Originally Posted by
clubman
Thanks for the trip report and photos.
Taxes are more than double what you mention. On a night costing $190 you'll be adding around $70-$75 in taxes and fees. The resort fee still annoys the hell out of me, but at least you get some value out of it at this property.
70,000 points is a lot I agree (it's the same at the Barclays which you might want to try next time as it's newer and fresher (refurbished a couple of years ago), but then Manhattan is expensive for redemptions with the CP TS costing 60,000 points per night, and and some HIXs costing a whooping 45,000 points.
I actually like the IC TS, but as mentioned, you need to be an Ambassador member to enjoy the benefits there. I've never not been upgraded, and at times to one of their nice top floor rooms (which they call suits but aren't really) with floor to ceiling windows in three directions and great views of Manhattan.
We sometimes use the uncapped award night to stay. But we could never develop any relationship beyond annual reward night. We can’t transfer points and points expire in 12 months without CC.
With its RN capped at 40,000, we would only go back if we get any good cash rate. But if the cash rate is as high as you indicated, then there is plenty elsewhere.