Originally Posted by
haniboo
HI dovster, do you know if a purchase at a starwoods property still counts as a stay and is still worth 500 points? i do not see this on their site, but was planning a sheraton coke run soon, and didn't want that coke for naught.
It was never on any their site and, AFIK, it was never Starwood's policy. It was an Amex mistake and Starwood didn't object to it because Amex was paying for the points. I believe it is still the case -- but keep in mind that there are a few restrictions:
1. It is only good for the first year that you have your Starwood Amex.
2. The Coke (or anything else you buy) gives you 1000 points, the following 11 give you 500 each. After that, zip.
3. The bar/restaurant where you get the Coke has to bill you under the hotel's name. In Israel, and most of Europe, this is not a problem -- it will be rung up that way automatically. In some American Starwoods the bar is a franchise operation which charges your card under its own name and you don't get the miles.
4. This does not count as a stay for Starwood purposes (you won't get credit towards higher status); it only gives you the points. Generally, the points are credited to you account about two weeks after the other Amex points you earned that month. Incidentally, there is no extra benefit in giving them your Starwood account number unless your dining bill is over $40, just pay with your Starwood Amex.