Originally Posted by craigthemif

It's interesting how Flyertalk has its own particular vocabulary, as the way we use aspirational doesn't really reflect its actual definition. Although many people only care about the retail price (as they spend their points), so perhaps they do care more about showing off a perceived high level of success / social status.

I enjoy staying at nice hotels. The PH and Andaz in Tokyo, the PH in Milan / Buenos Aires, etc. were all fine hotels.

But, I'd rush back to hotels that are on nobody's list of aspirational - because they are cheaper yet equally as good IME - PH Siem Reap, PH Zanzibar, HR Phuket, HR Bali, Andaz Shanghai - perhaps because I prefer a week in an amazing hotel, rather than 1-2 nights at an expensive one.