Originally Posted by
Gagravarr
I'm borderline on nights for requalifying as Platinum for next year, this one might make a small difference.
I've booked a three night reward stay for a stopover on my way somewhere. I'm planning to check in around 5-6am on day 2, with the room booked from the night before so I can be sure I'll have a room and a bed the moment I get in. The day after (day 3), I'll be setting off for the airport around 11pm. I've booked the room for an extra night so I've got somewhere to keep my stuff, have some dinner, use the pool, shower etc before heading to the airport.
In this case, I'll be booking for three nights, paying the points for three nights, but technically only be in the hotel for ~40 hours and only one midnight.
Do I get 3 nights elite qualifying, as that's what I've paid, or do I get less?
So Nominally 3days/nights used and 3nights should be added to total nights stayed count.
Day1 = 5am-1200noon
Day2 = noon-noon
Day3 = Noon - 2300 (or noon next day if you leave and they check you out noon next day in your absence)
Issue is how they treat your 5am checkin. Make sure you notify hotel of your the very very late arrival, so they check you in before closing the register/computer system for the date of yur first night, and have key waiting etc.
As if night shift checks you in 5am, after computer night is closed a) it is a day booking b)hotels have been known to say it is no show, room is cancelled, AND worse, as you are on points charge a high rate for first night and refund all 3nights of points canceing your 2nd/3rd nights.
It is not unusual that checkins after midnight are put in as a day rate and thus non-qual. Make sure you check with FDM after waking up that you get firtst night as a night.
PS
Remember if you stay in 4x Brands (Europe Membership) you just need 40nights instead of 50nights to retain/reach Platinum. HI and HIE count as different brands. Then you have CP, Indigo, Staybridge, IC too in Europe.