Originally Posted by
modestexpert
On seeing the answers, I feel that a careful reading of my original posts answers all the PC hack responses like "read the T and C." My issue was not, "can they legally deny you credit based upon excuses like 'you had a group rate,' 'you had a AAA rate,' and 'you had more than a 30% discount off of the rack rate,'" but rather, "why would you use PC when they exclude so many rates from the program, RATES THAT NO OTHER MAJOR CHAIN EXCLUDES." I emphasize that, since yes, I agree the program is better than NOTHING, but no, most responses don't explain why the program is any good compared with the variety of other major chain options that offer less exclusion of rates, less grief, and equal or better benefits. THAT argument goes basically unanswered, and was in fact the main point.
I will argue that she didn't book a AAA rate, because those ALWAYS give points. She booked a group rate, which is specifically EXcluded from points.
You ask why we stay with PC, and I'll give you my answer: I don't do group rates, conferences, meetings, and the like. I personally use them for vacation stays. I almost always use the AAA rate because 1) it allows the flexibility of cancelling the reservation with 0-1 day notice (varies by hotel), 2) you are not advance-billed for the room, 3) you always get points with a AAA rate, and 4) I am a AAA member! So to me personally, I'm in a different boat from your friend. If it doesn't suit her needs, don't use it! More rooms available for the rest of us!