Certain locations are more costly than others, so all brands get priced at the same level irrespective of where they happen to normally be on the ICH pecking order (with the further escalation for ICs). In the case of Anchorage over Christmas/New Years, rooms are at a premium but does not necessarily reflect relative merits between the brands. Normally I'd take a CP over an HIX but as a Plat it means an upgrade to Club room and lounge access (where these exist). However, HIX does give comp breakfast which may be an important consideration. More relevant for sightseeing (... anc in December?!) is location to what you want to see. Normally I'd never pay 25K for an HIX or even HI...