I've been *wood Platinum for the last few years, but I am dropping to gold for 2010 because I got tired of the inconsistent treatment at their properties.

Albuquerque Sheraton--Arrived at 10pm and was told there were no suites (website showed at least two). Had to call SPG twice before getting an admission that they were, in effect, holding the suites back for potential paying customers.

Sheraton Santa Monica--Got a suite once, got the run-around the next time. Was also denied 4pm check-out. Had to call SPG to get a 2pm check-out.

Saint Regis San Francisco--Using free nights, was told there were suites, but no "standard" suites were available. It remains a mystery what a standard suite is since all of their suites have names.

Westin Market St. San Francisco--Nice suite upgrade

Danielli Venice--No suite (got a room with a balcony and overlooking the Canal)

Grand Hotel Florence--Junior suite

Westin Milan--nice, but extremely junior junior suite

Le Meridien Milan--Junior suite

Sheraton Puerto Vallarta--No suite; they didn't even seem to know what SPG platinum meant

W NYC on Lexington--Nice junior suite

US Grant San Diego--Two trips; both times got a very nice suite


My experience is that if you are staying more than one night or have a discounted rate, the hotel takes a "beggars can't be chooser" attitude. This year I am focusing my travel dollars on earning a higher Onepass status rather than try to get 25 stays with *wood. I'm just tired of beginning my hotel stay with a benefits battle with the front desk. SPG also needs to recognize that many frequent guests are going to suite check availability on their iPhones when they check in. The lying just adds insult to injury and confirms our suspicions that when push comes to shove with the hotel, SPG can't really back up the benefits they promise