Originally Posted by
aviators99
Yes, I know what you say is true, but it does not contradict what I said. I made no mention of the hotel status at all (I think it's useless; thank goodness I already have SPG plat.). There's a big difference between mid-tier elite status on 1 airline from mid-tier elite status on multiple airlines. It has changed the whole way I travel since I got the card in July. It used to be that I only flew Continental (since it is the only airline I had mid-tier status on my own). Now I can pick my airline based on schedule and comfort. I find that to be a big benefit.
That being said, I agree (and this also doesn't contradict what I said) that Centurion will lose subscribers if that's all they have to offer. They won't lose me because I still think it's worth it, but for many people it's not worth it anymore.
When I first got the card I thought the airline status and spg were the big benefits. However, after having the card for a while I have not really used/seen a benefit from the SPG Plat or the Airline status. I book first class when I can versus hoping for an upgrade, and I am generally staying at non-spg hotels: FS, RC, MO.
What benefits have I used? I have saved (yes saved) thousands of dollars through time of booking upgrades and maybe a thousand +/- with free MO rooms. I understand (from another thread on FT) that MO may change to only suites. I LOVE it. Funny story...one of the first rooms I booked on the Centurion was a stay in the oriental suite at a MO. I was pissed when I was told the free night DID NOT apply to suites...booked it anyway.
I am hoping Centurion will not replace the SPG plat with some other comparable program, but instead have something that focuses more on the high end. Like what (potentially?) is happening with MO. Maybe 30% off all FS rack rates...or presidential suites 50% off 2 nights at all hotels. How about
: FC tickets purchased at any price get second FC at 50% off. Maybe a real limo program ;-) . It seems like SPG plat is good if you are staying at the sheraton, but I am hoping Centurion is thinking higher end.