ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Kobe

What is your Priority Club status? IHG Diamond Elite.

Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive? I booked the cheapest room using 18,000 IHG ONE Rewards points. After some correspondence, I was upgraded to a queen premier room (31sqm) which is unique as it's the only renovated room in the hotel and is not available for online booking. This room is the same size as the king premier rooms.

How are the rooms? The room I stayed in, room number 2923, is distinct from other rooms in the hotel. While other rooms, including some suites, appear outdated based on online photos, this room has been renovated to offer a more modern experience. The room now features a separate shower and bath, whereas the older design required guests to stand in the bathtub to shower. The room also boasts a comfortable office chair with wheels, perfect for working, and a large flat-screen TV. The outdated 1990's ambiance has been replaced with a more contemporary 2010's feel. It's not the pinnacle of luxury, but it's certainly up to first-world standards.

What was good and what was bad? Good:

• Room Quality: The renovated room offers a modern and comfortable experience.
• Breakfast: As an IHG Diamond elite, I received a complimentary breakfast. The breakfast buffet was extensive, and there were egg cooking stations offering four styles: scrambled, fried, poached, and omelette.
• Service: The service was impeccable, with excellent recognition of my IHG Diamond Elite Status. I was gifted free and delicious cocoa waffles (2) at check-in.
• Location: The hotel's lobby on the 4th floor is directly connected to the elevator leading to the Shin-Kobe metro station. There's also a sheltered link bridge to the Shin-Kobe Shinkansen station.
• Amenities: The gym is free to use, and the lobby is spacious.

Bad:

• Swimming Pool: There's a charge of 2200 yen to use the swimming pool, which feels a bit steep.
• Room Variance: While my room was renovated and modern, other rooms in the hotel seem outdated.

Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return? Given the experience in the renovated room, the hotel offers excellent value for the price point, especially when using Priority Club Points. I would definitely return, provided I can secure a renovated room. However, I'd be hesitant if I were to get one of the older rooms.