Hi, guys, I have upcoming stay at IC Porto on 11 Feb 2013 (BRG). I'm considering to purchase Ambassador status, as I will have several IC stays coming up after that.
So, my question is, when should I purchase the Ambassador status? Now, or should I wait until 10 Feb 2013? The Ambassador status will last one year right?
Programs: HHonors Diamond, IHG Ambassador, Fairmont President's Club
Posts: 841
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dolphinyong
Hi, guys, I have upcoming stay at IC Porto on 11 Feb 2013 (BRG). I'm considering to purchase Ambassador status, as I will have several IC stays coming up after that.
So, my question is, when should I purchase the Ambassador status? Now, or should I wait until 10 Feb 2013? The Ambassador status will last one year right?
Thanks a lot.
Hi Dolphinyong (love the KL thread by the way).
I recommend purchasing the status when you arrive at the first IC, sometimes they give you extras for signing up at the property; perhaps they get an employee bonus out of it.
Status will last for 13 months before you will have to renew.
I recommend purchasing the status when you arrive at the first IC, sometimes they give you extras for signing up at the property; perhaps they get an employee bonus out of it.
Status will last for 13 months before you will have to renew.
Cheers!
Thanks a lot for the compliment=)
And thanks a lot for the guidance. So, it's possible to sign up for the Ambassador status at upon check-in at any Intercontinental hotel?
Programs: HHonors Diamond, IHG Ambassador, Fairmont President's Club
Posts: 841
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dolphinyong
Thanks a lot for the compliment=)
And thanks a lot for the guidance. So, it's possible to sign up for the Ambassador status at upon check-in at any Intercontinental hotel?
Regards.
Yes, they all would be happy to take your money. I don't know for sure that they will reward you better, but since the employee probably receives a "referral" bonus, they should be more inclined to reward the guest. Just make sure you mention your desire to purchase Ambassador status PRIOR to check-in, then go back and check in with your new Ambassador status. My guess would be to seek out the Concierge first or go to the Ambassador lounge, they should both be in a position to reward you for signing up.
Yes, they all would be happy to take your money. I don't know for sure that they will reward you better, but since the employee probably receives a "referral" bonus, they should be more inclined to reward the guest. Just make sure you mention your desire to purchase Ambassador status PRIOR to check-in, then go back and check in with your new Ambassador status. My guess would be to seek out the Concierge first or go to the Ambassador lounge, they should both be in a position to reward you for signing up.
Please keep us posted.
I don't quite understand. You mean I couldn't just purchase the Ambassador status upon check-in? Is it necessary to do it separately, go in and out the hotel twice to do that? Thanks.
Programs: HHonors Diamond, IHG Ambassador, Fairmont President's Club
Posts: 841
Quote:
Originally Posted by Dolphinyong
I don't quite understand. You mean I couldn't just purchase the Ambassador status upon check-in? Is it necessary to do it separately, go in and out the hotel twice to do that? Thanks.
Yes, of course you may. I just feel the "specialized" personnel such as the concierge or Ambassador liaison may provide you better perks for that inaugural/first Ambassador stay. Perhaps the front-desk clerk is a knowledgeable about the Ambassador program/perks, couldn't say. I would seek out the person in the best position to reward me with additional welcome benefits, it's worth a shot.
I'm not sure why you would have to go "in and out" of the hotel itself though, is the front-desk located across the street and not in the lobby.
Bottom line, you should do whatever makes you most comfortable.
Programs: SW A-list/CP, UA Gold, EVA Silver, IC Plat RA, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 327
Dolphinyong... buy it at the Hotel.
Simply ask the person that is checking you in to explain the program right when you tell them your name....... Ask sheepishly, if I was to buy this today what room would I be upgraded to?? They will check the computer and usually tell you right then. The Front Desk people do get PERKS for selling this and your upgrade will Usually be better than if you just bought in advance. Know the room types before you go, so you know what they are offering you! The upgrade will be completed on the spot and your room will be upgraded....all in the same transaction at the front.
Two couples that I know have done this last year, both were upgrade 2 categories or better for purchasing at the hotel. Put yourself in the Checkin persons shoes, if you could get a bonus and are allowed to entice you to join by offering a decent upgrade, what would you do?? Everybody wins.
IF the checkin person, isnt familiar with the program or doesnt give you the answer you want, then move onto Fozziedoggie plan B.
I was in Porto last year, what an amazing place....didnt stay at the IC though but passed it every day. The building is amazing!
Last edited by shawntobi; Jan 10, 13 at 10:01 am..
Yes, of course you may. I just feel the "specialized" personnel such as the concierge or Ambassador liaison may provide you better perks for that inaugural/first Ambassador stay. Perhaps the front-desk clerk is a knowledgeable about the Ambassador program/perks, couldn't say. I would seek out the person in the best position to reward me with additional welcome benefits, it's worth a shot.
I'm not sure why you would have to go "in and out" of the hotel itself though, is the front-desk located across the street and not in the lobby.
Bottom line, you should do whatever makes you most comfortable.
Quote:
Originally Posted by shawntobi
Dolphinyong... buy it at the Hotel.
Simply ask the person that is checking you in to explain the program right when you tell them your name....... Ask sheepishly, if I was to buy this today what room would I be upgraded to?? They will check the computer and usually tell you right then. The Front Desk people do get PERKS for selling this and your upgrade will Usually be better than if you just bought in advance. Know the room types before you go, so you know what they are offering you! The upgrade will be completed on the spot and your room will be upgraded....all in the same transaction at the front.
Two couples that I know have done this last year, both were upgrade 2 categories or better for purchasing at the hotel. Put yourself in the Checkin persons shoes, if you could get a bonus and are allowed to entice you to join by offering a decent upgrade, what would you do?? Everybody wins.
IF the checkin person, isnt familiar with the program or doesnt give you the answer you want, then move onto Fozziedoggie plan B.
I was in Porto last year, what an amazing place....didnt stay at the IC though but passed it every day. The building is amazing!
Programs: HHonors Diamond, IHG Ambassador, Fairmont President's Club
Posts: 841
Quote:
Originally Posted by shawntobi
Dolphinyong... buy it at the Hotel.
Simply ask the person that is checking you in to explain the program right when you tell them your name....... Ask sheepishly, if I was to buy this today what room would I be upgraded to?? They will check the computer and usually tell you right then. The Front Desk people do get PERKS for selling this and your upgrade will Usually be better than if you just bought in advance. Know the room types before you go, so you know what they are offering you! The upgrade will be completed on the spot and your room will be upgraded....all in the same transaction at the front.
Two couples that I know have done this last year, both were upgrade 2 categories or better for purchasing at the hotel. Put yourself in the Checkin persons shoes, if you could get a bonus and are allowed to entice you to join by offering a decent upgrade, what would you do?? Everybody wins.
IF the checkin person, isnt familiar with the program or doesnt give you the answer you want, then move onto Fozziedoggie plan B.
I was in Porto last year, what an amazing place....didnt stay at the IC though but passed it every day. The building is amazing!
So glad I clicked on here tonight. We have a stay booked at the IC Cannes next month so hopefully the same advice will apply there. Thanks for the info
