Originally Posted by
littlevoices
Not anymore, they got rid of the tower building concept during their recent renovation!
As with others, I generally find that when there is a lounge I have access and that will be the experience as Platinum and above (excluding Ritz Carlton), I also find it fairly rare that there is some "sub-standard" lounge being offered as an alternative, this isn't Qatar Airways. I do appreciate that Tokyo may be a bit tougher, but quite a few of the properties (e.g. Courtyard Ginza) will give you benefits beyond the brand minimum (like a full breakfast in this case), and the Autograph Prince hotels do give lounge access too (even to two lounges in different nearby hotels).
Not sure if
AJNEDC you have a credit card, but getting a cheap credit card (Free) that gives you 5 nights would get you over the line, and also presuming that is your 50 nights, give you 5 upgrade vouchers (or a few other choices) as an annual choice benefit. This may also have benefits to be worth a 3 night staycation somewhere nearer your home, if the credit card didn't appeal - plus the status will be valid for the year you earn it and next, so other chances to use the benefits.
Glad to hear that the provision of lounge access is consistently offered - when it is supposed to be offered.
I rely on the no-annual fee Bonvoy Visa as my back up CC. It provides 15 free nights and those combined with my personal and business travel this year, will get me to platinum in October. I liked the Prince Gallery LC for its location and the Ritz for its quality, but if Marriott is not willing to scratch my back, I have little hesitation in taking my business elsewhere. I'm now looking at the the Mandarin, Cerulean Tower and Prince Park Tower. I'll figure out what I'm willing to spend at the appropriate time.
My company just changed to Hilton as its preferred; While we still have the flexibility to book other brands, I now have an additional brand to play around with if I decide to play the loyalty game.
I value lounge access not just for the savings on meals but also as a retreat within the hotel. During a stay at the Ritz in Doha a few years ago, the lounge provided relief from the heat and served as a comfortable hangout spot. I also recall the nightly rates being significantly lower compared to Tokyo hotels.
Thanks for your suggestions.