Originally Posted by
mauld
If and when Harrahs does take over PH, it will definately affect my stay pattern. Hubby is the gambler in our household-- but not a big one (horses, advance sports bets, $300-400 roulette, a couple of hundred on slots etc) --meaning he does not sit at a table for 2-4 hours + @ $100-200 per hand. We stayed at PH this past Sept on a cheap rate, but due to my Platinum status we were upgraded to a Strip Suite. Hubby loved it!, and wants to return next year. He is a Diamond with Harrahs, but we do not use that status for free rooms, but for comps on meals etc. I really do not want to see PH become a Harrahs property, as when that occurs, our only alternative will be the Westin!.
mauld, you really should look into Total Rewards a bit more. You do NOT have to sacrifice your points/status for free rooms. You can actually book the free rooms (via offers, and also directly via your status on harrahs.com) and still use your points for food and other non-room related comps. Room offers (and direct booking without offers) are based on your status and theoretical. While I hate to speak in generalities, since it does vary a lot; at minimum someone who achieves Harrah's diamond status (which is almost top tier, gold<platinum<diamond<7 Star) you would probably (on average) be eligible from 8-20 free room nights per year at Harrah's properties in the market where you play most often (which I'm assuming is Vegas or Atlantic City).
You are definitely giving up a bit, if you do not take advantage of your room offers (on harrahs.com). At minimum, even if you desire to still book a room @ an SPG property, you could use a second room @ a Harrah's property for a friend (etc. etc.) who is joining you on the same trip.
One caveat, is that suite upgrades are sometimes difficult to get at Harrah's properties, since they are mostly based on play (gaming) theoretical. But, that's also very general; since you have so many Harrah's properties in Vegas (Caesars, Harrah's, Paris, Bally's, Flamingo, Rio, IP) with a hugh variation in room/suite types.
edit to add : I note you are from NJ; if your main gaming @ Harrah's are properties in Atlantic City, the Harrah's hosts in Atlantic City tend to be very accommodating in arranging free rooms in Vegas (always ask for Caesars) based on your AC play; even if they are not showing up as free online.