Please post your Royal Ambassador experiences (Archive Thread 2016)
Jan 18, 2016, 2:22 am
#31
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Asia-Pacific
Programs: AA PPRO, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 121
IC Hong Kong Grand Stanford
IC Hong Kong Grand Stanford
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
- Overall it was a good stay
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
- Booked Deluxe room, upgraded to Premiere room on Club Floor
How are the rooms?
- This room had a view of the "courtyard" which is basically a view of a wall at the Club floor elevation. While the view was very disappointing, the rest of the room was pretty good.
How is the exec. lounge?
- The exec lounge is overall fairly good, with the exception that there aren't many seats and many of the tables are designed for parties of 4 or more. As a solo guest, it's a bit odd.
- Breakfast spread was decent.
- Evening cocktail service was excellent, with Moet champagne and Bacardi rum (as an example of the brands they had). Waitstaff were very prompt and courteous. Food spread wasn't great.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
- A bottle opener. There was also a bottle of red wine in the room.
- Also received 1 drink coupon to use in hotel bar
How was the minibar?
- Nothing special.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Overall room
- Club lounge service
- Taxi availability in the morning
-Bad
- Club room with a view of a wall
- Hotel location
- Quality of room service food
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
- Okay value for $ with RA benefits
- I would not stay here using points
Would you return?
- Yes
Other Notes
- Hotel staff confirmed that RA gets a choice of a Premiere room with club lounge access or a "Suite" without club lounge access. No guarantee of view with the Premiere room.
- Ordered room service twice; both times I was disappointed with the taste of the food.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
- Overall it was a good stay
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
- Booked Deluxe room, upgraded to Premiere room on Club Floor
How are the rooms?
- This room had a view of the "courtyard" which is basically a view of a wall at the Club floor elevation. While the view was very disappointing, the rest of the room was pretty good.
How is the exec. lounge?
- The exec lounge is overall fairly good, with the exception that there aren't many seats and many of the tables are designed for parties of 4 or more. As a solo guest, it's a bit odd.
- Breakfast spread was decent.
- Evening cocktail service was excellent, with Moet champagne and Bacardi rum (as an example of the brands they had). Waitstaff were very prompt and courteous. Food spread wasn't great.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
- A bottle opener. There was also a bottle of red wine in the room.
- Also received 1 drink coupon to use in hotel bar
How was the minibar?
- Nothing special.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Overall room
- Club lounge service
- Taxi availability in the morning
-Bad
- Club room with a view of a wall
- Hotel location
- Quality of room service food
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
- Okay value for $ with RA benefits
- I would not stay here using points
Would you return?
- Yes
Other Notes
- Hotel staff confirmed that RA gets a choice of a Premiere room with club lounge access or a "Suite" without club lounge access. No guarantee of view with the Premiere room.
- Ordered room service twice; both times I was disappointed with the taste of the food.
Jan 25, 2016, 10:29 pm
#32
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: SoCal
Programs: UA 1K 2Millon Mile Flyer, IC Diamond Royal Ambassador Inner Circle, Bonvoy Gold
Posts: 479
ic new orleans
IC New Orleans
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Absolutely - as always!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked standard room on lowest corporate rate. Upgraded to an "Executive Room" per the reservation website. That means a large 1 bedroom suite center hallway.
How are the rooms?
The rooms have been recently renovated. They are not ultra modern like the newer IC's but very functional with plenty of power ports and very comfortable beds and linens.
How is the exec. lounge?
The Exec Lounge didn't survive the remodel. However, the hotel provides RA's with breakfast vouchers for the well appointed buffet each morning (cooked to order omelettes, oatmeal upon request, and speciality coffee drinks). The vouchers clearly state they INCLUDE TAX AND TIP. This, IMO is a significant upgrade from the club lounge, which was usually overcrowded with limited food options.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yes, fruit bowl, large Evian water, and a bottle of California Cab with a chocolate treat.
How was the minibar?
Decently stocked. The hotel replenished the large bottle of water each day, and the maids put minis on the pillows when cleaning. I never needed to raid the mini bar.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Great service and engaged front desk staff
Modern hotel and good location
Gym is pretty well stocked for an IC, although it does need upgrading
The hotel restaurant has great happy hour specials 3-6 with booze and food
RA's get a special code for upgraded high speed internet
-Bad
Nothing.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Outstanding!
Would you return?
Absolutely! One of the better IC's for RA's.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Absolutely - as always!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked standard room on lowest corporate rate. Upgraded to an "Executive Room" per the reservation website. That means a large 1 bedroom suite center hallway.
How are the rooms?
The rooms have been recently renovated. They are not ultra modern like the newer IC's but very functional with plenty of power ports and very comfortable beds and linens.
How is the exec. lounge?
The Exec Lounge didn't survive the remodel. However, the hotel provides RA's with breakfast vouchers for the well appointed buffet each morning (cooked to order omelettes, oatmeal upon request, and speciality coffee drinks). The vouchers clearly state they INCLUDE TAX AND TIP. This, IMO is a significant upgrade from the club lounge, which was usually overcrowded with limited food options.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yes, fruit bowl, large Evian water, and a bottle of California Cab with a chocolate treat.
How was the minibar?
Decently stocked. The hotel replenished the large bottle of water each day, and the maids put minis on the pillows when cleaning. I never needed to raid the mini bar.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Great service and engaged front desk staff
Modern hotel and good location
Gym is pretty well stocked for an IC, although it does need upgrading
The hotel restaurant has great happy hour specials 3-6 with booze and food
RA's get a special code for upgraded high speed internet
-Bad
Nothing.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Outstanding!
Would you return?
Absolutely! One of the better IC's for RA's.
Feb 1, 2016, 3:34 am
#33
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: in a cabin
Posts: 6,515
London Park Lane
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?
London Classic > King London Executive (3 cat up)
How are the rooms?
(x32 with the large sofa, modern interior. Views over Park Lane and Hyde Park. Favourite room except for the higher level suites).
How is the exec. lounge?
NA
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Luxury Shortbread (cookies), fruit plate, large bottle of still water
How was the minibar?
Superb. Everything included, mini's of LP Champagne and quality selection of spirits. Generous amounts.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Three level upgrade, great mini-bar, superb staff and welcome. Breakfast is top notch (should be considering the rate of Ł28).
-Bad
Well, they don't give Club to RA's but that would overly generous considering how nice they are with upgrades and mini-bar.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yeah, with my rate and including breakfast for sure.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Yes, regular visitor.
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
London Classic > King London Executive (3 cat up)
How are the rooms?
(x32 with the large sofa, modern interior. Views over Park Lane and Hyde Park. Favourite room except for the higher level suites).
How is the exec. lounge?
NA
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Luxury Shortbread (cookies), fruit plate, large bottle of still water
How was the minibar?
Superb. Everything included, mini's of LP Champagne and quality selection of spirits. Generous amounts.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Three level upgrade, great mini-bar, superb staff and welcome. Breakfast is top notch (should be considering the rate of Ł28).
-Bad
Well, they don't give Club to RA's but that would overly generous considering how nice they are with upgrades and mini-bar.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yeah, with my rate and including breakfast for sure.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Yes, regular visitor.
Feb 1, 2016, 3:47 am
#34
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: in a cabin
Posts: 6,515
London The O2
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?
Superior (lowest cat)> Deluxe Suite facing the O2. Changed after 1 night to Deluxe Riverview Suite (Much niver)
How are the rooms?
I would not define it as a suite per se. More a Jr Suite. Large hall/landing with cupboard and coffee machine on top and mini-bar inside, entry to large bath. Room is big with sofa and coffee table, comfortable king bed, stunning view over Canary Wharf. Interior wise upscale but not super luxury. Very pleasing and typical of a modern IC. Quality of furnishing is good but not high end.
How is the exec. lounge?
Not open yet
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Luxury chocolates, fruit and water.
How was the minibar?
ok. Average selection of beer, wine and booze. Snacks included. No champagne but there was a note on the wine bottles this can be exchanged for Champagne. I asked for this but was sent a full bottle of Moet (!) to which I called down to clarify. They misunderstood and room service didn't know about the "mini-bar exchange" service.
I declined the full bottle as I was on my own and didn't feel like paying Ł80 for an average bottle of Champagne. They then offered to give it for free, but I declined again, too much to drink.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Superb service. Excellent views. Great staff doing their best. Nice breakfast.
-Bad
Not a fully operational hotel. The building and furnishings look rushed in places. Suites are not really suites. Mini-bar sub-par.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yeah, with my rate and including breakfast it was, but anything over Ł180 is too much imho.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
On a decent rate yes.
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Superior (lowest cat)> Deluxe Suite facing the O2. Changed after 1 night to Deluxe Riverview Suite (Much niver)
How are the rooms?
I would not define it as a suite per se. More a Jr Suite. Large hall/landing with cupboard and coffee machine on top and mini-bar inside, entry to large bath. Room is big with sofa and coffee table, comfortable king bed, stunning view over Canary Wharf. Interior wise upscale but not super luxury. Very pleasing and typical of a modern IC. Quality of furnishing is good but not high end.
How is the exec. lounge?
Not open yet
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Luxury chocolates, fruit and water.
How was the minibar?
ok. Average selection of beer, wine and booze. Snacks included. No champagne but there was a note on the wine bottles this can be exchanged for Champagne. I asked for this but was sent a full bottle of Moet (!) to which I called down to clarify. They misunderstood and room service didn't know about the "mini-bar exchange" service.
I declined the full bottle as I was on my own and didn't feel like paying Ł80 for an average bottle of Champagne. They then offered to give it for free, but I declined again, too much to drink.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Superb service. Excellent views. Great staff doing their best. Nice breakfast.
-Bad
Not a fully operational hotel. The building and furnishings look rushed in places. Suites are not really suites. Mini-bar sub-par.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yeah, with my rate and including breakfast it was, but anything over Ł180 is too much imho.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
On a decent rate yes.
Feb 1, 2016, 4:07 am
#35
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: in a cabin
Posts: 6,515
London Park Lane
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?
London Classic > 1 bed Suite (5 cat up)
How are the rooms?
x54 suite with sliding doors between the room. View on the FS across the street. Large sitting room with work desk, TV, 3 seater sofa (same as in King Exec) coffee table. Sliding doors into lovely bedroom and connecting bath which is huge for IC London. But not separate shower?
How is the exec. lounge?
NA
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Luxury Shortbread (cookies), fruit plate, large bottle of still water
How was the minibar?
Superb. Everything included, mini's of LP Champagne and quality selection of spirits. Generous amounts.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Five level upgrade, great mini-bar, superb staff and welcome. Breakfast is top notch (should be considering the rate of Ł28).
-Bad
Well, they don't give Club to RA's but that would overly generous considering how nice they are with upgrades and mini-bar.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yeah, with my rate and including breakfast for sure.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Yes, regular visitor.
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
London Classic > 1 bed Suite (5 cat up)
How are the rooms?
x54 suite with sliding doors between the room. View on the FS across the street. Large sitting room with work desk, TV, 3 seater sofa (same as in King Exec) coffee table. Sliding doors into lovely bedroom and connecting bath which is huge for IC London. But not separate shower?
How is the exec. lounge?
NA
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Luxury Shortbread (cookies), fruit plate, large bottle of still water
How was the minibar?
Superb. Everything included, mini's of LP Champagne and quality selection of spirits. Generous amounts.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Five level upgrade, great mini-bar, superb staff and welcome. Breakfast is top notch (should be considering the rate of Ł28).
-Bad
Well, they don't give Club to RA's but that would overly generous considering how nice they are with upgrades and mini-bar.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yeah, with my rate and including breakfast for sure.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Yes, regular visitor.
Feb 1, 2016, 4:13 am
#36
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: in a cabin
Posts: 6,515
London Park Lane
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Very happy!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
London Classic > King London Executive - Cash
Classic Room > London Deluxe - Reward
How are the rooms?
(x32 with the large sofa, modern interior. Views over Park Lane and Hyde Park. Favourite room except for the higher level suites).
We got a London Deluxe connecting, smaller than the Exec but obviously very nice.
How is the exec. lounge?
NA
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Luxury Shortbread (cookies), fruit plate, large bottle of still water
How was the minibar?
Superb. Everything included, mini's of LP Champagne and quality selection of spirits. Generous amounts.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Extremely generous upgrade on the reward room, considering they had already upgraded the cash room to Exec. All movies free of charge (think 5 of them as the kids where with us over the weekend. Breakfast thrown in for free for the nanny. All staff very helpful, engaged and caring. We had one of our best hotel stays ever. True 5 star experience.
-Bad
Nothing.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Outstanding.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Yes, regular visitor.
Very happy!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
London Classic > King London Executive - Cash
Classic Room > London Deluxe - Reward
How are the rooms?
(x32 with the large sofa, modern interior. Views over Park Lane and Hyde Park. Favourite room except for the higher level suites).
We got a London Deluxe connecting, smaller than the Exec but obviously very nice.
How is the exec. lounge?
NA
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Luxury Shortbread (cookies), fruit plate, large bottle of still water
How was the minibar?
Superb. Everything included, mini's of LP Champagne and quality selection of spirits. Generous amounts.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Extremely generous upgrade on the reward room, considering they had already upgraded the cash room to Exec. All movies free of charge (think 5 of them as the kids where with us over the weekend. Breakfast thrown in for free for the nanny. All staff very helpful, engaged and caring. We had one of our best hotel stays ever. True 5 star experience.
-Bad
Nothing.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Outstanding.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Yes, regular visitor.
Feb 1, 2016, 7:12 am
#37
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 1999
Location: Seat 1A, Juice pretty much everywhere, Mucci des Coins Exotiques
Posts: 34,339
Montréal
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, as always.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked standard, given Royal Ambassador Suite with Club access.
How are the rooms?
My first time in one of these suites. The bedroom and bathroom are very large and the salon is decent sized too with a sofa-bed in case you have a big family. Very large bathtub for two and a separate shower and two sinks.
How is the Club lounge?
Pretty good food quality and no need to go out for dinner in the evening. The wine quality could be improved though.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
A fruit bowl and some mini cup-cakes.
How was the minibar?
Not that great. Average quality wine, beer and liquor.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Great upgrade and excellent service throughout.
-Bad
Nothing much
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Great value. Well all of Canada offers great value for a foreign visitor these days with the poorly performing dollar.
Yes, as always.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked standard, given Royal Ambassador Suite with Club access.
How are the rooms?
My first time in one of these suites. The bedroom and bathroom are very large and the salon is decent sized too with a sofa-bed in case you have a big family. Very large bathtub for two and a separate shower and two sinks.
How is the Club lounge?
Pretty good food quality and no need to go out for dinner in the evening. The wine quality could be improved though.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
A fruit bowl and some mini cup-cakes.
How was the minibar?
Not that great. Average quality wine, beer and liquor.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
Great upgrade and excellent service throughout.
-Bad
Nothing much
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Great value. Well all of Canada offers great value for a foreign visitor these days with the poorly performing dollar.
Feb 3, 2016, 1:39 pm
#38
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: 10,947
InterContinental Madrid
- What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, as always
- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest advance rate and was upgraded to a Club Junior suite with balcony (I specifically asked for a room with balcony and sun, which means the room at the end of the corridor, avenue side).
- How are the rooms?
Around 45 sqm
Classic and elegant design.
Seating area with desk
Flat screen television set, with large selection of international channels
Bedroom with very comfortable bed
Marble bathroom with separate walk in shower. Agraria amenities
Very quiet.
Large terrace balcony.
View over the city
Fast wifi
No iPhone dock
No plugs close to the bed
- How is the exec. lounge?
- What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
BAD
Nothing
- Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes
Pictures of the city
Pictures of the hotel
Spire Royal Ambassador
- Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, as always
- Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest advance rate and was upgraded to a Club Junior suite with balcony (I specifically asked for a room with balcony and sun, which means the room at the end of the corridor, avenue side).
- How are the rooms?
Around 45 sqm
Classic and elegant design.
Seating area with desk
Flat screen television set, with large selection of international channels
Bedroom with very comfortable bed
Marble bathroom with separate walk in shower. Agraria amenities
Very quiet.
Large terrace balcony.
View over the city
Fast wifi
No iPhone dock
No plugs close to the bed
- How is the exec. lounge?
- Warm classic design
- Very friendly staff
- Very good breakfast with hot and cold option
- 2 free PC with Internet and printer
- Evening food has been massively improved: selection of two hot dishes,
- Nice selection of sweet and salted canapés during the day
- What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- The staff is really nice at IC Madrid
- Luxurious atmosphere in public places
- Nice courtyard garden
- Location is very convenient from airport (metro station 80 meters from the hotel) and shopping: the Salamenca district is one of the most elegant for luxury boutiques and concept stores (Isolée, Gallery Madrid, ...) and "secret" museums (Fundación Juan March, Residencia des estudiantes, Museo Cerralbo, etc.)
- Pretty nice fitness centre
BAD
Nothing
- Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes
Pictures of the city
Pictures of the hotel
Feb 3, 2016, 1:51 pm
#39
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: 10,947
InterContinental Berlin
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, as always
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest room + club and received a junior suite on the Western wing.
How are the rooms?
Around 45sqm
More a suite than junior suite
Warm contemporary interior design.
One room with sofa and desk. iPhone dock. Tassimo coffee machine.
Bedroom with very comfortable bed.
Nice bathroom with bathtub and separate shower. Agraria amenities
2 flat screen television sets with large selection of international channels
Very quiet
View over the city.
Wifi was a bit chaotic
How is the exec. lounge?
Great staff and very pleasant atmosphere.
Very good breakfast options
Food all the day long.
Evening hot options (including on week-ends).
The bar/coffee section has been modified with bar tables and stools, so that people can have a drink and keep the "restaurant" part quiet
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Very attentive and smiling staff
- Elegant décor
- Very pleasant indoor pool and spa
- Bicycles can be rented
BAD
- Indoor pool was close (option offerred at Pullman next door).
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, definitely
Pictures of the hotel
Pisctures of Berlin
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, as always
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest room + club and received a junior suite on the Western wing.
How are the rooms?
Around 45sqm
More a suite than junior suite
Warm contemporary interior design.
One room with sofa and desk. iPhone dock. Tassimo coffee machine.
Bedroom with very comfortable bed.
Nice bathroom with bathtub and separate shower. Agraria amenities
2 flat screen television sets with large selection of international channels
Very quiet
View over the city.
Wifi was a bit chaotic
How is the exec. lounge?
Great staff and very pleasant atmosphere.
Very good breakfast options
Food all the day long.
Evening hot options (including on week-ends).
The bar/coffee section has been modified with bar tables and stools, so that people can have a drink and keep the "restaurant" part quiet
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Very attentive and smiling staff
- Elegant décor
- Very pleasant indoor pool and spa
- Bicycles can be rented
BAD
- Indoor pool was close (option offerred at Pullman next door).
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, definitely
Pictures of the hotel
Pisctures of Berlin
Feb 4, 2016, 2:35 am
#40
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: 10,947
Amstel InterContinental Amsterdam
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Delighted
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Executive on pointst and received an executive suite with river view.
How are the rooms?
Around 55 sqm
Very elegant
3,40 m height from floor to ceiling
Antiques, Iran rug, Books
Very comfortable bed (with heating options)
Convenient usb plug sockets next to the bed
2 large flat screen TV (one with surround system)
iPod dock
Francis Francis! illy espresso coffee machine
bathroom with the magic bathtub (filled in 2 minutes) and separate shower,
Anne Semonin amenities
River view
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Very impressed by the quality of the service, from check-in desk to spa, bar and concierge
- Lovely birthday welcome gift
- Grandeur of the décor
- Boutique hotel feeling
- Love the spa and indoor pool
- The new A bar is elegant and has a trendy atmosphere
- Fast wifi
BAD
- Nothing. It was just a perfect stay
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, definitely my favourite hotel in Amsterdam.
Video of the Executive suite with river view
Pictures of the city
Pictures of the hotel
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Delighted
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Executive on pointst and received an executive suite with river view.
How are the rooms?
Around 55 sqm
Very elegant
3,40 m height from floor to ceiling
Antiques, Iran rug, Books
Very comfortable bed (with heating options)
Convenient usb plug sockets next to the bed
2 large flat screen TV (one with surround system)
iPod dock
Francis Francis! illy espresso coffee machine
bathroom with the magic bathtub (filled in 2 minutes) and separate shower,
Anne Semonin amenities
River view
How is the exec. lounge?
N/A
What was good and what was bad?
GOOD
- Very impressed by the quality of the service, from check-in desk to spa, bar and concierge
- Lovely birthday welcome gift
- Grandeur of the décor
- Boutique hotel feeling
- Love the spa and indoor pool
- The new A bar is elegant and has a trendy atmosphere
- Fast wifi
BAD
- Nothing. It was just a perfect stay
Value for $ or IHG Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Yes, definitely my favourite hotel in Amsterdam.
Video of the Executive suite with river view
Pictures of the city
Pictures of the hotel
Feb 4, 2016, 10:00 am
#41
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 1999
Location: Seat 1A, Juice pretty much everywhere, Mucci des Coins Exotiques
Posts: 34,339
Boston
Just a note to say that my stay this week was identical to my stay last November which is linked above in the 2015 list. Great hotel.
Feb 5, 2016, 4:00 am
#42
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: in a cabin
Posts: 6,515
IC AMS and TXL look rather nice.
Can't wait to try them.
Posting from IC PL again, same story as usual
Can't wait to try them.
Posting from IC PL again, same story as usual
Feb 9, 2016, 1:25 am
#43
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Amsterdam, Asia, UK
Programs: IHG RA (Spire), HH Diamond, MR Platinum, SQ Gold, KLM Gold, BAEC Gold
Posts: 5,072
IC Danang, IC Da Nang
IC Danang (IC Da Nang)
USEFUL NOTE:-
Vietnam now has 15day visa on arrival, with onward plane tickets, no return within 30days (transit is just 6hours visa free) .
VOA depends on passport, mine is UK, I had to show my onward e-ticket at passport control/immigration.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Very for first stay. First class RA treatment
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
o Booked 3night Sun-Wed entry level room on corporate rate (15% off) day before arrival
KING RESORT CLASSIC OCEAN VIEW
o Upgraded day before arrival to Peninsular Room (6-levels-up as 7th room rate) Had IC HCMC ring up for me to arrange xfers etc as booked midday before.
upgrade = 1BEDROOM CLUB PENINSULA SUITE OCEAN VIEW
(This may be abnormally good upgrade here, but nothing to base that on)
How are the rooms?
NOTE:- Peninsula Villas are 4x Units, ie Lower+Upper floors. Left/Right units, more like a semi-detached house . I had lower right hand unit on furthest unit from La Maison restaurant and the cable car upto the top levels/down to beach+pool
BEDROOM
o Comfy bed, pillows
o 2 armchair's, round table
o patio doors view to ocean (no balcony). If open patio doors aircon is disabled.
o 40" TV hanging from ceiling
o tea+coffee unit
BATHROOM
o Large bathroom is room behind bed
o Hann toletries, 100ml mini-pump containers. Just the one same scent version available though.
Large (long/deep/wide) 2-ton 1-piece-marble bath, fills quickly
+ window behind to let light into bathroom. Window is shielded from otyer passing guests
Long sink unit with his/hers sinks
+ Sliding Screens open up full width+height right above the bed
o Separate walkin shower
o Wardrobe type cupboard for clothes, with safe
o Toilet (very (too) small room ) curtained not door
ROOM's VERANDA
o Bigger area than bedroom views to front and right, downwards to the rocks, beach and sea. Adjacent Unit to my left is 20m away
o Work desk , big overhead fan
o First Double (King) Lounging bed angled looking out to beach with cushions
o Second King Lounging bed alongside front railing
o central minibar/cupboard unit. Usual free RA minibar, soda and beer(canned). drawer to side had 1/4 bottle spirits which are not included for RA
AND second (wine) minbar the other side, contained 16 bottles of wine and the glasses
How is the exec. lounge?
o Reasonable size, kind of circular round central column with outside balcony with view
o Breakfast available or can have in restaurant insead (I used only restaurant)
o afternoon nibbles. cakes, little sandwiches
o evening 2-hour canapes/drinks. Cocktails , Beers, sparkling wine (was pleaseant)
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yes
How was the minibar?
Water, Juices, Sodas, 4 cans beer. Due to distance (30mins to+fro) to Lounge for sodas, the hotel kindly topped up with extra sodas and beers
What was good and what was bad?
+Good
+ Super 6-level upgrade plus club-lounge access on booking the basic room
+ Sunday Brunch, 3 versions 1.5Mvnd pp Sunday Brunch, 2.0M White Champagne, 2.5M Pink Champagne, 20% discount applied. I chose white champane version.
+ Lounge access gives restaurant b/f. Plenty of choice, b/f up there with the better IC's
+ Hotel Lounge at airport if leaving on International flight
+ Taxi on arrival-Danang circa 30mins and 350,000 vnd fare
+ Hotel car Danang-Airport is reasonable at 840,000vnd (us$40) 2.5x taxi fare. For us$70 you get the BMW 7-series.
+ Hotel Lounge staff meet you airside at airport kerb on departure, and show you the way for checkin/passport/lounge.
+ Choice of golf buggies to take you door-2-door up/down to lounge/villas or use cable car and walk
-Neutral
- 10min walk from furthest Peninsular Unit through La Maison to get cable car to top level and restaurant+lounge. On departure asked and was told put there not as full but the beach restaurant below La Maison was having noisy maintenance work so I was put in furthest away
-Bad
- Hotel decided to run just 1-cable-car of pair on weekdays, as said hotel was low occupancy. NOT something a 5* resort should do.
Caused my breakfast time to drop from 35mins to 25mins on second morning as delayed me.
- Bit isolated, the free shuttles into danang center 2x/day are not really timed for guests convenience. Better take shuttle there and taxi back. Shuttles not just to Danang town center though.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Jury's out for me regards value in cool season. But then warmer times rates double and more. For those wanting SPA relax time daily then stay is of much more value, the ladies will no doubt love the resort more than us guys.
Was cooler than I expected late Jan, time to go is warmer May, (not July when too hot at 40degrees). HCMS further South is wamer than Central Vietnam. Northern Hanoi is cooler still
nb:- Expect hotel rates to carry on increasing as looks like owner has an agenda on pricing higher for exclusivity.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
I expect so, will look for warmer weather (May 2017 maybe?), but not the peak 40degree time (July).
USEFUL NOTE:-
Vietnam now has 15day visa on arrival, with onward plane tickets, no return within 30days (transit is just 6hours visa free) .
VOA depends on passport, mine is UK, I had to show my onward e-ticket at passport control/immigration.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Very for first stay. First class RA treatment
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
o Booked 3night Sun-Wed entry level room on corporate rate (15% off) day before arrival
KING RESORT CLASSIC OCEAN VIEW
o Upgraded day before arrival to Peninsular Room (6-levels-up as 7th room rate) Had IC HCMC ring up for me to arrange xfers etc as booked midday before.
upgrade = 1BEDROOM CLUB PENINSULA SUITE OCEAN VIEW
(This may be abnormally good upgrade here, but nothing to base that on)
How are the rooms?
NOTE:- Peninsula Villas are 4x Units, ie Lower+Upper floors. Left/Right units, more like a semi-detached house . I had lower right hand unit on furthest unit from La Maison restaurant and the cable car upto the top levels/down to beach+pool
BEDROOM
o Comfy bed, pillows
o 2 armchair's, round table
o patio doors view to ocean (no balcony). If open patio doors aircon is disabled.
o 40" TV hanging from ceiling
o tea+coffee unit
BATHROOM
o Large bathroom is room behind bed
o Hann toletries, 100ml mini-pump containers. Just the one same scent version available though.
Large (long/deep/wide) 2-ton 1-piece-marble bath, fills quickly
+ window behind to let light into bathroom. Window is shielded from otyer passing guests
Long sink unit with his/hers sinks
+ Sliding Screens open up full width+height right above the bed
o Separate walkin shower
o Wardrobe type cupboard for clothes, with safe
o Toilet (very (too) small room ) curtained not door
ROOM's VERANDA
o Bigger area than bedroom views to front and right, downwards to the rocks, beach and sea. Adjacent Unit to my left is 20m away
o Work desk , big overhead fan
o First Double (King) Lounging bed angled looking out to beach with cushions
o Second King Lounging bed alongside front railing
o central minibar/cupboard unit. Usual free RA minibar, soda and beer(canned). drawer to side had 1/4 bottle spirits which are not included for RA
AND second (wine) minbar the other side, contained 16 bottles of wine and the glasses
How is the exec. lounge?
o Reasonable size, kind of circular round central column with outside balcony with view
o Breakfast available or can have in restaurant insead (I used only restaurant)
o afternoon nibbles. cakes, little sandwiches
o evening 2-hour canapes/drinks. Cocktails , Beers, sparkling wine (was pleaseant)
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yes
How was the minibar?
Water, Juices, Sodas, 4 cans beer. Due to distance (30mins to+fro) to Lounge for sodas, the hotel kindly topped up with extra sodas and beers
What was good and what was bad?
+Good
+ Super 6-level upgrade plus club-lounge access on booking the basic room
+ Sunday Brunch, 3 versions 1.5Mvnd pp Sunday Brunch, 2.0M White Champagne, 2.5M Pink Champagne, 20% discount applied. I chose white champane version.
+ Lounge access gives restaurant b/f. Plenty of choice, b/f up there with the better IC's
+ Hotel Lounge at airport if leaving on International flight
+ Taxi on arrival-Danang circa 30mins and 350,000 vnd fare
+ Hotel car Danang-Airport is reasonable at 840,000vnd (us$40) 2.5x taxi fare. For us$70 you get the BMW 7-series.
+ Hotel Lounge staff meet you airside at airport kerb on departure, and show you the way for checkin/passport/lounge.
+ Choice of golf buggies to take you door-2-door up/down to lounge/villas or use cable car and walk
-Neutral
- 10min walk from furthest Peninsular Unit through La Maison to get cable car to top level and restaurant+lounge. On departure asked and was told put there not as full but the beach restaurant below La Maison was having noisy maintenance work so I was put in furthest away
-Bad
- Hotel decided to run just 1-cable-car of pair on weekdays, as said hotel was low occupancy. NOT something a 5* resort should do.
Caused my breakfast time to drop from 35mins to 25mins on second morning as delayed me.
- Bit isolated, the free shuttles into danang center 2x/day are not really timed for guests convenience. Better take shuttle there and taxi back. Shuttles not just to Danang town center though.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Jury's out for me regards value in cool season. But then warmer times rates double and more. For those wanting SPA relax time daily then stay is of much more value, the ladies will no doubt love the resort more than us guys.
Was cooler than I expected late Jan, time to go is warmer May, (not July when too hot at 40degrees). HCMS further South is wamer than Central Vietnam. Northern Hanoi is cooler still
nb:- Expect hotel rates to carry on increasing as looks like owner has an agenda on pricing higher for exclusivity.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
I expect so, will look for warmer weather (May 2017 maybe?), but not the peak 40degree time (July).
Feb 9, 2016, 6:28 am
#44
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Amsterdam, Asia, UK
Programs: IHG RA (Spire), HH Diamond, MR Platinum, SQ Gold, KLM Gold, BAEC Gold
Posts: 5,072
Ic hanoi westlake
IC HANOI WESTLAKE
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Kind of. Nothing wrong with hotel or RA bennies, but I had to book a Club Room for 2nights, as lower room types all sold which is apparently unusual here.
Clubroom Circa $230++ versus Superior us$100++, and I'd heard this IC treats RAs well with club always and a nice upgrade. That said (ignoring Residential unit rooms) a lovely double upgrade , Club -> Lotus Suite -> Westlake Suite
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
BOOKED - Clubroom
Upgraded = Grand Westlake Suite over Lake (their best possible over water version of this suite)
How are the rooms?
o Upper Floor (of 2) Right Hand Room over water
BEDROOM
Reasonable size bedroom,
Usual comfy bed and pillows
Desk, 40" tv, minibar unit (fridge not autobar)
Bathroom with bath and separate walkin shower
desk, chair,
balcony side of room with chair+table set
LIVING ROOM
Very large
Round dining table and 4chairs
Large 3seater sofa, 2 arcmchairs and rectangular 'coffee' table
TV unit
Balcony side view (but as from ubnit can view forwards too)
How is the exec. lounge?
Nice and roomy, well furnished
Nice breakfast although Lounge allows restaurant b/f too
Nice mid afternoon offering
Nice evening drinks, including cocktails and sparkling wine
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yes, 8x10" painted framed card
How was the minibar?
Water, Sodas, 4beers
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
+ Hotel picked out their best view Grand Westlake Suite as my upgrade
+ lovely quiet room
+ golf buggy to from room with my luggage on arrival+departure
+ two nice restaurants, i)Italian ii)vietnamese pus the b/f cafe restaurant
+ Just 30mins taxi from airport
+ All staff, Amb Checkin, Lounge, both restaurants and breakfast cafe restaurant
-Bad
- Nothing what so ever
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
For the Grand Westlake Suite suite room 's lake view is worth extra, only if weather is nice. January is cool and very foggy which spoilt the view
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Definitely.
I tried both IC and Hilton Hanoi Opera Friday night during Hanoi trip). IC won hands down for me
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Kind of. Nothing wrong with hotel or RA bennies, but I had to book a Club Room for 2nights, as lower room types all sold which is apparently unusual here.
Clubroom Circa $230++ versus Superior us$100++, and I'd heard this IC treats RAs well with club always and a nice upgrade. That said (ignoring Residential unit rooms) a lovely double upgrade , Club -> Lotus Suite -> Westlake Suite
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
BOOKED - Clubroom
Upgraded = Grand Westlake Suite over Lake (their best possible over water version of this suite)
How are the rooms?
o Upper Floor (of 2) Right Hand Room over water
BEDROOM
Reasonable size bedroom,
Usual comfy bed and pillows
Desk, 40" tv, minibar unit (fridge not autobar)
Bathroom with bath and separate walkin shower
desk, chair,
balcony side of room with chair+table set
LIVING ROOM
Very large
Round dining table and 4chairs
Large 3seater sofa, 2 arcmchairs and rectangular 'coffee' table
TV unit
Balcony side view (but as from ubnit can view forwards too)
How is the exec. lounge?
Nice and roomy, well furnished
Nice breakfast although Lounge allows restaurant b/f too
Nice mid afternoon offering
Nice evening drinks, including cocktails and sparkling wine
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yes, 8x10" painted framed card
How was the minibar?
Water, Sodas, 4beers
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
+ Hotel picked out their best view Grand Westlake Suite as my upgrade
+ lovely quiet room
+ golf buggy to from room with my luggage on arrival+departure
+ two nice restaurants, i)Italian ii)vietnamese pus the b/f cafe restaurant
+ Just 30mins taxi from airport
+ All staff, Amb Checkin, Lounge, both restaurants and breakfast cafe restaurant
-Bad
- Nothing what so ever
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
For the Grand Westlake Suite suite room 's lake view is worth extra, only if weather is nice. January is cool and very foggy which spoilt the view
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Definitely.
I tried both IC and Hilton Hanoi Opera Friday night during Hanoi trip). IC won hands down for me
Last edited by scubaccr; Feb 9, 2016 at 6:29 am Reason: add tite
Feb 9, 2016, 6:54 am
#45
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: Amsterdam, Asia, UK
Programs: IHG RA (Spire), HH Diamond, MR Platinum, SQ Gold, KLM Gold, BAEC Gold
Posts: 5,072
Ic hanoi westlake
IC HANOI WESTLAKE
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
YES, Very (this return visit after town center stay at Hilton Opera)
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
booked - Superior Room
Initial Upgrade = Grand Westlake Suite over Lake (their best possible over water version of this suite) saved for my return 1night visit despite only Sup room booking
BUT
I asked for main building room as a 1-night stay and I wanted to leave for airport at 0930. Was given main building 3rd Floor Grand Westlake Suite
How are the rooms?
Different Single room layout, to lake 2-rooms, overall smaller than over water version
o Double width, two window, 2-balcony room, at front with lake view
r/h/half of room
o King Bed facing balcony
o Desk, TV Unit and 40" TV
l/h/half of room
sofa, coffee table, armchairs
How is the exec. lounge?
Nice and roomy, well furnished
Nice breakfast although Lounge allows restaurant b/f too
Nice mid afternoon offering
Nice evening drinks, including cocktails and sparkling wine
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yes, 8x10" painted framed card
How was the minibar?
Water, Sodas, 4beers
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
+ Hotel picked out their best view Grand Westlake Suite again as my upgrade, but swapped to suite in main building for my early departure
+ Nice views from balconies over the lake
+ lovely quiet room. To right are no guest room as is Emergency Stairway
+ Used emergency stairs to go to ground floor as comes out at Club Lounge end, less walking
+ two nice restaurants, i)Italian ii)vietnamese pus the b/f cafe restaurant
+ booked hotel airport car for $40 on checkout. Ended up upgraded to Mercedes for transfer
+ All staff, Amb Checkin, Lounge, both restaurants and breakfast cafe restaurant
-Bad
- Nothing what so ever
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Great value for booking entry level Superior Room at $100++
Absolutely no reason to use points at this IC
I'd happily book pricier Clubroom/Lotus Suite over Basic Superior Room to guarantee that GWS over water room in a sunny summer season.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Definitely. I really want to get that GWS on water when season is warm and sunny and zero fog.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
YES, Very (this return visit after town center stay at Hilton Opera)
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
booked - Superior Room
Initial Upgrade = Grand Westlake Suite over Lake (their best possible over water version of this suite) saved for my return 1night visit despite only Sup room booking
BUT
I asked for main building room as a 1-night stay and I wanted to leave for airport at 0930. Was given main building 3rd Floor Grand Westlake Suite
How are the rooms?
Different Single room layout, to lake 2-rooms, overall smaller than over water version
o Double width, two window, 2-balcony room, at front with lake view
r/h/half of room
o King Bed facing balcony
o Desk, TV Unit and 40" TV
l/h/half of room
sofa, coffee table, armchairs
How is the exec. lounge?
Nice and roomy, well furnished
Nice breakfast although Lounge allows restaurant b/f too
Nice mid afternoon offering
Nice evening drinks, including cocktails and sparkling wine
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yes, 8x10" painted framed card
How was the minibar?
Water, Sodas, 4beers
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
+ Hotel picked out their best view Grand Westlake Suite again as my upgrade, but swapped to suite in main building for my early departure
+ Nice views from balconies over the lake
+ lovely quiet room. To right are no guest room as is Emergency Stairway
+ Used emergency stairs to go to ground floor as comes out at Club Lounge end, less walking
+ two nice restaurants, i)Italian ii)vietnamese pus the b/f cafe restaurant
+ booked hotel airport car for $40 on checkout. Ended up upgraded to Mercedes for transfer
+ All staff, Amb Checkin, Lounge, both restaurants and breakfast cafe restaurant
-Bad
- Nothing what so ever
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Great value for booking entry level Superior Room at $100++
Absolutely no reason to use points at this IC
I'd happily book pricier Clubroom/Lotus Suite over Basic Superior Room to guarantee that GWS over water room in a sunny summer season.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Definitely. I really want to get that GWS on water when season is warm and sunny and zero fog.