I stayed at the Moscow Royal Aurora one night (a Friday night) on points. I am Gold. It was awesome! The lounge was open (and free for me) while I was there Fri afternoon thru Saturday breakfast (at the end of March) 2009. From my research it is open everyday (check tripadvisor.com).

Great location (5 minute walk from one of the bigger Metro Stations), very professional English speaking staff (though my Russian is getting better). 5 minutes after arriving to my room my butler (all rooms have them) came by to welcome me and offer complimentary champagne or juice. Their butlers are mostly young (early 20's) english (and I suspect other language) speaking employees. The food there was very high quality, and in good volume. Not a ton during the day but enough as a snack to tide you over. Desert at night had a good selection. Breakfast was huge with many items to choose from. The pool and hottub were wonderful.

This place was definately worth the additional 5000 MR points over a CY due to the very high cost of food in MOSKBA. The hotel is just down the block from the Bolshoi Theater (outside under renovation) and in the lobby there are pictures of actors, dancers, actresses, composers and others (G. Bush Sr, Pavarotti, etc) that have stayed there. Trip advisor shows this as the #1 hotel in Moscow and a rate of $700. Too much for cash, perfect for MR points.

Enjoy your stay in Russia, I cannot wait to return, I love being there. I would highly recommend some of the cemetaries where famous Russians are buried. Boris Yeltzin's tombstone is very impressive and artistic (as are most all in that cemetary - not far from a metro stop).