W Santiago [Master Thread]
Feb 15, 2012, 4:03 am
#31
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: SJC
Programs: AA EXP, HH Diamond, SPG Platinum, Marriott Platinum
Posts: 70
I stayed at the 4points one night, visited the W for drinks (stayed at the Ritz my other nights). The W is in another league compared to the 4Points. If you're even considering the W, don't even bother looking at the 4points.
Feb 15, 2012, 8:27 am
#32
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Programs: Airline Free Agent, Fairmont Lifetime Platinum, Hyatt Globalist, Hilton Honors Diamond
Posts: 3,041
Decided to burn 20k on the W for two nights. Suite upgrades were not available online. I think I need to call in to find out? Wonder how many points and if it's a good value to blow more points for a suite upgrade (which look fantastic!).
Jun 12, 2013, 10:20 am
#33
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Chicago, IL
Programs: SPG Platinum, HHonors Gold, AAdvantage nothing, Milage Plus nothing
Posts: 49
Any recent stays here? Will be going down there in September for 5 nights. Heard good things from someone else who stayed there but wanted to get some more opinions. Any idea how well they treat Golds for upgrades? I don't expect a suite but a room with a balcony would be nice.
Jun 14, 2013, 7:36 pm
#34
Join Date: May 2005
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Programs: AA EXP(.96MM), AMEX Platinum, United Premier Silver, Delta Gold, SPG Platinum 50, Hilton Gold VIP
Posts: 1,744
I stayed here two months ago as a Platinum guest.
-Suite upgrade
-breakfast as my Plat amenity
-free internet
-4pm late checkout granted
I wrote a full review with a video & pictures on my blog: http://first2board.com/pointssummary...-hotel-review/
-Suite upgrade
-breakfast as my Plat amenity
-free internet
-4pm late checkout granted
I wrote a full review with a video & pictures on my blog: http://first2board.com/pointssummary...-hotel-review/
Dec 30, 2013, 2:33 pm
#35
Join Date: Sep 2012
Programs: AS MVP 75K, UA 1K, Bonvoy Plat.
Posts: 51
Security of rooms with patios
I'm currently staying here in a "Spectacular room" with a private patio. The trouble is, the patio isn't that private. There's another outside area beyond the patio that is accessible to other guests and the only barrier is a short planter. I just had someone climb over the planter, walk up the sliding glass doors, look inside (he couldn't see me from where I was) and then forcefully opened the door from the outside - there's no handle on the outside so it took some effort. He tried to enter the room by I shouted as he opened the door. He tried to say he'd made a mistake and he ran off. From the outside it's clearly a guest room - he could have seen the desk, personal objects and bags, so I think his only mistake was being caught in the act. I called hotel security, they took a while to arrive and looked around, but of course he'd disappeared by that point. They took a description, but I doubt anything will happen.
If you're staying in one of these rooms, make sure the doors are locked securely. The locking mechanism is quite poor and the door can seem locked when it isn't. The hotel has add an additional locking mechanism on the doors which is also tricky to engage. Once you think you've locked the doors, be quite forceful in trying to open them to ensure they are locked securely.
If you're staying in one of these rooms, make sure the doors are locked securely. The locking mechanism is quite poor and the door can seem locked when it isn't. The hotel has add an additional locking mechanism on the doors which is also tricky to engage. Once you think you've locked the doors, be quite forceful in trying to open them to ensure they are locked securely.
Apr 15, 2014, 3:11 pm
#36
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: CHS
Programs: DL Diamond, WN A-List, Marriott Platinum Elite, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 685
Any recent reviews on this property? I'd like to use points at either the:
It is my understanding that the W Santiago is in a better location but has worse marks on TripAdvisor? Any first hand insight? My 3rd option would be the Grand Hyatt Santiago.
- San Cristobal Tower, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santiago = $217 or 12k Starpoints - 84% on TripAdvisor
- W Santiago = $378 or 12k Starpoints - 77% on TripAdvisor
It is my understanding that the W Santiago is in a better location but has worse marks on TripAdvisor? Any first hand insight? My 3rd option would be the Grand Hyatt Santiago.
Apr 16, 2014, 1:09 pm
#37
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: FLL
Programs: US CP, AA Plat, DL Silver, EY Gold, Kimpton IC, SPG Plat
Posts: 409
I suggest the W. It's in a newer less Chilean part of Santiago but it's very comfortable and SPG recognition is very good. There is even a heli pad if you want to take a tour of the mountains (24 hour notice is required 
Nov 19, 2014, 8:28 am
#38
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: CHS
Programs: DL Diamond, WN A-List, Marriott Platinum Elite, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 685
After a bit of deliberation between the San Cristobal Tower Luxury Collection, Grand Hyatt Santiago and W Santagio, my wife and I were very pleased to have chosen the W on a recent visit to Santiago.
I booked the a Wonderful Room (441 sq ft) using Cash + Points for 6,000 Starpoints + $110 about 1 month before check in and applied 2 Suite Night Award requests. Exactly 5 days prior to check-in I received an email that my SNA request had cleared and that we had been upgraded to a Marvelous Suite (1,076 sq ft).
I hope that some find the below review helpful in choosing where to stay in Santiago. Full post with proper formatting and full photo gallery can be found here: Weekend Blitz - W Santiago Hotel Review – Santiago, Chile.
------------------------------------------------
Once we arrived in Santiago, we took a cab from the airport straight to our hotel — the W Santiago in the Las Condes area. Like all W hotels, the best word to describe the hotel was “glamorous.” Like, it seems like Kim K is going to be staying in the suite next door to yours. All W’s, although decorated differently with their own motif, all share the same party atmosphere and glam decor. The W even has a signature scent… to go along with their signature house music. When you’re at the W, you know you’re not going to sleep before 4am.
CHECK-IN
We arrived at the hotel after one 10-hour, nearly sleepless flight (Delta Flight 147 – Atlanta-ATL to Santiago-SCL – B767-300ER) and one van ride from the airport– looking pretty rough around 10am, I’m sure. Thankfully, the front desk agent confirmed that our room was, in fact, ready for us immediately, giving us a chance to take some much needed showers.
THE ROOM
Jeffrey booked the room with Cash + Points for 6,000 Starpoints + $110 per night and, on top of that, applied two SPG Platinum Suite Night Awards to the reservation. The SNAs cleared exactly 5 days out and we received a confirmation that we had been booked into a Marvelous Suite.
The room was, well, Marvelous. It was extremely “W-esque,” with tall ceilings, very modern decor and the signature W soundtrack. The Marvelous Suite had a nice, big balcony with a table and chairs and a breathtaking view of the Andes Mountains (who knew they were so close to the city?!). Truly, the view of the city and the majestic mountains just a stone’s throw away is the best part of this hotel (and city, for that matter).
THE BATHROOM
The bathroom — for all of the strides toward modernity, was completely open to the bedroom. Fortunately, the toilet (but not the shower or bathtub) had a separating door, but it would still make for quite an awkward experience if traveling with a friend or family member.
The bathroom off of the living room — in case we have guests…
After checking out our freakin’ awesome room (and taking a small nap), we checked out the rest of the hotel. One of the staff members made sure to tell us about the nightclub that the W houses: Whiskey Blue. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see Whiskey Blue for ourselves, since he told us that it doesn’t really get crowded until 4am… what?!
THE LOBBY
NOSA RESTAURANT
We did get plenty of chances to experience the restaurant and lobby bar. Being an SPG Platinum Member, Jeffrey always chooses the free breakfast option when traveling with me. We’re never big breakfast eaters, but make it a point to eat late in the morning and essentially turn it into a significant head start on lunch. Breakfast for SPG Platinums at the W Santiago gets you the breakfast buffet at NoSa, the in-house restaurant. Typically, the breakfast amenity will only get you a continental breakfast at most properties, but there’s only one choice at NoSa: the sprawling buffet. I’m not quite sure how much it normally costs for breakfast, but they had a sign advertising a Sunday afternoon brunch for 23,000 CP (~$41 USD each) and the offerings sounded identical to the morning breakfast.
The buffet selections were varied and fresh — exactly what you’d wish for — with a chef to specially make omlettes with your choice of toppings. And, best of all, we were there over the weekend and had access to their self-serve, bottomless mimosa and Bloody Mary bar. Not bad at all for a free breakfast at the W.
BOTTOM LINE: There’s never a bad stay at any W Hotel, but this W Santiago is especially glamorous– boasting A+ views of the Andes Mountains and free, bottomless Bloodys for breakfast on the weekends. What more could a traveler looking for a little glamor want?
------------------------
Full post with proper formatting and full photo gallery can be found here: Weekend Blitz - W Santiago Hotel Review – Santiago, Chile
I booked the a Wonderful Room (441 sq ft) using Cash + Points for 6,000 Starpoints + $110 about 1 month before check in and applied 2 Suite Night Award requests. Exactly 5 days prior to check-in I received an email that my SNA request had cleared and that we had been upgraded to a Marvelous Suite (1,076 sq ft).
I hope that some find the below review helpful in choosing where to stay in Santiago. Full post with proper formatting and full photo gallery can be found here: Weekend Blitz - W Santiago Hotel Review – Santiago, Chile.
------------------------------------------------
Once we arrived in Santiago, we took a cab from the airport straight to our hotel — the W Santiago in the Las Condes area. Like all W hotels, the best word to describe the hotel was “glamorous.” Like, it seems like Kim K is going to be staying in the suite next door to yours. All W’s, although decorated differently with their own motif, all share the same party atmosphere and glam decor. The W even has a signature scent… to go along with their signature house music. When you’re at the W, you know you’re not going to sleep before 4am.
CHECK-IN
We arrived at the hotel after one 10-hour, nearly sleepless flight (Delta Flight 147 – Atlanta-ATL to Santiago-SCL – B767-300ER) and one van ride from the airport– looking pretty rough around 10am, I’m sure. Thankfully, the front desk agent confirmed that our room was, in fact, ready for us immediately, giving us a chance to take some much needed showers.
THE ROOM
Jeffrey booked the room with Cash + Points for 6,000 Starpoints + $110 per night and, on top of that, applied two SPG Platinum Suite Night Awards to the reservation. The SNAs cleared exactly 5 days out and we received a confirmation that we had been booked into a Marvelous Suite.
The room was, well, Marvelous. It was extremely “W-esque,” with tall ceilings, very modern decor and the signature W soundtrack. The Marvelous Suite had a nice, big balcony with a table and chairs and a breathtaking view of the Andes Mountains (who knew they were so close to the city?!). Truly, the view of the city and the majestic mountains just a stone’s throw away is the best part of this hotel (and city, for that matter).
THE BATHROOM
The bathroom — for all of the strides toward modernity, was completely open to the bedroom. Fortunately, the toilet (but not the shower or bathtub) had a separating door, but it would still make for quite an awkward experience if traveling with a friend or family member.
After checking out our freakin’ awesome room (and taking a small nap), we checked out the rest of the hotel. One of the staff members made sure to tell us about the nightclub that the W houses: Whiskey Blue. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see Whiskey Blue for ourselves, since he told us that it doesn’t really get crowded until 4am… what?!
THE LOBBY
NOSA RESTAURANT
We did get plenty of chances to experience the restaurant and lobby bar. Being an SPG Platinum Member, Jeffrey always chooses the free breakfast option when traveling with me. We’re never big breakfast eaters, but make it a point to eat late in the morning and essentially turn it into a significant head start on lunch. Breakfast for SPG Platinums at the W Santiago gets you the breakfast buffet at NoSa, the in-house restaurant. Typically, the breakfast amenity will only get you a continental breakfast at most properties, but there’s only one choice at NoSa: the sprawling buffet. I’m not quite sure how much it normally costs for breakfast, but they had a sign advertising a Sunday afternoon brunch for 23,000 CP (~$41 USD each) and the offerings sounded identical to the morning breakfast.
The buffet selections were varied and fresh — exactly what you’d wish for — with a chef to specially make omlettes with your choice of toppings. And, best of all, we were there over the weekend and had access to their self-serve, bottomless mimosa and Bloody Mary bar. Not bad at all for a free breakfast at the W.
BOTTOM LINE: There’s never a bad stay at any W Hotel, but this W Santiago is especially glamorous– boasting A+ views of the Andes Mountains and free, bottomless Bloodys for breakfast on the weekends. What more could a traveler looking for a little glamor want?
------------------------
Full post with proper formatting and full photo gallery can be found here: Weekend Blitz - W Santiago Hotel Review – Santiago, Chile
May 10, 2015, 12:35 am
#39
Join Date: Mar 2012
Posts: 174
:td:
Stayed there earlier this week and what really ticked me off was that during a check-in as my amenity I was offered either free in-room internet or points.
When I pointed out that the internet is free anyway (SPG booking obviously) instead of some sort of apology I heard "so I guess points it is".
Well, this sort of attitude and bad first impression is what puts me off for good.
This is your average W. Rooms show too much wear and tear for property this new. Location is very good, breakfast just OK - definitely nothing near what you'd get at W Hong Kong for example.
When I pointed out that the internet is free anyway (SPG booking obviously) instead of some sort of apology I heard "so I guess points it is".
Well, this sort of attitude and bad first impression is what puts me off for good.
This is your average W. Rooms show too much wear and tear for property this new. Location is very good, breakfast just OK - definitely nothing near what you'd get at W Hong Kong for example.
May 13, 2015, 9:28 am
#40
Join Date: May 2001
Location: New York, New York
Posts: 1,602
Any recent reviews on this property? I'd like to use points at either the:
It is my understanding that the W Santiago is in a better location but has worse marks on TripAdvisor? Any first hand insight? My 3rd option would be the Grand Hyatt Santiago.
- San Cristobal Tower, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santiago = $217 or 12k Starpoints - 84% on TripAdvisor
- W Santiago = $378 or 12k Starpoints - 77% on TripAdvisor
It is my understanding that the W Santiago is in a better location but has worse marks on TripAdvisor? Any first hand insight? My 3rd option would be the Grand Hyatt Santiago.
Some have commented that the W is "worn" or an "average W". In our experience, we did not find it worn. We were treated to 2 rooms on our last stay, as after the second night we were moved to a large suite across the hall that did not have the city view that the room we had the first night. We agree that the breakfast is not as good as what we recently experienced at the Hong Kong W, but it still was superior. We could not been treated better as a Life Platinum. Our special thanks to the front desk staff, some who just came over to the W from the Sheraton and the San Cristobal for their caring hospitality.
We were looking forward to the Japanese Restaurant, but the hotel had to cancel us on two consecutive nights as the air handling system broke and required a couple of weeks to repair.
Mar 2, 2017, 8:42 am
#41
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: GVA
Programs: BA Silver (OW Sapphire), A3 Gold (*G), Bonvoy LTTE, HHonors Diamond, LeClubAccor Silver, UA Silver
Posts: 1,775
Disappointing
Just completed my first stay here last weekend. It was 1 night and I have now stayed at all Starwood properties in Santiago.
In short, the W has by far the best location (followed by the FP, and then she Sheraton/San Cristobal). However, Plat treatment was below average, or even downright disappointing.
The WW team reached out a few days prior to the stay, saying they would try to get me an upgrade, but couldn't guarantee one, and asked for time of arrival and whether I needed any additional help. I mentioned a 4pm check in and requested reservations for Osaka, which I was told was full. We checked in around 3pm, and the room wasn't ready: they wanted to give us an upgrade to a room which was only a category higher (Wonderful to Spectacular) but the room wasn't ready. As it transpires, the only difference is the latter has a balcony. No suites were offered. As we had flown in from AKL, it was only after I probed them that they offered to give us the original room right away.
Five minutes after checking in, two associates knocked on my door to replenish the minibar (couldn't they have done it before I checked in?) and the replenished items were charged to my credit card after checkout. Other unauthorized charges included a restaurant bill, which I suspect is for breakfast which was included in my rate.
As others mentioned, the room is already dated (in style) and worn, with tears to the net curtains, scuffs on the walls, etc. TV had only sound, no image and no obvious fix (didn't bother calling to get it fixed, but explained at checkout so issue could be sorted for following guests). Bathroom is huge and very nice, as is the massive bathtub.
No other Plat amenities are offered (they tried to charge me for breakfast twice, despite being included in the rate), no welcome, or thank you for being a Platinum. At least the Platinum breakfast includes the whole buffet which has eggs made to order, nice juices, and even champagne and a self service Bloody Mary station.
Contrary to some reports, no drink vouchers were offered (even when we were told to wait at the bar for our room), no explanation of the facilities or services was given.
In short, it was a very underwhelming experience. To be fair, they never promised anything above and beyond, but I really didn't feel very welcome. The cherry on the cake was after checkout, when I stopped on the driveway for 30 seconds to set up my destination on Waze and was promptly shooshed away by one of the security guards (I wasn't blocking anyone, and no other cars were coming). For half the price, I will stick to the Sheraton for future stays, which at least has a lounge, better views, comfortable rooms and more welcoming staff.
The only saving grace was Maria at the front desk, who was very helpful and comped the parking without me even asking.
In short, the W has by far the best location (followed by the FP, and then she Sheraton/San Cristobal). However, Plat treatment was below average, or even downright disappointing.
The WW team reached out a few days prior to the stay, saying they would try to get me an upgrade, but couldn't guarantee one, and asked for time of arrival and whether I needed any additional help. I mentioned a 4pm check in and requested reservations for Osaka, which I was told was full. We checked in around 3pm, and the room wasn't ready: they wanted to give us an upgrade to a room which was only a category higher (Wonderful to Spectacular) but the room wasn't ready. As it transpires, the only difference is the latter has a balcony. No suites were offered. As we had flown in from AKL, it was only after I probed them that they offered to give us the original room right away.
Five minutes after checking in, two associates knocked on my door to replenish the minibar (couldn't they have done it before I checked in?) and the replenished items were charged to my credit card after checkout. Other unauthorized charges included a restaurant bill, which I suspect is for breakfast which was included in my rate.
As others mentioned, the room is already dated (in style) and worn, with tears to the net curtains, scuffs on the walls, etc. TV had only sound, no image and no obvious fix (didn't bother calling to get it fixed, but explained at checkout so issue could be sorted for following guests). Bathroom is huge and very nice, as is the massive bathtub.
No other Plat amenities are offered (they tried to charge me for breakfast twice, despite being included in the rate), no welcome, or thank you for being a Platinum. At least the Platinum breakfast includes the whole buffet which has eggs made to order, nice juices, and even champagne and a self service Bloody Mary station.
Contrary to some reports, no drink vouchers were offered (even when we were told to wait at the bar for our room), no explanation of the facilities or services was given.
In short, it was a very underwhelming experience. To be fair, they never promised anything above and beyond, but I really didn't feel very welcome. The cherry on the cake was after checkout, when I stopped on the driveway for 30 seconds to set up my destination on Waze and was promptly shooshed away by one of the security guards (I wasn't blocking anyone, and no other cars were coming). For half the price, I will stick to the Sheraton for future stays, which at least has a lounge, better views, comfortable rooms and more welcoming staff.
The only saving grace was Maria at the front desk, who was very helpful and comped the parking without me even asking.
Jun 29, 2017, 2:02 am
#42
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: BKK
Programs: World of Hyatt Globalist; Marriott Bonvoy LTP; IHG Plat
Posts: 2,230
i have an upcoming 3-night stay in late november. trying to decide which is the best option for my 1st time in santiago.
at W, my rate is 168.55 USD/night for a wonderful room with breakfast. (applied SNA for Marvelous suite)
at San Cristobal, my rate is 145 USD/night for a grand deluxe room. (however the room booked on this reservation was an executive suite as no grand deluxe room available on spg.com)
at Ritz-Carlton, my rate is 211.75 USD/night for a club room.
personally i would like to try W but according to many prior reviews, im hesitated. is it better than most W in US? if so, i can live with that.
San Cristobal to me, seems the worst option to explore the city but it saves me some money. from the pictures, it looks dated.
Ritz-Carlton is also dated but currently being renovated. Better location than the other two. reviews on TA are also much better. many reviews said club lounge is really nice and well worth the extra money.
Which one should i go for?
thank you for any input.
at W, my rate is 168.55 USD/night for a wonderful room with breakfast. (applied SNA for Marvelous suite)
at San Cristobal, my rate is 145 USD/night for a grand deluxe room. (however the room booked on this reservation was an executive suite as no grand deluxe room available on spg.com)
at Ritz-Carlton, my rate is 211.75 USD/night for a club room.
personally i would like to try W but according to many prior reviews, im hesitated. is it better than most W in US? if so, i can live with that.
San Cristobal to me, seems the worst option to explore the city but it saves me some money. from the pictures, it looks dated.
Ritz-Carlton is also dated but currently being renovated. Better location than the other two. reviews on TA are also much better. many reviews said club lounge is really nice and well worth the extra money.
Which one should i go for?
thank you for any input.
Last edited by 3rdworldresident; Jun 29, 2017 at 9:11 am
Jul 17, 2017, 6:03 pm
#43
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: CEB - primary/YVR -secondary
Programs: AC*Super Elite (100K) / PR*Elite / AY*Platinum (OWE) / SPG*Bonvoy Titanium (LTT)
Posts: 2,263
Fantastic W because of the Plat Benefits :D
2 weeks or so prior to checking-in, The welcome manager emailed me thanking me for my loyalty as a Ambassador Plat guest and will upgrade me to best available room. Was quite nervous as the hotel is completely sold out on 2 of the nights i am staying here. But everything went well upon checking in. No SNAs used.
Was greeted with quite lovely and happy W attendants and one of them even escorted me to my suite. Was also given a free drink voucher of my choice at the 21st floor bar.
Anyways, upon entering my suite, it was quite lovely with 1.5 baths and a huge balcony overlooking the city. Couldnt ask for more! Everyday, someone from whatever whenever contacted me asking me if everything is well and if they could be of assistance, to not hesitate on contacting them. So here I am asking them to book tours, restaurant reservations, transportation, etc. And all went well.
Plus on top of that i got 2 FULL size bottles of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon as part of my Ambassador Amenity! Would I stay here again? Fer sure
Was greeted with quite lovely and happy W attendants and one of them even escorted me to my suite. Was also given a free drink voucher of my choice at the 21st floor bar.
Anyways, upon entering my suite, it was quite lovely with 1.5 baths and a huge balcony overlooking the city. Couldnt ask for more! Everyday, someone from whatever whenever contacted me asking me if everything is well and if they could be of assistance, to not hesitate on contacting them. So here I am asking them to book tours, restaurant reservations, transportation, etc. And all went well.
Plus on top of that i got 2 FULL size bottles of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon as part of my Ambassador Amenity! Would I stay here again? Fer sure
Jul 13, 2018, 4:39 am
#45
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: San Francisco
Programs: AA EXP; Marriott BonVoy Titanium Elite, Marriott LT Plat.
Posts: 1,717
Any recent experiences with this establishment?
I'm slated to be heading there at the latter part of next month. Would like to know also how Golds are treated too. Even though I'll rollover to platinum after my stay there, I'm hopeful my SPG profile will be reviewed perhaps. Have had some "good luck" with getting upgrades to Suites even as a gold lately.
I'm slated to be heading there at the latter part of next month. Would like to know also how Golds are treated too. Even though I'll rollover to platinum after my stay there, I'm hopeful my SPG profile will be reviewed perhaps. Have had some "good luck" with getting upgrades to Suites even as a gold lately.
