Coming back from my trip I've stayed in the following properties and can report as follows

IC Festival City

Despite the advice given on this thread our stay was truly awful without any Spire Ambassador recognition. No upgrade of room. The hotel looks new and modern but the room had a ton of problems with multiple things faulty. The pool was nothing like the photos and there was nowhere to sit! The area also very disconnected from everything. If you must stay at the area why not the Crowne plaza that shares all IC facilities but it's half the price?

Staybridge financial center

No Spire recognition and no welcome drinks given. Room upgrade is higher floor and not true upgrade as other Stalybridge I stayed. Breakfast was a zoo. Hotel way too noisy for sleep (internally) but very well connected near the metro and in the centre of everything really. If they can get their s... together (as a brand new property) it could become a real gem.

Crowne Plaza Marina

Great location where all expats are and walk distance to the beach. The best out of all the properties but also the most expensive of all for my dates.