Please post your Royal Ambassador experiences (Archive Thread 2011)
Feb 25, 2011, 11:38 pm
#166
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Korea, USA
Programs: IC Dia RA / Marriott LT Plat / WOH Globalist / Hilton Diamond / OZ Diamond Plus
Posts: 340
IC Beijing Beichen
What is your Priority Club status?
Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
I booked cheapest one and I got studio suite.
How are the rooms?
Very contemporary, perfect amenity set, nice bathroom, nice view.
It was quite perfect.
10 of hard liquor. 18 years Chivas.
How is the exec. lounge?
Best! They serve Pommery on happy hour. Better than IC HK.
What was your welcome gift?
Fruits, Chocolate, armonds and a bottle of red wine, panda toy.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
-Very nice room and facilities. It was built only 3 years ago.
-Walkable from Olympic Green subway station.
-Nice Club Lounge
-Nice breakfast buffet.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Best!
Would you return?
Definitely!
Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
I booked cheapest one and I got studio suite.
How are the rooms?
Very contemporary, perfect amenity set, nice bathroom, nice view.
It was quite perfect.
10 of hard liquor. 18 years Chivas.
How is the exec. lounge?
Best! They serve Pommery on happy hour. Better than IC HK.
What was your welcome gift?
Fruits, Chocolate, armonds and a bottle of red wine, panda toy.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
-Very nice room and facilities. It was built only 3 years ago.
-Walkable from Olympic Green subway station.
-Nice Club Lounge
-Nice breakfast buffet.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Best!
Would you return?
Definitely!
Last edited by scienm; Feb 25, 2011 at 11:44 pm
Feb 26, 2011, 9:11 am
#167
FlyerTalk Evangelist & Ambassador: China
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: DEN
Programs: DL DM/MM, UA 1K, AA Exp, HH Dia, WOH Glob, IHG Plat, Marriott Gold, NA EE, Hertz PC
Posts: 17,424
Intercontinental Suzhou China
What is your Priority Club status?
RA
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Absolutely yes!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Bed Deluxe City View, got King Bed Deluxe Suite
How are the rooms?
Very large. Suite was actually huge. Entry way lead to guest bathroom and first room with flat screen tv, couches, lounge chairs, huge desk area, sink, and mini bar.
Bedroom was king bed, bigger flat screen TV, huge lounge chair. Bathroom was huge with walk-in bathroom, huge tub, separate shower, and separate toilet. Bathroom had TV in mirror, Japanese style toilet (that opens when you open the door to the toilet).
Full walk in closet too, plenty of space to hang stuff and put stuff away.
How is the exec. lounge?
Great. Breakfast was full spread and evening with full spread too. Also have extended time til 9pm for free cocktails. The lounge was pretty empty most of the time so you can always have your pick of food. Only thing was that their newspapers in English were a day or two old.
What was your welcome gift?
Gigantic bowl of fruit with some awesome exotic fruit (snakeskin fruit, rhambutan etc), welcome letter, giant plate of chocolates, and huge bottle of champagne.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, but only on day 1.
What was good and what was bad?
Everything was pretty much good. The room was phenomenal. The hotel is beautiful as it is practically brand new. Lobby fantastic, club awesome, room gigantic. Service was outstanding (luggage help too room, manager escorted me at check-in to help introduce all of the room's features). Service in the club lounge was great (constantly helping refill wine glass), book taxi, book train tickets, and even gave me free copies in color (though I only had a few).
The gym is large, and seems pretty std (I didn't use) but the pool was amazing. It's beautiful, full 25m, overlooks the lake, and has areas where you can lay out and feel like you're on the beach. Again, no one there!
Outside the hotel is nice as it's right on Jinji Lake, so great views of sunset and another great place to walk for scenery.
Only downside to this hotel is distance to the historical part of town. Though it's a quick 20 min to the train station.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
This hotel costs a little more than most IC's in China (except Hong Kong), but felt the cost was justified. It was worth the cost.
Would you return?
Definitely!
What is your Priority Club status?
RA
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Absolutely yes!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Bed Deluxe City View, got King Bed Deluxe Suite
How are the rooms?
Very large. Suite was actually huge. Entry way lead to guest bathroom and first room with flat screen tv, couches, lounge chairs, huge desk area, sink, and mini bar.
Bedroom was king bed, bigger flat screen TV, huge lounge chair. Bathroom was huge with walk-in bathroom, huge tub, separate shower, and separate toilet. Bathroom had TV in mirror, Japanese style toilet (that opens when you open the door to the toilet).
Full walk in closet too, plenty of space to hang stuff and put stuff away.
How is the exec. lounge?
Great. Breakfast was full spread and evening with full spread too. Also have extended time til 9pm for free cocktails. The lounge was pretty empty most of the time so you can always have your pick of food. Only thing was that their newspapers in English were a day or two old.
What was your welcome gift?
Gigantic bowl of fruit with some awesome exotic fruit (snakeskin fruit, rhambutan etc), welcome letter, giant plate of chocolates, and huge bottle of champagne.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, but only on day 1.
What was good and what was bad?
Everything was pretty much good. The room was phenomenal. The hotel is beautiful as it is practically brand new. Lobby fantastic, club awesome, room gigantic. Service was outstanding (luggage help too room, manager escorted me at check-in to help introduce all of the room's features). Service in the club lounge was great (constantly helping refill wine glass), book taxi, book train tickets, and even gave me free copies in color (though I only had a few).
The gym is large, and seems pretty std (I didn't use) but the pool was amazing. It's beautiful, full 25m, overlooks the lake, and has areas where you can lay out and feel like you're on the beach. Again, no one there!
Outside the hotel is nice as it's right on Jinji Lake, so great views of sunset and another great place to walk for scenery.
Only downside to this hotel is distance to the historical part of town. Though it's a quick 20 min to the train station.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
This hotel costs a little more than most IC's in China (except Hong Kong), but felt the cost was justified. It was worth the cost.
Would you return?
Definitely!
Feb 26, 2011, 9:30 am
#168
Join Date: Jan 2008
Posts: 3,598
IC Geneva
What is your Priority Club status?
When I booked...RA...when I stayed...A
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes...although the end was a little tiring.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?Booked lowest room on Sweet Dilemma promo. Received Executive Jr. Suite.
How are the rooms?It was very nice. Good view of the lake and a large comfortable bathroom with a great rain shower. Bedroom was king bed, with a seperate couch.
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was your welcome gift?
An excellent bag with hazelnut chocolate bar pieces from Laderach (probably about $20 worth from what we saw there later), and 2 sampler boxes of chocolate.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, but only on day 1.
What was good and what was bad?
The good...
Staff were very friendly and helpful when we arrived. Check in room was not available quite yet, so they treated us to a free beverage in the lounge while we waited. I had a glass of fresh squeezed OJ and my wife a tea. They then came and got us when the room was ready. The room was excellent with a 3 step upgrade on a free night when I was no longer RA was excellent. They seemed to have me as RA in the system still though, which is why. Still excellent. Hotel is a few minutes from the airport and train station by bus which is nice.
The bad...
Only 1 issue. At check out, they gave me a bill and told me I owed for the 5 nights, which had been booked as free nights with Sweet Dilemma. When I asked, the guy at the desk had no idea and I had to go log on to the internet, print out my confirmation/reservation page showing FREE on the page about 12 times, and give it to them. Was an unnecessary delay which fortunately did not result in missing our train (always leave a little early
). Once I gave them that, that was the end of it and I have not seen any charges on my card.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
For $380 a night (which was the price at time we stayed for a standard room), I would hesitate, unless I was RA, as I would not want to spend almost $400 for a tiny old standard room. However, all hotels in Switzerland are expensive, so it is relative. For my free promo nights...I had a rocking experience.
Would you return?
Yes
When I booked...RA...when I stayed...A
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes...although the end was a little tiring.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?Booked lowest room on Sweet Dilemma promo. Received Executive Jr. Suite.
How are the rooms?It was very nice. Good view of the lake and a large comfortable bathroom with a great rain shower. Bedroom was king bed, with a seperate couch.
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was your welcome gift?
An excellent bag with hazelnut chocolate bar pieces from Laderach (probably about $20 worth from what we saw there later), and 2 sampler boxes of chocolate.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes, but only on day 1.
What was good and what was bad?
The good...
Staff were very friendly and helpful when we arrived. Check in room was not available quite yet, so they treated us to a free beverage in the lounge while we waited. I had a glass of fresh squeezed OJ and my wife a tea. They then came and got us when the room was ready. The room was excellent with a 3 step upgrade on a free night when I was no longer RA was excellent. They seemed to have me as RA in the system still though, which is why. Still excellent. Hotel is a few minutes from the airport and train station by bus which is nice.
The bad...
Only 1 issue. At check out, they gave me a bill and told me I owed for the 5 nights, which had been booked as free nights with Sweet Dilemma. When I asked, the guy at the desk had no idea and I had to go log on to the internet, print out my confirmation/reservation page showing FREE on the page about 12 times, and give it to them. Was an unnecessary delay which fortunately did not result in missing our train (always leave a little early
). Once I gave them that, that was the end of it and I have not seen any charges on my card.Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
For $380 a night (which was the price at time we stayed for a standard room), I would hesitate, unless I was RA, as I would not want to spend almost $400 for a tiny old standard room. However, all hotels in Switzerland are expensive, so it is relative. For my free promo nights...I had a rocking experience.
Would you return?
Yes
Feb 26, 2011, 10:15 am
#169
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: Bergen, Norway
Programs: Eurobonus Diamond, Flying Blue Gold, PC Platinum Ambassador, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 521
IC Berlin
What is your Priority Club status?
RA
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked junior suite, upgraded to 2-room senior suite with club-access.
How are the rooms?
It looks like two rooms with connecting doors. The living-room has an extra bed and has a bathroom with shower. The bedroom is a little bit smaller and has a bathtub. In this room you can turn the TV so you can watch TV from the bathtub, but the TV has a strange angle if you want to watch from the bed. There are two mini-bars and everything is included.
How is the exec. lounge?
Breakfast: Not big, but scrambled eggs, sausages, bacon, cold cuts etc... and sparkling wine... :-)
Afternoon tea: Sandwiches, salad, cakes etc... Came in in the last minute, so didn't eat. Not sure if this is normal or because there is a big event downstairs.
Evening snack: Not sure yet, as it is supposed to be better today because of the big event downstairs. Will report back tomorrow. Have 3 more days!!! :-D
What was your welcome gift?
Handmade chocolate and a notebook.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
No, water and fruit-juice.
What was good and what was bad?
So far I am very pleased. The only negative thing is that I wrote the hotel in advance and told that we were celebrating my sons birthday so I wanted to see the menu from Hugos. The menu wasn't to the boys (my son and his friend, both 16) taste so I said I would think about something else. My plan was to have dinner in the other restaurant. Yesterday, when we checked in, they told us that the other restaurants would be closed due to a big ball they are going to held. I wished they had told me when I was in contact with them.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
YES!
Would you return?
Don't think so, as the hotel will not be in the IC brand from the first of April. I haven't asked them about it, but it looks like they will move away from their website. However I will ask later.
Xxx.
RA
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, very.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked junior suite, upgraded to 2-room senior suite with club-access.
How are the rooms?
It looks like two rooms with connecting doors. The living-room has an extra bed and has a bathroom with shower. The bedroom is a little bit smaller and has a bathtub. In this room you can turn the TV so you can watch TV from the bathtub, but the TV has a strange angle if you want to watch from the bed. There are two mini-bars and everything is included.
How is the exec. lounge?
Breakfast: Not big, but scrambled eggs, sausages, bacon, cold cuts etc... and sparkling wine... :-)
Afternoon tea: Sandwiches, salad, cakes etc... Came in in the last minute, so didn't eat. Not sure if this is normal or because there is a big event downstairs.
Evening snack: Not sure yet, as it is supposed to be better today because of the big event downstairs. Will report back tomorrow. Have 3 more days!!! :-D
What was your welcome gift?
Handmade chocolate and a notebook.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
No, water and fruit-juice.
What was good and what was bad?
So far I am very pleased. The only negative thing is that I wrote the hotel in advance and told that we were celebrating my sons birthday so I wanted to see the menu from Hugos. The menu wasn't to the boys (my son and his friend, both 16) taste so I said I would think about something else. My plan was to have dinner in the other restaurant. Yesterday, when we checked in, they told us that the other restaurants would be closed due to a big ball they are going to held. I wished they had told me when I was in contact with them.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
YES!
Would you return?
Don't think so, as the hotel will not be in the IC brand from the first of April. I haven't asked them about it, but it looks like they will move away from their website. However I will ask later.
Xxx.
Feb 26, 2011, 1:05 pm
#170
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: PARIS (France)
Programs: AF/KLM Club 2000 | InterContinental Diamond RA |AMEX Plat | Visa Infinite |Hertz President's Circle
Posts: 11,030
InterContinental Cologne
Which room did you book?
Booked cheapest rate (Luxury weekends) at EUR 216 a night, which turned to be much higher than the best flexible rate (only EUR 129).
I sent an email to the hotel, and they accepted to let me pay only EUR 129.^
I received a Club junior suite with club access and free internet^
How are the rooms?
Elegant design
Very comfortable bed
Seating area, large dressing, bathroom with seperate shower
Old tv set
How is the exec. lounge?
The food selection has been largely improved ^^: very good selection of afternoon tea pastries and evening meals (including hot meal)
Drinks in the evening
Good Breakfast
Friendly staff
2 PCs with large Sony screens and printer (from which I am sending this review)
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Bad:
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Excellent room value. It is really a shame there will be no more IC in Cologne after 1st April
Video of the room
Booked cheapest rate (Luxury weekends) at EUR 216 a night, which turned to be much higher than the best flexible rate (only EUR 129).
I sent an email to the hotel, and they accepted to let me pay only EUR 129.^
I received a Club junior suite with club access and free internet^
How are the rooms?
Elegant design
Very comfortable bed
Seating area, large dressing, bathroom with seperate shower
Old tv set
How is the exec. lounge?
The food selection has been largely improved ^^: very good selection of afternoon tea pastries and evening meals (including hot meal)
Drinks in the evening
Good Breakfast
Friendly staff
2 PCs with large Sony screens and printer (from which I am sending this review)
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
- Central location and elegant design, as we know it
- Price reduction
- Friendly staff
Bad:
- The hotel is supposed to leave IC network
- The pool is said not to be free in the Royal Ambassador welcome letter
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Excellent room value. It is really a shame there will be no more IC in Cologne after 1st April
Video of the room
Feb 26, 2011, 1:37 pm
#171
Community Director Emerita
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Anywhere warm
Posts: 33,802
IC de Ville, Rome
I copied this report by nicolas75 as it is the one that most mirrors my experience. I booked the hotel using Sweet Dilemna nights. I booked within the first few hours of availability, and initially had a suite. I was subsequently downgraded to a basic room per the promo terms. I was given the room that nicolas75 describes. It was on the 4th floor so had a terrace. Higher interior rooms have tiny balconies. Regardless, the door to the terrace was blocked by the bed, a chair, and a table. The room had so little available space that I took a downgrade to a single room on the 6th floor with a city view.
Internet becomes free on March 1. Since I was here in February, internet was 23 euros per 24 hours.
While the concierge was very gracious, I was underwhelmed with the restaurants where I was sent. I had the Michelin Red Guide but was told that local restaurants were of high quality. I was disappointed.
I am very ambivalent about the hotel. I love staying in the historic heart of Rome, and I really do enjoy this hotel's location. But the rooms were minuscule.
Internet becomes free on March 1. Since I was here in February, internet was 23 euros per 24 hours.
While the concierge was very gracious, I was underwhelmed with the restaurants where I was sent. I had the Michelin Red Guide but was told that local restaurants were of high quality. I was disappointed.
I am very ambivalent about the hotel. I love staying in the historic heart of Rome, and I really do enjoy this hotel's location. But the rooms were minuscule.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, even if a bit disappointed by the upgrade
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest luxury week-end rate and received an executive room with balcony (but this time with no view over Rome, Che delusione!)
How are the rooms?
Small (less than 20 sqm)
Very classic but elegant interior design
Corner room with lovely inner courtyard terrace: around 10sqm, outdoor table and lounge chair, plants, very peaceful
Efficient air conditioning
Flat screen television
Small but nice marble bathroom (it seems it has been renovated recently). Elemis products
Fresh (and excellent) fruits, bottle of water, red wine and lemon liquor
How is the exec. lounge?
N/O
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
Bad:
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Not a cheap hotel, but with a real charm.
Yes, even if a bit disappointed by the upgrade
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest luxury week-end rate and received an executive room with balcony (but this time with no view over Rome, Che delusione!)
How are the rooms?
Small (less than 20 sqm)
Very classic but elegant interior design
Corner room with lovely inner courtyard terrace: around 10sqm, outdoor table and lounge chair, plants, very peaceful
Efficient air conditioning
Flat screen television
Small but nice marble bathroom (it seems it has been renovated recently). Elemis products
Fresh (and excellent) fruits, bottle of water, red wine and lemon liquor
How is the exec. lounge?
N/O
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
- As we know it, there is no better location for visiting Rome (Villa Medici, Villa Borghese, via Condotti are literally next door)
- It seems that the hotel has made a soft renovation of the rooms and facade,
- Good (but could be better) breakfast in the superb courtyard terrace
Bad:
- As always, the service (check-in, concierge, breakfast) is a hit or miss at this property: the staff may be overworked / inefficient
- It is a pity that there is no ambiance at all in the superb Murano bar.
- Internet is horribly expensive. As there is no club lounge at this property, it would be nice to have it for free (at least for RAs)
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Not a cheap hotel, but with a real charm.
Feb 27, 2011, 3:07 am
#172
Join Date: Feb 2011
Programs: TK E+
Posts: 602
IC Asiana Saigon
Which room did you book?
Standard Club Room, advance/prepaid rate. Upgraded to a Deluxe Corner Suite.
How are the rooms?
Close to perfect, as always at this hotel.
How is the exec. lounge?
Very nice indeed. Nice view and quiet atmosphere. Extremely helpful and professional staff.
What was good and what was bad?
Good: All RA benefits honored. Welcome letter in the room describing the RA benefits, including the complimentary minibar. Greeted as a RA when checking in and wished a warm welcome back.
Bad: Only beverage included in the complimentary minibar (got Champagne for free but was charge $3 for a candy bar). Slow to refill the minibar. The Champagne was never refilled during my 5 nights stay (didn't care to ask either, I have no reason to believe other than that they would actually refill it if I asked). The minibar consumption wasn't deducted on the bill when I was checking out. When I mentioned it, they removed it with a smile and apology (I honestly think this was just a mistake and nothing they did on purpose).
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Well, it's one of the most expensive hotels in the city but also one of my absolute favorite hotels around the world. The quality of service and the friendliness of the staff is nothing less than awesome, so it's absolutely worth the money and there is no doubt I will stay here again.
Other note:
Based on the text in the RA welcome letter, it seems like you can chose between being upgraded to a standard Club Room or a Suite. I understand this as it's possible to book the cheapest possible room category and be upgraded to a suite (with no club access) or a standard club room (obviously with club access). Alternatively, book a club room and get upgraded to a club suite.
Standard Club Room, advance/prepaid rate. Upgraded to a Deluxe Corner Suite.
How are the rooms?
Close to perfect, as always at this hotel.
How is the exec. lounge?
Very nice indeed. Nice view and quiet atmosphere. Extremely helpful and professional staff.
What was good and what was bad?
Good: All RA benefits honored. Welcome letter in the room describing the RA benefits, including the complimentary minibar. Greeted as a RA when checking in and wished a warm welcome back.
Bad: Only beverage included in the complimentary minibar (got Champagne for free but was charge $3 for a candy bar). Slow to refill the minibar. The Champagne was never refilled during my 5 nights stay (didn't care to ask either, I have no reason to believe other than that they would actually refill it if I asked). The minibar consumption wasn't deducted on the bill when I was checking out. When I mentioned it, they removed it with a smile and apology (I honestly think this was just a mistake and nothing they did on purpose).
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Well, it's one of the most expensive hotels in the city but also one of my absolute favorite hotels around the world. The quality of service and the friendliness of the staff is nothing less than awesome, so it's absolutely worth the money and there is no doubt I will stay here again.
Other note:
Based on the text in the RA welcome letter, it seems like you can chose between being upgraded to a standard Club Room or a Suite. I understand this as it's possible to book the cheapest possible room category and be upgraded to a suite (with no club access) or a standard club room (obviously with club access). Alternatively, book a club room and get upgraded to a club suite.
Feb 27, 2011, 9:55 am
#173
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: NYC
Programs: IHG, RC, HH, AA, QF, UA, Aeroplan
Posts: 2,692
Intercontinental Times Square
Intercontinental Times Square
What is your Ambassador status?
Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a 350 sq ft king bed deluxe with 4000 bonus points rate ($20 for the points) for $249 plus taxes, received a 550 sq ft king bed sky view avenue studio, which was going for $519 (best flex plus 4000 points)
How are the rooms?
Very good size by NYC standards and great city views of the Hudson, the park and city buildings, fresh, clean, new. Good shower.
How is the exec. lounge?
Neither NYC property, the Barclay or Times Square has a club lounge.
What was your welcome gift?
Chocolate, small fruit platter and water.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
Friendly and helpful staff, doorman impressed me as being friendly and genuine, location, good upgrade, use of old style BOGO on the last possible weekend it could be used. Overall very happy with the property and the service. Would be good to see a club lounge, they already have the lounge. Free internet and free movie.
Bad
nothing really.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
The BOGO and upgrade made this stay very reasonable, Yes.
Would you return?
Yes, absolutely.
What is your Ambassador status?
Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a 350 sq ft king bed deluxe with 4000 bonus points rate ($20 for the points) for $249 plus taxes, received a 550 sq ft king bed sky view avenue studio, which was going for $519 (best flex plus 4000 points)
How are the rooms?
Very good size by NYC standards and great city views of the Hudson, the park and city buildings, fresh, clean, new. Good shower.
How is the exec. lounge?
Neither NYC property, the Barclay or Times Square has a club lounge.
What was your welcome gift?
Chocolate, small fruit platter and water.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
Friendly and helpful staff, doorman impressed me as being friendly and genuine, location, good upgrade, use of old style BOGO on the last possible weekend it could be used. Overall very happy with the property and the service. Would be good to see a club lounge, they already have the lounge. Free internet and free movie.
Bad
nothing really.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
The BOGO and upgrade made this stay very reasonable, Yes.
Would you return?
Yes, absolutely.
Feb 27, 2011, 1:13 pm
#174
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: UK
Programs: IHG Diamond Amb, Bonvoy Plat (+LTP), VS Silver
Posts: 1,396
Intercontinental Times Square NY
What is your Ambassador status?
Platinum RA
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
On the whole, yes; but not exactly what I was expecting
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Bed Superior on Advance Purchase. Upgraded the day before arrival to King Avenue Studio - Eventually received King Sky View on 35th floor
How are the rooms?
As in the previous review; nice and modern with good views, albeit a pretty standard-sized (for anywhere other than London or NY) room
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was your welcome gift?
Chocolates, Fruit/Nut Platter
What was good and what was bad?
Good: Modern rooms; friendly/helpful staff on Ambassador check-in desk; excellent location; free wifi (although, according to welcome letter, this will end at the end of March 2011); excellent restaurant
Bad:
I arrived at 5pm; assigned room 2010 was not ready. Very helpful person on check-in found room 1610 was available but this had not been checked. Person was sent up to check 1610 and came back to say all was OK. Half way through checking-in to 1610, the receptionist was told she could not use the room. Was told 2010 was only other room which would be about 2 hours before it was ready. Was offered free dinner in Cava, which was excellent (although I was just off a flight from London so really wanted to get to the room).
Went back to Ambassador check-in at 7pm. Told 2010 was still not ready, and they phoned housekeeping to see what had happened. Housekeeping confirmed that the room was out of service as there was a large stain on the carpet. Only room therefore available was a King Sky View, which was explained as an excellent upgrade for an "Ambassador". At this point I discover that whilst my RA status expires at the end of February, IHG's systems had already downgraded me to Ambassador (I had already e-mailed Ambassador services regarding this stay, and was told not to worry as status would be valid).
I then had to explain the RA expiry issue to the receptionist. They said there's nothing they could do as there were no more Avenue Studios available, so in the end, they agreed to offer inclusive breakfasts in lieu of the correct upgrade.
It seems such a shame that my last stay as RA has been memorable for the wrong reasons!
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Pretty good value on advance purchase
Would you return?
Despite all the above, yes. Good hotel and location; things do go wrong from time-to-time, but in this case it seems to have been a whole lot of things!
Platinum RA
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
On the whole, yes; but not exactly what I was expecting
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Bed Superior on Advance Purchase. Upgraded the day before arrival to King Avenue Studio - Eventually received King Sky View on 35th floor
How are the rooms?
As in the previous review; nice and modern with good views, albeit a pretty standard-sized (for anywhere other than London or NY) room
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was your welcome gift?
Chocolates, Fruit/Nut Platter
What was good and what was bad?
Good: Modern rooms; friendly/helpful staff on Ambassador check-in desk; excellent location; free wifi (although, according to welcome letter, this will end at the end of March 2011); excellent restaurant
Bad:
I arrived at 5pm; assigned room 2010 was not ready. Very helpful person on check-in found room 1610 was available but this had not been checked. Person was sent up to check 1610 and came back to say all was OK. Half way through checking-in to 1610, the receptionist was told she could not use the room. Was told 2010 was only other room which would be about 2 hours before it was ready. Was offered free dinner in Cava, which was excellent (although I was just off a flight from London so really wanted to get to the room).
Went back to Ambassador check-in at 7pm. Told 2010 was still not ready, and they phoned housekeeping to see what had happened. Housekeeping confirmed that the room was out of service as there was a large stain on the carpet. Only room therefore available was a King Sky View, which was explained as an excellent upgrade for an "Ambassador". At this point I discover that whilst my RA status expires at the end of February, IHG's systems had already downgraded me to Ambassador (I had already e-mailed Ambassador services regarding this stay, and was told not to worry as status would be valid).
I then had to explain the RA expiry issue to the receptionist. They said there's nothing they could do as there were no more Avenue Studios available, so in the end, they agreed to offer inclusive breakfasts in lieu of the correct upgrade.
It seems such a shame that my last stay as RA has been memorable for the wrong reasons!
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Pretty good value on advance purchase
Would you return?
Despite all the above, yes. Good hotel and location; things do go wrong from time-to-time, but in this case it seems to have been a whole lot of things!
Feb 27, 2011, 10:18 pm
#175
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: FRA
Programs: LH HON, Discovery Black, IHG Spire, random stuff at Accor, Hyatt, Hilton, SPG, Hertz, Sixt
Posts: 492
IC Singapore
What is your Priority Club status?
RA
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, again impressed!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Club King and received Club Premier.
How are the rooms?
The room is rather a Studio Suite than a "room", size is >50sqm. Large sitting area for five persons. A lot of light in the room thanks to huge windows - liked this more than the somehow dark shophouse rooms.
How is the exec. lounge?
Just awesome. The service is impressive, I would say the best regarding whar I experienced so far. At peak times during the evening I counted more than ten staff members. Also very nice food servings. Alcoholic drinks from 5.30-7.30.
The only thing that is missing here is a view. Huge advantage for properties like Bangkok or Warsaw.
What was your welcome gift?
no, but I read about a scarf as regular gift and I am not too keen on this one
Did you receive fruit in the room?
yes, exotic fruit plate with description.
What was good and what was bad?
^
- SERVICE again and again
- club lounge
- room was ready at 11am
- room size and furnishing
- extended late check-out (flight at midnight)
- somehow strange upgrade policy
- no welcome gift
- alcoholic drinks in the minibar are not free
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
totally. As a comparision, I had to stay at Grand Copthorne last night (Lufthansa was paying), also five star but compared to the IC it is - sorry for that - absoulutely crappy! Prices are about the same...
Would you return?
Definitely! And I hope it will be soon...
RA
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, again impressed!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Club King and received Club Premier.
How are the rooms?
The room is rather a Studio Suite than a "room", size is >50sqm. Large sitting area for five persons. A lot of light in the room thanks to huge windows - liked this more than the somehow dark shophouse rooms.
How is the exec. lounge?
Just awesome. The service is impressive, I would say the best regarding whar I experienced so far. At peak times during the evening I counted more than ten staff members. Also very nice food servings. Alcoholic drinks from 5.30-7.30.
The only thing that is missing here is a view. Huge advantage for properties like Bangkok or Warsaw.
What was your welcome gift?
no, but I read about a scarf as regular gift and I am not too keen on this one
Did you receive fruit in the room?
yes, exotic fruit plate with description.
What was good and what was bad?
^
- SERVICE again and again
- club lounge
- room was ready at 11am
- room size and furnishing
- extended late check-out (flight at midnight)
- somehow strange upgrade policy
- no welcome gift
- alcoholic drinks in the minibar are not free
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
totally. As a comparision, I had to stay at Grand Copthorne last night (Lufthansa was paying), also five star but compared to the IC it is - sorry for that - absoulutely crappy! Prices are about the same...
Would you return?
Definitely! And I hope it will be soon...
Feb 28, 2011, 2:08 am
#176
Suspended
Join Date: Sep 2010
Location: Auckland NZ
Programs: SQ TPPS, EK Gold, IHG RA, Marriott Gold Hyatt Diamond, HHonors Gold, UA Premier Gold, TG Silver
Posts: 1,092
Feb 28, 2011, 2:38 am
#177
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: UK
Programs: Intercontinental RA, PC Plat, AX EX Plat, Priority Pass Elite
Posts: 91
Intercontinental Hong Kong Grand Stanford
Intercontinental Hong Kong Grand Stanford
What is your Ambassador Status?
RA
Which room did you book and what upgrade did you receive?
Booked a deluxe room on an advance purchase rate. Had the option of a City Suite or Harbour Room deluxe with Club Access. I took the Harbour room with Club Access. This was confirmed prior to Check-in.
How are the rooms?
Really nice room with fantastic view of the Harbour and Hong Kong Island. Elemis products. Welcome treatment included water, fruit, letter, biscuits, leather coin holder, bottle of cold starbucks coffee, and some chocolate coins for the chinese new year. Flat screen TV.
How is the Club Lounge?
This is one of the best Club Lounges I have been in. The staff are friendly, the service is impeccable. Check-in and Check-out at the Club. Welcome drink and hot towel. WIFI access in the lounge and room. 2 PCs available with printing option. Breakfast included hot options and made to order eggs. Afternoon tea with sandwiches and scones. Evening canapes with tasty hot options. Made to order cocktails and Moet champagne in the evening.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Room upgrade with Club Lounge
- Excellent Club Lounge service
- Pool area
- Complimentary bus to the star ferry
Bad
- Nothing!
Value for would you return?
I would return in a flash. Fantastic hotel and service ^
What is your Ambassador Status?
RA
Which room did you book and what upgrade did you receive?
Booked a deluxe room on an advance purchase rate. Had the option of a City Suite or Harbour Room deluxe with Club Access. I took the Harbour room with Club Access. This was confirmed prior to Check-in.
How are the rooms?
Really nice room with fantastic view of the Harbour and Hong Kong Island. Elemis products. Welcome treatment included water, fruit, letter, biscuits, leather coin holder, bottle of cold starbucks coffee, and some chocolate coins for the chinese new year. Flat screen TV.
How is the Club Lounge?
This is one of the best Club Lounges I have been in. The staff are friendly, the service is impeccable. Check-in and Check-out at the Club. Welcome drink and hot towel. WIFI access in the lounge and room. 2 PCs available with printing option. Breakfast included hot options and made to order eggs. Afternoon tea with sandwiches and scones. Evening canapes with tasty hot options. Made to order cocktails and Moet champagne in the evening.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Room upgrade with Club Lounge
- Excellent Club Lounge service
- Pool area
- Complimentary bus to the star ferry
Bad
- Nothing!
Value for would you return?
I would return in a flash. Fantastic hotel and service ^
Feb 28, 2011, 3:09 am
#178
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: UK
Programs: Intercontinental RA, PC Plat, AX EX Plat, Priority Pass Elite
Posts: 91
Intercontinental Hua Hin
Intercontinental Hua Hin (thailand)
What is your Ambassador Status?
RA
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a deluxe room on advance purchase rate with breakfast. Was told I received the standard 2 room upgrade to a direct pool access premier room.
How are the Rooms?
Modern room with open plan bathroom. Welcome treatment included letter and fruit. No welcome gift I asked but this was never received. Was told minibar was not complimentary. I asked them to check and was then told it was complimentary! Flat screen TV, Bose sound system, DVD player and Ipod Dock. Terrace with day bed, table and chairs and 2 sun beds. Access into a pool shared with 5 other rooms. L'occitane products. WIFI throughout the resort. Minibar included soft drinks and beer. No spirits or wine.
How is the Club Lounge?
No Lounge but they have an inspirational space with books, seating area and complimentary tea, coffee and cookies.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Room upgrade
- Lovely modern resort
- Access to the beach
- Pool area with plenty of sun beds
- Towels and complimentary water at the pool
- Gym area
- Excellent breakfast - try the daily smoothie!
Bad
- Slow and inconsistent service levels
- Inconsistent house keeping
- No welcome gift
- European prices in the resort for drinks/meals/Spa
Value for would you return?
This resort could be very special. It is let down by inconsistent service and lack of personal detail. Would i return - i am not sure.
What is your Ambassador Status?
RA
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a deluxe room on advance purchase rate with breakfast. Was told I received the standard 2 room upgrade to a direct pool access premier room.
How are the Rooms?
Modern room with open plan bathroom. Welcome treatment included letter and fruit. No welcome gift I asked but this was never received. Was told minibar was not complimentary. I asked them to check and was then told it was complimentary! Flat screen TV, Bose sound system, DVD player and Ipod Dock. Terrace with day bed, table and chairs and 2 sun beds. Access into a pool shared with 5 other rooms. L'occitane products. WIFI throughout the resort. Minibar included soft drinks and beer. No spirits or wine.
How is the Club Lounge?
No Lounge but they have an inspirational space with books, seating area and complimentary tea, coffee and cookies.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Room upgrade
- Lovely modern resort
- Access to the beach
- Pool area with plenty of sun beds
- Towels and complimentary water at the pool
- Gym area
- Excellent breakfast - try the daily smoothie!
Bad
- Slow and inconsistent service levels
- Inconsistent house keeping
- No welcome gift
- European prices in the resort for drinks/meals/Spa
Value for would you return?
This resort could be very special. It is let down by inconsistent service and lack of personal detail. Would i return - i am not sure.
Feb 28, 2011, 3:24 am
#179
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: UK
Programs: Intercontinental RA, PC Plat, AX EX Plat, Priority Pass Elite
Posts: 91
Intercontinental Bangkok
Intercontinental Bangkok
What is your Ambassador Status?
RA
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a deluxe room on advance purchase rate. Confirmed via email that my upgrade was to a Club Room with Club Access.
How are the rooms?
Corner spacious room with flat screen TV. Welcome treatment included letter, water, fruit, bottle of red wine and teddy bear! Minibar included soft drinks, beer and spirits. Ginseng & Macadamia products.
How is the Club Lounge?
Check-in and out at the Club Lounge with welcome drink. Arrived at 12:00 and the hotel was fully booked so I had to wait 1 hour for my room to be prepared. WIFI in the lounge and room. Breakfast with continental and full hot options with made to order eggs. Afternoon tea buffet. Evening drinks with made to order cocktails. Large selection of canapes and hot items. Very friendly staff and sevice was perfect.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Club room upgrade with lounge access
- Club lounge service and staff
- Exceptional gym
- Steam and sauna area
- Pool area
Bad
- No room available at check-in. I waited in the lounge so it was no issue
Value for would you return?
Yes i would return if I was in Bangkok again ^
What is your Ambassador Status?
RA
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a deluxe room on advance purchase rate. Confirmed via email that my upgrade was to a Club Room with Club Access.
How are the rooms?
Corner spacious room with flat screen TV. Welcome treatment included letter, water, fruit, bottle of red wine and teddy bear! Minibar included soft drinks, beer and spirits. Ginseng & Macadamia products.
How is the Club Lounge?
Check-in and out at the Club Lounge with welcome drink. Arrived at 12:00 and the hotel was fully booked so I had to wait 1 hour for my room to be prepared. WIFI in the lounge and room. Breakfast with continental and full hot options with made to order eggs. Afternoon tea buffet. Evening drinks with made to order cocktails. Large selection of canapes and hot items. Very friendly staff and sevice was perfect.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Club room upgrade with lounge access
- Club lounge service and staff
- Exceptional gym
- Steam and sauna area
- Pool area
Bad
- No room available at check-in. I waited in the lounge so it was no issue
Value for would you return?
Yes i would return if I was in Bangkok again ^
Feb 28, 2011, 3:37 am
#180
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: UK
Programs: Intercontinental RA, PC Plat, AX EX Plat, Priority Pass Elite
Posts: 91
Intercontinental London Park Lane
Intercontinental London Park Lane
What is your Ambassador Status?
RA
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a classic room using my sweet dilemma nights! Was upgraded at check-in to an Executive ^
How are the Rooms?
Solid room with B&O TV and Bose sound system. Elemis products. Welcome treatment included letter, water, fruit and Dean's biscuits. Newspaper each morning. Turn down service with weather report.
How is the Club Lounge?
60 + VAT for ambassador members. Fantastic lounge with good service and the usual friendly staff here. Continental breakfast with made to order hot choice. Afternoon tea from 15:00-17:00 with sandwiches and scones. Evening canapes and alcoholic drinks including Moet from 17:30 until 19:30. 3 PCs with printing option. WIFI in the lounge.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Room upgrade
- Service in the Club Lounge
- Full RA benefits
- Early check in at 10AM late check-out at 4 pm
Bad
- Nothing!
Value for would you return?
Fantastic deal using the Sweet Dilemma nights ^
What is your Ambassador Status?
RA
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked a classic room using my sweet dilemma nights! Was upgraded at check-in to an Executive ^
How are the Rooms?
Solid room with B&O TV and Bose sound system. Elemis products. Welcome treatment included letter, water, fruit and Dean's biscuits. Newspaper each morning. Turn down service with weather report.
How is the Club Lounge?
60 + VAT for ambassador members. Fantastic lounge with good service and the usual friendly staff here. Continental breakfast with made to order hot choice. Afternoon tea from 15:00-17:00 with sandwiches and scones. Evening canapes and alcoholic drinks including Moet from 17:30 until 19:30. 3 PCs with printing option. WIFI in the lounge.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Room upgrade
- Service in the Club Lounge
- Full RA benefits
- Early check in at 10AM late check-out at 4 pm
Bad
- Nothing!
Value for would you return?
Fantastic deal using the Sweet Dilemma nights ^