Originally Posted by bhrubin

I never tip at the start of any stay. I always tip at the end. Which avoids your scenario.



Wow, you stayed at all three? I'd LOVE to hear your comparative thoughts. You should do a comparison/contrast Expert Review (like I did with Imperial vs Bristol and Imperial vs PH vs Sacher in Vienna).

I obviously find the StR to be the best. The RC neighborhood isn't as exciting or convenient to me, and its more traditional decor even after renovation is odd--in a very progressive city where that seems less appropriate. Anyone not staying in a RC Club room also gets subpar service for a luxury hotel IMO, and that's a big turn off for me with most RC hotels. The FS also seems more staid and less exciting, with pretty boring decor and no sense of edge or chicness--and disappointing F/B. It's fine but nothing special. I also think the StR has the best and most genuine service and most amazing F/B...by far.