I can't tell you what the 'standalone' meal plan pricing is I'm afraid.
I can provide feedback/information. I eventually did not purchase my upcoming (paid nights) reservation through the IC website - this is very unusual for me. I simply was offered too good a rate through a travel agent to be able to justify the extra expense just so I could get a nights credit. The offered rate also
included a meal plan. It seems to me that the rates on offer on Online Travel agents are not as competitive as the brochure rates offered by TA's. I am happy to forward sources for lower pricing via PM.
Incidentally I contacted the resort reservations line by email to ask would they be willing to take a direct reservation from me for the price I had benn quoted, indicated that I would prefer to book direct/through IC, and that I would be willing to forgo the free meal plan if they would match the rate on an RO basis. Surprisingly to me they passed
. I gave my business to the travel agent (Who was arranging my inter-island flights in any case).
With regards to points/upgrades on points/ cost of upgrades, the hotel explained to me that they were not required to upgrade anyone on a points stay, which is absolutely correct within the terms of the program. On the other hand my points reservation shows as a Diamond Otemanu
so YMMV.
I would say if you have any status with PC/IC go for the Thalasso as I have still not heard from many (any?) FTers who were forced to stay in the Motu Villas.
(an alternative to consider might be buying Ambassador status for US$200 or 32000 PC points.)
Good luck