Originally Posted by divaof travel
What is even more intriguing to me are people who “get it” for airlines, but ignore the hotel programs, even if they spend scores of nights each year at high end chains. Almost everyboy I come across who travels frequently is involved with the airline programs, but only a minority participate in a hotel scheme.
Well, maybe I don't get it, but for my travel patterns loyalty to a hotel chain does not make sense.
I have enough hotel nights every year to make a difference, but lets look at the costs. I am also a strong believer in Priceline (and hotwire).
My average cost for a 4 star PL room: $65
My average cost for a 3 star PL room: $40
(Until this month I also got 1125 to 1662 Asia Miles per PL night through EAP. Now down to 3% rebate to ebates.com)
I have a hard time believing one can negotiate points earning rates like these with the hotels.
I have SPG points (and had a few Priority Club Points) as a backup when PL does not work...but they are generally they are not needed.
This applies internationally as well. I will stay at the
Renaissance Brussels for $60/night instead of 199 EUR/night (lowest price showing on their website).
Say I could somewhere/somehow half this rate. 100 Eur = aprox $140 = $80 more than I paid per night. So the points/status would be worth that?