Starwood Preferred Guest - Sheraton Hong Kong pre 2008 [Master Thread]

Any recent reviews? I've got a suspiciously attractive rate there. Thanks.

This property was recently given a facelift - about a year or so ago. Nice lobby and public areas, but some of the rooms were not much to shout about. As SPG Plats, my team and I got decent sized (for HKG) harbour view rooms - and it is well placed.

I love the Sheraton, mostly. The location can't be beat, and a few decent restaurants.

However, it would make all the difference in the world to me whether I had a harbor view room. The view from the Towers floors of HK harbor takes my breath away and would be worth, to me, whatever premium they'd charge.

When last there a few months ago they were just finishing up work on a few of the leased restaurants and shops.

The place is very nice now. And yes...go for that Harbor view!

(The Casa de Habanos in the lobby is my favorite place in Hong Kong to enjoy a fine cuban cigar and a Mojito with Havana Club Rum! Doesn't have quite the view as enjoying a cigar at the Regent lobby bar, but the lighting, non-invasive ventilation and club like feel, make the Sheraton a great place to really enjoy what's between your lips.)

Thanks, all.

Mojitos y cubanos? PremEx, you are going to get me in such trouble. Two of my weaknesses! If I didn't love Hong Kong, I'd probably never leave the bar. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Oh, yeah, we do have a harbour view room. That's part of what made me suspicious.

OOOHHH Havanas and Rum!!!

I just may have to go to Hong Kong soon for a visit just to smoke and drink! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

(Have NOT been there since the changeover.)

But serious question: would I need a special visa to go since they are now part of the People's Republic of China? SOrry I don't know the visa rules.

No visa required - no change.

From someone who lived in HK before (my husband), take it if you got a good rate and a harbor view room, def. good choice. Plus, yes, just got a facelift a year+ ago. Enjoy!

Kitty Hawk,

How "attractive" was your rate there, if you don't mind my asking?

Also, any good restaurants/bars near the hotel that I should know about? I usually stay at the Ritz in Central so I don't know Kowloon side very well.

Thanks.

Carberry

Hi Carberry,

I don't have the info with me now on the rate, but I'll look it up and get back to you.

My favorite restaurant in that area is the one at the New World Hotel. Fabulous food and great service. Many people like the Sheng Palace Restaurant at the Shangri-La hotel, but I really don't much care for it, except the chestnut crepes for dessert. I have a bunch of other faves in Kowloon, and I'll post them here when I get the chance, if you like.

If you would post the ones you like on the Island side, that would be great, as I always stay in Kowloon. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

I'm going to be spending 16 days in Hong Kong and was wondering of staying at the Sheraton on Nathan is worth my effort (somewhat out of the way, but I know the area). Also, I'm gold, should I expect any benefits here?!? TIA!

I am gold and usually receive a room upgarde. There are much nicer properties in HK, however, the Sheraton is a good value.

It's a tricky question; I'm facing similar.

I'd hoped to stay at the Kowloon Shangri-La, but the best price i could get for a deluxe harbor view room there was HK$2400, while I can get a harborview at the Sheraton for 1100. The Shangri-La is a nicer hotel -- but is it really $130/night better? (Not for me, it isn't.)

Kitty Hawk -

I was wondering about your rate as well.

For a Fri-Tues stay in late March, the SPG site was offering city view rooms at HK$1050 and harbor view rooms at HK$1250. I'd consider the harbor view rate an excellent deal.

Oddly, the same SPG site offered Hot Rates for the same dates at HK$100 more per night ($1150/$1350) -- and the Hot Rates were of course prepay/nonrefundable.

Starwood Platinums will usually get upgraded to a small suite, plus free breakfast in the top floor restaurant (with harbor view) and free h'ors d'oevres and cocktails from 6 - 8pm in the Executive Club lounges. Amenity is usually a novel chinese gift.

Any recent experiences? Any suggestions on getting attractive rates? How's the location of the hotel, especially for a first-time visitor?

I was there on a mileage run in April. I chose the exec floor vs. a harbor side room. Maybe a mistake coz the view of Victoria Harbor from the hotel is breathtaking. No upgrade as a Gold. Never have gotten one as a Gold at any starwood hotel...I must be a VIP -10. Great hotel location for all the action in Kowloon. I had about the same rate HK $1,400 for either harbor view or exec. floor. I chose the exec. floor due to the free drinks and food every night plus the free breakfast. Depends on what you are looking for. Any other questions, e-mail me.

Make sure you visit the pool on top of the roof. Awesome view of the harbor that you would expect to see on a post card.

It is indeed a beautiful hotel and the pool is spectacular! My daughter and I were upgraded to a Harbor View room (I am a Platinum).

But beware the Concierge! The first gentleman I talked to absolutely ensured me my ten-year-old could get into the racetracks in Hong Kong, I asked him to double check but he was certain. I had a very disappointed little girl (who is horse-crazy) when we were turned away at the gate because she was under 18!

The funnier story is the hotel's guest information mentions "jogging," with instructions to ask the concierge. All three people I talked to on the phone did not even understand the meaning of the word nor could they find anyone who did!

But it's a very nice place and I highly recommend it.

I wouldn't worry too much about the Harbour view rooms. The view is free and abundant if you just walk across Salisbury Road to the water promenade. It's only breathtaking for about ten minutes anyway IMHO. Go for the food. The location is undoubtedly great.

It is a good hotel. We frequented the restaurant downstairs when we lived in Hong Kong. I had a business conference there - very accommodating. My strong recommend.

Brigitte and I had the good fortune to stay at the Sheraton Hong Kong in Kowloon for the past week and we both agreed that it was one of our favourite hotel experiences. The staff treated us royally and accorded us a great many perks and benefits in spite of the fact that the stay was part of a very inexpensive air/hotel package.
We had called the property ahead to ensure that they would recognize our Starwood Platinum status and hopefully upgrade us to a suite or Towers level room. Happily, upon arrival, we received both...and a city/harbour view!

The suite was in fact two rooms that had been reconfigured during the recent renovations to form a living room/sitting area along with a separate bedroom. Each contained its own bathroom (one with a bath, the other with a shower) done in sand and dark green marble with walnut accents. Although not the largest we've ever had, the 625 sq. ft. suite was positively huge by usual Hong Kong standards. A personal welcome letter from the manager, along with a bouquet of lovely yellow roses and a bowl of fruit greeted us as we entered the room. On the desk lay a note from the hotel's SPG co-ordinator inviting us and actually all Platinum guests to take advantage of daily complimentary breakfast at the 18th or 2nd floor restaurants as well as hors d'oeuvres and evening cocktails at the 16th floor Towers Lounge.

The Platinum amenity lay waiting on the nightstand in the bedroom and turned out to be a very unique and clever black nylon garment bag emblazoned with the hotel's credentials.

We were very impressed with the quality of the service provided by the very cordial and perceptive staff. Once they observed your habitual routine they would govern their activities accordingly so as to never disturb or interfere. We requested ice only once, from that time on our ice bucket was filled twice daily. Our room was cleaned during the time we spent at breakfast, always pristine upon our return. Our bed turned down magically while we enjoyed our evening libatiions and delectable edibles in the Lounge. Efficient, yet never obtrusive.

Breakfast, while at either the busy "Café" overlooking Nathan Road or at the more sedate Oyster & Wine Bar with the spectacular 18th floor vantage of Victoria Harbour, was done with impeccable service and attention to detail. Coffee and tea proffered with poise, empty plates whisked away in a whisper, cooked to order items temptingly offered as your favourite juice was poured...all conspired to make you never want to leave!

Evenings at the lofty Towers Lounge, quiet with never more than seven or eight guests, meant watching dusk slowly enshroud the Honk Kong skyline with a grey gauze punctuated by the bright neon letters spelling out the identity of the corporate entities that built the towers they so boldly cling to. Champagne in hand, we would never tire of watching the endless stream of boats ferrying passengers and cargo to their destinations both hither and yon. Our hosts wouldn't let us leave until we consumed our share, often a bottle of the effervescent sect between us, and even then, they would disappear around a corner and we would hear the seductive "pop" of yet another opportunity to toast our good fortune and fine company.

Hong Kong in our future and from this stay on, will see us at the juncture of roads Nathan and Salisbury, guests of that most congenial of hosts, our Sheraton in Hong Kong.

Wow...

Thank you for taking the time to treat us to a vicarious "stay" (I "enjoyed" it, too! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif ), & such a wonderfully written "stay report".

flyme2,

WOW! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/eek.gif

That should have been a trip report except then you would have made everyone jealous, instead of just us SPG's. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

I have stayed at the Penninsula the Mandarin and the Regent which constantly make the Top hotel lists in Asia. I completely agree with you that the Sheraton HKG beats all of these hotels hands down. They are friendly accommodating and that view of the harbour cannot be beat! THIS hotel is a gem and if you ask me one the best in Asia. But I do not think their advertising dollars mean as much to the travel magazines as the big boys above. Thats fine, it will be out secret.

Wow. I stayed at the Regnet a few months ago, and didn't get service nearly that good.

Next time maybe I'll try the Sheraton.

I guess the key is to be a Platinum. My stay there as a Gold was not very nice, nor was the staff very friendly. I much preferred the Island Shangri-La... Very nice views, complimentary breakfast at Petrus, excellent staff, great location...

I will also vouch for the excellent Platinum Service received at this hotel. Great suite. Great Lounge access. Great breakfast. Great welcome ammenity.

Too often Starwood only hears complaints. They need to know when a hotel is treating us properly as well. Way to go HKG Sheraton!

I too, did not have a stellar stay this past April at the HKG Sheraton. Perhaps platinum is the answer. I paid 1480.00 (+-200.00 US) for a harbor view room and did not get an upgrade even after asking (I’m still a gold). I was told that I was in an upgraded room (even though I paid for it). Overall I received very standard treatment -- no better or worse than other Sheratons. I’m glad to hear that platinum status gets you better service.

I've stayed at the Sheraton HKG once. I arrived at the hotel late in the evening, around 23:00 using the Hotel arranged limo. Tired after a week in Japan and looking forward to 3-4 days relaxation and personal time. I don't remember the details or the exact ordar of events, but. When I arrived at the desk I was recognised as a Platinum SPG guest and was quickly introduced to the night manager. She informed my of my various upgrade options and proceeded to give me what I would consider an extensive tour of the hotel. There were no available suites on the Towers levels (she showed me each room that was actually available). Eventually I opted for a 3 room corner suite looking over the harbor lower down (I think on the 10th floor).

Being tired from travel, I was both leading and following, sort of staying in motion with the Hotel Manager until well past midnight. At the end of our exploration of the hotel I thanked her and said I hoped I'd not kept her away from her other duties too long. Her response. No problem. She had been off duty for over an hour http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/eek.gif The suite was beautiful. A jacuzzi that over looked the harbor. Wonderful invisible service. A lovely, if quiet, Towers Lounge.

I've recently sent colleagues to HKG and recommended this hotel. Even though not being SPG Plat (or even Starwoods members, yet!). Thier reports are equally positive.

SPG Sheraton HKG. A good hotel!

Jenn

I was there in April on one of my HK "run for the miles" on CO and decided to go for the Executive floor instead of the Harbor view, which is a toss up. As a gold I did not get an upgrade to a Harbor view, they said they were full.... As Flyme2 said, the view from the Lounge and Oyster Bar view spectacular, great food and a really nice place to relax in the afternoon. The pool on the top also has a nice view of the harbor and HK Island. I stayed at the Hilton Conrad International last week (See my Trip Report) and would give the edge to the Sheraton for it's location in Kowloon, but give the nod to the Conrad for service and style...got an upgrade there on an award stay.

Gee... my suite only overlooked the courtyard... DARN! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/redface.gif

An addendum:

Those of you who have previously stayed at the Regent might be interested to know that as of June 01, it has become an Inter-Continental. Brigitte and I did a double take when we passed by on that particular Friday and noticed the IC badging had replaced the Regent's that was there the day before...only 7 days after the ink on the deal had dried.

I have been to Sheraton HK almost every month. Until now, I've received the following Suite Upgrade as a SPG Platinum;

1. Small Corner Suite: only first time visit as a SPG Platinum, it's suite but too small.

2. Medium Coner Suite: Almost case, Double size of normal room.

3. Large Corner Suite: only once, Triple size of normal room, marveral bath room

I have stayed Peninsula and other Hotels. Sheraton HK is the best cost/benefit performance hotel in HK for me.

Currently, I move to hotel without reservation. It offerd around 1050HKD these day? Do you have any idea to reduce my cost in this hotel?

isao: The cheapest rate for the hotel that I've seen through Starwood is $850 HKD for a weekend rate. You can sometimes coerce the reservations system into extending this rate to a couple of weekdays by first getting the cheap rate on a weekend night and then, once it's displayed, go to the bottom of the reservations page and adjust your dates to extend into the following Sunday and/or Monday. Thus you can get a maximum of 4 nights at the cheaper rate.

Mini-Stay report for Sheraton Hong Kong and Sheraton Singapore.

Like the ones I was preaching about in another thread http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum81/HTML/002175.html

Unfortunately, The Peninsula next door does not give *W points http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif.

Just got back from two stays at the Sheraton in HKG with a side trip to Macau in the middle.

Here are my experiences:

Don't expect an upgrade from the hotel. I am guessing that room rate must play a factor in determining what "best available" means. For both stays I was only given Harbor views. One stay, I wasn't even on an SPG floor.

As for the choice of welcome ammenity ... there was none. Forgive me if this doesn't apply to International hotels.

The hotel's staff, typical of Asia are very helpful, friendly and never say no. A definite plus.

The location of the hotel couldn't be better, 5 minutes from the Star Ferry and across the street from the MTR. Can't get much better in HKG (both for a tourist and a businessman).

Overall, I would recommend the hotel and stay there again, I would just caution people not to expect a Suite or a special room.

"NEVER SAY NO" except for upgrades of course!!! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by neo_781:
As for the choice of welcome ammenity ... there was none. Forgive me if this doesn't apply to International hotels.</font>

You're forgiven. The Platinum amenity choice program is only in effect at Starwood Preferred Guest participating properties in North America.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by mtacchi:
"NEVER SAY NO" except for upgrades of course!!! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif</font>

Oh no, mtacchi, I would never ask for something like that. I go out of my way when I am in other countries to not be an Ugly American. I see so many people with the attitude that becuase I am American, I deserve it. No, in other countries I play by their rules (or at least try).

In Hong Kong a harbor view is truly a worthwhile and most excellent upgrade. I was offered an upgrade to a suite with a view of an ugly building, but took the regular room with the harbor view instead.

My experience was the same -- harbour view OR suite, but not a suite with harbour view, even though a suite with view was available (and offered to me if I would just pay a little more). Towers floor and view were similarly mutually exclusive, unless I would just pay a little more.

i stay in this hotel on a frequent basis and my experience is like this:

they offered me the harbour view room as an upgrade the first 6-7 times i checked in but then, after checking their records for the number of my stays, started to pay tribute to the fact that after being to hongkong many times one would rather appreciate a suite or tower level room than the view and since then i have been upgraded accordingly most of the times(subject to availability, of course).

to starwood lurker:
william, even experts can go wrong. ;-)

it is the new extras (like 500 bonus points etc.) being limited to US hotels.
the little present you should find in your room as a platinum member is part of the worldwide policy, at least my cardholder book says so and i have , for instance, received a suitcasebelt with numberlock in hongkong, a box with carton memocards in taipei, a box of fine chocolates in bangkok and a bottle of wine on the house in several other sheraton hotels outside the US.

let us hope they keep it like this.

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

it is the new extras (like 500 bonus points etc.) being limited to US hotels.
the little present you should find in your room as a platinum member is part of the worldwide policy, at least my cardholder book says so and i have , for instance, received a suitcasebelt with numberlock in hongkong, a box with carton memocards in taipei, a box of fine chocolates in bangkok and a bottle of wine on the house in several other sheraton hotels outside the US.

let us hope they keep it like this.</font>

Not to speak for Mr. Lurker, but he did state "The Platinum amenity CHOICE program is only in effect.....".

Key word "choice". He didn't say that the amenity is DEAD elsewhere. Past discussions have covered this, as well.

Only in North America will we have a choice of amenities. Elsewhere, it is up to the property what we shall receive. According to many, elsewhere the amenities have always been better. It is clearly an improvement on the amenities I've received in the past in NA. We might hope that the improvement doesn't spread to other continents, though.

I have visited a few times in Hong Kong Sheraton and the policy front office manager told me as Platinum is:

Book a normal room: You can chooce between a normal tower room or a Courtyard suite

Book a tower room: Upgrade to tower suite also possible.

Rank of the suites is:

Courtyard suite
City view suite
Harbour view suite
Towers suite

As a Platinum you can normally get just upgrade to Courtyard suite. Difference between courtyard, city and harbour suites is basicly the view, but also a size a bit. Harbour view suites have a nice bathroom with view to harbour. Tower suites are a different story.

I guess if you are a very good platinum customer you can get city or harbour view suites occasionally.

Starwood Lurker:

From what hmattila writes it seems that there is a problem with the platinum upgrade policy at the HKG Sheraton. Isn't it upgrade to best available room including non specialty suites?

Or am I wrong?

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

From what hmattila writes it seems that there is a problem with the platinum upgrade policy at the HKG Sheraton. Isn't it upgrade to best available room including non specialty suites?

Or am I wrong?</font>

No, you are not wrong. And, I don't think hmattila was misinformed either. Curious? It all has to do with room types and the generosity of the hotel if you are frequent guest there. Courtyard suites are obviously standard suites. The others are probably select suites which would make them unavailable for complimentary upgrades unless they wish to do so for a frequent client of the hotel.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
The others are probably select suites which would make them unavailable for complimentary upgrades unless they wish to do so for a frequent client of the hotel.</font>Starwood Lurker, could you please clarify... under Platinum benefits on the Preferred Guest site ( http://www.starwood.com/preferredguest/benefits/benefits_platinum.html ), it says "Upon check in, receive the best available room, including Select Suites." Then, however, in the footnote it says, "Select Suites vary by hotel and not all Suites are eligible. Upgrade is subject to availability and will vary by property."

I guess I'm confused... is it "best available room," or is it "best available room that we decide is eligible"? Assuming that it's likely the latter, shouldn't the language on the site be changed to reflect that it does not actually include all Select Suites?

1K-SFO, the upgrade benefit for Platinum elite members of Starwood Preferred Guest is to the best available room at check-in, including standard (select) suites. Specialty suites are not included in this benefit. The property determines what standard (select) suites are to be used for upgrade purposes within the guidelines we provide for them.

I am sorry if you do not agree, but I don't find the Terms and Conditions to be misleading since they do state, "Select Suites vary by hotel and not all Suites are eligible. Upgrade is subject to availability and will vary by property." It seems to me that to repeat that not all suites are available for upgrade would only be redundant. After all a Select Suite is only a suite that has been selected for upgrade purposes, so to say not all Select Suites are available for upgrades would just be wrong as was my previous use of this word. I should have said "Specialty" instead of "Select" when referring to suites that were not available for upgrade purposes. Sorry for the confusion. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

[This message has been edited by Starwood Lurker (edited 12-27-2001).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
the upgrade benefit for Platinum elite members of Starwood Preferred Guest is to the best available room at check-in, including standard (select) suites. Specialty suites are not included in this benefit. The property determines what standard (select) suites are to be used for upgrade purposes within the guidelines we provide for them.
</font>

The lawyer in me cant resist decoding this http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

What you effectively saying here William, is that there are in fact three kinds of suites:

Select Suites - suites selected by the hotel to be used for upgrades.

If this is not the case then it seems what we really need is a strong definition of what a specialty suite in fact is.

Specialty Suites - Presidential, 2 Bedroom etc suites - ie one offs or named suites

The rest - because clearly by any definition of the word specialty it would not streatch to a suite that is on every floor.

So what the T&C's promise is that you will certainly be upgraded to the best possible room, or (if avaliable) one of the suites the hotel has selected to be avaliable for upgrade.

I think this significantly changes the way we have viewed the way the suite thing works - i think people here assumed that hotels selected the suites that did not participate - but from what you are saying william, the hotels pick the suites that do participate.

As a Platinum, I've got a reservation at the Hong Kong Sheraton for this Jan. I initially made it for a regular room with a harbor view--and 'requested, if possible'... an upgrade to the Towers level. I received an e mail from the hotels reservation department which said:
"Thank you for selecting our hotel to accommodate your trip in January 2002. With much regret to inform that we are unable to confirm your upgrade to Harbour View Room at Towers as according to policy, the best available room we can upgrade one room to Harbour View Room or Courtyard View Suite in main house during your stay.
If you want to reserve your rooms at Towers,
we are pleased to offer a supplement charge of HK$500 plus 13% Service Charge & Government Tax per room for Harbour Veiw Rooms at Towers.
Please advise your acceptance in order for us to proceed further."
Again, I had not asked for a confirmed Towers room, but only 'requested & if available'.
In the end, I checked the web site and saw I could get a Towers room for only slightly more (HK$50) than I was originally paying ---not the HK$500!, so I went for that. (Now I only hope that I also get a Harbor View http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif
But they were pretty clear about what they consider their upgrade policy to be, Platinum or Not!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by AN-Diamond:
...the hotels pick the suites that do participate.</font>

I'm sorry. I'm not a lawyer, and neither do I play one on Flyertalk, but it seems to me that if a hotel picks the suites that participate, they have - by default - selected those that do not. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
I'm sorry. I'm not a lawyer, and neither do I play one on Flyertalk, but it seems to me that if a hotel picks the suites that participate, they have - by default - selected those that do not. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif
</font>

Your forgiven (for not being a lawyer) http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

I pay for the suites i stay in if i particularly need one, and i am a mere gold, but it seems that upgrades are a particular source of dissatisfaction amongst some of the people around here.

The other thing I see is that there appears to be a bit of difference between how Starwood see the operation of this upgrade thing, and how we all saw it.

I think what we thought was standard suites were fair upgrade game for platinum members, and that the exclusions were "Specialty" suites - but from what you have said it seems that Select Standard Suites means standard suites selected by the hotel to be used for upgrading.

My point however is that there really is (in my mind anyway) some difference between a "Specialty Suite", and a "City View Suite" (using the HKG example above).

The T&C's talk about these two suite types (Select and Specialty), however - clearly - there are a third type - those that are not speciality, but have not been SELECTed by the hotel to particiapate in plat upgrades.

"Upgrade to the best avaliable room, including Select Standard Suites at time of check in. Specialty suites (such as, but not limited to, Presidential, Honeymoon, and multiple bedroom) are excluded. Upgrade is subject to avaliability at time of check-in and will vary by property."

So lets work through this piece by piece:

When you check in, as a platinum, you are entitled to the best avaliable room - we are all clear on that - you get the best avaliable room type avaliable at checkin - (to my mind that includes towers etc).

Then we have this talk about Select Standard Suites which is where it seems to get confusing - but it appears to mean that you can also expect (subject to avaliability on check in) to be upgraded to a standard suite that has been selected by the hotel to be used for upgrading for platinums - so in the case of the HKG sheraton these are the Courtyard Suites.

But here is the point where it gets particularly confusing - assuming we take it that our understanding above is correct, that the hotels select rooms to be avaliable for upgrading. We now embark on an exclusion line - saying what suites arent avaliable for upgrade - ie Specialty Suites.

This exclusion line is clearly redundant given the line before it, and read together it would seem to me that what the intention of the whole, was to say Standard Suites are fair game for upgrading, and specialty suites are not.

The final line I read as saying: All our hotels are not exact copies of each other, and some properties may actually have no capacity to upgrade - for example if there are no suites, and the rooms are all pretty much identical, and its all subject to avaliability - so even if there are heaps of suites, and better rooms than you booked in the hotel, they might all be full.

I tend to think that the T&C's are ambiguous, because they talk about suites being selected, and then give a list of exclusions - as you said - "if a hotel picks the suites that participate, they have - by default - selected those that do not" - so why say anything more than:

"Upgrade to the best avaliable room, including selected suites, at time of check in. Upgrade is subject to avaliability at time of check in and will vary by property."

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by AN-Diamond:
...so why say anything more than:

"Upgrade to the best avaliable room, including selected suites, at time of check in. Upgrade is subject to avaliability at time of check in and will vary by property."</font>

Good question, because your synopsis is right on. I guess that's why you are a lawyer, I am in customer service, and the marketing gurus do the market-speak thing. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I stayed at the HKG Sheraton back in March and also was not allowed an upgrade to a towers room.

William - Is a towers room a room, or is it something else... perhaps some kind of stealth suite?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by schriste:
...Is a towers room a room, or is it something else... perhaps some kind of stealth suite?</font>

The towers section of this hotel has all sorts of room and suite types: From the Presidential suite to the tower city view room. A towers room would simply be a room in the towers section with various views available - city, courtyard, partial harbor, and harbor.

This section is on the top two floors of the hotel and features a private reception area, the towers lounge, and 24 hour butler service.

Just like at the St. Regis Monarch Beach, butlered areas (including the suites in these areas) are not considered for upgrade purposes. If the hotel chooses to offer this on their own accord, we support their generosity, but we would not ask them to upgrade a Platinum member to a butlered floor.

That leaves the following suites available for upgrade: courtyard suites, city view suites, or harbor view suites not in the towers section.

To further clarify, it would seem that the only Specialty suite in the hotel is the Presidential suite, but the towers suites and rooms are not available for upgrade purposes at this hotel because they are on butlered floors. Again, the hotel has the autonomy to put anyone they wish on a butlered floor if that is their desire, but it is not something that Starwood Preferred Guest would force them to do.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

[Begin gratuitous comment]

With all this discussion about entitlements and specialty suites, it's easy to lose perspective. Anyone who stays in room at the HK Sheraton with a decent view of the harbour & HK Island should stop for a moment and recognize that s/he's enjoying a comfortable room with one of the most sublime urban views on this planet.

[End gratuitous comment]

As I posted earlier on, while I was at the Sheraton Hong Kong recently I was specifically told that a harbor view suite, not on the Towers floor, was available, but that I could not have it unless I paid a higher rate. I could have only a side view suite, not on the Towers level. If I wanted a view (as I did), it had to be a simple room, not on the Towers level, or a higher rate. This was confirmed by two front desk attendants and also by a pleasant young lady wearing a badge saying something like 'assistant vice manager' who was called specifically to explain the limitations of the hotel's upgrade policies to me. Thus, there is considerable inconsistency with respect to the information that the Starwood Lurker was given and passed on to us in his posting. The Lurker wrote: 'That leaves the following suites available for upgrade: courtyard suites, city view suites, or harbor view suites not in the towers section.' This statement is not correct, according to the information I was given, because 'harbor view suites not in the towers section' are NOT available for upgrade. At least one was not available to me, unless I paid a supplement.

In my view, upgrades, whether aboard aircraft or in hotels, are a marketing device. I do not view them as a favor bestowed by a generous management, but rather as a way of attracting customers deemed to be sufficiently worthwhile by the owners. As such, upgrades should be subject to the same standards of honesty and faithfulness as any other marketing device, claim, or advertisement. Arbitrarily using the designation 'specialty suite,' misrepresenting availability, or not abiding by the published rules all constitute a breach of responsibility. And if AN-Diamond?s conclusion that 'upgrades are a particular source of dissatisfaction' is correct, then the marketing device is simply not working well. However, in my own case, I can definitely confirm that it is working: I normally book my hotel stays with Starwood precisely because of the stated upgrade policy and for no other reason.

Having said all that, let me make it clear that in my experience Starwood hotels are generally NOT in breach of their own rules. However, sometimes it is necessary to remind desk attendants of Starwood's stated policies and request the intervention of the managerial level in order to achieve fair treatment in accord with the letter and spirit of those policies. In very rare cases such as the Hong Kong Sheraton, even management will not obey Starwood?s rules. It is hard to tell if bad faith is involved in the inconsistencies between the information provided by the Hong Kong Sheraton management to the Lurker and that provided to me. Obviously, they would not want to appear to be in violation of Starwood?s rules to someone from within their own organization, whereas they might not care in the case of a mere customer. Perhaps there is some incentive to the staff for getting customers to pay a higher rate than the one that was booked in advance.

GEE WIZ. TIMEOUT.
Everyone who posted got upgraded... EXCEPT for the original poster. And we don't know that posters status level. They could be TIN for all we know. So before everyone starts looking around for Oliver Stone and the black heliocopters... could we take a breath and realize the property is upgrading and giving ammenities. I myself got a travel suit bag with the hotels logo. Kinda neat. I recieved th courtyard suite upgrade. And the room was GREAT. Since I was paying only about $100 USD I was more than pleased. But, some of you want to find some huge plot with Starwood and upgrades. SO... here's a clue. The butler tower floor speciality suites self designated by the property are filled with kryptonite and are out to get you... REALLY. Trust me. And William isn't a real person... he is a robot that has a mind control device. REALLY.

Without trying to add to much fuel to the fire ...

- I am Platinum
- It was my 1st and 2nd stays at the hotel
- I am not upset with the room I was given, I posted my experience only because I read such a glowing report of being shown several rooms to choose from and did not want other flyertalkers to assume that this is standard treatement.
- I repeat, I would stay at this hotel again (in the Harbor View Room).

Thumbs up!

I got a two room city view suite for under $100 a night. It included lounge access with free breakfast and drinks at night. Also, I was given a cool luggage strap amenity that I still use for my water ski gear.

Great value...

cigarman:

Time in. You will note that my first post mentioned an upgrade to a harbor view room is indeed a very nice upgrade at this hotel. My second post was one of curiosity for potential future stays... in other words is a towers room available for upgrade. William gave me an answer… No it is not.

FWIW:

To me the room itself is by far the most important part of my hotel stay. It will be my home for a couple of days... my own space… my chance to relax and enjoy myself after a day of work or play. A rude check in person, or no lounge, or no butler, or no platinum amenity, or any other lack or service is quickly forgotten if I get a great room. The shot at a great room (that I can’t otherwise afford/justify) is the major reason I have concentrated most of my stays with Starwood.

Based on my own experience and what I have learned on this thread, I would stay at the Sheraton Hong Kong again if I were able to get a very good rate (especially if competing hotels are far more expensive). Service is excellent; the breakfast offered to Platinum members on the top floor is very good, again with excellent service. The view of Hong Kong harbor is indeed one of the worlds great views and the Sheraton’s view of it is pretty good, although somewhat obstructed. The regular rooms at the Sheraton Hong Kong are not great. They are decent and acceptable, but not much of a draw in and of themselves. The harbor view in this case is also a very important variable.

So… I would stay at the SHK again if I got a very good rate. If the SHK also upgraded to Towers rooms and Flyer Talkers posted that there is a reasonable chance you can get one, I would be more willing to stay there even if the rate was more expensive. So… If someone posts here hotel “A” never upgrades to room type “B”, that is useful information. They hotel may be justified in not offering it, and I may have no right to expect it, but I do appreciate knowing it.

Some folks have made posts on FT such as: “If you want a Towers Harbor View Suite, then book one and pay for it, and don’t cry about it here”. The problem with this logic is if I had the cash, or lacked fiscal restraint, I would not stay at the Sheraton in the first place. I would stay at the Peninsula, or the ex-Regent. In other parts of the world I would stay at the Four Seasons… they don’t bother with loyalty programs. I would also stay at Aman resorts and rent villas in Italy. I might even go the other way and stay at Motel 6. You check in, pay $30 -$50, expect and receive nothing more than a decent bed and a shower. Plus, there is nothing you can do that will cause an extra charge on your bill! … hmmmm.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by schriste:
Plus, there is nothing you can do that will cause an extra charge on your bill! … hmmmm.</font>

Dialing the AT&T toll-free number from the SHK will set you HK$35 (US$4.5) back. Obscene!

I too was VERY annoyed at this charge. It is an insult to anyone's intelligence. Even if you're on an expense account, a charge like that simply makes you feel like you're being taken for a senseless idiot. Even worse is the fact that they've fixed the pay phones in the lobby so that they won't dial out to 800 numbers. The Hong Kong Sheraton administration is determined to get a strangle hold on your purse. But you can dial AT&T, or any other 800 number, from any public phone without coins or a card.

William!
You really do have a great personality--
Thats why we LOVE you!!
"that's why you are a lawyer, I am in customer service, and the marketing gurus do the market-speak thing."

Edited cause I am learning how to highlight others posts!!
im not really good at that yet!!



[This message has been edited by tinkybelle (edited 01-01-2002).]

I stayed there last year and was given what I guess was a courtyard suite. It was really nice and the garment bag was a nice amenity. The breakfast buffet at the rooftop restaurant was superb. (I got a great view of the harbour from up there every morning. Also, the rate of around US$130 was great.

My only complaint was the approximately US$4.50 surcharge to use my phone credit card. I soon remedied that by getting a local SIM card for my cell phone. It was only about US$6.00 and gave me a local number and an hour of talk time (including a connection to my local MCI number).

I recommend that anyone who travels overseas frequently get a GSM phone, but make sure that it does not have a “lock” on it so it only works with the initial service provider. You can then get a pay as you go plan in places where it is offered.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Nevsky:
I recommend that anyone who travels overseas frequently get a GSM phone, but make sure that it does not have a “lock” on it so it only works with the initial service provider. You can then get a pay as you go plan in places where it is offered.</font>

Another recommendation is that you get a mobile phone serviced by VoiceStream (for those in the US) and an international-capable phone. I have a Motorola P280, and am very pleased. It works on the PCS1900 network in the US (VoiceStream service in most areas, Cingular in CA/NV), plus it roams seamlessly in any country served by GSM (either 800 or 1800 MHz).

Although the per-minute rates may be higher than those available with a pre-paid SIM bought in your country of destination, it has several advantages:
- You use the same phone as you do at home.
- You get incoming calls to your home cellular number.
- Your features work, such as call forwarding and voice mail.
- Your two-way SMS messaging works, so you can send and receive messages (including Internet email) just as you do in your home market.
- You don't have to track down and purchase a SIM in each market you visit.
- You don't have to pay any extra monthly or signup fee. You just get billed for international airtime when you use it.

They have an a-la-carte billing plan, which varies by carrier and market where you travel, or a flat-rate plan that's $1.50/minute I think.

The variable rate plan can be a deal if you do your research. On a recent trip, I paid US$0.50/minute for outbound calls to the US from Hong Kong, and US$0.21/minute from Singapore. These rates included the roaming cellular airtime, and the toll call back to the US, so no calling card was needed.

I have no relation to VoiceStream other than as a satisfied customer.

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

Quoted a month and a half ago but I'm just getting around to wanting to make reservations in Hong Kong and I'm reading the past threads concerning the Sheraton in Kowloon.

I know that we have EXTENSIVELY discussed the topic of upgrades and SPG Platinum members' chances of success, including whether it is a privilege or a right to be upgraded.

schriste has some well-thought out points on the upgrade world of a Starwood guest and as a frequent hotel guest I agree.

I am entitled to nothing special, neither do I expect any royal treatments. However, I loathe being deceived into making a reservation at a hotel with a carrot dangling before me screaming "chance of upgrade" only to have that carrot pulled away and be told, "sorry we don't upgrade for you." Therefore, it is good to know the upgrade policies of individual properties. So by all means, post your experiences.

This does not mean that I will never stay at a property that does not upgrade to a specific room type. Most of my stays are in-and-out, so I would not be upset if I got a view of the parking lot rather than a preferred view. And sometimes, I like a property so much, I don't care where they place me. However, that only happens if I've already frequented that property at least a couple of times beforehand.

However, sometimes upgrades do matter and I'd like to know, especially if the price I'm paying is not a promotional rate, as with an average of 200 USD per night in Hong Kong.

The rates for the Kowloon property are now around 250 USD per night for a standard city-view room (corporate rate) from the SPG Website or 175 USD per night for somthing called a Towers Level Basic (Free continental breakfast, Laundry allowance HK$150/day, Cocktail/Open Bar 6-8 PM, Free use of Towers) from Expedia.

While the Expedia rate does not sound bad for a Towers room, it most probably does not offer an upgrade to a room with a view, (and I don't use them to book rooms anyways).

It's quite a risk to make a one week reservation at these rates and lose out on the opportunity to enjoy a harbour-view of HKG, when perhaps I can look at staying at another hotel chain and be guaranteed a room with view at a lower rate.

Anyways, I guess my point is that sometimes as a Starwood member it would be nice to know.

Here's an idea for SPG for an enhancement to the SPG program: 1 guaranteed upgrade per member per year to a room type of their choice (member chooses from a suite, a Club Level room, a room with a view (ocean, harbour, etc http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif, up to a 1 week stay, at any SPG property.

Imagine the satisfaction factor of receiving a room at a price you know you can afford and the anticipation factor of knowing that you will receive a room with your preferred view. Can one spell l-o-y-a-l-t-y any faster?

------------------
Got points ? Got smiles !

You may also want to add Towers Level to the list of possible choice upgrades. Also, as long as we are making requests, what about being able to use SPG points for guaranteed upgrades to those speciality rooms/levels? Perhaps 1,000 for suite/Club room & 2,000 for Towers Level from any published rate on a per night basis???
PS--
As far as the HKG Sheraton goes, I went for the higher priced Towers reservation with the hope of a Harbor View as my upgrade --for my upcoming stay. And nice to say, I see that has already been guaranteed on my SPG reservations page http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by mauld (edited 02-19-2002).]

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

schriste has some well-thought out points on the upgrade world of a Starwood guest and as a frequent hotel guest I agree.
</font>

Me too. That was a very well thought out post that I think reflects the view of most SPG platinum members better than anything I have read on Flyertalk. I hope that this post was seen and taken to heart by those making decisions.

I prefer staying at the Grand Hyatt, Island Shangri-La, Inter-Continental (formerly Regent), Conrad, Ritz-Carlton, or Mandarin Oriental. All of the previously mentioned hotels are on the island side (except for the I-C, which is across from the Sheraton).

The Sheraton has a wonderful location and some decent F&B options, but is otherwise lacking (rooms/service).

A little off topic...As platinum, what kind of upgrade could I expect at this hotel when staying on an award? Same as if I was paying for the non-tower room? I was going to loop in a stay in HK on my way to or from Bali for my honeymoon. I planned on making a reservation using my points at either the JW Marriott or this hotel. Any advice would be appreciated.

Don't forget the "Point + cash" promotion at both HKG and Bali.
2,800 points + $45 per night! It is worth it!

BTW, Congratulations!

Pardon my ignorance, but what is the Points + cash??? There was nothing on the HKG web site for Starwood.

Cash & Points Award Nights (http://www.starwood.com/preferredguest/starpoints/cash_points_landing.html) on the SPG site.

Also see,

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum74/HTML/002958.html

------------------
Got points ? Got smiles !

Okay... back to the original topic at hand.

I'll be in Hong Kong in April. I'm trying to decide which hotel(s) to stay at. Right now I'm looking at parceling them out with a one night stay at the Peninsula followed by a trip to Macau (and The Westin) and then two more nights at another Hong Kong hotel).

I'm not a SPG Platinum (merely Gold), so the above debate about upgrades doesn't apply to me.

What I *am* curious about is what some of the different types of standard rooms are like so I can figure out what I should be booking (i.e., I don't want to book a room that is 200 HKD more only to find out that it still gives me a building view, albeit a view of a different building than the lessor room).

So... who has NOT had a suite upgrade? What was your room type and what was it like?

These are the room types and prices I'm looking at:

1100 HKD (about $143) city view king
1100 HKD (about $143) courtyard view king
1400 HKD (about $182) harbour view king
1700 HKD (about $221) towers level city view king
1900 HKD (about $247) towers level harbour view king

I should also note that I don't plan on spending gobs of time in my room.

(edited to include room types and rates)

[This message has been edited by techgirl (edited 02-28-2002).]

techgirl -
i just stayed at sheraton hk last week as a gold, not platinum. found a HKD850 rate on travelweb that gives full SPG points and stay credit, though obviously not the online booking bonus. was given a "courtyard" room, but as it was an upper SPG floor, it actually had some city and water view in the distance, over the rooftop of the neighboring building.

HOWEVER it was a smoking room and i found the residual smell of stale smoke pretty bad... i checked back with the front desk and the only non-smoking rooms available were on lower floors and with totally no view. faced with this choice i decided to spend some points on a towers upgrade (1250 pts/night). was still not given a harbor view room, but the towers rooms have much nicer decor, plus access to the towers lounges with the great view. also got HKD150 daily laundry credit, continental breakfast spread, and open bar at the towers lounge btw 6-8pm.

hope this helps.

I recommend a harbor view on a high floor if possible. It's a great view of Hong Kong.

However, figuring that if you are on vacation you probably won't be spending tons of time in the room, I wouldn't be too concerned.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by techgirl:
Okay... back to the original topic at hand.
So... who has NOT had a suite upgrade? What was your room type and what was it like?

These are the room types and prices I'm looking at:

1100 HKD (about $143) city view king
1100 HKD (about $143) courtyard view king
1400 HKD (about $182) harbour view king
1700 HKD (about $221) towers level city view king
1900 HKD (about $247) towers level harbour view king

I should also note that I don't plan on spending gobs of time in my room.

(</font>


The furniture in the non Towers room resembles tired Holiday Inn Carribean furniture from my budget, student travel days. This is particularly jarring as it doesn't match the opulence of the lobby below.

However, the view out of the window facing the Harbor is spectacular, and this view makes up for the tired furniture. I suggest seeing one of the great sights of this world, and thus would select the Harbor view room.

You may even spend a bit more time in your room after all.

You may also wish to stay at the Sheraton first, then the Penninsula Hotel second.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Globehopper:
. . . You may also wish to stay at the Sheraton first, then the Penninsula Hotel second.</font>

Is that because you want to save the better hotel for last or the better view for last ?

------------------
Got points ? Got smiles !

Why not stay in a "harbor view executive suite" at the YMCA Salisbury. Its less than $200/nt with a spectacular view, next to the Peninsula. The bedroiom portion features a floor to ceileing wrap-around glass wall that has views directly across the street onto the habor and off to the side as well. Its about a 90 degree panorama

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Vulcan:
Why not stay in a "harbor view executive suite" at the YMCA Salisbury. Its less than $200/nt with a spectacular view, next to the Peninsula. The bedroiom portion features a floor to ceileing wrap-around glass wall that has views directly across the street onto the habor and off to the side as well. Its about a 90 degree panorama</font>

Are you kidding me ?? Wow !

What are the beds like, clean and comfy ?



------------------
Got points ? Got smiles !

techgirl

The harbor view is nice but there are lots of ways to get it besides paying a premium for your room. There is a restaurant and bar on the top floor that you can use to check the view. You can also walk across the street to the waterfront and get the same view, albeit from ground level. Take the Star ferry across the harbor for about US$0.40 (upper deck) for another view.

If you want a little taste of the US while in HKG stop by Ned Kelly's Last Stand for a beer. Great blues and Dixieland jazz a few blocks walk from the Sheraton at 11 Ashley Road near the corner of Middle Road.

BTW, the Westin in Macau is a bit isolated, although they do have a shuttle into the city. Rooms are nice, spacious but a bit worn.

YMCA Salisbury has the best value over price and it’s no ordinary YMCA. BUT it doesn't give starpoints and no platinum amenity. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

My friend is going to stay at the Peninsula and a harbor view cost ~USD600 per night. That's too steep for me. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

SPG just pulled Sheraton Hong Kong out of Cash & Points Award Nights. This is a surprise for me as I thought one could make reservation by April 30 for travel through Dec 30. Nowhere in the T&C mentioned the participating hotels will change from time to time. Now I only wish I made the reservation earlier. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/mad.gif http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/mad.gif


[This message has been edited by OnePassLover (edited 03-03-2002).]

The value of a horbor-view room might be worth an enormous amount to one person, but much less to another. And, not all harbor views are the same: the Sheraton and Peninsula do have harbow view rooms, but both those properties also have buildings (the cultural center, etc.) between them and the harbor.

The best harbor view rooms are from the IC (ex-Regent), which has only the promenade between it and the harbor. A very, very close second is the Kowloon Shangri-La. Both are very comfortable with top service, though the IC has the better reputation. You can get a harbor view room at the Shangri-La for about $220-270/night; the IC will be about $30-60/night more expensive.

Stephen Loves Starwood
www.ymcahk.org.hk/ (http://www.ymcahk.org.hk/)

regarding the beds, I don't remember anything good or bad about them, just that I could prop myself up and stare out over the harbor, from floor to ceiling.
Regarding bed comfort also, I recently stayed one night on the Regency Floor of the Hyatt Kowloon and two nights in a suite upgrade at the Sheraton in HKG. The beds at the Hyatt were fantastic. Those at the Sheraton were a big disappointment in comparison. I was greatful for the large two room inside suite and, since space was more important to me than the bed, I was a happy camper. I was staying at the Sheraton at the weekend rate of 850HKD and the platinum upgrade was to a suite that overlooked the 'garden' in the center of the hotel. It was as I expected, based on reports on FlyerTalk, and have no complaints.

Special Condition

From February 18, 2002 to June 30, 2002 the fifth to the seventh floor on the harbor view wing will be closed for renovation from Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM.

.....Anyone had any problems recently?? Im staying in April and wanted to know what to expect. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

I'll be there next week - will let you know what's happening http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

I'd be interested in hearing about Harbor View rooms being closed, as I'm booked into a Harbor View on the Club Level at the end of March. If those rooms are not available, I might as well go for a cheaper room

mauld,

you shouldn't have any trouble with this - the Club levels are 10, 14,15,16 and not affected by these works.

I actually haven't spent too much time in the hotel http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif
HKG is great !!!!!

Enjoy !!

I stayed at the hotel on Tuesday night and I was told that I was being upgraded to a Harbour View room. The view was great ( I love Hong Kong Harbour), but the room itself was really old and outdated. The renovations are well overdue. The only reason I stayed there was to get points/stays. Next time I will revert to my favourite, the Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel. Much nicer in my opinion....

Snoopy,

You must just have been unlucky - I was only in a Courtyard View Room, but was very happy with it. Good size, newish decor, light colours etc. I was certainly satisfied with the standard of accom.

I will be going to Sheraton HK again this Saturday for one week. I let you know how it is this time. So far I have always got a suite (Platinum)

I'm sure this has been posted before but I can't find it. We are going to Stay at this property in September. Our friend that booked our rooms is Starwood Plat. Husband is gold. Will our friends get upgraded (if avail) and not us? Was thinking about asking for comped status based on Hilton diamond status, but we don't have choice of were to stay on business, so we could end up a few stays short to requalify.

Yes, there are numerous posts for the Hong Kong Sheraton and the quick answer is yes, you will get upgraded, but no one, not Platinum nor Gold should expect an upgrade to the Towers Level. I'll be there this weekend, and as a Platinum I've reserved a room in the Towers for HK$1450, and have been assured of a 'harbor view'. But from what I hear, other upgrades in the main building consist of suites, harbor views, the 'newly' redecorated rooms etc--but if you want to be in the Towers, you must reserve & pay for the 'privilege'.

As I have posted before, I was offered a Towers room, but not with a view. It was one of the following: towers, view, OR suite. No combination of two, much less three, unless I would like to pay a higher rate. They do not recognize the best available accommodation policy.

If one can detach oneself from the situation, it is actually a striking case of mismanagement. Ordinarily one would be delighted (and extremely grateful) to be offered any sort of improved accommodation. However, Starwood`s stated promise of best available accommodation changes everything: unless the management actually does offer the best available accommodation we feel cheated, and rightly so. Instead of functioning to attract the frequent traveler, the effect is the opposite (as you can see by looking at RTWSTARALLIANCE`s comment in the thread on the Westin Madrid).

So let me get this straight...we should no longer say in the Terms and Conditions that your Platinum upgrade should be the best available room, including standard suites? Instead of correcting the few rogue hotel situations that may exist, we just need to cut the benefit altogether? ajnaro, I don't think you peers are going to agree with this at all. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thanks for the replies. for some reason the search function doesn't work on my work computer. The page comes up with no data. We don't expect a Tower's room. We have a harbor view reserved, by what I read, do we really want an upgrade?

Is there any chance to get a 'newly' redecorated room (by booking it directly or by receiving an upgrade)?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by thepilotswife:
We have a harbor view reserved....do we really want an upgrade? </font>

First off, excellent choice; a harborview room makes a trip to HK far more memorable.

For me, a harborview, non-Towers room is far more valuable than a non-harborview, Towers room. (Your mileage may, of course, vary.) However, an upgrade from one harborview room to another harborview room that's on a higher floor would be a definite plus. The Sheraton isn't directly on the harbor, so the higher the floor the better the view.

Dear Starwood Lurker:

I am sorry that I failed to make myself clear and I want to be quick to apologize if I may have roused your temper. I certainly did NOT mean to say that Starwood?s `best available accommodation` policy should be revised. I fully agree that the best solution is to correct so-called rogue situations. However, from the traveler?s point of view, such situations are far from `few`, as you put it. Although I very seldom make a fuss, I do always plug in my pc and log onto the Starwood site to see what is available. In many instances, I am sitting in a relatively simple room, when the computer lists a wide range of better rooms and suites as available for the entire period of my reservation. In the specific case of the Hong Kong Sheraton, a manager even told me explicitly that better accommodation was available if I would just pay a bit more. As the amount involved was significant, although not actually huge, I felt the same way as one feels when one arrives at the end of a taxi ride, the meter reads $5, and the driver demands $15. The feeling of being cheated increased by several degrees of intensity when I discovered the hotel`s high fees for toll-free calls.

I am aware that harmonizing policies in a far-flung organization like Starwood is very difficult. The task is no doubt complicated by the fact that many of the hotels use Starwood brands but have only a tenuous relationship to Starwood. Perhaps there is also a commercial factor: even though there are no reservations on record, management may be hoping that during my stay someone will walk in off the street and demand my upgraded accommodation at rack rates. Or it may just be the human condition that prevents individual clerks from doing what they may see as a favor for a person completely unknown to them. The situation is complicated and I would not want to have to deal with it from your point of view. In my posting I was merely trying (evidently without success) to point out that Starwood`s well-intentioned policy is producing some undesirable results.

ajnaro, please go back to my posting and note the http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif. Your comments did anything but "rouse...anger". This was in total jest. I am sorry it was misunderstood.

As for your stay in Hong Kong, I would have liked the opportunity to invesigate this further when it happened, but most of the time when someone sends me an email of this sort, it turns out that the only suites available to upgrade to were were anything but standard. Hence, the offer to upgrade to a suite for a substantial increase in the rate you had booked. The hotel is not obligated to give a complimentary upgrade on any suite that is not a standard suite. Some do, out of generosity and for the good will it creates, but some do not. If that makes the Sheraton Hong Kong a pariah in the Asia/ Pacific, I suppose they will have to suffer the slings and arrows of public opinion here.

As for your upgrade problems in general, I have always been willing to fix this for other members on a case by case basis when it is brought to my attention. I would also be willing to do this for you as well. Then perhaps together we might be able to make some sense out of what is told to you at check-in.

Best regards,

William R. Sanders
Specialist, E-Communications Department
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

As a Platinum, would it make sense to book a harbor view room instead of a cheaper city/court view room to get an even better upgrade? What kind of upgrade could I expect if I booked a harbor view room?

As a SPG gold member, I stayed in the hotel last Thursday with a reservation of "harbor view room" at HK$1200. When checking-in, I was told there was no one-bed room available which I originally booked and therefore was given a two-bed room instead. I politely asked for an upgrade, but was refused impolitely. It's not a good experience for me with this Starwood property, and I will never stay in that hotel again.

I just returned from my stay at the HK Sheraton in the Towers section. I had paid for the towers and was duly upgraded to a 'harbor view'--but part of my view was blocked by the building across the street. Additionally, while the room on the Towers floor was nice, it was by no stretch of the imagination luxurious or large. In fact, I'd say it was pretty typically your basic Sheraton anywhere room decor. The lounge area itself was small (bascially one large or two smaller rooms joined) with a minimum of hors d'ourves set out and beverages. All in all I was not impressed. Also for those who like to take baths and are over 5'4"--don't even attempt to get into the tub. While it is deep enough, it is very very short (I'm 5'6" and my legs were scrunched up to fit in). There is a nice marble walk in shower though. As far a Platinum amentiies, there was a basket of candies, fruit and water awaiting me and a nice note from management welcoming me.

mauld, could you please write some notes about the room itself. You mentioned above that "suites, harbor views, the 'newly' redecorated rooms etc" are available. I'm mainly interested to know how "old/worn" your room was - especially compared to redecorated rooms.

As I mentioned, I was on one of the newer Towers Floors, and perhaps my room had been recently remodeled, but there was nothing very special about it. What I meant was it was very very similar to what you would find in a nice US Sheraton. I was perhaps expecting something more luxurious from the Towers level. It had a king bed, wardrobe, tv, desk, small couch (not a sitting room area) & table. The room was average/small in size-- but nothing extraordinary. I was very disappointed in the lounge which was very small and while there were appitizers and drinks set out in the evening, it wasn't opened in the am for breakfast/coffee/juices etc. Although the note I received stated that it was open from 7am-10am daily, the sign on the lounge door said to use the smoking lounge on the 16th fl--but that one was closed. So apparently neither are open in the am. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif There was complimentary buffet breakfast in the hotel dining room, but I was looking for someplace just to grab a cup of coffee and take it back to my room.

[This message has been edited by mauld (edited 04-02-2002).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by mauld:
I just returned from my stay at the HK Sheraton in the Towers section. I had paid for the towers and was duly upgraded to a 'harbor view'--but part of my view was blocked by the building across the street.</font>
After reading your report I was curious so I stayed at the Sheraton Towers last week and asked for the SMALLEST harbor view room that they had. They were puzzled, since they wanted to give me a much nicer room, but I insisted. Once in the room I measured it ... 240 square feet. For Hong Kong that is large, but the Peninsula rooms are about double that size. I was very satisfied with the room and the view, the quality of the furniture was above average ... much nicer than you would find in the average US Sheraton. The view is fabulous (I was on the 17th floor directly facing the harbor -- only about 1/4 of the Tower rooms directly face the harbor). The Regent Hotel across the street does dominate the waterfront, but that should hardly be a surprise, and really doesn't detract from the view ... if that matter to you, stay at the Intercontinental (ex-Regent). I did enjoy watching the pool activities at the Regent (the Sheraton pool is much more private, being on the 18th floor).
There are 2 lounges (16 and 17 floor) and one or both of them was open at all hours during my stay. Excellent food was available, including delicious scones and clotted cream. The open bar included a nice bottle of Australian Sauvignon Blanc, as well as 5 kinds of beer. Breakfast was served in the 18th floor Oyster bar (with a fabulous view of the harbor). The Towers public areas provide great harbor views, for those with non-view rooms, and there are ample places where you could sit and watch the view for hours if you were so inclined (I did that from bed until 4 am one night).
The service at the Towers was outstanding. The best housekeeping service I have ever seen in the hotel, and this includes the USD 1000/night ones. I had booked a harbor-view towers room rate, and after I requested a small room the Towers check-in insisted on reducing my rate to a non-view rate and upgrading me to the harbor-view room (this cut the rate by 200 HKD). The concierges (there are at least 3 on duty at all times, it seems) are able to arrange almost anything.
The only criticism I have of the hotel are the sky-high phone charges and internet access only available on the 2nd floor business center at something like USD 30 per hour. I didn't try the restaurants but they looked good (I ate at Felix and some fabulous no-name neighbourhood chinese restaurants).
There are many fine hotels in Hong Kong, and the Sheraton is one of them. Is it better than the Peninsula? No, but it is competitive (at least in the Towers) and does provide a similar level of service. It would easily rank in the top-ten hotel list in the US, in my opinion.

OK, I've done the search thing, and got a good idea of the "interesting" upgrade situation at the Sheraton HKG (you can have a suite, OR a view, but NOT both). However, my specific question doesn't seem to be answered, so:

I'm SPG Platinum, arriving in HKG next week, assuming I don't snag the legendary upgrade to the Towers (currently booked into bog-standard King room) will my PPG status give me access to the Towers lounge, even if I'm not actually in that level? (no Club lounge there, only towers). I'm not really up to date with this new lounge access deal at all!

We're going on to the Westin Macau, anyone got any recent upgrade experience there? There seem to be a bewildering array of room types!

Cheers,

Ken.

"Roger Roger, give me a vector Victor!" - Airplane!

In Hong Kong, the critical thing is to get a Harbour View room on as high a floor as possible. You might just end up sitting there for hours gazing at it!

When I stayed there (which was 3 years ago, while finding an apartment here) I got an upgrade to a high floor (not Towers IIRC) room with the Ocean View and with Towers Lounge access. The evening canapes were pretty good, as is the Japanese restaurant, but that is frighteningly expensive.

Every time I have been at the Westin Macau the upgrade was to Ocean View and high floor. I believe the high floor rooms are a bit bigger, and the Ocean View is marginally better than the Beach view. It is a pretty nice hotel - all the rooms have a sizeable terrace with deck chairs and a table big enough to eat dinner at.

If they have suites I have never (in four visits as a Platinum) been offered one.

While you are there, walk down the beach to Fernando's - good straightforward Macanese cuisine (which is sort of Portuguese with Chinese bits). No reservations taken though, so you may have to wait and drink a jug of sangria in the courtyard beforehand if you go at a busy time (i.e. weekends).

[This message has been edited by christep (edited 07-04-2002).]

My wife and I are both Platinum and visited the HKG Sheraton several months apart. Both of us were offered the Interior View Suite OR the Harbor view standard room. My wife, who has been to HKG and had Harbor View rooms several times, took the harbor view room and admitted afterward that she should have taken the suite. I did take the suite and found it very nice in size and amenities, except for a not-to-great bed.

Regarding lounges, I do remember a separte "regular" lounge on one floor and a "towers" lounge one flight up. On the day I got there the "regualar" lounge was clsoed and I was sent "upstairs". The view form either is nice, but the food is nothing to get excited about. In comaprison, the lounge at the Hyatt Kowloon is 5 times larger and has 10 times better (and more variety of) food.

[This message has been edited by Vulcan (edited 07-04-2002).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Vulcan:
Regarding lounges, I do remember a separte "regular" lounge on one floor and a "towers" lounge one flight up. On the day I got there the "regualar" lounge was clsoed and I was sent "upstairs". The view form either is nice, but the food is nothing to get excited about. In comaprison, the lounge at the Hyatt Kowloon is 5 times larger and has 10 times better (and more variety of) food.
</font>


On a stay at the end of last year, one lounge was used for smoking and the other for non smoking. Plats (in non tower rooms) were welcome to use either.

You should be aware that the Sheraton Hong Kong is undergoing substantial room renovation until the end of 2002. There is a lot of noise during the day (all week including week-ends) from that renovation (really heavy construction noise) so you might want to reconsider your choice of hotel in Hong Kong for this trip. At night the work stops,
On the positive side: The new rooms will be very nice and the renovation will do a lot of good to this property.

As a Platinum I stayed at the Sheraton HKG this past March. I had 'requested, if available a Tower room', and recieved an e mail directly from the hotel manager stating that it is not their policy to upgrade any guest to the Towers floor, but I could have an upgrade to a Harbor View room and/or if I wanted to pay an extra HK$ 500 per day, I could have a room on the Towers Floor!!!. I then went to the web site and changed my reservation to a tower room/ non view for only an additional HK$80 (about 10 US). Upon arrival I was then given a wonderful harbor view room on the Towers floor. But I do agree the lounge is absolutely nothing to get excited over. It is small, cramped, and the food and beverage selection (IMO) substantard. The Hyatt Kowloon's RC on the other hand was fantastic!!

I stayed at Maccau Westin a few times. You can play at the golf course. They will upgrade you to their newly renovated floor. I have never had a suite there. Fernando's is near by. The food is crap but the atmosphere is very nice. Its worth a trip but dont expect a gastronimal delight.

Thanks for all the help!

I realise the lounge is nothing to get excited over, but if we decide to forego the harbour view for a suite, I understand we can get the same view (with complimentary drink in hand) in the lounge, so it may affect our thinking here!

AAXEP thanks for the heads up, I was aware of some renovation, but didn't realise it was that bad! I guess we will see where they put us. After all, we can always change hotels if needs be.

mauld I saw your original post, and so I'm not expecting a Towers upgrade, but, you never know! Unfortunately the differential between cheapest room and cheapest Towers is HKD 450 at the moment, so I think we will get to the hotel and see what is on offer.

tfong thanks for the advice, since we're in the Westin Macau for 5 days, any opportunity to try something other than the hotel food is going to be much appreciated! Cheers!

Guess I'll have to do a trip report now, won't I? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Ken.

"The secret of success is sincerity. Once you can fake that, you've got it made." - the fortunes program

Has anyone stayed at this hotel recently? What's the current situation with the renovation work?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by MatthewClement:
Has anyone stayed at this hotel recently? What's the current situation with the renovation work?

</font>
If you stay in the Towers it does not affect you. Otherwise it is a big impact for most rooms (at least that is what I've heard). Close to being finished (ask the hotel about status for your dates). The Towers are well worth the higher price. I alternate between staying at the Peninsula and the Sheraton Towers mostly because the Towers concierge is so good. Maybe the best sheraton in the world.

I stayd on the 16th floor in a suite with courtyard (roof!) view. A LOT of noise during the day - OK at night. I was told that renovation would continue intil late this year?

OK, back off our trip to HKG/Macau!

Firstly, thanks again for all the information, it was, as usual, useful and correct!

I will be trying to do a trip report honest, but in the meantime, I thought I'd provide an update to this thread of how things actually went.

Sheraton Hong Kong
Overall, a good, and well placed hotel!
Check-in experience was good, with pre-prepared, pre-upgraded room key, and various flyers detailing the Platinum benefits offered. Upgrade was, as discussed on the board, a Courtyard view suite. Interestingly, it looks like some of our fellow FT-ers have got the message across, because the gentleman who checked us in was very keen to explain that a harbour-view suite was unavailable due to the renovations on-going at the hotel. Given that I had not had a chance to actually question our room allocation at this point, I found it interesting that he felt the need to apologise in advance, as it where. He did point out that our room had been chosen so as to keep us as far away as possible from the noise, and this seemed to be the case.
Room was of an acceptable standard, with a "compact" living area, large bedroom, vanity area and reasonable (not huge) bathroom.
Plat. Amenity was a collapsable shopping bag
Other Plat. benefits were, access to towers lounge for tea/coffee Midday/Midnight, access to towers lounge for bar/snacks between 18:00 and 20:00, waived cover charge for the top-floor bar, and complimentary breakfast in the Oyster bar.

AAEXP was right about the construction work, but where we were (in the far corner, away from the lifts, we only noticed noise in the room once during our stay. I can imagine that the rooms closer to the lifts could be much more badly affected. I should also point out that every hotel we stayed in on this trip (including the Mandarin) had construction work going on - what is it in HKG? Do they have special hire rates for drills and jackhammers in July, or something? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif
Oh and we got a teddy bear ("bear with us") to apologise for the noise.
I'd say we where happy with the stay at this hotel, and since we had a disaster at the end of our stay (see upcoming trip report) I think it's fair to say that the way the hotel staff helped us was very, very good indeed. A credit to Sheraton!

Westin Macau
Again, the overall impression of the hotel was good, though perhaps in need of a coat of paint in places (which, since it was under renovation, I guess it is likely to get).
Since we had booked an OceanView deluxe, the upgrade to Grand Deluxe wasn't quite as breathtaking, but I took the hotels word that there were no suites available. However, the room certainly was acceptable, with a Heavenly Bad/Bath, and seperate shower. Pat liked the bed, and got to the point of wondering what the shipping costs to the UK would be - praise indeed!
Plat. Amenity was a Westin Resort Keyring, and a large bowl of fruit that may or may not have come with the room anyway.
No other Plat. benefits (hint: Breakfast would have been a really, really, nice benefit).
Hotel was (and seemingly always is) packed on Saturday when we arrived, guests thinned out noticably by Monday morning, to the point where we had the Panorama Lounge (and the very, very good live band) pretty much to ourselves most evenings.
The overall impression the staff gave was very, very postitive, everyone we encountered was genuinely friendly and chatty, and the check-in and guest relations staff had the kind of (almost embarrassing level of) helpfulness and politeness that I usually ascociate with staying in high-end properties in Japan.
As mentioned, this hotel was also doing renovations during the day, but, alas, no teddy bear this time. The noise was a little intrusive at times, but not prohibitively so.
The resort is a little isolated, but the Shuttle service works as advertised, and Taxis in Macau aren't exactly expensive. Personally, I would not want to spend more than 48 hours in the urban area of Macau, so I think the isolation of being on Coloane is probably a good thing.
We did pop down to Fernandos one night, and I'd have to say that "authentic" is probably the one word that could sum it up. Food is honest, drink is cheap (especially after spending 3 days drinking in the resort) and it always seems to be busy. Menus are in Portugese and Chinese only, so we needed to use the on-line translation facility (Waiter). Worth a look I'd say.
Further research has indicated that the Westin Macau does not have any Standard OceanView suites (The Executive suites are all beach view). I wonder if they give suite upgrades to people who book beach-view rooms?
Complaints would be:
If ever there were a hotel that would benefit from some form of internet access service, this is it. Since Macau isn't part of HKG, and isn't part of mainland China, getting on-line involves an international call (the pain!, the pain!). Something that alleviated this would be a good idea (I'd settle for a few ethernet ports we could use in the Business Centre, actually).
It's a shame that our Grand Deluxe room came with benefits that we were never told about, who knows, some of them might have been useful (we discovered the 15mins free WWW access the day before we left).
With no lounge, this hotel could really do with some extras for Plat. members, like a complimentary breakfast, and perhaps even a few drinks?
Overall though, on the main criteria, i.e. "Would we go back?" the answer would be "Yep, you bet!".

Now, after 4 days back home, I suppose I'd better go and unpack.

Ken.

"No matter where you go - there you are!" - Buckaroo Banzai.

Ken,

Thanks for the experience report.

And you say that a REAL trip report is coming up. By golly you are good. Looking forward to reading it.

Planning an extensive trip to HKG and other close-by regions after their renovations are finished (why suffer!) and looking forward to being armed with as much info as possible.

Cheers,
Stephen

------------------
Got points ? Got smiles !

I just got back from a week in Hong Kong and China--
Stayed the first weekend at the Sheraton. I was trying to book rooms on Sat and Sun night about two weeks prior to my trip. I was able to get Sun night in a towers room through my travel agent for $1400 HK (8:1 exchange rate) but couldn't get a reservation for Sat night (supposedly sold out) so I booked the Hyatt Regency (3 or 4 blocks down the same road, but futher from the harbor)
The night before I left, the Sheraton all of a sudden had rooms--I was able to book a standard room for $900.
I also arranged for the airport limo transfer for $450 (which I thought was a little excessive, until I took a cab back to airport and was charged $380--use the airport limo--very nice Mercedes and terrific service)
When I arrived in HK, the front desk with the help of my plat concierge had sorted out my reservations and linked them together. They then asked if I planned on using some of the amenities that went along with the towers room ($200 laundry credit and something else I didn't remember), because if I wasn't going to use them, they would just as well charge me $900 for both nights and upgrade me into the towers room.
I got the typical song and dance from the front desk about how I could pay additional if I wanted a suite or a harbor view towers room b/c they don't make upgrades from $900 reservations into anything better than standard towers rooms.
I tried to explain that plat meant I got the best available room, but the didn't translate well...she said the benefit of being plat was that they would pre-book the upgrade, not that you got the best available room. I was happy with the $500 "discount" on the second night room and really tired so I gave up after about 30 seconds.
I spent that week at the Hotel Oriental Regent in Shenzhen, China---makes you appreciate any Starwood property, anywhere!!!
The next weekend, I was supposed to stay at the Sheraton, but decided to try the Hyatt using my Diamond status. I wound up with the Presidential Suite for 2 nights. I agree with all of the comments about the Regency club at the Hyatt being way nicer than the Sheraton.
The Sheraton has a nicer view (being just across the street from the harbor), but the Hyatt I think has the edge on the lounge and probably the standard rooms also (including high speed internet in the rooms) and obviously the better upgrade in my one experience (being asked to pay for something I've earned versus getting the Presidential Suite for 2 nights)
Either way, make sure you have a drink at the Peninsula Hotel's lounge called the Felix--best view I've seen in years. Its across the street from the Sheraton or 4 blocks from the Hyatt.

and remember to visit the gent's room at felix http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

about Macau

some other restuarants in macau,

Tai Li deep-fired prok chop bun, the conceige or the drivers will take you there in Taipa.

Pizzaria Tuscany right across from the Pier

Restaurants in the Hyatt are also good (both the Portuguese and Chinese ones), and not expensive at all (5* hotel setting for the price comparable to an average restaurant in HK)

[and the suite in westin is perhaps 2nd the best suite in asia, the best is beijing st regis, and as ken said, all suites on 8/F are beach view]

a side note/observation:
the room qualities are in general order
st regis
westin
sheraton
4point

but the 1st 2 brands in general has no breakfast, and westin in general has no lounge!



[This message has been edited by pegasus8228 (edited 07-29-2002).]

I am going on a lengthy trip and will be traveling with a large, heavy suitcase. One of my stays is at the Sheraton Hong Kong. I would like to know how difficult it is going to be to carry the large suitcase on the Airport Express train.

Also I would like to know what to expect at the Kowloon station. Are there stairs to climb in order to reach the hotel shuttle bus loading area?

The hotel has rrecommended the Airport Shuttle for airport to the Sheraton. They said to call the hotel when I arrive and have them arrange for the Airport
Shuttle. Has anyone done this?

[This message has been edited by SallyL (edited 08-12-2002).]

I am going on a lengthy trip and will be traveling with a large, heavy suitcase. One of my stays is at the Sheraton Hong Kong. I would like to know how difficult it is going to be to carry the large suitcase on the Airport Express train.

np, there will be airport express porters to help with your suitcase free of charge or tips.

Also I would like to know what to expect at the Kowloon station. Are there stairs to climb in order to reach the hotel shuttle bus loading area?

Its straight sailing after being helped by the porter and loaded your suitcase on a trolley. You can choose either taxi or Hotel shuttle, just ask anybody who looked like working there.

The hotel has rrecommended the Airport Shuttle for airport to the Sheraton. They said to call the hotel when I arrive and have them arrange for the Airport
Shuttle. Has anyone done this?

I think this will cost you more. Hong Kong can boast to have one of the best airport transit systems in the world. I don't think you should worry any as there will be offical help from the airport to your hotel.Welcome to Hong Kong.

The MTR train should be no problem, there is plenty of space near the doors for luggage. The hotel shuttle though could cause some trouble as it is can be a bit tight. You may want to get a taxi when you get off the MTR and take that for the short ride to the Sheraton. Most taxi's are a flat rate anywhere in either Hong Kong or Kowloon and I believe it was something like HK$16.00 (US$2.50)

My worry is lifting the big heavy suitcase. This is somnething I just cannot do. Are train doors on the same level as the platforms? I cannot carry this bag up or down steps. It will be near the 70 lb. max allowed by the airline.

Also my plane arrives in Hong Kong at 8PM on a Saturday night. Porters may not be available at the airport.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by SallyL:
My worry is lifting the big heavy suitcase. This is somnething I just cannot do. Are train doors on the same level as the platforms? I cannot carry this bag up or down steps. It will be near the 70 lb. max allowed by the airline.

Also my plane arrives in Hong Kong at 8PM on a Saturday night. Porters may not be available at the airport.</font>

I would not worry "at all". Just take the Airport Express. There are people there to help you carry it inside the train. When you arrive in Kowloon Station, there are also someone who can help you.

Taxis are on the same level. I would imagine the cost is around HK$22-25 + HK$5,- each suitcase. The driver will be able to help you load the suitcase inside the taxi.

Norway_Asia, thanks for the reassurance. Sometimes I do tend to go overboard with worries. I could just picture myself trapped with my big bag at the bottom of a long flight of stairs. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

We just did this a few weeks ago. From baggage claim to the train is very easy. Trains come about every 15 minutes and although there is a bit of a "gap" between the station and train, it shouldn't be a problem (no stairs). The taxi is a good suggestion and you can get your HK dollars at the ATM at the airport so you will have the correct currency. Have you ever considered 2 suitcases? After back surgery I havelearned to pack much lighter and use 2 bags instead of one. They both roll but I can "piggyback" one on the other so I am only rolling one bag. Two bags are especially important in England and France where there are always stairs from the underground stations. Balancing the weight going up and down stairs has made it easier. As far as the hotel, we were told there would be noise due to construction and there wasn't that much. We upgraded with points and the staff in the towers was excellent. Very helpful and friendly. Enjoy your trip.

Take the shuttle bus to the hotel. I heard great things about the train, however, the bus is a breeze and they drop you right in front of the hotel. The bags go in the bottom of the bus and you get an air condition bus without looking for a bus or taxi at the train station. It's about the same price of the train without any hassles.

Everything about the Airport Express train service is a breeze. There will be porters at the airport at any time the train is operating. The carts at the airport are free - you get them in Baggage Claim and wheel them all the way to the train. Once at Kowloon station, there are more free porters and free carts for your baggage. Take the elevator up, and there's a free bus that will take you to your hotel (all included in the price of the train ticket). I think it costs HK$100 each way, or about US$13, with no tipping expected or allowed. It's the most seamless service of its type that I've experienced anywhere in the world.

Another benefit is that on the way back to the airport, you can check your bags for the flight and get your boarding pass at the Kowloon Airport Express station, so you have nothing to do at the airport itself other than get on the plane.

See:

http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/homepage/index.html

Plus, it's fun. Enjoy!


[This message has been edited by Steve M (edited 08-12-2002).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Steve M:
Another benefit is that on the way back to the airport, you can check your bags for the flight and get your boarding pass at the Kowloon Airport Express station, so you have nothing to do at the airport itself other than get on the plane.
</font>

The Airport Express is indeed excellent.

One correction though - thanks to the current US security rules, it is currently not possible to check in baggage at the Kowloon or HK Airport Express stations for flights to the USA or Canada. It is still possible for all other destinations.

Thanks to all who replied. I studied the MTR website and now have a much better understanding. I am staying five nights at the Sheraton and then go to Sydney. I am assuming I can check my bag at Kowloon station for the SYD flight. I return to HKG for one night and am again staying at the Sheraton. Then I am flying to LAX. It is good to know that I cannot check my bag for this flight.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by christep:
One correction though - thanks to the current US security rules, it is currently not possible to check in baggage at the Kowloon or HK Airport Express stations for flights to the USA or Canada. It is still possible for all other destinations. </font>

Actually, this has been fixed. I know that this was a requirement right after 9/11 (no off-airport check-in for US-bound flights), but this has since been fixed at HKG. At least that's what CX customer service in HKG told me over the phone in May.

Three weeks ago we checked our bags at the Kowloon station for a flight to San Jose.

I have a reservation for December but I just learned that a major construction is going on. The Towers are closed and other areas of the hotel are off-limit. Is anybody planning to stay soon in this hotel?

------------------


[This message has been edited by genoval (edited 10-29-2002).]

That's plausible. I had a Towers room reservation for November and I see now that it has been changed to a non-towers suite at a lower rate. They were renovating the lower floors during the summer, didn't think the Towers floors need renovating but looks like they are doing a thorough job. Probably intend to finish before Christmas. I think I'll switch to the Peninsula (twice the price, but nicer; I like to stay at the Sheraton as the Towers staff is ultra-excellent, but it looks like they will be dispersed throughout the regular hotel).

The non-tower harbour view rooms have been renovated. The towers rooms should be finished by february 2003

There is also a lot of construction going on outside on the street from the KCR rail extension.

I stayed there last month in a towers harbour view room and the noise from the construction was very loud during the day.


[This message has been edited by miki13331 (edited 10-29-2002).]

I'm there/here now. I'm Platinum. They assigned me a 5th floor Harbour View room, renovated. When I asked about a suite (which I got a year and a half ago, using points then as I am now), the clerk told me that I will likely enjoy this room. As well, only the new rooms have internet access (currently free, with plans to charge).

Well, the room is very nice, but it is not big. THe air conditioning system makes clicking noises when it goes on and off automatically. And the windows are NOT soundproof, or even close. Traffic passes by at all hours, and you hear it. The noise puts a big damper on an otherwise nice renovation. (the sinks and counter are clear glass....very nice)

Oh, and the internet in the room is not working properly. I may ask to be moved (to a non-renovated suite????) tomorrow.

Lastly, as Plat I'm still given breakfast in the lounge on the 18th floor or the restaurant on the 2nd. Very nice.

------------------------------------------
Forgot to mention that today the water was shut off from 11am until 6pm. With warning and with 2 decent sized bottles of Watson's distilled water, complimentary.

Just going with the flow here in HK.........

[This message has been edited by clublounger (edited 10-29-2002).]

I have been to HK many times in the past two years and I always try to avoid this hotel because of my previous bad experience there. I strongly suggest you stay the Conrad Hotel on the other side of the Victoria Bay, which, in my experience of more than 10 stays and 40 days, is a far superior hotel than Sheraton HK.

Just got back from HK, and a stay at the Conrad, JW Marriott, or Shangri-La on Hong Kong Island look far preferable. The area of Kowloon out in front of the Sheraton is a construction mess! If it isn't soundproofed, there are just too many good choices in HK to do this, unless you're desparate for SPG points. (We stayed at the Conrad).

Unless someone is really clueless about where they want to stay in HK, I don't see how hotels on the Island are a reasonable alternative to TST. It's an entirely different experience/ambiance. The Conrad and Isl Shangri-La, and to a lesser extent the JW, are all fine hotels and overall nicer properties than the Sheraton, but in my mind they're not alternatives to a Kowloon hotel, esp. one with a harbor view.

That said, if you're looking for a harbor-view room, this probably isn't the time to visit Sheraton. Their view is obstructed to begin with (by the Regent and cultural ctr), and the closing of the top floors hurts. A 5th-floor harbor view is a partial view, at the very best and in my mind isn't worth the extra money thay might charge.

If you want to be in the Nathan Road environment at roughly that price, the Hyatt and Holiday Inn Golden Mile are all within a stone's throw; the New World Renaissance is just as close but not on Nathan Road. If you want a harbor view, it'll cost you more: the IC (ex-Regent) and Shangri-La have the best views, and the Peninsula has the best service.

I just got back from HK this morning.

I usually stay at the Grand Hyatt or Rennaissance Harbour View (as this time), both in the same complex, with wonderful harbour views, nice club lounges, and just 10 minutes to Kowloon / TST (by the Star Ferry or MTR, where I prefer the first).

I also had a dinner at the Oyster Bar at Sheraton, located next to the Sky Lounge - nice views (a bit obstructed) and food (especially Oysters and desserts), cocktails are okay. Higly priced but thanks to Platinum Privilege card affordable. At least the lobby area looked quite nice after the renovation.

Sorry, what is the "Platinum Privilege Card"?

The Platinum Privilege Card (independent of SPG Plat Status) is issued and accepted by SPG Properties in Asia / Pacific, valid for about 12 months, good for 16 meals "buy one, get one free" (or: one person eats free with minimum 2 dining) at most hotel restaurants, tax / svc. excluded.

Does anyone have experience on current properties offering this card, at which price? The property that gave me this card now restricted it to local residents.

Just a follow up on my recently ended stay.

The property IS quite a mess. The renovated floors look great. IF you intend to sleep AT ALL from 9am to 6pm, forget it. So many different floors are being worked on, and the sound travels. ALso, work is being done outside during these hours.

The pool and health club is CLOSED now. An exercise room opened on the fifth floor with free weights and treadmills, etc.

The TOwers breakfast (given to Platinums) is now on the 2nd floor, in the oyster bar. The 18th floor is not being renovated, but it is too noisy from adjoining floors to serve breakfast there, according to the hostess. Plats can always enjoy the continental breakfast in the cafe, for free, but be prepared to explain it to the front desk when it is on your bill.

Know that dialing toll free calls cost $35 HK, which is almost $5US. This means that to use a calling card will cost $35 just to connect. Local calls are $5 HK. Oh, and all the pay phones in the hotel BLOCK 800(toll free) calls. So, to save the connection fee you must make your calling card calls OUTSIDE the hotel. It's times like these when I wish I didn't work for myself and could rely on a large corp. to absorb these costs.

I must say that I spoke to Guest Services at the hotel about ALL of the current shortcomings. My last stay was flawless. The guest services manager was very understanding and provided me some extra comforts during my stay. Namely complimentary dinner buffet and transportation to the airport. THis went a long way in convincing me that the hotel KNOWS that things are not so terrific right now.

I get the impression that the Sheraton is not the place to stay until after feb 2003, correct?

Any impressions on how the renovations have effected your recent stays at the property?

Suggest hitting the "Search" button above, and then enter "HK" in the "Search For" field, and pull down in "Subject Only" and you will find some existing threads on the HK Sheraton and it's current state.

You can repeat the above entering "Hong Kong" instead, to get additional threads.

Just stayed there two nights ago. I was upgraded to a recently renovated room (522) on the fifth floor (harbour view) (I'm Platinum). View was spectacular, as was the service. They are trying hard to please guests while renovations (meaning noise between 9 and 6) are conducted. The renovated rooms are great -- spacious (by HK standards), big Sony TV (30 inch?), futuristic design, ... Downside: no real fitness center (makeshift gym on the 5th floor -- far from adequate), noise after 9 am is very real, scrutinize your bill carefully as, in my case, there were a couple of mistakes on the bill. Overall: good value and service -- and, in my case, an unforgettable view of Victoria Harbour from my room. Cheers, Q.

Just stayed at the Sheraton too and can confirm all the above comments regarding noise (from internal renovation as well as external traffic and construction) and excessive phone charges. Service was nice. This hotel was ok for one night, but if you are staying for any longer period, you should look for an alternative.

Just stayed there last Monday. I was upgraded to a recently renovated room (522) on the fifth floor (harbour view) (I'm Platinum). View was spectacular, as was the service (the view from my room was actually as unobstructed as the Sheraton's location will allow -- very nice). They are trying hard to please guests while renovations (meaning noise between 9 and 6) are conducted. The renovated rooms are great -- I actually found them spacious (by HK standards), big Sony TV (30 inch?), futuristic design, ... Downside: no real fitness center (makeshift gym on the 5th floor -- far from adequate); mini-bar charges are *astronomical* -- best to pick up a few beers at 7-11 and store them in the mini-bar if you are at all price-sensitive on your trip; noise after 9 am is very loud; scrutinize your bill carefully as, in my case, there were a couple of mistakes on the bill (including, as one of the above posts notes, a charge for the 'free' (for Platinum) breakfast buffet on the 2nd Floor. Overall: good value and service -- and, in my case, an unforgettable view of Victoria Harbour from my room. Cheers, Q.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by quoxton:
...... there were a couple of mistakes on the bill (including, as one of the above posts notes, a charge for the 'free' (for Platinum) breakfast buffet on the 2nd Floor. </font>

Worth mentioning, I think, that there are TWO buffets offered in the Cafe on the Second Floor. "Continental" and "Full". Plats are only given the Continental, but can pay the difference if they want to eat meat, fish and eggs, in essence.

I've got a reservation for 28th-30th December at the Sheraton. I've booked a harbour view, newly renovated room rate that includes breakfast (about $1150HKD/night). As Platinum SPG, would I be better off booking a cheaper rate, since I'll get upgraded and free breakfast anyway? From the sounds of things I'm not likely to get a suite anyway, so is there any point in paying the higher rate?

Thanks for any advice.

Whitters, if you can find a better rate, then I do think you should book that and then get the upgrade/free breakfast. I note, however, that the rate you got is pretty good for this property!

Clublounger: re the free buffet, when I was there I didn't actually click in to the fact that there were two separate buffets -- I dug into both (and the charge was, as I note above, eventually deleted from my bill)!

All,

Just booked a flight there for November '03. Read about renovations on the hotel's section in spg.com, and now get the detail from you guys.

A piece of advice - what sort of room (floor, type, view) should I be looking for for a relaxing 7 night stay? Top 2 Towers floor? Harbour view? Suite? Also, worth using 7K SPG points per night (incl. the one free for &gt; 4 nights) rather than x,000HKD?

Thanks in advance.

The pre-renovation Towers rooms were much more lavishly furnished than the regular rooms -- huge difference. Also great service at the Towers (I like it enough that I alternate staying in the Towers and at the Peninsula). There are very few Towers suites (only 2 or 3 harbourview suites, I think) ... the regular rooms are small but well designed (maybe 300 square feet at a guess). The public areas in the Towers have a great harbour view (e.g. the lounges) so it isn't essential to have a harbour view room (but I always get the view, it is fascinating). I wouldn't consider staying in the non-Towers part of the hotel, but the Towers is great. However it has stiff competition from the Intercontinental (ex-Regent) across the road, and the Peninsula (which is triple the price, and worth it -- maybe the finest hotel in the world).

No sign of a Tower suite showing when trying SPG.com. Will get spg to try tomorrow morning directly with the hotel. If a std room is 7K SPG points, is 14K to be expected for Tower suite?


Have emailed the Peninsula anyway to see what their deals are. 2300HKD doesn't seem too bad for a start if the hotel is as nice as people are saying.

[This message has been edited by influential (edited 12-24-2002).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by influential:
Have emailed the Peninsula anyway to see what their deals are. 2300HKD doesn't seem too bad for a start if the hotel is as nice as people are saying.</font>Under USD300 for the Peninsula is a good price, usually it is double that....but HKG hotels have been soft the last couple of years. Excellent value for that price (and their rooms are bigger as well as nicer). Sheraton does have one advantage (pool on the rooftop, maybe the best of any HKG hotel). The Peninsula "foolishly" put a helipad on their roof (transfer from the airport available by helicopter but the price is high due to the landing fees). Of course the big perk in staying at the Peninsula is the use of their Rolls cars and their distinctive color scheme. Even if you don't stay there, be sure to visit Felix.

4750HKD for a Junior Suite in the "Main Building". Still haven't heard anything from SPG. Another 1300HKD for the roller return.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by number_6:
[QUOTE] Even if you don't stay there, be sure to visit Felix.</font>

IMHO visit for a drink, the view and the bathrooms but not for the food or decor.

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

IMHO</font>

One assumes that the 'H' represents 'Honest,' and I for one am appreciative of that.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by B Watson:
IMHO visit for a drink, the view and the bathrooms but not for the food or decor.</font>That was covered in this thread on the Hong Kong forum (and HKG really has fine food, at all price points): http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/Forum42/HTML/000042.html

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by wideman:
One assumes that the 'H' represents 'Honest,' and I for one am appreciative of that.

</font>

Well in some contexts it could mean "humble", but in the context of B Watson I doubt that would apply http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif


[This message has been edited by christep (edited 12-28-2002).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by christep:
Well in some contexts it could mean "humble", but in the context of B Watson I doubt that would apply http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif
</font>
Whereas Honest most certainly does... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif




[This message has been edited by kanebear (edited 12-28-2002).]

Im trying to book a couple of nights at this property for April. I cant seem to get anything below US$150... can I do any better or is this as good as it gets?

Are those webrates compatible with the 50% certificates?

I think the 50% of awards ( if that is what you are talking about) is of the rack rate, which would probably result in a higher price that you have now.

They are midst renovations - so not all room inventory is available at present.

Anyone know any website that will give a good price for this hotel? I am trying to book a room next week and can't get anything below HKD1,550 (~USD200). This is even more expensive than the internet rate from Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, which is couple notches better. I really want to stay at *wood.....

http://www.asia-hotels.com/hotelinfo/Sheraton_HK/
USD 131 (incl. 13% tax) through March 31, but quite a bit higher in April/May (which is high season for HKG). Usually I've been able to get Towers harbor view for circa USD200 and that is good value. The Towers is much (much) nicer than the regular part of the hotel and offers service that matches the Peninsula (which is really saying something). In season some weeks are priced lower (softer demand, based on what trade shows are on), I've seen the price change by 100% from day to day based on demand.

Thanks. This is a very good rate. Do you know if this rate qualify for SPG stay credit?

www.hotelwizard.com (http://www.hotelwizard.com) has the Hong Kong Sheraton at $125 USD (incl. tax). This rate is good until March 31, 2003. Bear in mind that this is a pre-paid rate and you will most likely not receive a stay credit or SPG points. If you have elite status, however, you will receive an upgrade and all the usual perks to which you are accustomed. SPG Platinum members will also benefit from complimentary continental breakfast at the Oyster & Wine Bar on the 18th floor (or at The Café on the 2nd level lobby floor) as well as access to the Towers Lounge on the 16th floor for evening cocktails and hors d'oeuvres.

Guacho, Eat some beef for me at Morton's (in the Hotel). Say Hi to Stephen the GM for me. He and Cigarman have drunk some Martini's on a couple of continents. P.S. the cigar shop in the lobby has a very nice selection of Cubans. Not that I would ever smuggle any back into the USA. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Why in gods name would you go all the way to hong kong and eat steak? Thats the equivalent of flying to Chicago to have chinese food.

Not sure cigarman does Chinese - on any continent. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Cast your vote! Visit www.freddieawards.com (http://www.freddieawards.com) and choose your favorite frequent travel programs today.

[This message has been edited by Starwood Lurker (edited 02-11-2003).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by tfong007:
Why in gods name would you go all the way to hong kong and eat steak? Thats the equivalent of flying to Chicago to have chinese food.</font>

I agree with you, but, there are things you must do for an amigo like Cigarman... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by cigarman:
Guacho, Eat some beef for me at Morton's (in the Hotel). Say Hi to Stephen the GM for me. He and Cigarman have drunk some Martini's on a couple of continents. P.S. the cigar shop in the lobby has a very nice selection of Cubans. Not that I would ever smuggle any back into the USA. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif</font>

Will do... are you SURE the sticks they sell there are real...? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/tongue.gif

Just like to mention, the same week I ate Chicago beef in HKG, Randy was puking in SIN from eating chinese food!!! He was sick for days! I was full for days...

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

Will, since you are a Customer Service Coordinator for Starwood Preferred Services, can you explain why the Sheriton Towers Hong Kong is expensive in April? On-Peak?

And when is that hotel getting an ice machine. I still have to call for my ice! :-)

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by SHADO:
William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

Will, since you are a Customer Service Coordinator for Starwood Preferred Services, can you explain why the Sheriton Towers Hong Kong is expensive in April? On-Peak?

And when is that hotel getting an ice machine. I still have to call for my ice! :-)</font>

The rate question should really be directed to the revenue manager for the Sheraton Hong Kong and the ice machine issue should be addressed with the front office manager. For answers to both these questions you could call Hotel Customer Service at 1-800-328-6242 or send them an email at customercare@starwoodhotels.com and ask them to forward your inquiry to the hotel.

Providing you the information you need to address issues like this is what a Customer Service Coordinator does. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Cast your vote! Visit www.freddieawards.com (http://www.freddieawards.com) and choose your favorite frequent travel programs today.


[This message has been edited by Starwood Lurker (edited 02-12-2003).]

Checked into the Sheraton Hong Kong today and was given a refurbished room with harbour view. Hmmmm, not bad at all. I like the all glass bathroom, makes it really bright and it looks spacious (even if it might not be). I like the Japanese style shower and bath too. Just like home from home. And the Hi-speed internet works like clockwork. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

And while we are talking about Hong Kong...I must have been away too long. The staff in the hotel are REALLY friendly. I was in several stores today and in each one staff actually greeted me as though they wanted me to spend money there. It's a strange feeling...Am I really in Hong Kong? Or will I soon wake up?

Just stayed at the Sheraton Hong Kong again and was very disappointed. I had stayed there before. The last time, I reserved a standard room and got upgraded to a very small suite. From postings here, I was under the impression that the only way to experience the best of this property (and to enjoy an even better upgrade) was to stay in the Tower. Well, I decided to spend a bit extra and book a Tower room and hoped for a small, standard, but luxury suite.

I booked one night and then planned on moving to the Peninsula for a night or two. I had heard great things about the Peninsula and I am a Leaders Club member so I expected a great stay there too.

For my third night I had reservations at both the Peninsula and the Sheraton and figured I would stay at the hotel that gave me the best room, upgrade and service. The Sheraton was just a little bit cheaper than the Peninsula for this third night (as I remember HK$2150 vs HK$2350). Also, if I stayed at the Sheraton I would get another amenity, another stay credit and more Starwood points. Well, the Peninsula won by a mile. I spent the last night at the Peninsula, having been very disappointed with the Sheraton.

When I got to the Sheraton, I was told I got upgraded to a Harbor View room that was newly renovated. Well, this room, although beautifully redecorated was on the eighth floor so even though I had a harbor view it was not a great view from the eighth floor. (The hotel is being renovated and, in particular, the top floors; the pool and the regular health club are closed—there is a small temporary health club.) The room was tiny. In fact was one of the smallest hotel rooms I have seen. It reminded me of a Schrager hotel room (at least one that I saw at the Hudson Hotel in NY)—stylish but small with a cool bathroom (although the Sheraton was much larger than that, but still small compared to most rooms I have stayed in). I must admit I loved the shower with double sprays even if the bathroom was tiny. The glass sink looked cool too but I wonder how long it will be before it gets scratched and chipped. Also the towels were excellent. The room had very nice dark woods. There were four Valrhona chocolates and some nice fruits for me as well as my Platinum amenity (I took the points).

The Lounge was very nice and they did have a great afternoon tea, which I enjoyed before my late checkout.

The next morning I walked across the street to the Peninsula and was told my room was not ready but they would see if they could find me one—well they did—on the top floor for rooms. It had a city view, with a partial view of the Harbor. It was pure luxury--just like a St. Regis—which is what I, of course, expected (but also expected of the Sheraton Tower, which was not the case there). Everything was controlled by a console by my bed, including the curtains. Free local phone calls (no nickel and diming here. The access charges at the Sheraton were high and there was a charge for local calls).

The bathroom was almost the size of my room at the Sheraton (well not exactly, but the bathroom was huge)--marble with two sinks and a TV over the bathtub. Bulgari soap and Molton Brown Shampoo. There was fruit and a very large box of superb Peninsula chocolates (I believe the box costs over US$30 in the gift shop). They also left me a small leather picture frame. There was no comparison. No way was I was going back to stay the last night at the Sheraton Towers.

I went back across to the Sheraton to check out. I told them to cancel my reservation for the following night and when the lovely tower reception person asked why, I told her and she asked if I noted my comments on the guest card, which I said I had. She said that with the renovations suites were limited. She also said that the standard Tower rooms on the higher floors after renovations are completed (I believe in March) would still be small.

The service at the Sheraton was great (they even offered me a bottle of water and a towel as I went out for my run). Still, the Sheraton Towers was a disappointment, especially in terms of my expectations of the Tower and by comparison with the Peninsula.


[This message has been edited by Nevsky (edited 02-18-2003).]

Thanks for the useful report. I had contemplated using the Sheraton as a temporary home to fill a gap while moving apartments here so I could quickly get my Platinum back (I'll be losing it in a week http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif ). It is good to be reminded that the fundamental problem they have is that the rooms are simply too small. I guess there isn't much they can do about this short of knocking the place down and starting again (the Sheraton is quite an old building now by HK standards).

I am suppose to stay at this hotel for the 7s. You have me very very worried. I may try it next week to test the waters out. If its bad I am defintely not going back.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by tfong007:
[B]I am suppose to stay at this hotel for the 7s. B]</font>

It would be wise not to expect an upgrade at peak times like that - unless you pay for it. I am off to this hotel tomorrow night, so will share my experience, if it is anything worthy of note.

You might want to stay away from the Sheraton. There are a lot of constructions going on in and around the hotel. Noise can be a problem.

Precisely because this is Starwood's only property in Hong Kong that I stay with either Marriott or Hilton while in Hong Kong. For similar room rates, I can get much better accommodations at either the JW or Conrad.

The JW Marriott is a great hotel with great harbour views. The Conrad is excellent with all rooms on the 40+ floors. The Sheraton just cannot compare with the aforementioned properties, even if you get your Starwood elite benefits.

The only problem I have with Marriott is elite recognition - sometimes it is even hard to request a late check out. The Conrad is excellent with elite recognition, and will upgrade elites to harbour view Executive Floor rooms.

I've stayed at both the Towers and the Peninsula (however not in the regular part of the Sheraton). I like the Towers quite a bit, but I've only stayed on the 16th floor (there weren't any Towers rooms on the 8th floor, but it sounds like the Towers floors are closed for renovations and they are using temporary rooms). The regular rooms are small, and they have few suits (maybe 5%). However the pre-renovated Towers rooms were well equipped and had high quality fabrics. Size was about 300 square feet if I had to guess (so not tiny, but not large). The Peninsula is better, but Sheraton has some advantages (better pool, and in the Towers equal/better service than the Peninsula). It is far better than any Sheratons in the US (except maybe the SF Palace), and quite an accomplishment to be in the running with the Peninsula. The renovations have played havoc with this hotel and have now hit the top floors which is a big drawback until it is completed.

One big factor for my choice of the Sheraton is that its onl 90USD. The other hotels mentioned are around double.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by tfong007:
One big factor for my choice of the Sheraton is that its onl 90USD. The other hotels mentioned are around double.</font>

How did you get a rate like that? The lowest rate I have seen (not counting a prepaid rate) is around US$160.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by tfong007:
One big factor for my choice of the Sheraton is that its onl 90USD.</font>

That really is a stunningly good rate - especially for Sevens weekend - where did you find it? I have friends visiting who I will surely recommend take that if it is still available.

Just checked in, in a nice renovated room again(as described above) - seems fine if you are out on the booze during the Sevens anyway, as not going to be in here much are you ?

Renovations are going on until June 2003 according to my receptionist.

How do you book a tower room in this hotel. I went to SPG site only see the option for city view or harbor view.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Bookexp:
How do you book a tower room in this hotel. I went to SPG site only see the option for city view or harbor view. </font>

It should just show up unless there is no availability. Also, if you have non-smoking as a preference, you should try changing that to no preference (if are willing to be in a smoking room) as non-smoking rooms might be limited. You might also look at travelocity.com or call central reservations (or the hotel), but the availability should be the same.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Also, if you have non-smoking as a preference, you should try changing that to no preference (if are willing to be in a smoking room) as non-smoking rooms might be limited[/B]</font>

I agree with Nevsky, in fact, I'll use 'no preference' for both bed type & smoking. Then when I'm actually making a reservation, I'll put my preference in the Requests box. I've never had a problem getting a King, non smoking in that way.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Bookexp:
How do you book a tower room in this hotel. I went to SPG site only see the option for city view or harbor view. </font>Maybe there are very few Tower rooms now, while the real tower rooms are being renovated and they have to use substitute rooms on a non-Towers floor. Normally they would show up as a room type choice (and cost a hefty premium, typically 50% more than a regular room).

90USD was my corporate rate. For once its actually lower than the normal rate http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Were you able to get an upgrade? Or was the renovated room an upgrade? Staying at Excelsior next week cause Sheraton is full.

Starwood is not alone. Sadly, all hotels in HKG have seen bookings plummet and cancellations skyrocket, according to article in today's WSJ.

http://online.wsj.com/article/0,,SB104974937657912400,00.html?mod=todays%5Fus%5F pageone%5Fhs

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">"We've suffered nine plagues, with SARS being the ninth," says Barry Sternlicht, chief executive of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., a White Plains, N.Y., company that has the Sheraton and Westin brands. Starwood saw Asia as the strongest piece of its global lodging business -- until SARS. "We were making money in places like Kuala Lumpur for the first time in years," Mr. Sternlicht says. Last week, SARS pushed the occupancy rate at Hong Kong's Sheraton Kowloon, not far from Mr. Hussain's shop, down to just 14% -- "and that was only because people couldn't go home," Mr. Sternlicht says.</font>

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Henrietta Ho, executive assistant manager for marketing at the 723-room Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, leans forward over a cup of coffee at the hotel's nearly deserted Nathan's restaurant. Lowering her voice, she confides, "Do you really want to know how bad it is? We've lost 6,000 room-nights in the past 18 days." The hotel is encouraging employees to take vacations and unpaid leave in an effort to avoid layoffs, she says. "We first thought, 'OK, there's a war, we can handle that, we can plan for that,' " she adds, "but this SARS thing really came out of the blue."</font>

I was going to stay there on 15 April. spg.com quoted rates over 1,500HKD, compared with around 1,000HKD I used to see when occupancy was low.

I wonder what's happening. Are they just closing some floors? The Hyatt a few blocks away are offering the regular lowest rate of 830HKD.

I just cancelled my future stay there, to add to the reduced occupancy. Just not worth the risk...

I cancelled my stay during HK 7s. Not worth the risk of having to get quarantined after getting back.

Have any Plats had experience with award stays here? I have booked an award night in November and wondered what to expect: Towers upgrade is unlikely, but is access to Towers Lounge offered? Previous stays have been as Gold and always received Harbour view room as "upgrade".

Just stayed there at the best available internet rate, got a nice upgrade to a large room, harbour view... the renovated rooms are very nice, they have a W and Westin sort of decor to them. I wonder if there are any plant to re-brand this hotel after the renovation is 100% complete...?

Shareholder, remember me from the IC HK (ex-Regent) thread. Thought I'd share my experience as a *wood Gold since I also stayed here last fall booking three nights on the "Points and Cash" rate with a city view room.

At check-in Julie processed me and I gave her my credit card and *wood Gold card. Asked politely if I could prepay my basic hotel charges (to insure that I got the double miles on my UA MP credit card before the promotion ended) and also if they gave upgrades to Gold members. Julie say they'd be delighted to have me pay first but ignored my upgrade question.

Then she phoned another department to get my room assignment. Speaking Cantonese softly to the other person, Julie told him/her that I was on the Cash & Points rate twice. I guess she didn't realize that I was Chinese and understood everything she said (don't have typical Chinese surname, no Chinese accent, and darkly tanned from Hawaii, of course http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif)! After she was finished, I again politely asked if they gave upgrades to Gold members. Well, she completely ignored my question again and said that she was now processing my credit card transaction. I had a bad feeling getting rudely ignored dispite the feigned smiles, but decided to give to give her the benefit of doubt and just go upstairs and check out the room.

In the elevator, I noticed they had *wood Preferred Guest floors (first timer at this property) and I was only assigned to a low floor. Asked my bellman if they usually assigned Gold members to those Preferred floors and he passed the buck and said I needed to check with the front desk. Well, my fears were confirmed when I opened the door and the small room had outdated everything!

I immediately called down to the front desk and asked to speak to a manager. Was told one would return my call. John Kim called me and I asked him if they gave upgrades to Gold members and that Julie had rudely ignored my repeated questions. He apoligized and said because of the renovations at that time, no rooms were available on the Preferred Guest floors.

Eventually, he got me a newly renovated courtyard view room. Knew my chances of a harbor view room was slim as only Gold member. But the point of this rambling is my shabby treatment from Julie, who was a manager or in a supervisory position as she had a black coat and tie on while the rest of the female staff had Chinese style blueish-green uniforms.

Just because I stayed at the cheap Points & Cash rate (2800 *wood points and US$45/night), Julie or the room assigner figured I was only entitled to a run down room, Gold or not.

Shareholder, that's why I rather stay at the IC Hong Kong even though rates might be higher. The room I got as a SCC member was double the size of the Sheraton's even though it also wasn't a harbor view room. At least I got better service and didn't get the runaround. Maybe when I achieve SCC Executive, I'll get upgraded to the harbor view rooms. But purhaps, you'll do better at the Sheraton since you're Platinum. Best of luck to ya!

Thanks for the updates and sharing your experiences, Gaucho and tbear. I have decided to hold off on the "Regent" for another trip, when I can appreciate the Harbour View at that property with a friend. I may reevaluate closer to my travel date in November.

Pre SARS I stayed here, and was delighted to be upgraded to a standard Harbour view room as a Gold member. This is on a corporate travel agent rate of HKD900.

I checked in this week and was told I could upgrade to a Harbour room for HKD200 extra a night on the same rate as before! I spluttered away and finally haggled a newly renovated 'large' Courtyard room. Evidently, occupancy in the range of 30% doesn't encourage the hotel reward frequent guests.

One point worth noting, from my observation there are large and small rooms on both harbour, courtyard and city view sides. Depending on how clumsy you are, and how much luggage you have, the extra space may be better than the view. The small rooms are..well...small!

Having just stayed a couple of nights at this Hotel I wanted to report my views.....

As a platinum member I was greeted the same as anyone else, no special check in area just front desk.
Inquired about room upgrade, was told that I had been upgraded and I was to get continental breakfast...

Room was just a standard room, nothing special about it except they had managed to make it smaller than normal, room size was about 4.5m x 4.0m bathroom was very small, this was a newly reno room....not bad decor but very very small....
I asked about a larger room but was told none available...
As normal checked the internet and larger room were available, could not be bother to deal with it....

Staff were very pleasant and the view was okay....

My last stay in HKG was at the conrad as a Gold..I was upgraded to very large room and nice view...

My next stay will be back at the Conrad...

Score so far in ASIA...

Starwood 0
Conrad 2

All of your concerns are addressed by booking a Towers room at this hotel. Of course it costs more (worth it for the difference in what you get).

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Ferrari:
My next stay will be back at the Conrad...
Score so far in ASIA...
Starwood 0 Conrad 2</font>

or you might consider giving it another shot, contacting this lady first :

judith chan - duty manager -
+852-2369-1111

she is able (and willing ) to fix such problems .

all the rooms at the conrad are the same size unless you were upgraded to a suite.

the conrad costs more than the sheraton, so if you book a towers level room at the sheraton as number_6 suggests, it will probably be about the same price as a standard room at the conrad.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by number_6:
All of your concerns are addressed by booking a Towers room at this hotel. Of course it costs more (worth it for the difference in what you get).</font>

I was there earlier this year while they were undergoing renovations, having booked a "Towers Room," (which at the time were on a lower floor), as I had previously been disappointed with the rooms at the Sheraton. I expected a great room by paying for a Towers room. Another major disappointment.

The room was tiny, just as described by Ferrari (although very well designed and good looking). I had planned on coming back in two days. Instead, I moved to the Peninsula across the street where I was upgraded to a large, gorgeous, room on a top floor for just a little bit more per night.

This hotel is nothing special. Its in a good location if you are a tourist. If you want to spend time in Central, CWB and Admiralty you should go to the Conrad. You will never get a suite upgrade since they have no suites for upgrade. All they have is the top of the line suite which is not for upgrades unless you pay or use points. Gym is okay but nothing fancy. Faces the Penn.

I remember I used to get a courtyard suite every time I stayed at this hotel. But in the last one year or maybe two, the upgrade has been to a harbourview room, no suite. I like new harbourview rooms.

I find it quite all right, given the price I have to pay for this hotel.

Are guests coming back?

I stayed there the next day after the WHO lifted the SARS advisory. I had breakfast in the cafe and only three people were there at 9 a.m. Sunday, I think it was. No buffet service. Everything had to be ordered from a menu.

I came back in late June. Yes, more people in the cafe and they have restored part of the buffet service but not the entire spread.

I agree with Nevsky re booking Towers rooms here. As a Platinum (and being told distinctly via e mail from the hotel manager), that 'no one is upgraded to a Towers room' I reserved and paid more for a Towers Room. The room was ok, nicely furnished but not lavish, nor large in any sense with a small (but marble) bath. I was upgraded to a Harbor View, and had access to the Lounge--which was 2 small open rooms with a meager selection of canapes/drinks etc. The next day I checked into the Grand Hyatt across the water, and what a difference their club was! (Although the room was equally small, but did have a view of the harbor & Central).

Has the Sheraton Hong Kong revised the manner in which it treats Platinums? When I wrote this report (http://www.flyertalk.com/pasttalk/ftpasttalk_forum/Forum74/HTML/001756.html) 2 years ago, I and most subsequent posters to the thread had very favourable opinions of this property. I'd like to see more anecdotal accounts of stays here.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by mauld:
As a Platinum (and being told distinctly via e mail from the hotel manager), that 'no one is upgraded to a Towers room'</font>

william,

are Tower rooms like specialty suites (i.e., they are not included in the Platinum upgrade inventory)?

if not, perhaps this email should be forwarded to spg customer care.

I cannot book a Towers room online for the night of October 19. Are these rooms not bookable online? That wouldn't make much sense. I can't imagine they are fully booked on the Towers floor.

Ferrari--thanks, just chenaged my rom back to the Conrad. I'm there in about two weeks for several days.

------------------
UA-GS/1K, (M-M)-AA/DL,
Hilton Diamond, Starwood Plt.

Ferrari, can you be a bit more specific about the details of your booking. As we have discovered by now, upgrading at this Sheraton is not to suites or Towers rooms, but from courtyard or city views to harbour views. What exactly did you book? There is a "best rate" HK950 or so for a courtyard room. If this is what you booked, then you'd have been upgraded to a room looking out on either the city or the harbour. Afterall, the harbour is the thing that adds $ to the price of hotel rooms in Hong Kong, so that's what is considered upgrading at many properties.

The Conrad is a newer property than the Sheraton and was designed with much larger rooms than most Hong Kong hotels. Hilton treats Exec Floors and upgrading to them as standard parts of the hotel. Hotel Starwood treats its Towers as separate properties, and segregates guest accordingly: i.e. no guests at regular property are upgraded as a matter of course to Towers. [Yes, Montreal and a couple of NAmerican properties are exceptions, but they long ago abandoned the exclusive nature of their Towers due to downturns in business and other nearby competition.

So what category of room did you book?

This hotel probably has more different room types than any other hotel in the Starwood system. Sorting through it all is a very daunting task; however, attached to the SPG3SU rate plan is an executive suite with a courtyard view, attached to SPG3SS is a tower deluxe king with a garden/city view, and attached to SPG3S are several selections of harbour view rooms.

So, what I am seeing here is most likely a perceptual problem. Obviously, the hotel prizes the executive suite with a courtyard view over the other two types of rooms, and it's apparent their guests have different aspirations. But, the Terms and Conditions say that the hotel gets to choose which room type falls under which award, so that is what we have to support.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by PresRDC:
I cannot book a Towers room online for the night of October 19. Are these rooms not bookable online? That wouldn't make much sense. I can't imagine they are fully booked on the Towers floor. </font>

As of this writing, you could get a Towers king-bedded room with a garden/city view for 8,250 Starpoints using an SPG3SS award for this date. So, no, they're not sold out of towers rooms for October 19th - as of now, that is.

I also just checked sheraton.com and there seems to be plenty of availability there for Towers rooms as well for this date.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

[This message has been edited by Starwood Lurker (edited 07-22-2003).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by mauld:
I agree with Nevsky re booking Towers rooms here. As a Platinum (and being told distinctly via e mail from the hotel manager), that 'no one is upgraded to a Towers room' I reserved and paid more for a Towers Room. The room was ok, nicely furnished but not lavish, nor large in any sense with a small (but marble) bath. I was upgraded to a Harbor View, and had access to the Lounge--which was 2 small open rooms with a meager selection of canapes/drinks etc. The next day I checked into the Grand Hyatt across the water, and what a difference their club was! (Although the room was equally small, but did have a view of the harbor & Central).</font>

Would like to see the email from the hotel manager so it can be forwarded to the Asia Pacific office for follow up. You can send it to me at the email address below.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
As of this writing, you could get a Towers king-bedded room with a garden/city view for 8,250 Starpoints using an SPG3SS award for this date. So, no, they're not sold out of towers rooms for October 19th - as of now, that is.

I also just checked sheraton.com and there seems to be plenty of availability there for Towers rooms as well for this date.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

[This message has been edited by Starwood Lurker (edited 07-22-2003).]</font>

Thanks William. I was not looking to make an award reservation for this stay and I still cannot see Towers availability for the night of Oct. 19 on either spg.com or sheraton.com. I was able to get a room by calling the PLT Concierge.

I wonder why they aren't showing on the websites. Could I have something in my profile that prevents Towers rooms from showing?

I was looking to book rooms here during January 2004 and do not even seetowers rooms listed. Does anyone know if it is customary to not list them for availability until much closer to the dates? Right now, there are only 4 categories of standard rooms listed at 1200 HKD/nt, which is high.

Could be that there is a SET number attached to your account that is preventing you from seeing rates for Towers rooms.

I used no preferences and two people as my search parameters with "Business" selected as the stay type. Still there for October 19th for one night. Not sure what dates Vulcan is looking for so I couldn't check that.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

William, YGM
PS-- I have made reservations for the Butler Floor for an upcoming stay (London Park Tower), knowing in advance what the 'rules' allow!

"As of this writing, you could get a Towers king-bedded room with a garden/city view for 8,250 Starpoints using an SPG3SS award for this date."

Interesting, William, as I have booked an award night here on November 23rd, booked using the SPG web site. This only showed me generic room types: non-smoking/smoking and the type of bed. No reference to Garden/City/Harbour view. Nor did it display Towers rooms as an option. I would gladly use the additional 1,250 Starpoints to stay in such a room, and have access to the Lounge, etc. on this stay.

So, why can we not access these rooms on the web site booking even for awards? Can these only be booked through a phone agent?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Shareholder:
"As of this writing, you could get a Towers king-bedded room with a garden/city view for 8,250 Starpoints using an SPG3SS award for this date."

Interesting, William, as I have booked an award night here on November 23rd, booked using the SPG web site. This only showed me generic room types: non-smoking/smoking and the type of bed. No reference to Garden/City/Harbour view. Nor did it display Towers rooms as an option. I would gladly use the additional 1,250 Starpoints to stay in such a room, and have access to the Lounge, etc. on this stay.

So, why can we not access these rooms on the web site booking even for awards? Can these only be booked through a phone agent?</font>

Standard Preferred (free) Night Awards are for standard rooms only. If you want an upgraded room type using Starpoints - provided the hotel chooses to offer this option - you need to call the Customer Contact Center. Right now the web booking engine only supports the booking of standard Preferred (free) Night Awards.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

I'm looking for the nights of January 22 and January 24. I find it odd that there I can't find anything other than 4 options for each of these nights either on SPG or Sheraton.com. They are all the identical price of 1200 HKD/nt and none are towers rooms.
I have no problem seeing different rates at all other properties and have made quite a few reservations recently (will be over 20 stays by Sunday on my trek back to Platinum).

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Vulcan:
I'm looking for the nights of January 22 and January 24. I find it odd that there I can't find anything other than 4 options for each of these nights either on SPG or Sheraton.com. They are all the identical price of 1200 HKD/nt and none are towers rooms.
I have no problem seeing different rates at all other properties and have made quite a few reservations recently (will be over 20 stays by Sunday on my trek back to Platinum). </font>

No Towers rooms for sale at the Customer Contact Center either. Since the rate is - as you say - high, perhaps they are near a sell-out for those dates?

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

As I am sure you are aware, 22 January 2004 is Chinese/Lunar New Years day. I wouldn't expect to be able to get cheap rooms at that time. In fact I'm slightly surprised you can get a room at all.

The HK Towers staff is exceptional (much better than good). I've stayed there several times just because of this factor (normally I stay at the Peninsula across the street, which usually costs triple the Towers price). I confess to staying exclusively at the Pen this year while they have such fabulous prices, but I still think that the Towers service is very good.

Actually, I have found the New Year is a good time to visit, and occupancies in hotels are quite low. At least the year before the handover it was. No problem getting award seats on CX in J, and relatively inexpensive 5-star hotel rooms. This is a family event, so people are at home, and only come out into the streets to celebrate and watch the parade and fireworks. [All those red packages tied in gold ribbons people carry to their relatives homes make for a colourful sight on the subway and on the stall shelves.] In fact, for a tourist, this is not a very good time to visit, since all the museums and galleries [and most of the stores] shut down for two days and there is absolutely nothing to do except go for long walks through deserted streets or into the New Territories, or on the lee side of the Island.

Thanks for the comments. I will grab the rooms in HKG now while I still can and look for something cheaper to open up closer to my travel dates.

So what room upgrade (if any) should a lowly *wood gold member expect at this hotel? I have a 'Deluxe City View' reserved in September. Does this hotel offer Specialty upgrade awards?

Update: While typing this post I phoned the SPG Customer Care Center to see about using a Specialty upgrade award but was told that they can only be used from corporate and rack rate stays. The promotional rate I've booked isn't eligible. That seems fairly restrictive to me since the web site says it can be with "a free night award or a paid reservation".

I'm not sure that I was speaking to the right person though. Although I phoned the SPG Gold number, it was answered by a general reservation person who hadn't ever heard of upgrade awards. She transferred me to someone else who seemed very certain that it wouldn't work.

Another update: I was told that the cheapest rate I could upgrade from was HKD 1,800 a night which was the corporate rate but on the website there's a HKD 1,000 'Best Available' rate. Surely that's upgradeable?

[This message has been edited by Tax Dude (edited 07-23-2003).]

The rate you pay is inconsequential when it comes to upgrading a paid reservation using Starpoints. The real concern is that it cannot be confirmed until 5 days before arrival. The reason it cannot be confirmed now is that your reservation is in September, and that is more than 5 days from now. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thanks for the quick answer William. Apparently the SPG desk was rather busy this morning and I wasn't able to get many answers from wherever my call was flipping over to. As I mentioned above, the first agent didn't even know that it was possible to upgrade using points. I had to read the webpage info to her before she understood what I was talking about.

Since it's obvious where the best information comes from, rather than phoning again I'll just ask you here: If I try within the 5 day window, what does a Specialty 1 or 2 upgrade award get at the HK Sheraton?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Tax Dude:
...Since it's obvious where the best information comes from, rather than phoning again I'll just ask you here: If I try within the 5 day window, what does a Specialty 1 or 2 upgrade award get at the HK Sheraton?</font>

Look above a few posts where I posted the room types associated with SPG3S (Specialty 1) and SPG3SS (Specialty 2). http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Starwood Lurker:
Look above a few posts where I posted the room types associated with SPG3S (Specialty 1) and SPG3SS (Specialty 2). http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif
</font>

Aha! So that's what those codes meant. Slowly (very slowly) I'm getting this figured out. Thanks.

This thread has been very useful.

Thank you, Lurker, for the tip on being able to book award stays in Towers sections of those Sheratons which have this feature. I have changed my original November booking to a Towers room here. Confirmed here as a City View according to SPGPlat agent, so would Plat likely get me Harbour View as the upgrade? Let's see what happens.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Shareholder:
Confirmed here as a City View according to SPGPlat agent, so would Plat likely get me Harbour View as the upgrade?</font>Harbour view is almost guaranteed, and some chance of getting a suite (but they have very few Towers suites, maybe 5% of the rooms).

according to the SPG coordinator and the guest relations manager, platinums are upgraded to either a courtyard suite or a city view suite. platinum members will never be upgraded to a towers level room.

this is a change in policy as platinums were upgraded to the towers rooms in the past. also the city view suites were previously spcialty suites, although there is nothing special about them.

as an update, the towers rooms on the top two floors of the hotel are open now, but the lounge has been moved (again) to the 2nd floor.

gold members are simply put on the SPG floors.

during my last stay at this hotel, i was not upgraded to a suite despite being a platinum member.

As we're connecting in LAX from MIA and arriving HKG at 6AM, was wondering what is the earliest check-in you have experienced at the Hong Kong Sheraton?

All the HKG hotels are used to early arriving passengers, and will allow very early check in if there are empty rooms (and these days, there always are). No problem checking in at 7 am (at least in my experience). Actually lots of hotels in cities around the world, esp. near airports, are able to treat early checkin as routine. But the only one that has made it official is the Four Points at LAX (you get 24 hours room use from whatever time you check in).

Hi,

I'm a SPG Plat and am planning to stay at the Sheraton HK in March 04. I am planning to pay for the room instead of spending points. Do you know what is the best way to secure a good rate with upgrade potential?

Many thanks.