alrvd83

alrvd83

Just a quick comment, if you don’t stay at IC's then the ambassador is worthless. You actually earn more point at the HI and CP's than at IC's. Especially since Asia, gives a flat 2k per stay, plus any bonuses you sign up for.

I do believe the benefits are different as are the hotels, as far as market competition. I can stay at a Nice Hilton or IC but the upgrade category makes me stay at the IC now. I can’t put a HI in the mix of competition there, and i think the competition is driving the program especially for business travelers in IC areas.

PS, if you were going to stay at an IC, you can use ICH miles to get ambassador status and yes the upgrade category is often worth it. Also, be aware that many IC properties will upgrade Platinum’s as well.....not the double upgrade of an RA.

All in all, I see your point regading the almost seperate program, but IC's have tough competition in the High end market and if it wasn’t for this program I would have stuck with Hiltons and Starwood. I know many others who choose 2 programs as well and this one works for me.