Originally Posted by
CanadaDH
I can't say if there are any fast track challenges, but I have to ask, what exactly makes staying as Gold "a bit miserable"? Are the hotel staff deliberately causing you problems because you're a Gold member? The only material difference in the on-site benefits between a Platinum and a Diamond, is getting daily breakfast in APAC region. All other on-site benefits are essentially the same. I'm trying to understand the source of your misery.
Well, you are Diamond, probably never know the big gap (yes, the perk difference is not huge). I also used to have the highest status when Diamond was not introduced, the "current" Platinum is far from the "old" Platinum - often no welcome letter/amenity, a little status recognition, hardly upgraded, etc. But Diamond is now the highest, it's understandable.
I have not yet stayed as Gold, but travelled with a colleague who had Gold (and I was Platinum). The colleague was treated like a "non member", the agent never mentioned his status/or acknowledged his membership, whilst I was being checked in next to him as Platinum. I received a letter, etc. as well as a room upgrade.
Also, I normally stay at Sofitel's, so no lounge access is also a big loss.