Originally Posted by pinniped
Don't you get those with the "Preferred Plus" level? AFAIK, the only extra stated benefit of Gold is an extra Starpoint per dollar spent. Unstated benefits seem to be better upgrades and inclusion on those elite-only emails (e.g., concert ticket offers, etc.).
YES. Preferred Plus status is granted to ALL SPG Amex cardholders and it grants both upgrades to preferred rooms and 4 pm checkout. The ONLY extra benefit from having SPG Gold is the extra Starpoint per dollar spent at Starwood hotels.