotiate free rooms with the property. I was traveling with a HH Gold and he was unable to book the award room the Diamond Desk arranged for me.

I used the on-line form as well and corresponded with the hotel via e-mail to confirm. I booked my April 2004 stay in January 2003. I don't know how they managed to do it over a year in advance, but it shows up in my on-line reservations, and I have my certificate, so I am very happy it worked out.

I got a May, 2004 stay (GLONP) last week, without having to go thru the Diamond Desk biz, they were just available, so try for 11+ months out. Perhaps there was a huge rush on awards for May 2004 due to the devaluation, but that's one member's experience.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by SST:
I got a May, 2004 stay (GLONP) last week, without having to go thru the Diamond Desk biz, they were just available, so try for 11+ months out. Perhaps there was a huge rush on awards for May 2004 due to the devaluation, but that's one member's experience.</font>

Makes sense. I booked the first week of may 2004 as soon as the 1 year window openend and I took out my GLONP on May 30th.

We have a GLON( i believe 100,000 HH points) certificate issued 5/30/3. If one is able to get an award stay for 6 nights at the Cavalieri, can this GLON be used? Would there be a deadline that this would apply to?

I think the Cavalieri requires a GLONP (150K HH points under the former scheme) even when the reservation was made prior to 6/1.

It would be great if you were able to get an award stay for 6 nights. As gold, I was lucky to get two nights this April.




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International airlines seat desirability map (http://www.seatexpert.com)

Your GLON cert should have an expiry date of May 2004. So as long as you could secure a reservation with Honors (or sometimes calling the hotel directly would work too if Honors tells you no availability), you could use that cert.

Jet2K is right, Cavalieri is a Premium property, so you'll need the GLONP cert instead.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by best:
We have a GLON( i believe 100,000 HH points) certificate issued 5/30/3. If one is able to get an award stay for 6 nights at the Cavalieri, can this GLON be used? Would there be a deadline that this would apply to?</font>


Fuhgeddaboutit!

I'm thinking of back to back award stays here because of all the fabulous posts.

Is that too long? We never go anywhere less than two weeks, so I could stay here and perhaps six nights somewhere close (train perhaps)...Hilton property, of course.

If there is plenty to do, we would like to just stay here, but if it is not a place that can sustain you for 13 days, I'll look at some other options.

One thing is for sure, if we do select two properties, I want this one to be the last one because it doesn't seem like any other hiltons compare to this one.

Thanks!

Dawn

The challenge is finding 6 consecutive nights there -- even if you are diamond. We booked ours a year in advance.

If you want to focus on Italy you only 2 other choices...Milan or Sorrento. Depends on what you like to do. Sorrento puts you in close proximity for day trips to Naples, down the Amalfi coast, perhaps even Sicily...

Six nights at the Noga Hilton in Cannes followed by six nights at the Cavalieri wouldn't be bad.

six nights in Milan could be fun also! Day trip to Venice, Lake Como area, shoping, etc! With 2 weeks, why not split time between Milan, Sorrento, than last 6 nights in Rome! Cavelieri is a fabulous hotel!!!! If you are Diamond, award stay should not be too hard to get. Have fun!

I just returned from the Grand Tour of Italy, Our 25th Anniversary..... We had 6 nights at the Cavalieri and it was definitely the highlight of our trip...

Even taking the shuttle back and forth each day was more than acceptable..... the Hotel is worth it.

We also stayed at Sorrento, very quiet, very modern but what a view of the Bay. Taking the train down from Rome to Naples onto Sorrento is timely, but watch out for the pick pockets etc. A group of 15 British tourists arriving the same day as we did lost 2 wallets and a sliced purse changing trains in Naples.

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Oracle Implementations .... Will Travel....

So....would two weeks at the Hilton in Rome be overkill? Too long? I am leaning toward staying there for 12 nights but not if there is not enough to do.

Any thoughts on 12 nights? Plenty of day trips from here?

Dawn

If you have the points and can get the rooms, I would definitely consider staying all 12 nights at the Cavalieri. There is plenty in Rome to keep you occupied.

Day trips to Florence and Sorrento are very common.... a Day trip to Venice would be a push.

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Oracle Implementations .... Will Travel....

Thanks Txlobo...I was really looking for a reply in this area. Hubby prefers to unpack/pack once...and do day trips. That is one of the reasons he enjoys long cruises--see so many sights, pack once!

I will have the points next year and hopefully, I can get back to back award stays. I'm Diamond, so hopefully that will help.

Thanks!

Dawn

Rome is a fantastic city on the scale of NYC, London or Paris. (Sorry, I have never been to LA) If you could enjoy 2 weeks in those cities you would enjoy 2 weeks in Rome.) I loved Rome as much as NYC, and I lived in NYC for 2 years. Like NYC, it can be busy and noisy so the Cavalieri's location may be an advantage, particularly if you have plenty of time. There are numerous neighborhoods and restaurants that one could linger in. As for day trips, I would consider some Tuscan towns such as Siena or Cortona which are about half the distance to Florence and can be reached by train. A car would be great too, but is a hassle dealing with the logistics of pick up, drop off, taxes, navigating through the cities, etc. I hired a car last time and I'm not sure I would do it again.

If it helps anyone, we just cancelled our GLONP from 5/21/04 to 5/27/04 in case someone would like to try to fill it.

Someone will probably have trouble trying to fill your space now that your reservation is already cancelled. We got in last year on an award stay because the person wanting to cancel posted here first. With the info he provided us, we were able to call the hotel and cancel the stay for the fellow F/T'er and at the same time ask the hotel, "Since you now have available award space, can you take care of us?" There was a long pause on the phone and then "Well, I suppose so." Had we not actually done the cancelling, I'm convinced we wouldn't have got the space.

Instead of cancelling the reservation... try changing the name on the reservation along with a new guaranteeing credit card.

As a lowly Silver, what is the best time of the year to try for (4-6 days)? Thanks

As a lowly Silver, what is the best time of the year to try for (4-6 days)? Thanks

I think the best time to luck out and get an award is the summer. Many people do not like to go to Rome during the summer, as it is very hot, but I like the heat, especially since the Cavalieri has a nice pool to hang out at.

In fact, during the summer, one can actually get lucky and get reasonable paid rates.

P.S.: I don't know if I posted this here, but my iPod was stolen at the Cavalieri, and the front desk manager made me fill out an insurance claim certificate and promised me their insurance would get in touch with me - that is more than two months ago and nothing happened! :td:

I think the best time to luck out and get an award is the summer. Many people do not like to go to Rome during the summer, as it is very hot, but I like the heat, especially since the Cavalieri has a nice pool to hang out at.

In fact, during the summer, one can actually get lucky and get reasonable paid rates.

P.S.: I don't know if I posted this here, but my iPod was stolen at the Cavalieri, and the front desk manager made me fill out an insurance claim certificate and promised me their insurance would get in touch with me - that is more than two months ago and nothing happened! :td:

If you are the person that left your iPod sitting on in a chair in the Executive Lounge and you came back from the buffet and it was gone, I can understand why you haven't heard back from the hotel or the insurance company. :rolleyes:

I think the best time to luck out and get an award is the summer. Many people do not like to go to Rome during the summer, as it is very hot, but I like the heat, especially since the Cavalieri has a nice pool to hang out at.

In fact, during the summer, one can actually get lucky and get reasonable paid rates.

P.S.: I don't know if I posted this here, but my iPod was stolen at the Cavalieri, and the front desk manager made me fill out an insurance claim certificate and promised me their insurance would get in touch with me - that is more than two months ago and nothing happened! :td:

Thanks attorney28 but my better half can't stand the heat; so, I guess I'll just try repeatedly to see what's available. BTW, is the HH resrvation system programmed to reserve award rooms during the peak seasons so that a lowly Silver has zip, zilch, nada chance of scoring?

If you are the person that left your iPod sitting on in a chair in the Executive Lounge and you came back from the buffet and it was gone, I can understand why you haven't heard back from the hotel or the insurance company. :rolleyes:

I think I mentioned that it was stupid of me to leave it there (I was wearing something without pockets and didn't know where to put it, was alone there at the time).

But if they make you fill out a form and say "you will be contacted", I guess one would expect some kind of a notification, even if it just says "your own fault".

Anyway, I am not sure why the tone in your post seems so hostile? :confused:

Thanks attorney28 but my better half can't stand the heat; so, I guess I'll just try repeatedly to see what's available. BTW, is the HH resrvation system programmed to reserve award rooms during the peak seasons so that a lowly Silver has zip, zilch, nada chance of scoring?

I cannot answer your question about the reservation system, from what I have read, it is very difficult to get award space if you are not a Diamond member, and of course, even more so during the peak season. Once, when I was a gold member, I was successful by sending an e-mail directly to the hotel (don't remember the e-mail address, but I think it is somewhere on the website) and explaining that I would really like to send my parents there for an award, but that I was unable to get award space. Received a friendly response saying that it was difficult during the peak season, and after some e-mails back and forth, they suggested some dates when they would have space (it was in the summer, though). Perhaps e-mailing the hotel directly could be a possible path for you? Good luck.

I cannot answer your question about the reservation system, from what I have read, it is very difficult to get award space if you are not a Diamond member, and of course, even more so during the peak season. Once, when I was a gold member, I was successful by sending an e-mail directly to the hotel (don't remember the e-mail address, but I think it is somewhere on the website) and explaining that I would really like to send my parents there for an award, but that I was unable to get award space. Received a friendly response saying that it was difficult during the peak season, and after some e-mails back and forth, they suggested some dates when they would have space (it was in the summer, though). Perhaps e-mailing the hotel directly could be a possible path for you? Good luck.

As a Gold, I got a 6-nt award in late October. Upgraded to executive level. Room and lounge were exceptional. Posted a report on the Best Hilton on Earth thread

I cannot answer your question about the reservation system, from what I have read, it is very difficult to get award space if you are not a Diamond member, and of course, even more so during the peak season. Once, when I was a gold member, I was successful by sending an e-mail directly to the hotel (don't remember the e-mail address, but I think it is somewhere on the website) and explaining that I would really like to send my parents there for an award, but that I was unable to get award space. Received a friendly response saying that it was difficult during the peak season, and after some e-mails back and forth, they suggested some dates when they would have space (it was in the summer, though). Perhaps e-mailing the hotel directly could be a possible path for you? Good luck.

Thanks attorney28 fior the suggestion. Will pursue your path if all else fails like calling HH reservations and offering to pay for a few nights if I could also use points for a stay. Thanks again and Happy New Year!

Thanks to so many of you that posted great information on the Hilton in Rome as well as the one in Sorrento. We have decided that we are going to stay the full 12 nights in Rome. I used my points and reserved 12 nights starting 10/22/05. I know for many, this seems like forever and a day, but it is already February and there really is a lot of planning that still needs to take place.

We were going to split the time between Sorrento and Rome, but thought to actually take in Rome as we wanted to, it would take more than six nights, plus we are eight hours different...that has to take a small toll, if not just the first day or two. Hubby hates to move (that is why he is just a fan of long cruises)...but was willing to move to Sorrento for a week.

After continually reading the new threads on this subject, we selected the option of Rome for the full 12 nights.

Thanks to so many of your that gave great information.

Quick questions, if you know:

1. What airlines should I be looking at...we'll probably drive to SFO and fly out of there...so far, many of the airlines get you into FCO at 8:00 a.m.! Geez...will the hotels even let you in that early?

2. I'm pretty sure we won't rent a car. Do you know if they offer tour services from the Hilton? There is a lot we want to see but if you go out on your own, you miss so much of the history.

3. Given that we will be there 12 days, we will be able to do some things that others wouldn't have time to do in 6...if you were there for 12 days, what would you say is a must do?

4. Do you think they have tours, to say, Sorrento or Almalfi Coast...where we could maybe spend the night at the Sorrento Hilton and return the next day? Sounds doubtful....especially if we don't have a car.

Thanks again....your posts have been very helpful. I'm thinking the weather should be pretty good the third week of October....let's hope I'm right!

As always, any information is and has been appreicated. I have made a lot of decisions based on this bulletin board...to me, it is the best resource when it comes to travel! We'll be at the Hilton Cancun on Feb 10 for 11 days! Yes...can't wait for some sun!!!!!

Thanks.

Dawn

As a diamond, you should have no problem checking in early. Lots of flights from the US arrive early, so the hotels are used to it. However, you might want to email the hotel and let them know your expected arrival time. As a gold, I checked in at the Hilton Athens at 5:30 am. I was not the only one checking in then either.

A day trip to Florence would be very easy. Only about a one hour train ride and dumps you in the middle of Florence. If you do a poll here on people's favorite cities, Florence will come up a lot (I know it's one of mine).

Enjoy your trip.

I'm a big fan of Earl Steinbicker's Day Trip books. You're in luck; he has one on Italy (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0803820046/qid=1107709476/sr=1-3/ref=sr_1_3/002-9981230-7745666?v=glance&s=books). He tells you how to take day trips from the major cities of Italy, and gives you a walking tour from the train station in the destination city. I've used his books extensively, particularly in the UK, and have had a great time exploring new cities.

We had no problem checking in early after a similar flight, even though the hotel was quite busy. Got a great room on the City view side. Pray for this, and insist on changing as soon as one is available, if for some (quite unlikely as a Diamond) reason you're stuck on the front side. The hotel is stupendous service-wise, and I'd be surprised if you could become bored on a 12 day stay in Rome. Given this time, you've got some great opportunities to explore lesser-known neighborhoods, or leave the city for day trips via train. I wouldn't even consider renting a car; Rome is a zoo for driving (this from someone who hasn't hesitated to drive in London and Paris on occasion, or other parts of Italy). Plus there's fine transit options, including buses and trains to places away from the city, all quite cheap and frequent.

Make use of the nice hotel shuttle, but cabs back to the hotel if more convenient end up costing about E10, hardly a knockout, especially if when you want to get back you're far away from the Piazza where the bus lets you out... You'll have plenty of time to explore far away from the hotel, down below the Coliseum or in the southwest of the city. Fodor's has some great ideas for walks in these areas. We took a few, it was great. Have a super trip.

www.grayline.com has tours in Italy. Not sure if they pick up people at Cavalieri or not. We took their tour to Sorrento and Pompeii (14 hour tour I think), and they also have overnight tours to a few places. We enjoyed tours. We did not have time to do this, but I wanted to take a train and go to the beach. I think it is only 1 hour ride! Make sure you check out the indoor pool and spa! We always fly NWA, they have nonstop flights out of DTW to FCO part of the year, it is nice not to have a stop in Europe. Flying from SFO will be a long haul, I would need time to adjust, maybe a good time to check out pools! Have a great trip!

The concierge desk at the Cav is very accomodating! One of them even wore a swallowtail coat! :)

When we checked out, it was no problem having them store our luggage for the day while we used the shuttle to get to the city and back at night -- then just pick up our bags and go. They have a storage area and a system all set up to cover just this situation. But do phone or email first.

Agree on the no-driving advice -- much more fun just watching it and wondering how they survive. You will hear a lot of ambulances during the day -- I wonder ... :)

It's just a half hour walk down to the Vatican/St. Peters, and well worth the trip. Check on the hours, though; some days they close just after noon. Just leave the hotel and turn left.

If you turn right, you'll come to a small neighborhood with a couple of shops, restaurants, etc. Handy for a quick bite, pick up stuff, etc.

Keep the map they give you at the Diamond check-in -- it'll come in very handy.

Recommend a car service to pick you up at FCO and return you there. Will run about 35-40 euros (depending on your luggage). With any luck, you'll cruise up and back in a nice new Mercedes. PM me if you need a contact -- the one we used was very reliable and they spoke perfect English.

Have a great time!

I just came back from an Italian trip in September. I would highly recommend a visit to the Villa D'Este. It is about 30 minutes outside of Rome. Beatiful gardens with different terraces and LOTs of fountains. The Tivoli gardens is based on this garden. The villa is not a villa with furniture as you might think, but still very interesting. I would think Greyline or even the hotel concierge could set this up.

As someone else suggested, I would take the train to Florence or Siena for a day. The Vatican can take a whole day between the museums and the Basilica. A side trip to Pompei is definitely worth the time and expense.

I'm jealous, have a great time!

SlowTalk (http://slowtalk.com/eve/ubb.x?a=frm&s=759607521&f=862600685) and Fodor's Forum (http://www.fodors.com/forums/threadselect.jsp?fid=2) are 2 forums that any Italy traveler should go to before their trip.
There's lots you can do in Rome and nearby during that much time. Have fun planning.

I have already booked 6 nights at the Cavalieri Hilton in October using 240,000 HH points. In reviewing page 23 of the HH Awards manual online, I see that under the Going Global section, I can get 6 free nights for 2 at participating Cat 6 hotels worldwide for only 175,000 HH points (GLONP2). Does anyone know if the Cavalieri is a participating Cat 6 hotel for purposes of this GLONP2 award? If yes, shouldn't I be able to switch my current reward from costing me 240,000 points to this one for 175,000 points? With my luck the Cavalieri is a non-participating Cat 6 hotel. Thanks for your counsel in advance.

If you qualify to use the GLONP2 then call Hilton and point out that they deducted the incorrect # of points. They will then credit you 65,000 pts!!!

Yes, many people have used GLONP2 awards at the Cavalieri Hilton. Try and get it changed as soon as possible. As pointed out these are classed as VIP awards, but even Silver HHonors members can get the benefit of these awards. The only Hilton hotel that I'm aware of that will not accept a GLONP2 award or in fact any award is the Conrad Waldorf Towers in New York, but others might prove me wrong on that.

Chris.

Used the GLONP2 last year and again this Oct (when will you arrive?) at tis great hotel.

I just called to switch an award around to the Axon, from americain express. Do it as soon as you can, because they had to cancel the First award, refund me the points, then book it with the award. If they have to do it that way you could get caught with no available rooms, when they cancel your reservation.

I have already booked 6 nights at the Cavalieri Hilton in October using 240,000 HH points. In reviewing page 23 of the HH Awards manual online, I see that under the Going Global section, I can get 6 free nights for 2 at participating Cat 6 hotels worldwide for only 175,000 HH points (GLONP2). Does anyone know if the Cavalieri is a participating Cat 6 hotel for purposes of this GLONP2 award? If yes, shouldn't I be able to switch my current reward from costing me 240,000 points to this one for 175,000 points? With my luck the Cavalieri is a non-participating Cat 6 hotel. Thanks for your counsel in advance.

I used a GLONP for this hotel in October. We will be there on October 23 and it cost us 175k. We are going over to Sorrento Hilton for a week afterwards, but thought we would do this one first. Relax the 2nd part of the week.

Dawn

I just called HH CSR; was told no problerm. Am expecting to see new email certificate showing only 175,000 points deducted. Again, thanks so much for your advice. BTW, thanks to other HH FTers who advised to call and ask for an upgrade to Gold; I found out yesterday that I am now a Gold. I think someone said that with the Gold status in hand I can ask for an upgrade and get nice benefits at the Cavalieri thus saving some Euros. What a great bunch of folks you FTers are! Grazie!!!!

I will also be there using a GLONP starting Oct. 28
Looks like I'll overlap with kymbakitty -- xfed2001 and jabez, when do you arrive? Lets have some drinks in the lounge.

I'm booked 10/18-10/24, but might only spend 3 nights there (10/21-23) and stay at Sorrento Hilton the 3 earlier days.

I will also be there using a GLONP starting Oct. 28
Looks like I'll overlap with kymbakitty -- xfed2001 and jabez, when do you arrive? Lets have some drinks in the lounge.

Hi Tomphot. My visit is scheduled for 10/3-10/9. Sorry I'll miss you.

I just called HH CSR; was told no problerm. Am expecting to see new email certificate showing only 175,000 points deducted. Again, thanks so much for your advice. BTW, thanks to other HH FTers who advised to call and ask for an upgrade to Gold; I found out yesterday that I am now a Gold. I think someone said that with the Gold status in hand I can ask for an upgrade and get nice benefits at the Cavalieri thus saving some Euros. What a great bunch of folks you FTers are! Grazie!!!!

Sorry, but not quite accurate.

You likely will be given breakfast coupons for use at the restaurant downstairs and they might provide you with a Rome view, if available, but they certainly will not upgrade you to the Executive Floor with lounge access, as they only reserve that for Diamond members, and some Diamonds have reported that if space is really tight, they are not upgraded to the Execuitive floor -- although they have been given lounge access.

Just don't want you to get your hopes up to face disappointment when you arrive.

The above poster is wrong. As a HH Gold, I used a GLON-P for six nights last October (175,000 points) and got an executive level room with lounge access. Did not get a Rome view however, but the room was beautiful and the lounge was the best I've ever seen. With all the hors d'oeuvres they serve in the early evening (with free drinks), you don't really need to go out for dinner. And the lounge has balconies overlooking the Rome skyline. Great view! Breakfast was served in the lounge, so breakfast coupons weren't an issue. Free hourly shuttles to and from the city until 9 pm (after that it's a 12-Euro cab ride).

I think it's all to do with availability and possibly Diamonds taking preference over Golds. A few years ago, as Gold, we were upgraded on a paid stay to a great room with a Rome view and given access to the Executive lounge.

Chris.

Rather than starting a new thread, I also have a question related to the Cavalieri, so I thought I would put it here. As a Gold, I understand that we will be given breakfast coupons. Does anyone know how early breakfast starts? We want to take a day trip to Florence by train, but I want to have breakfast first, so I need to know how early we can have breakfast in order to decide what time I want to book the train tickets.

Rather than starting a new thread, I also have a question related to the Cavalieri, so I thought I would put it here. As a Gold, I understand that we will be given breakfast coupons. Does anyone know how early breakfast starts? We want to take a day trip to Florence by train, but I want to have breakfast first, so I need to know how early we can have breakfast in order to decide what time I want to book the train tickets.

Lounge open daily 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

http://www.cavalieri-hilton.it/indexx.html

You can also get breakfast in a bag, but it isn't as good. Trains to Florence run all the time; you should be able to go to the station and buy a ticket for the next train without making a long advanced reservation.

Thanks Chapel Hill Guy, but I was looking for the opening time for the restaurant, not the lounge.

Rove312 - I am aware that we could probably just go to the station and buy the tickets, but if I don't have a specific time to be there, my wife will waste too much time getting ready.

Thanks Chapel Hill Guy, but I was looking for the opening time for the restaurant, not the lounge.

Whoops. Doesn't seem to indicate on their site. I'd email them:

concierge@cavalieri-hilton.it

Email I used in November 2004.

Whoops. Doesn't seem to indicate on their site. I'd email them:

concierge@cavalieri-hilton.it

Email I used in November 2004.
Thanks, I just sent them an email.

I think it's all to do with availability and possibly Diamonds taking preference over Golds. A few years ago, as Gold, we were upgraded on a paid stay to a great room with a Rome view and given access to the Executive lounge.

Chris.

All I can say is that it is a little grey today here in Rome :cool:

The above poster is wrong. As a HH Gold, I used a GLON-P for six nights last October (175,000 points) and got an executive level room with lounge access. Did not get a Rome view however, but the room was beautiful and the lounge was the best I've ever seen. With all the hors d'oeuvres they serve in the early evening (with free drinks), you don't really need to go out for dinner. And the lounge has balconies overlooking the Rome skyline. Great view! Breakfast was served in the lounge, so breakfast coupons weren't an issue. Free hourly shuttles to and from the city until 9 pm (after that it's a 12-Euro cab ride).


Of all the reveiws on this property that I have read, yours and the poster's below are the only ones where I learned of a Gold obtaining an upgrade. You are mighty lucky as such upgrades are extremely rare at this hotel -- do a search and see for yourself.

Of all the reveiws on this property that I have read, yours and the poster's below are the only ones where I learned of a Gold obtaining an upgrade. You are mighty lucky as such upgrades are extremely rare at this hotel -- do a search and see for yourself.

Yes, I must agree that most of the recent reports on this hotel have tended to state that only Diamonds get upgraded and use of the Executive lounge. It was May 2002 when we were there as Gold and got our upgrades to a Rome view room and use of the lounge. We were also on a breakfast inclusive rate, so ate full breakfast in the sunshine by the pool each morning and that was a great way to start the day. It looks like sometimes Golds slip through the net and get the upgrades!

Chris.

Yes, I must agree that most of the recent reports on this hotel have tended to state that only Diamonds get upgraded and use of the Executive lounge. It was May 2002 when we were there as Gold and got our upgrades to a Rome view room and use of the lounge. We were also on a breakfast inclusive rate, so ate full breakfast in the sunshine by the pool each morning and that was a great way to start the day. It looks like sometimes Golds slip through the net and get the upgrades!

Chris.


Thanks for the additional information because your story relates additional information -- you were on a paid stay -- not a reward stay as the original poster had indicated. That, too, in addition to the occupancy of the hotel at the time, as well as it occurring after the 9/11/2001 tragedy, puts the upgrade that you received in its proper context.

The above poster is wrong. As a HH Gold, I used a GLON-P for six nights last October (175,000 points) and got an executive level room with lounge access. Did not get a Rome view however, but the room was beautiful and the lounge was the best I've ever seen. With all the hors d'oeuvres they serve in the early evening (with free drinks), you don't really need to go out for dinner. And the lounge has balconies overlooking the Rome skyline. Great view! Breakfast was served in the lounge, so breakfast coupons weren't an issue. Free hourly shuttles to and from the city until 9 pm (after that it's a 12-Euro cab ride).

When answering questions posed by another, it would surely help if you had related that your good fortune was an exception -- as you well knew -- and for you to have acknowledged that. :rolleyes:

Or have you forgotten the following inquiry of yours:


I'm HH Gold staying at the Cavalieri in late October on a 6-night GLON-P award. Previous FT'ers have said I won't have lounge access, but I should get a free breakfast for both of us each morning. Can someone verify this for me? And as a Gold, what are my chances of getting that much-hyped city view room? What else should my HH Gold card do for me? And I promise to post a trip report when I return in November.



http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=352996&referrerid=17411

Entry # 7

So, as I have noted above, things must be placed in their proper context. :rolleyes:

By the way, the OP is a Silver HHonors member, and a personal friend of mine, as well.

Nice to be hoisted on your own petard? :rolleyes: :p

:D By the way, the OP is a Silver HHonors member, and a personal friend of mine, as well.

: :p

So since he is a personal friend, why havent you told him about one of the auto upgrade to GOLD codes posted all over this board. At least he might get free bkfst

:D

So since he is a personal friend, why havent you told him about one of the auto upgrade to GOLD codes posted all over this board. At least he might get free bkfst

I assumed that since the time he posted his original inquiry, he has done just that! However, thanks for reminding me! :)

:D

So since he is a personal friend, why havent you told him about one of the auto upgrade to GOLD codes posted all over this board. At least he might get free bkfst



Just called HH; apparently, the CTCG promotion was targeted (I must have missed that important fact). HH CSR added it to my profile but we'll see if I get Gold or not. Oh well, I tried. Thanks for the posting any ways.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=417117&referrerid=17411

Entry # 336

I am trying to book a GLON2 award at this property beginning 6/16 and the Diamond Desk is saying I am going to have to pay an additional 110 Euros per night in addition to the 175000 points for an upgraded room. Does anyone know what this charge is about?

How many people in your room? How many beds requested?

I am trying to book a GLON2 award at this property beginning 6/16 and the Diamond Desk is saying I am going to have to pay an additional 110 Euros per night in addition to the 175000 points for an upgraded room. Does anyone know what this charge is about?


New one on me. What kind of room are you upgrading to?
I am at the Cavalieri for 3 nights through the 15th.

The extra 110EU is just for the upgrade right? i.e. you can stay in the run of the house for just the award. I remember hearing about a similar upgrade program there a while back.

Is this fee to guarantee an upgrade in advance?

How many people in your room? How many beds requested?
2 and 1. And yes, this game is a lot less fun than it used to be.

The extra 110EU is just for the upgrade right? i.e. you can stay in the run of the house for just the award. I remember hearing about a similar upgrade program there a while back.

That is what I thought initially as well (that the fee was just for the upgrade). Instead, the Diamond Desk told me that because they don't have standard rooms available, I must book an upgraded room and pay the difference (which doesn't sound right to me considering I am using 175,000 points).

I suppose its better than having them tell me that they don't have any rooms available at all, its just not what I am accustomed to hearing when I call the Diamond Desk. I have been spoiled I suppose over the years after having redeemed seven big awards like this (two awards in Hawaii, one in Singapore, one in Zurich and two in London).

Considering that a Diamond should be upgraded for free anyway this sounds completely wrong to me. Did you try the usual game of asking another agent?

That is what I thought initially as well (that the fee was just for the upgrade). Instead, the Diamond Desk told me that because they don't have standard rooms available, I must book an upgraded room and pay the difference (which doesn't sound right to me considering I am using 175,000 points).

I suppose its better than having them tell me that they don't have any rooms available at all, its just not what I am accustomed to hearing when I call the Diamond Desk. I have been spoiled I suppose over the years after having redeemed seven big awards like this (two awards in Hawaii, one in Singapore, one in Zurich and two in London).

While there does need to be standard award room availability for an ordinary reward redemption, I believe the DD can bypass this rule by doing a DSA (Diamond Special Arrangement) - at least this was how it was described to me when I faced a similar situation at the Noga Cannes Hilton.

Is the additional charge for the 3rd person? Perhaps Hilton anticipates upgrading you to the Executive Lounge, and this is the charge for the 3rd person to have access??

You need to ask again.

Is the additional charge for the 3rd person? Perhaps Hilton anticipates upgrading you to the Executive Lounge, and this is the charge for the 3rd person to have access??

You need to ask again.

The OP seemed to say that there were 2 people and 1 bed in question.

That is what I thought initially as well (that the fee was just for the upgrade). Instead, the Diamond Desk told me that because they don't have standard rooms available, I must book an upgraded room and pay the difference (which doesn't sound right to me considering I am using 175,000 points).


That is not acceptable coming from the Diamond Desk and is not your problem concerning standard rooms.

Unless the time you are going is an extraordinary demand date they are suppose to be able to acquire an award for Diamonds. The website does not say we can get you a room with a few extra dollars from the Diamond member.



HHONORS DIAMOND HOTEL REWARDS
Diamond VIP members may redeem points for HHonors hotel rewards nearly any time, with the only exception being during specified Extraordinary Demand Dates at certain hotels.



The main problem is that you are running out of time so your options may be limited but I would escalate this request and speak with a supervisor.

At this point a Diamond specialist is working on my "special request" on my behalf and I anticipate an answer Monday or Tuesday morning. I will certainly keep my FT colleagues apprised of the the latest developments. :rolleyes:

hotlancer--

First of all, remember the "Diamond Guarantee" is only for a fully paid-for room (and probably at Rack Rate), not for an award room.

Recently, I tried to make an award reservation at the Drake in Chicago. The web site said "Call Diamond Desk", which I did.

The insight that I received during that call was that the Diamond Desk could only do a "Diamond Override" to get an award room IF a "standard room" was available. In this case, all the "standard rooms" were booked, so I could not get an award reservation. ("Deluxe rooms" and suites were available, but no "standard rooms".) The likelyhood that a Diamond would be upgraded at checkin was immaterial. No "Diamond Override" for an award room could be made without a "standard room" being available.

I suspect that a similar lack of "standard rooms" is what you are facing.

However, what they appear to be offering you is the opportunity to pay the difference between a "standard room" and a particular type of upgraded room. I wouldn't be thrilled about paying $110 E per night. But given the option of no room at all vice a guaranteed upgraded room may not be all that bad of a deal. As I see it, you only other option is to book an award when they are standard rooms available.

hotlancer--


The insight that I received during that call was that the Diamond Desk could only do a "Diamond Override" to get an award room IF a "standard room" was available. In this case, all the "standard rooms" were booked, so I could not get an award reservation. ("Deluxe rooms" and suites were available, but no "standard rooms".) The likelyhood that a Diamond would be upgraded at checkin was immaterial. No "Diamond Override" for an award room could be made without a "standard room" being available.



This is exactly what happened to me with DD last week when I tried to book 2 nights at the Sorrento. They said "no standard rooms available" and did NOT offer any "premium" to book.

Anyone have recent success with booking a paid room and then converting over to an award stay with the Diamond Desk's assistance?

That has worked for some before.

This is exactly what happened to me with DD last week when I tried to book 2 nights at the Sorrento. They said "no standard rooms available" and did NOT offer any "premium" to book.

Is the Diamond Desk now using some kind of "scoring" system based on data from the On-Q system in order to make decisions about what to do for whom?

I feel for the original poster, but honestly, how can one truly expect to find any sort of award availability for 6 nights, 2 weeks before arrival? Sheesh!

I will say that the Diamond Desk that some of you have experienced in the past, may actually be a thing of the past, as Hilton may be tightening its award redemption rules to bring them more in line what the other chains do for their top tier elites.

Is the Diamond Desk now using some kind of "scoring" system based on data from the On-Q system in order to make decisions about what to do for whom?


I would not be surprised. After all, one who has many Hampton stays during weekends interspersed rwith award stays, is not the same as the road warrior who drops serious $$ at Hilton properties during the week.

Just an observation.

hotlancer--

First of all, remember the "Diamond Guarantee" is only for a fully paid-for room (and probably at Rack Rate), not for an award room.

Recently, I tried to make an award reservation at the Drake in Chicago. The web site said "Call Diamond Desk", which I did.

The insight that I received during that call was that the Diamond Desk could only do a "Diamond Override" to get an award room IF a "standard room" was available. In this case, all the "standard rooms" were booked, so I could not get an award reservation. ("Deluxe rooms" and suites were available, but no "standard rooms".) The likelyhood that a Diamond would be upgraded at checkin was immaterial. No "Diamond Override" for an award room could be made without a "standard room" being available.

I suspect that a similar lack of "standard rooms" is what you are facing.

However, what they appear to be offering you is the opportunity to pay the difference between a "standard room" and a particular type of upgraded room. I wouldn't be thrilled about paying $110 E per night. But given the option of no room at all vice a guaranteed upgraded room may not be all that bad of a deal. As I see it, you only other option is to book an award when they are standard rooms available.


While I think the tenants of what you say might be quite true. But I did get the Diamond desk to do a "Diamond force" at this very same property in mid March this year.
When I called the initially I was told no rooms at all were available but they promised to contact the hotel directly.
Two days later I got a confirmation by e-mail for " a deluxe room" and the points were deducted from my account.
As it turned out the room was on the executive floor with a great city view.
Not sure what HH paid the hotel for the room the cancellation penalty period was 72 hours and the penalty was a whopping 865 euros per night. :D

During the stay the hotel was booked solid with a convention of ostepaths and at times the taxi waiting line was 40 pax deep.

Where I think you may have problems though is getting a full six days.

mike

I would not be surprised. After all, one who has many Hampton stays during weekends interspersed rwith award stays, is not the same as the road warrior who drops serious $$ at Hilton properties during the week.

Just an observation.

Oh my ..... I'm staying at a Hampton property for the first time next week. :D

I will say that the Diamond Desk that some of you have experienced in the past, may actually be a thing of the past, as Hilton may be tightening its award redemption rules to bring them more in line what the other chains do for their top tier elites.I hope not. For me, this has been one of the major draws of the HHonors program.

I've got enough problems as a 150+night/yr platinum with Marriott in trying to find award nights, and I've never worried about Hilton because they could make it happen.

Of course, I usually plan several months in advance, so maybe I'll never run into this problem, but still...

I hope not. For me, this has been one of the major draws of the HHonors program.

I've got enough problems as a 150+night/yr platinum with Marriott in trying to find award nights, and I've never worried about Hilton because they could make it happen.

Of course, I usually plan several months in advance, so maybe I'll never run into this problem, but still...

Big Lar --

Granted being on the road with just Marriott for 150 nights makes it difficult to plan, but how could you have a problem with Marriott Rewards? Since you are on the road with them so often, you must have an amazing amount of points, and therefore, with the Marriott Pointbuster option, you could still weave together enough nights for an award stay. Moreover, unlike Hilton, those nights can be interspersed with paid nights and still get you the multi-night reward discount. I just don't see your reason for criticizing Marriott Rewards in this context. :confused:

So I thought I'd be resourceful and use my three free certificates from the 5/10/15 night promotion at the Rome Cavalieri Hilton. Supposedly these certificates are good at any hotel, including Cat. 6. Has anyone tried to use these at the Cavalieri? I called reservations and booked 5 nights there around Thanksgiving (3 on these certs, 2 others on a C602 award). On my reservations, it shows up as requiring a C605 award. The agent *assured* me that they would work just like the other certificates, but for those of you who have tried this, does it really work? My nightmare is getting over there and then being faced with a real dilemma at check-in.

A few other brief questions... my third certificate is really, really slow in getting to me. Anyone else have this problem due to the holidays, etc.?
Has anyone else used the hotel's car service from the airport? I know it's expensive, but my mom doesn't get around very well (this trip is a 70th bday present for her). I can't wait to see this hotel...hopefully they treat Diamonds OK...looks like exec floor/lounge access - even on reward stays?

Thanks very much for any advice y'all might have.

I've used the certs at the Conrad Hong Kong, the Hilton Brussels, and the Hilton Amsterdam with no problems. In Amsterdam, the agent was a bit confused as they were C601s and hotel only required C50X, but supervisor set her straight.

I've also combined them with certs I've redeemed from my account, with paid nights, and with certs gifted to me. I don't think you'll have any problems, but then I've not done this explicity at the Cavalieri. Great hotel! Enjoy.

Oh, we used this car service and it was very nice. Shiny new Mercedes: Airport Connection (http://airportconnection.it/index.html).

Fot some reason, my first two certs posted very quickly, and although my third one appeared on the website quickly, it took them three weeks to send me the e-mail version.

Fot some reason, my first two certs posted very quickly, and although my third one appeared on the website quickly, it took them three weeks to send me the e-mail version.

Can you elaborate some more on how your certs are posted? Is there a link in your account that will take you to the certs?

For the email version, does the email itself contains the cert?

Thanks.

Before somebody gets all cranky at you, the search feature will bring up an enormous amount of information about the Cavalieri, some of which was even posted by me. :)

I am also planning on using the certs from the current 5/10/15 promo at the Cav, and I'm sure not expecting any problems. The only little worrisome detail is that my certs from the last promo were called "C601"'s on the listing, whereas these are called Q3FN or something similar. I, too, intend to make sure the Diamond Desk smooths everything out before arrival.

And, an emphatic Yes! -- they treat Diamonds especially well at the Cav. Make sure you request a "Rome View" room, which wil at least remove the TV tower from your immediate sight. And the lounge is to die for.

Enjoy!

Can you elaborate some more on how your certs are posted? Is there a link in your account that will take you to the certs?

For the email version, does the email itself contains the cert?

Thanks.On your Honors account page, click on Reward redemptions. This will show you a listing of every reward you've spent, as well as the ones you've earned.

I have used certs at the Cav a couple of years ago with no problem. The treat diamonds very well, exec level room, champagne and chocolates in your room ... It was a truly wonderful stay.

I used a 6nite Global combined with a 1 nite c601 I received last spring on the 5-10-15 at the cavalieri in oct no problemo

Do they only treat diamonds well or people that diamonds gave the award too, ie parents.

On your Honors account page, click on Reward redemptions. This will show you a listing of every reward you've spent, as well as the ones you've earned.

Typical Hilton Web-Site "problem".

I took your advice as a knew I had two rewards coming from last years 5/10/15 program. The web -site indicated that I had used all three rewards when I was sure I had only used one of them. Scared me; so I called DD. They assured me that I still had two rewards coming and not to worry because the web-site is most confusing at times. (No kidding.) Anyway I am now relieved and will use my two remaining certs at class 6 locations. So don't panic if reward redemptions page is unreliable.

:p :p :p :p

Thanks for the feedback. Does anyone know what the Q3FN code means?

Has anyone ever tried using one of these for two nights at a Cat 1-3? Or any Cat 6 cert for two nights at a Cat 1-3?

Has anyone ever tried using one of these for two nights at a Cat 1-3? Or any Cat 6 cert for two nights at a Cat 1-3?AFAIK, that won't work.

A C601 normally costs you 40,000 points. A C201 (one night at a Cat 2) would cost you 20,000 points. If you wanted to switch, you would "turn in" the C601 and order 2 C201's (or a C202).

However, the certs in question here (from the 3/5/7 or 5/10/15 promo) specifically prohibit this. They are also not redeemable for points, nor can they be extended beyond their "use by" date. So you're SOL if you want to do that. However, there's nothing preventing you from using the certs to stay at a Hampton Inn, but that would be kinda dumb.

If you're a Diamond, you can do the return/reorder thing with no fee. I don't know if they charge any fees ($ or points) if you're a Gold or lower.

If you're a Diamond, you can do the return/reorder thing with no fee. I don't know if they charge any fees ($ or points) if you're a Gold or lower.

I am a Diamond. So I can return and reorder the particular cert in question (5/10/15) and extend the validity??

I am a Diamond. So I can return and reorder the particular cert in question (5/10/15) and extend the validity??If it's a regular cert (i.e, one you "bought" with points), yes.

If it's one of the certs from the afore-mentioned promos, no.