Please post your Rewards Club Experiences 2018
Aug 10, 2018, 3:43 am
#106
Join Date: Oct 2016
Programs: FB Gold, BA Silver, HH Diamond, IHG Spire Ambassador, Marriott Plat Premier
Posts: 71
Hotel Indigo Durham (UK)
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire 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 reward night and second night paid. Upgraded one category to Superior room
How are the rooms?
Brand New hotel in the centre of Durham. Converted from old council building. Nice charm and original features kept with the modern touch. Rooms are very comfortable quirky amenities including local teas / coffees and sweets.
What was good and what was bad?
Good - Location, comfort and character
Received welcome points without follow up
Breakfast was excellent for £10, choice of several dishes with locally sourced food including fish
I originally only booked one night via rewards on a busy weekend, on the day I checked out i returned to the hotel to check availability and they offered me an excellent rate for a further night stay.
Don't have any negatives although I believe parking is quite expensive but did not use that facility.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Good value for money and would definitely return. This will be the #1 hotel in Durham city when fully established.
Spire 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 reward night and second night paid. Upgraded one category to Superior room
How are the rooms?
Brand New hotel in the centre of Durham. Converted from old council building. Nice charm and original features kept with the modern touch. Rooms are very comfortable quirky amenities including local teas / coffees and sweets.
What was good and what was bad?
Good - Location, comfort and character
Received welcome points without follow up
Breakfast was excellent for £10, choice of several dishes with locally sourced food including fish
I originally only booked one night via rewards on a busy weekend, on the day I checked out i returned to the hotel to check availability and they offered me an excellent rate for a further night stay.
Don't have any negatives although I believe parking is quite expensive but did not use that facility.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Good value for money and would definitely return. This will be the #1 hotel in Durham city when fully established.
Aug 17, 2018, 6:44 am
#107
Join Date: May 2016
Programs: BAEC - Gold, IHG - Spire Ambassador
Posts: 579
HIX Montreal Airport
HIX Montreal Airport
What is your Priority Club status? Spire Elite
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay? It was fine
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive? We booked two queen beds and that is what we received.
How are the rooms? Well appointed with fridge and microwave.
How is the exec. lounge? NA
What was good and what was bad? Good - The pool, hot tub and gym were great. We were the only guests using the facilities at the time. Airport shuttle quick and reliable. Welcome points posted overnight. Given three bottles of water when we checked in. It was wonderful to sleep in an air conditioned room after the relentless heat in London.
Bad - No upgrade yet there were suites available to book. Breakfast was the usual poor quality, carb heavy stodgy.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return? It was the cheapest airport hotel, there is also HI and CP.
What is your Priority Club status? Spire Elite
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay? It was fine
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive? We booked two queen beds and that is what we received.
How are the rooms? Well appointed with fridge and microwave.
How is the exec. lounge? NA
What was good and what was bad? Good - The pool, hot tub and gym were great. We were the only guests using the facilities at the time. Airport shuttle quick and reliable. Welcome points posted overnight. Given three bottles of water when we checked in. It was wonderful to sleep in an air conditioned room after the relentless heat in London.
Bad - No upgrade yet there were suites available to book. Breakfast was the usual poor quality, carb heavy stodgy.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return? It was the cheapest airport hotel, there is also HI and CP.
Sep 6, 2018, 5:16 pm
#108
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: RSW
Programs: Delta - Silver; UA - Silver; HHonors - Diamond; IHG - Spire Ambassador; Marriott Bonvoy - Titanium
Posts: 14,185
Holiday Inn Express Seattle South - Tukwila
HIX Seattle South - Tukwila, WA (Southcenter Mall)
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not really
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard award room upgraded to a "view" one
How are the rooms?
Not bad - lots of space and outlets, micro/fridge standard with all rooms.
What was good and what was bad?
Positive: I was notified via email that I'd been upgraded.
Not so positive: the property bills itself as Holiday Inn Express and Suites. However, at check in the clerk was rather emphatic that I had been upgraded one category. As they didn't seem very busy, I'm left with the impression that they could have put me in a suite, but deliberately decided not to. Whether that was due to my booking an award room, I could not say.
Also at check-in, I asked about a late check-out. He offered 1 p.m., and when I seemed to balk at that, followed up with: "Our official check out time is at 11:00 (so you're getting two hours not one)." I didn't push that. Unfortunately, I received a call from the front desk around 11:30 asking whether I was planning on staying later? When I replied that I was given 1:00 at check-in the clerk mumbled" Sorry" and abruptly hung up.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
20,000 points wasn't a bad rate, but wouldn't recommend this location unless it were cheaper than others, or there's a specific need to be in the area. I believe they have an airport shuttle, but wasn't a concern for me. Rooms were starting at $200 cash for that night when I booked a couple of days in advance.
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not really
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Standard award room upgraded to a "view" one
How are the rooms?
Not bad - lots of space and outlets, micro/fridge standard with all rooms.
What was good and what was bad?
Positive: I was notified via email that I'd been upgraded.
Not so positive: the property bills itself as Holiday Inn Express and Suites. However, at check in the clerk was rather emphatic that I had been upgraded one category. As they didn't seem very busy, I'm left with the impression that they could have put me in a suite, but deliberately decided not to. Whether that was due to my booking an award room, I could not say.
Also at check-in, I asked about a late check-out. He offered 1 p.m., and when I seemed to balk at that, followed up with: "Our official check out time is at 11:00 (so you're getting two hours not one)." I didn't push that. Unfortunately, I received a call from the front desk around 11:30 asking whether I was planning on staying later? When I replied that I was given 1:00 at check-in the clerk mumbled" Sorry" and abruptly hung up.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
20,000 points wasn't a bad rate, but wouldn't recommend this location unless it were cheaper than others, or there's a specific need to be in the area. I believe they have an airport shuttle, but wasn't a concern for me. Rooms were starting at $200 cash for that night when I booked a couple of days in advance.
Sep 11, 2018, 10:49 am
#109
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: NW London and NW Sydney
Programs: BA Diamond, Hilton Bronze, A3 Diamond, IHG *G
Posts: 6,347
Holiday Inn Runcorn, UK
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not really
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
I booked a Deluxe room and got an Executive room which appeared to be a downgrade, on later reflection.
How are the rooms?
The room was so small that there was no space to move my bag beyond the desk without carrying it over the bed.
There was a mostly empty fridge with two 250ml bottles of water and a Mars bar.
The toiletries were unusable.
Wifi is fine but was free to all.
The hairdryer was of the type that is attached to the wall, but the whole housing had come off the wall. When using it, the holder dangled off the wire, and the internal wiring was exposed.
The air conditioning did not work very well, but the window could be opened and there was a breeze.
The shower water pressure was not substantial.
How is the exec. lounge?
None
What was good and what was bad?
Received welcome points immediately. Nothing else offered.
Location was perfect for where I needed to be, with free parking but a barrier which requires a code to exit (written on the key card holder).
There is a complicated one-way system around the nearby residential roads.
The clientele of the hotel is a bit dodgy. When I was unloading my car a smoker decided to stand very close despite there being ample space elsewhere. When I was checking in, two other guests wanted to speak to the front desk, but instead of queuing up behind me they decided to stand very close to me on either side like in a mugging. Walking along the corridors was a bit intimidating, getting stares from some people which if we were outdoors in a dimly lit area, could be a precursor to racial abuse.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
I don't see myself needing to stay in this area again, but it may be the only option (as it was the night I stayed).
I initially saw a prepaid rate of £53 but had not confirmed my plans. When I came to book, it had risen to £87 so I decided to spend 15000 points instead, especially since there was no sign of any new Accelerate promo at the time. Several categories of room were bookable for points, and despite choosing the highest category I got what I got.
They wanted £19 for breakfast, when the whole place is more suited to a HIX where you'd at least get something included.
Spire
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not really
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
I booked a Deluxe room and got an Executive room which appeared to be a downgrade, on later reflection.
How are the rooms?
The room was so small that there was no space to move my bag beyond the desk without carrying it over the bed.
There was a mostly empty fridge with two 250ml bottles of water and a Mars bar.
The toiletries were unusable.
Wifi is fine but was free to all.
The hairdryer was of the type that is attached to the wall, but the whole housing had come off the wall. When using it, the holder dangled off the wire, and the internal wiring was exposed.
The air conditioning did not work very well, but the window could be opened and there was a breeze.
The shower water pressure was not substantial.
How is the exec. lounge?
None
What was good and what was bad?
Received welcome points immediately. Nothing else offered.
Location was perfect for where I needed to be, with free parking but a barrier which requires a code to exit (written on the key card holder).
There is a complicated one-way system around the nearby residential roads.
The clientele of the hotel is a bit dodgy. When I was unloading my car a smoker decided to stand very close despite there being ample space elsewhere. When I was checking in, two other guests wanted to speak to the front desk, but instead of queuing up behind me they decided to stand very close to me on either side like in a mugging. Walking along the corridors was a bit intimidating, getting stares from some people which if we were outdoors in a dimly lit area, could be a precursor to racial abuse.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
I don't see myself needing to stay in this area again, but it may be the only option (as it was the night I stayed).
I initially saw a prepaid rate of £53 but had not confirmed my plans. When I came to book, it had risen to £87 so I decided to spend 15000 points instead, especially since there was no sign of any new Accelerate promo at the time. Several categories of room were bookable for points, and despite choosing the highest category I got what I got.
They wanted £19 for breakfast, when the whole place is more suited to a HIX where you'd at least get something included.
Sep 17, 2018, 3:08 pm
#110
Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 140
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Toronto Airport West
What is your Priority Club status?
Platinum.
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 2 Queens, given 2 Queens in corner at end of a long hallway (all rooms are same size).
How are the rooms?
Standard HIX size for the area. 8m deep x 3.5m wide.
Furnishings in good shape, as hotel opened in 2017.
Well-equipped with nice large HDTV, microwave and good-sized fridge.
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
+ Pleasant staff
+ Comfortable bed
+ Decent shower pressure with hot water within 15 seconds
+ Spacious breakfast area with solid selection (first time seeing kiwis at an HIX!)
+ Nice pool & small whirlpool area
+ Right off HWY 401 if driving
+ Montana's & Kelsey's a 10-minute walk from hotel
Bad:
- Shuttle is a mess ... waited for an hour at airport before giving up and taking cab ... never saw shuttle leave the parking lot for duration of 6-day stay!
- No light in bathroom, though maintenance fixed on second day
- Slow elevators, and programmed to go to 6th (top floor) on every ride
- Public PCs severely outdated, could not print a ticket
- Middle of nowhere, buried in an industrial complex with few sidewalks
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Rates vary significantly, but are typically 1/2 - 2/3 the price of a comparable hotel in downtown Toronto.
Platinum.
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 2 Queens, given 2 Queens in corner at end of a long hallway (all rooms are same size).
How are the rooms?
Standard HIX size for the area. 8m deep x 3.5m wide.
Furnishings in good shape, as hotel opened in 2017.
Well-equipped with nice large HDTV, microwave and good-sized fridge.
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
+ Pleasant staff
+ Comfortable bed
+ Decent shower pressure with hot water within 15 seconds
+ Spacious breakfast area with solid selection (first time seeing kiwis at an HIX!)
+ Nice pool & small whirlpool area
+ Right off HWY 401 if driving
+ Montana's & Kelsey's a 10-minute walk from hotel
Bad:
- Shuttle is a mess ... waited for an hour at airport before giving up and taking cab ... never saw shuttle leave the parking lot for duration of 6-day stay!
- No light in bathroom, though maintenance fixed on second day
- Slow elevators, and programmed to go to 6th (top floor) on every ride
- Public PCs severely outdated, could not print a ticket
- Middle of nowhere, buried in an industrial complex with few sidewalks
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Rates vary significantly, but are typically 1/2 - 2/3 the price of a comparable hotel in downtown Toronto.
Sep 17, 2018, 3:19 pm
#111
Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 140
Staybridge Suites Oakville - Burlington
What is your Priority Club status?
Platinum.
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 King Suite, given same.
How are the rooms?
Main entry room with kitchen, sofa & ottoman, 8m deep x 3.5m wide.
Then doors to bedroom and bath area, also 8m deep x 3.5m wide.
Furnishings in pretty good shape.
Well-equipped with nice large HDTV, full-sized fridge, four-burner stove, microwave etc.
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
+ Pleasant staff
+ Nice room setup, lots of space, ideal for long-term stays
+ Comfortable bed
+ Good soundproofing
+ Decent shower pressure with hot water within 15 seconds
+ Excellent breakfast selection, and light dinner offered MON - THU
+ Right off HWY 403 if driving
+ A short bus ride to Bronte Station, then 50-minute ride into downtown Toronto
Bad:
- No HD channels in 2018
- Pull-out sofa extremely uncomfortable ... ultra-thin mattress component with posts digging into you across shoulders, back etc.
- Alarm clock set to wrong time; no easy way to correct
- Public PCs severely outdated, could not load gmail
- Middle of nowhere, buried in an industrial complex, nothing of interest in walking distance, could use a shuttle to Bronte Station
- Nacho cheese at breakfast looked OK, but had gone rancid!
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Overall, a good stay. Rates vary significantly, but are typically 1/2 - 2/3 the price of a comparable hotel in downtown Toronto.
Platinum.
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 King Suite, given same.
How are the rooms?
Main entry room with kitchen, sofa & ottoman, 8m deep x 3.5m wide.
Then doors to bedroom and bath area, also 8m deep x 3.5m wide.
Furnishings in pretty good shape.
Well-equipped with nice large HDTV, full-sized fridge, four-burner stove, microwave etc.
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
Good:
+ Pleasant staff
+ Nice room setup, lots of space, ideal for long-term stays
+ Comfortable bed
+ Good soundproofing
+ Decent shower pressure with hot water within 15 seconds
+ Excellent breakfast selection, and light dinner offered MON - THU
+ Right off HWY 403 if driving
+ A short bus ride to Bronte Station, then 50-minute ride into downtown Toronto
Bad:
- No HD channels in 2018
- Pull-out sofa extremely uncomfortable ... ultra-thin mattress component with posts digging into you across shoulders, back etc.
- Alarm clock set to wrong time; no easy way to correct
- Public PCs severely outdated, could not load gmail
- Middle of nowhere, buried in an industrial complex, nothing of interest in walking distance, could use a shuttle to Bronte Station
- Nacho cheese at breakfast looked OK, but had gone rancid!
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Overall, a good stay. Rates vary significantly, but are typically 1/2 - 2/3 the price of a comparable hotel in downtown Toronto.
Oct 3, 2018, 4:17 am
#112
Join Date: Jan 2017
Location: Bradford, UK
Programs: IHG Spire, HH Gold
Posts: 4
Holiday Inn Warsaw City Centre
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire
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 three night reward stay on pointbreaks (10k a night)...upgraded on morning of arrival to Junior Suite
How are the rooms?
Very good - New hotel, all fixtures very modern, suite a strange shape as it wraps around the end of the building
What was good and what was bad?
Good - Location - about 10/15 mins from central station, slightly further to the old town
Upgrade on points stay was very nice touch
Mini-bar in suite was complimentary and replenished daily. Beer, gin, vodka, whisky waterx2, orange juice, cola, tonic and choc/crisps snacks
Late check out, asked for 4pm and was given no problem
Hotel front desk very good during check-in and other queries
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Excellent value for pointbreak room, even at 20k points in those suites would be a steal
Spire
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 three night reward stay on pointbreaks (10k a night)...upgraded on morning of arrival to Junior Suite
How are the rooms?
Very good - New hotel, all fixtures very modern, suite a strange shape as it wraps around the end of the building
What was good and what was bad?
Good - Location - about 10/15 mins from central station, slightly further to the old town
Upgrade on points stay was very nice touch
Mini-bar in suite was complimentary and replenished daily. Beer, gin, vodka, whisky waterx2, orange juice, cola, tonic and choc/crisps snacks
Late check out, asked for 4pm and was given no problem
Hotel front desk very good during check-in and other queries
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Excellent value for pointbreak room, even at 20k points in those suites would be a steal
Oct 16, 2018, 9:55 am
#113
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: Hong Kong
Programs: Lowly CX & IHG
Posts: 382
Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre
Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre
What is your Priority Club status?
Club (aka none; it's my qualifying stay for Gold)
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 queen, later requested to change to two singles by direct contact, got two singles at top floor
How are the rooms?
- Normal HIX size and setup
- Delighted to see a fridge (with some coffee milk) and iron & board in room; although didn't use them
- Sockets AND USB charging ports both bedside and at table
- Bathroom amenities in small tubes
- Excellent light-blocking curtains that made us overslept
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Very nice interaction with staff before and during the stay
- Breakfast quality is good (options are on HIX standard)
- Reasonably priced and easy-to-use self service laundry
- Lobby is spacious and stylishly designed
- Accepted my 1-hour later check-out request without hesitation
- Right next to railway station and quite close to Rundle Mall for all shopping needs.
- Bars and night clubs at the corner, but once you turn into the street where the hotel entrance is at, you regain peace and quiet.
- Greener stay points posted very quickly
Could be better
- My friend told me the shower seems to have very minor leaks through the gaps; maybe sealing issue?
- Would be happier if there's free bottled water, but there's water tap at 1/F
- Price of bottled drinks at the 1/F bar fridge isn't displayed and even the staff isn't 100% sure about it either. Price seems reasonable for a hotel.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Quite good value, more than happy to return
What is your Priority Club status?
Club (aka none; it's my qualifying stay for Gold)
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 queen, later requested to change to two singles by direct contact, got two singles at top floor
How are the rooms?
- Normal HIX size and setup
- Delighted to see a fridge (with some coffee milk) and iron & board in room; although didn't use them
- Sockets AND USB charging ports both bedside and at table
- Bathroom amenities in small tubes
- Excellent light-blocking curtains that made us overslept
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Very nice interaction with staff before and during the stay
- Breakfast quality is good (options are on HIX standard)
- Reasonably priced and easy-to-use self service laundry
- Lobby is spacious and stylishly designed
- Accepted my 1-hour later check-out request without hesitation
- Right next to railway station and quite close to Rundle Mall for all shopping needs.
- Bars and night clubs at the corner, but once you turn into the street where the hotel entrance is at, you regain peace and quiet.
- Greener stay points posted very quickly
Could be better
- My friend told me the shower seems to have very minor leaks through the gaps; maybe sealing issue?
- Would be happier if there's free bottled water, but there's water tap at 1/F
- Price of bottled drinks at the 1/F bar fridge isn't displayed and even the staff isn't 100% sure about it either. Price seems reasonable for a hotel.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Quite good value, more than happy to return
Oct 21, 2018, 3:34 pm
#114
Join Date: Oct 2011
Posts: 93
IC Sofia, Bulgaria
What is your Priority Club status?
Platinum
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 4 nights with points for a standard room and upgraded to a club room with free breakfast but no access to the club lounge.
How are the rooms?
Very modern, and all amenities very nice.
What was good and what was bad?
Good - Location - about 5 mins from metro station, and near the old town.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Good value for booking on points.
Platinum
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 4 nights with points for a standard room and upgraded to a club room with free breakfast but no access to the club lounge.
How are the rooms?
Very modern, and all amenities very nice.
What was good and what was bad?
Good - Location - about 5 mins from metro station, and near the old town.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Good value for booking on points.
Last edited by joytatee; Oct 21, 2018 at 3:35 pm Reason: adding more details.
Oct 29, 2018, 5:58 pm
#115
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: Motown
Programs: DL, WN, AA, IHG Diamond, Hertz 5*
Posts: 3,409
Shanghai - Indigo on the Bund
Shanghai - Indigo on the Bund October 2018
What is your Priority Club status?
Platinum
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Mostly
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe King (no view). Given same. Recognition of status included chocolate, a note from the manager, and a free drink coupon. No welcome points.
How are the rooms?
I was really hoping to be upgraded to a view room, but the one I was given had the usual Indigo character, not generic. Laid out well, and has the best shower I've seen in quite a while. Slight wear and tear was noticeable.
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD -Hotel and room are attractive and comfortable. A plate of fruit was provided on the first evening. I didn't use it, but very good selection offered in the mini bar.
BAD - Check in took forever. Slight communication issue with front desk personnel. Several don't seem to know any English. Location on the river is great, but you have either a long walk to the closest Metro station or need a taxi for transportation.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
This hotel is one of the more expensive IHG options in Shanghai. I paid cash, but would probably return only if using points.
What is your Priority Club status?
Platinum
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Mostly
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe King (no view). Given same. Recognition of status included chocolate, a note from the manager, and a free drink coupon. No welcome points.
How are the rooms?
I was really hoping to be upgraded to a view room, but the one I was given had the usual Indigo character, not generic. Laid out well, and has the best shower I've seen in quite a while. Slight wear and tear was noticeable.
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD -Hotel and room are attractive and comfortable. A plate of fruit was provided on the first evening. I didn't use it, but very good selection offered in the mini bar.
BAD - Check in took forever. Slight communication issue with front desk personnel. Several don't seem to know any English. Location on the river is great, but you have either a long walk to the closest Metro station or need a taxi for transportation.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
This hotel is one of the more expensive IHG options in Shanghai. I paid cash, but would probably return only if using points.
Last edited by DavidDTW; Oct 30, 2018 at 10:54 am Reason: Info on status recognition
Oct 30, 2018, 2:50 am
#116
Join Date: Nov 2017
Location: UK
Programs: Mucci Chevalier de Actes Bénéfiques pour les Autres, BAEC Gold.
Posts: 1,487
Holiday Inn London-Heathrow Ariel
Holiday Inn London-Heathrow Ariel - 118 Bath Road Heathrow London. Stay October 2018
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire Elite
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
For what I paid, yes.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
I booked a Standard Single and received an Executive Double.
How are the rooms?
Getting slightly dated nowadays, athough perfectly functional for a one night stay before flying out of LHR. The room was very clean and comfortable. It had a small fridge with various snacks in it although I never bothered with it. I recevied the customary complimentary bottles of water and chocolate bar. Ususal HI ungents in the bathroom.
How is the exec. lounge?
There isn't one.
What was good and what was bad?
I stayed here many years ago when it was a Forte Post House, and it has only had superficial updates since. However, it was clean, comfortable and ideal for an overnight pre-flight stay.
It is an odd shaped 'circular' hotel, built like a doughnut with an inner ring of standard rooms and the larger executive rooms and some bigger standard rooms are on the outer ring. Some of the south facing outer ring rooms on the higher floors have a decent view of the western end of the airport runways – ideal for aircraft spotters!
There is a large car park and providing you tap your car details in a reception, you get a free short period of parking – ideal to unload the hire car before returning it. The hotel is located at the end stop of the ‘free bus’ zone at Harlington Corner. Hence it is free to travel to/from the hotel/Heathrow Airport Bus station on red London Buses.
The food was passable and not overly expensive.
I was given the welcome points on checking in.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, if flying in/out of Terminals 2&3 at LHR. I picked up the room for £42.40 on the Partner Rate 30% off so not bad value at all however room prices can be 'dynamic' ie they do fluctuate.
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire Elite
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
For what I paid, yes.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
I booked a Standard Single and received an Executive Double.
How are the rooms?
Getting slightly dated nowadays, athough perfectly functional for a one night stay before flying out of LHR. The room was very clean and comfortable. It had a small fridge with various snacks in it although I never bothered with it. I recevied the customary complimentary bottles of water and chocolate bar. Ususal HI ungents in the bathroom.
How is the exec. lounge?
There isn't one.
What was good and what was bad?
I stayed here many years ago when it was a Forte Post House, and it has only had superficial updates since. However, it was clean, comfortable and ideal for an overnight pre-flight stay.
It is an odd shaped 'circular' hotel, built like a doughnut with an inner ring of standard rooms and the larger executive rooms and some bigger standard rooms are on the outer ring. Some of the south facing outer ring rooms on the higher floors have a decent view of the western end of the airport runways – ideal for aircraft spotters!
There is a large car park and providing you tap your car details in a reception, you get a free short period of parking – ideal to unload the hire car before returning it. The hotel is located at the end stop of the ‘free bus’ zone at Harlington Corner. Hence it is free to travel to/from the hotel/Heathrow Airport Bus station on red London Buses.
The food was passable and not overly expensive.
I was given the welcome points on checking in.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, if flying in/out of Terminals 2&3 at LHR. I picked up the room for £42.40 on the Partner Rate 30% off so not bad value at all however room prices can be 'dynamic' ie they do fluctuate.
Last edited by BarneyMcGrew; Oct 30, 2018 at 3:50 am
Oct 30, 2018, 3:32 am
#117
Join Date: Nov 2017
Location: UK
Programs: Mucci Chevalier de Actes Bénéfiques pour les Autres, BAEC Gold.
Posts: 1,487
Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport
Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport - Stayed October 2018
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire Elite
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 had booked a standard double, but upgraded to King Club as the reception recognised me as a frequent stayer.
How are the rooms?
Clean and comfortable, if slightly dated nowadays. However perfectly functional for a pre-flight overnight stay.
How is the exec. lounge?
Small, can be busy. Usual canapes served during the evening – get in quickly for them as they soon run out. Continental Breakfast (toast and scrambled egg etc) available. However, note that if you have an early flight the lounge only serves the complimentary breakfast from 06:00am. (The normal restaurant breakfast starts at 05:30am).
What was good and what was bad?
Having stayed here many times, I was recognised and didn’t have to give my name to check in.
Check in was swift and efficient. There is a separate ‘Priority’ queue for Executive Club members, however this is often full of aircrew, so the normal queue can be faster.
If you have a vehicle tap the registration number into the tablet when checking in, else parking can be even more extortionate than it is already. All parking is controlled by ‘parking eye’ recognition cameras.
The room was clean and comfortable with a King size bed. Usual CP unguents in the bathroom. Ideal for a pre-flight/after flight stay.
As usual, there was a large queue of people waiting for the airport transfer shuttle minibuses at 04:30hrs. Hence, I took a slow walk over to T3 which is an easy 5-minute walk and I beat the shuttle bus by quite a while. I was already in the BA Terraces Lounge having coffee and porridge by the time other hotel guests arrived having waited for the shuttle. If heading for T3 or T1 it is a maximum of 7-minutes’ walk, so unless the weather is inclement, or you have loads of baggage, don’t bother waiting ages for the shuttles.
If arriving at MAN the courtesy phone to ring for the shuttle is often hidden by advertising screens etc. Instead just ring the front desk direct on 0161 498 4000 when exiting the baggage hall to request the shuttle.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
I paid on points this visit (25,000 points). Good value for this points level and I will stay again when flying to/from MAN as it is very convenient being on the airport complex.
What is your Priority Club status?
Spire Elite
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 had booked a standard double, but upgraded to King Club as the reception recognised me as a frequent stayer.
How are the rooms?
Clean and comfortable, if slightly dated nowadays. However perfectly functional for a pre-flight overnight stay.
How is the exec. lounge?
Small, can be busy. Usual canapes served during the evening – get in quickly for them as they soon run out. Continental Breakfast (toast and scrambled egg etc) available. However, note that if you have an early flight the lounge only serves the complimentary breakfast from 06:00am. (The normal restaurant breakfast starts at 05:30am).
What was good and what was bad?
Having stayed here many times, I was recognised and didn’t have to give my name to check in.
Check in was swift and efficient. There is a separate ‘Priority’ queue for Executive Club members, however this is often full of aircrew, so the normal queue can be faster.
If you have a vehicle tap the registration number into the tablet when checking in, else parking can be even more extortionate than it is already. All parking is controlled by ‘parking eye’ recognition cameras.
The room was clean and comfortable with a King size bed. Usual CP unguents in the bathroom. Ideal for a pre-flight/after flight stay.
As usual, there was a large queue of people waiting for the airport transfer shuttle minibuses at 04:30hrs. Hence, I took a slow walk over to T3 which is an easy 5-minute walk and I beat the shuttle bus by quite a while. I was already in the BA Terraces Lounge having coffee and porridge by the time other hotel guests arrived having waited for the shuttle. If heading for T3 or T1 it is a maximum of 7-minutes’ walk, so unless the weather is inclement, or you have loads of baggage, don’t bother waiting ages for the shuttles.
If arriving at MAN the courtesy phone to ring for the shuttle is often hidden by advertising screens etc. Instead just ring the front desk direct on 0161 498 4000 when exiting the baggage hall to request the shuttle.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
I paid on points this visit (25,000 points). Good value for this points level and I will stay again when flying to/from MAN as it is very convenient being on the airport complex.
Last edited by BarneyMcGrew; Oct 30, 2018 at 3:52 am
Oct 31, 2018, 12:47 pm
#118
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Portland, OR USA
Programs: BA Silver, Icelandair, IHG Diamond Elite Ambassador, Hertz 5*
Posts: 610
Staybridge Suites Seattle - Fremont
Staybridge Suites Seattle - Fremont
What is your Priority Club status?
Platinum Elite
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 2 Bdrm Suite 2 Bed - received the same
How are the rooms?
Very clean and spacious for a family weekend in Seattle. Nice to have 2 bedrooms (1 King & 2 Double) and 2 bathrooms. Kitchen was very well appointed and came with lots of crockery, cutlery, glassware and a dishwasher! The sitting area was a little small and the view was of N Aurora Avenue.The doors from the King bedroom kept hitting the bathroom door which was a little annoying. Comfortable beds - note that there is no housekeeping on the weekends so hang up your towels!
How is the exec. lounge?
Not applicable - though they do have a social Tues-Thursday with adult beverages!
What was good and what was bad?
Good - Convenient to Fremont and 10-15 mins to some decent restaurants. A few additional items to the generic HIX breakfast choices - Fee Laundry - nice pool and gym - plenty of places to sit (in the summer)- We did not discover is there is a roof-top garden/lounge?
Bad - A lot of road noise for rooms facing N Aurora Avenue; it did quieten down over the weekend, but was noticeable. I think the longer term residents have the rooms at the rear of the hotel. Parking was $15 per night & tax which seems a rip-off considering the location. There were some cars parked in the bus lane!
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Room rate wasn't bad for 2 room suite and we would probably return.
What is your Priority Club status?
Platinum Elite
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 2 Bdrm Suite 2 Bed - received the same
How are the rooms?
Very clean and spacious for a family weekend in Seattle. Nice to have 2 bedrooms (1 King & 2 Double) and 2 bathrooms. Kitchen was very well appointed and came with lots of crockery, cutlery, glassware and a dishwasher! The sitting area was a little small and the view was of N Aurora Avenue.The doors from the King bedroom kept hitting the bathroom door which was a little annoying. Comfortable beds - note that there is no housekeeping on the weekends so hang up your towels!
How is the exec. lounge?
Not applicable - though they do have a social Tues-Thursday with adult beverages!
What was good and what was bad?
Good - Convenient to Fremont and 10-15 mins to some decent restaurants. A few additional items to the generic HIX breakfast choices - Fee Laundry - nice pool and gym - plenty of places to sit (in the summer)- We did not discover is there is a roof-top garden/lounge?
Bad - A lot of road noise for rooms facing N Aurora Avenue; it did quieten down over the weekend, but was noticeable. I think the longer term residents have the rooms at the rear of the hotel. Parking was $15 per night & tax which seems a rip-off considering the location. There were some cars parked in the bus lane!
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Room rate wasn't bad for 2 room suite and we would probably return.
Last edited by Skyline; Oct 31, 2018 at 2:48 pm
Nov 11, 2018, 6:52 am
#119
Join Date: May 2016
Programs: BAEC - Gold, IHG - Spire Ambassador
Posts: 579
Staybridge Suites - London Stratford City
Staybridge Suites - London Stratford City
What is your Priority Club status? Spire
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay? It was fine.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive? Booked studio suite 1 king bed, received deluxe studio room, 1 king bed
How are the rooms? New and comfortable
How is the exec. lounge? NA
What was good and what was bad? Breakfast was good, the complimentary mobile phone did not work!
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return? No
What is your Priority Club status? Spire
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay? It was fine.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive? Booked studio suite 1 king bed, received deluxe studio room, 1 king bed
How are the rooms? New and comfortable
How is the exec. lounge? NA
What was good and what was bad? Breakfast was good, the complimentary mobile phone did not work!
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return? No
Nov 11, 2018, 11:59 am
#120
Suspended
Join Date: Sep 2017
Programs: M&S, Radisson
Posts: 758
review deleted
removed
Last edited by 1flyer; Dec 11, 2018 at 1:05 am