Originally Posted by
UKtravelbear
The cash element is used to buy points.
To all intents and purposes you then have a points booking.
if you cancel the points are returned to your account for you to use as you will.
example
Hotel is being offered to me at 27,500 points or 12,500 + £83. The cash is used to buy the 15,000 points
cancel the room and 27,500 points are credited back to my account
Ah, got it. Of course. Thanks so much for the explanation.
Next question: the IHG COVID-19 advisory states the following:
- IHG Rewards Reward nights: You can change or cancel these bookings with no penalty prior to the time period set by the hotel.
My booking confirmation states the following:
- Cancellation Policy: Must book no more than 365 days in advance.Canceling your reservation before 6:00 PM (local hotel time) on Monday, 28 December, 2020 will result in no charge. Canceling your reservation after 6:00 PM (local hotel time) on 28 December, 2020, or failing to show, will result in a charge equal to the entire stay per room to your credit card or other guaranteed payment method. Taxes may apply. Failing to call or show before check-out time after the first night of a reservation will result in cancellation of the remainder of your reservation. Points + Cash bookings are charged immediately in USD, and cancellations are refunded in points only
Guess 28 Dec 2020 was "the time period set by the hotel" which has, of course, now passed. Do you think there is any chance I'll still get my points back or would I now forfeit them all? The policy above isn't really clear as you could read the last sentence as overriding the previous sentences. Best to liaise with IHG or the hotel direct on this?
Really appreciate any advice.