Originally Posted by
UA-NYC
With Starwood, Aloft is the "kid sibling" (lower priced / limited service but same vibe) to W, and Element is the kid sibling of Westin.
Is the same relationship RI:FFI and SHS:TPS (as in better version:budget version of same concept)?
Not as familiar with SPG but if I’m understanding your analogy correctly, I’d say RI:TPS and SHS:FI (on average, RI is a nicer version of TPS and SHS is a nicer version of FI).
If I’m staying on points, RI are often my first choice as the rooms are large with full kitchens, and some have 1-bedrooms as standard with a chance for a 2-bedroom upgrade occasionally. But I usually avoid them (and TPS) on paid stays due to the lower points earning.