I have been using Agoda for a long time but more heavily over the past 2 years. The heavier usage attained me Agoda VIP Platinum Status (which I assumed would be worthless). However, I was incorrect. For those that can attain their VIP Platinum status you will save a tremendous amount of money over booking with no status or over booking direct with the chain(s) and those rates will be flexible.

Here is just one of dozens of examples I've seen over the past 2 years. Now realize this property isn't even listed as a VIP deal hotel (for those hotels you'll see a little VIP Deals symbol on the room type, which is absent here). It is low because as a VIP Platinum customer I am shown lower rates. $46 per night lower in this specific example and the VIP rate is much more flexible than the non-VIP rate (which is always the case). In the example shown booking via Hilton directly results in a rate of $177.43 per night (before taxes and resort fees) which is identical to the rates shown via Agoda for everyone.

This is not a one off. I've seen this across numerous properties under the Hilton, IHG, and Accor brands (and hold upcoming bookings for numerous stays across these chains). It does not happen at all Hilton/IHG/Accor properties, but it occurs often enough that I've taken notice of it and when it does happen the VIP rates are much lower. Note, I have not seen it at any Marriott or Hyatt properties, yet.

The reality I've discovered is it is worth chasing VIP Platinum status with Agoda if you travel often and want to be a free agent (rather than chase loyalty points/status). I've saved thousands booking via them since achieving status.


above rates are logged in with Agoda (VIP Platinum status applied)



above rates are public - Agoda not logged in (NO status applied)