Hi all,

I tend to stay in Hilton properties (I’m Lifetime Diamond over there) but having spent all of 2019 staying in Marriotts, I have some points to spend and Titanium Elite status for a limited time, and would very much appreciate some help.

We’re travelling to NYC in December. I have enough points for 6 nights at Essex House, or 5 nights in the Ritz Carlton. Does anyone have experience of both and can advise on where to stay? My wife and I very much value a lounge and a spa, which both have.

Further, if I book the most basic room on points, can I be even be sure of lounge access at a JW or RC property? Is my status enough to get met that, or do I have to be in a certain room type (as is the case at many Waldorf Astoria properties in the Hilton family)?

Many thanks in advance!

Adam