Starwood Preferred Guest - New to SPG

Hey everyone,

THis is a great forum. I am new to the SPG program, I do travel alot so I am hoping to start taking advantage with some rewards. Does anyone have some tips on how to maximize points? Also how many points does it take for a free nights stay in an average hotel?

Thanks

If you click here (https://www.starwoodhotels.com/preferredguest/support/program_tour.html), you can tour SPG.com and learn the basics about the program and points redemptions. Also, if you use the search function on this forum, there should be loads of info. available on various threads and stickies.

The best way to maximize points is to keep an eye on Flyertalk and watch for promotions. Starwood comes out with promotions from time to time that give you points bonus based on various criteria: "Double Starpoints for stays on the West Coast between x and y" sort of thing. You have to sign up in order to receive benefits from most of those promos so it's important to stay on top of it. Some promos are targetted and won't let you sign up, but it's always worth a try.

Good luck and welcome to SPG. For many of us, the program is about as bad as being hooked crack, so beware. :)

Cash & Points is far and away the most economical use of points. If you accrue lots of points (Starwood AMEX), the best bang for the buck is usually international Business and First Class airfare.