Chinatrvl, you have been very kind to me in answering questions about IC properties, and I will attempt to return the favor. I am top tier in both Hyatt and IC, though with greater depth in the Hyatt program.
Originally Posted by
Chinatrvl
a) Is a suite upgrade really as scarce as my first impression is? (I was status matched to Diamond). I'm a fairly spoilt as InterConti Royal Ambassador (almost 100 % suite upgrades)
Hyatt does not offer suite upgrades as a program perk, other than the four confirmable upgrades. There are certain properties that routinely offer suites, such as the Hyatt Singapore where I've now had them on 5 sequential stays. Regardless, I do not expect a suite at a Hyatt property and am delighted when I receive one.
b) Apparently, you can upgrade using points. The website reads: "When redeeming Regency/Grand ClubŪ Upgrades or Suite Upgrades at a resort property, you must pay a minimum of the prevailing deluxe rack rate (such as partial ocean view, ocean view, slope view, etc.). At non-resort properties you must pay a minimum of the prevailing rack rate."
I'm puzzled by the word rack rate. That would make a suite upgrade at expensive resort locations unaffordable. This means, advance purchase and "best flexible rates" are not bookable for such upgrades? How would it work, for instance, in Bali GH?
The above language is indeed true for upgrades done using points. However, upgrades done with our new suite certs can be done on the cheapest bookable rate you can find. I just used a suite upgrade at the Andaz WeHo on a very attractive corporate rate.
c) I understood that the Gx Promos can be added after the reservation and also during check-in. So I can make a reservation now and add a promo code later, whenever one is available (i.e. the current ones g2 are expiring before my reservations). Correct?
Yes, that is correct.
I wanted to compare and contrast the IC benefits versus Hyatt. They are quite different, and only you can decide which better suits.
Intercontinental RA:
- Roughly 200 hotels, so quite limited
- Suite upgrade on paid stays
- Unlimited mini bar on paid stays
- Early check in and late check out guaranteed
- Benefits for free stays at discretion of property
- Annual requalification criteria unclear
Hyatt Diamond
- Several hundred properties, still a limited brand, but more than double the size of Intercontintal
- 4 guaranteed suite upgrades on paid stays
- Free breakfast
- Free internet worldwide
- Award stays receive all benefits
- 25 stays required for annual requalification; these can be done at any rate, some of which are amazingly affordable
I don't drink alcohol, so for me, the free breakfast is a more attractive benefit than the free minibar.
I really appreciate free internet worldwide. I know that IC offered free internet last summer, but I've had recent stays where the promo had expired and there was a significant cost.
I like receiving all my benefits on award stays. With IC, I feel I need to write in advance when I book an award. I find some only give the late check out and a free movie, while some will give the suite upgrade but no minibar, etc.
IC has some beautiful properties, and I have made sure that I will retain my RA status. Hyatt also has some beautiful properties, particularly the Park Hyatt brand. It's much easier to retain Hyatt status, of course depending on your travel pattern. You might find them nice complimentary chains.