Originally Posted by
beachfan
There isn't a single thread comparing the three.
For your original question, I think knowing that IHG doesn't give the benefits of elite status on award stays might suffice. At the better hotels, I find it to be pretty strict (but not always - Amstel got an upgrade, IC Hong Kong absolutely no benefits and quite happy to inform me of such).
That's not exactly true. The IC Ambassador program very specifically curtails benefits on award stays, but IHG itself does not for other brands. However, at least in the States, at Crowne Plaza (Indigo, Holiday Inn, etc.) there's no breakfast (f&b) benefit at all to speak of.
The IHG credit card might be worth it as a decent room can be more than the annual fee that includes (a capped) award night, along with Platinum status.