Jun 18, 2016, 4:39 am
Last edit by: HadesNL
Update 2023:
- it seems no new RA have been invited by IHG
- criteria for RA requalification are still unknown
- geographical location of member / country account registration seems of some impact due of covid19(restrictions/availability)
- RA is processed in weekly batches starting december 2022
- proof by nicolas75 shows RA qualification for 2024 seems to be strictly based on IC hotels only (not Regent, Kimpton, SixSenses anymore)
As per Tim O'Brien's post about IHG-corporate explaining RA criteria:
As you are aware,
Royal Ambassador is our invitation only tier with the number of members invited each year
limited to ensure our hotels are able to consistently deliver on the benefits promise,
elevating your stay experience at InterContinental Hotels & Resorts.
Although we do not currently have a published criteria for Royal Ambassador,
consideration is determined by variable activities within a members account such as
- qualified paid room nights & spend across our luxury brands (, 2023 EDIT: Post-Pandemic from 2024 InterContinental only : Pre-Pandemic also Kimpton & Regent ) ,
- member region,
- primary hotels,
- category (of the hotel class / €$ĄŁ price levels compared to currency rates / competition / city / region / country / continent )
- tenure (repeat custom / average spend at hotel)
Accompanying or adjoining reservations,
such as the additional rooms of your family etc are not included for Royal Ambassador consideration
but are included in determining Spire Elite status within IHG Rewards Club.
* FT:IHG forum community group consensus / empirical evidence shows
- that members must have stayed at different unique hotels per city / country / region / continent
the amount of uniques needed for RA qualification is unknown but generally extended long stays at just 1 hotel do not qualify
- IHG-corporate showing keen interest in how much guests are spending €$ĄŁ at hotel's own operated F&B / Spa / transport / extra services / other venues
atacama40 has given us insights that extra spend at the hotel charged to the hotelfolio generates EQP but also flags the database as high valued spending guest
- one must have AMB to get considered for RA invitation by IHG as they seem to evaluate over a longer period the length of one's tenure / devotion / spend / undisclosed criteria at stayed IC-hotels
2024
Royal Ambassador 2024 (Re)Qualification - statistics
Thank you everyone who graciously shared their status and statistics. I took the liberty to compose an overview.
The common factor that is instantly recognisable is:
IC: 69 N - 4 unique IC - $17400 - 2 unique country
AndyMick
IC: 96 N - 10 unique IC - 7 unique country - 164778 EQP
Ithink
IC: 78 N - 10 unique IC - Ł27000
Richelieu
~
ProjectSunburst
15 unique IC (USA) - $35000
Kimpton spend: $11000
Milleage Millionaire
IC: 100 N : 58 revenue & 42 award - 166514 EQP
Raynyan
~
Nicolas75
~
ILS2
$20000
HadesNL
IC: 41 N - 8 unique IC (2x USA, 1x UK, 3x EU, 1x Indonesia) 250458 EQP
Marlin1978
IC: 40 N - 9 unique IC (USA + EU) - $13000
HClee01
IC: 30 N - 6 unique IC - $8700
2x Kimpton / 1x Regent : 22 N - $7400
VAbeachgirl
IC: 88 N - 14 unique IC - 8 countries
2x Kimpton : 7 N
total $20000 (IC + Kimpton)
PremexecSNA
IHG : 85 N - 147000 EQP of which
90% revenue stay
85 % IC + Kimpton
10 unique IC
15 unique Kimpton
Darby1970
IC 100 N : 59 revenue of which
37 N : 11 unique IC (USA)& 4 (non-USA)
187682 EQP
Atacama40
IC + Kimpton : 40 N : UK, ME, Asia
Roomrate > Ł1000
EmeraldLady
11 unique IC : 4 continents
IHG: 87 N
$20000
Dmac1418
IC: 3 N - 2 unjque (IC Houston MC & IC San Diego)
6S Fiji $22000 (room: $10000 + spend $12000)
Smythmeister
~
Additional statistics can be found in the comments of LL
https://loyaltylobby.com/2023/12/03/...4-share-yours/
The only other place on the whole interweb that has an interest in Royal Ambassador.
============================
2023
Below our FT-members from the IHG forum with RA status
some of whom have graciously shared their statistics to shed some light
-----------------------
Mileage millionaire: 155359 EQP - IC nights 58 - total nights 108 - unique IC 15
Shoven : $16000 - IC nights 49 - Kimpton nights 8 - total nights 57 - unique IC 5 - unique Kimpton 2 - [unique countries UK/Thailand]
Stimpy: overall stats higher than Shoven
Nicholas75 : 230236 EQP - 93 EQN
Raynyan : 190000 EQP - IC/Kimpton nights 90 - unique IC/Kimpton 10
Vsevolod4 : $24000 - IC nights 67 - total nights 87
Vabeachgirl : $17500 - IC nights 75 - Kimpton nights 4 - total nights 79 - unique properties 13 [unique countries 7]
Hclee01: >$12600 - >156K EQP - 54 EQN - unique IC 3 - unique Kimpton 1 - unique Regent 2 [unique countries Singapore/Thailand/Taiwan/Japan]
Chinatrvl :
Ithink : 220.000 EQP - 47 EQN
Ninjalad : 150000 EQP - IC nights 34
Andymick : 145000 EQP - IC nights 100
Gentleman adventurer :
Marlin1978 :
Pseudo nim :
Hadesnl : 250000 EQP - Kimpton/IC nights 30 - 44 EQN - unique IC 3 - unique Kimpton 2 [unique countries UK/NL/FRA/Indonesia]
Itadakimasu : 120000 EQP - IC nights 12 - 51 EQN
Atacama40 : >Ł25000 - IC nights 60 - unique IC 8 - unique Kimpton 1
Eein : corporate rates global & local
Raynyan's friends : RA extension because their account is Japanese registered
Tim O'Brien: after own friendly persuasion effort : $8,500 - IC nights 79 of which 49 at pres.suite - unique IC 4 [unique countries US/AUS/CAN]
----------------
The only other place on the internet that has an interest in RA (re)qualification statistics is at the comments at Loyaltylobby,
more 2023 RA datapoints can be found there:
https://loyaltylobby.com/2022/12/09/...re-your-stats/
https://loyaltylobby.com/2023/01/18/...re-your-stats/
==============================================
Update 2020 / 2021:
RA status was extended due to the global pandemic of covid19
================================================== =======
Update 2019: The RA status granted at the start of the calendar year 2017 and 2018 has been based on IC revenue. As from 2019 criteria again have become vague. RA is not achieved through IC spend only. Other, unknown elements are taken into account as well. (Fact: Some users with very high +25k IC spend were not renewed in 2019.)
Update December 2018: it looks like some accounts are proactively being renewed in December 2018, well ahead of the stated expiration of Jan 31, 2019. It is currently unknown what criteria were used, but previous years appeared to indicate around $10K++ in IC spend only.
As before, please Divide EQPs by 10 to get $$$ Spend
- it seems no new RA have been invited by IHG
- criteria for RA requalification are still unknown
- geographical location of member / country account registration seems of some impact due of covid19(restrictions/availability)
- RA is processed in weekly batches starting december 2022
- proof by nicolas75 shows RA qualification for 2024 seems to be strictly based on IC hotels only (not Regent, Kimpton, SixSenses anymore)
As per Tim O'Brien's post about IHG-corporate explaining RA criteria:
As you are aware,
Royal Ambassador is our invitation only tier with the number of members invited each year
limited to ensure our hotels are able to consistently deliver on the benefits promise,
elevating your stay experience at InterContinental Hotels & Resorts.
Although we do not currently have a published criteria for Royal Ambassador,
consideration is determined by variable activities within a members account such as
- qualified paid room nights & spend across our luxury brands (, 2023 EDIT: Post-Pandemic from 2024 InterContinental only : Pre-Pandemic also Kimpton & Regent ) ,
- member region,
- primary hotels,
- category (of the hotel class / €$ĄŁ price levels compared to currency rates / competition / city / region / country / continent )
- tenure (repeat custom / average spend at hotel)
Accompanying or adjoining reservations,
such as the additional rooms of your family etc are not included for Royal Ambassador consideration
but are included in determining Spire Elite status within IHG Rewards Club.
* FT:IHG forum community group consensus / empirical evidence shows
- that members must have stayed at different unique hotels per city / country / region / continent
the amount of uniques needed for RA qualification is unknown but generally extended long stays at just 1 hotel do not qualify
- IHG-corporate showing keen interest in how much guests are spending €$ĄŁ at hotel's own operated F&B / Spa / transport / extra services / other venues
atacama40 has given us insights that extra spend at the hotel charged to the hotelfolio generates EQP but also flags the database as high valued spending guest
- one must have AMB to get considered for RA invitation by IHG as they seem to evaluate over a longer period the length of one's tenure / devotion / spend / undisclosed criteria at stayed IC-hotels
2024
Royal Ambassador 2024 (Re)Qualification - statistics
Thank you everyone who graciously shared their status and statistics. I took the liberty to compose an overview.
The common factor that is instantly recognisable is:
- everyone has a valid AMB membership
- everyone has spent a good amount in €$Ł
IC: 69 N - 4 unique IC - $17400 - 2 unique country
AndyMick
IC: 96 N - 10 unique IC - 7 unique country - 164778 EQP
Ithink
IC: 78 N - 10 unique IC - Ł27000
Richelieu
~
ProjectSunburst
15 unique IC (USA) - $35000
Kimpton spend: $11000
Milleage Millionaire
IC: 100 N : 58 revenue & 42 award - 166514 EQP
Raynyan
~
Nicolas75
~
ILS2
$20000
HadesNL
IC: 41 N - 8 unique IC (2x USA, 1x UK, 3x EU, 1x Indonesia) 250458 EQP
Marlin1978
IC: 40 N - 9 unique IC (USA + EU) - $13000
HClee01
IC: 30 N - 6 unique IC - $8700
2x Kimpton / 1x Regent : 22 N - $7400
VAbeachgirl
IC: 88 N - 14 unique IC - 8 countries
2x Kimpton : 7 N
total $20000 (IC + Kimpton)
PremexecSNA
IHG : 85 N - 147000 EQP of which
90% revenue stay
85 % IC + Kimpton
10 unique IC
15 unique Kimpton
Darby1970
IC 100 N : 59 revenue of which
37 N : 11 unique IC (USA)& 4 (non-USA)
187682 EQP
Atacama40
IC + Kimpton : 40 N : UK, ME, Asia
Roomrate > Ł1000
EmeraldLady
11 unique IC : 4 continents
IHG: 87 N
$20000
Dmac1418
IC: 3 N - 2 unjque (IC Houston MC & IC San Diego)
6S Fiji $22000 (room: $10000 + spend $12000)
Smythmeister
~
Additional statistics can be found in the comments of LL
https://loyaltylobby.com/2023/12/03/...4-share-yours/
The only other place on the whole interweb that has an interest in Royal Ambassador.
============================
2023
Below our FT-members from the IHG forum with RA status
some of whom have graciously shared their statistics to shed some light
-----------------------
Mileage millionaire: 155359 EQP - IC nights 58 - total nights 108 - unique IC 15
Shoven : $16000 - IC nights 49 - Kimpton nights 8 - total nights 57 - unique IC 5 - unique Kimpton 2 - [unique countries UK/Thailand]
Stimpy: overall stats higher than Shoven
Nicholas75 : 230236 EQP - 93 EQN
Raynyan : 190000 EQP - IC/Kimpton nights 90 - unique IC/Kimpton 10
Vsevolod4 : $24000 - IC nights 67 - total nights 87
Vabeachgirl : $17500 - IC nights 75 - Kimpton nights 4 - total nights 79 - unique properties 13 [unique countries 7]
Hclee01: >$12600 - >156K EQP - 54 EQN - unique IC 3 - unique Kimpton 1 - unique Regent 2 [unique countries Singapore/Thailand/Taiwan/Japan]
Chinatrvl :
Ithink : 220.000 EQP - 47 EQN
Ninjalad : 150000 EQP - IC nights 34
Andymick : 145000 EQP - IC nights 100
Gentleman adventurer :
Marlin1978 :
Pseudo nim :
Hadesnl : 250000 EQP - Kimpton/IC nights 30 - 44 EQN - unique IC 3 - unique Kimpton 2 [unique countries UK/NL/FRA/Indonesia]
Itadakimasu : 120000 EQP - IC nights 12 - 51 EQN
Atacama40 : >Ł25000 - IC nights 60 - unique IC 8 - unique Kimpton 1
Eein : corporate rates global & local
Raynyan's friends : RA extension because their account is Japanese registered
Tim O'Brien: after own friendly persuasion effort : $8,500 - IC nights 79 of which 49 at pres.suite - unique IC 4 [unique countries US/AUS/CAN]
----------------
The only other place on the internet that has an interest in RA (re)qualification statistics is at the comments at Loyaltylobby,
more 2023 RA datapoints can be found there:
https://loyaltylobby.com/2022/12/09/...re-your-stats/
https://loyaltylobby.com/2023/01/18/...re-your-stats/
==============================================
Update 2020 / 2021:
RA status was extended due to the global pandemic of covid19
================================================== =======
Update 2019: The RA status granted at the start of the calendar year 2017 and 2018 has been based on IC revenue. As from 2019 criteria again have become vague. RA is not achieved through IC spend only. Other, unknown elements are taken into account as well. (Fact: Some users with very high +25k IC spend were not renewed in 2019.)
Update December 2018: it looks like some accounts are proactively being renewed in December 2018, well ahead of the stated expiration of Jan 31, 2019. It is currently unknown what criteria were used, but previous years appeared to indicate around $10K++ in IC spend only.
As before, please Divide EQPs by 10 to get $$$ Spend
================================================== =====
December 2019 / January 2020 Link to RA Renewals & Upgrades
================================================== =====
================================================== =====
JANUARY 2019 RA RENEWAL STATS [put total IHG vs. IC if you can]
================================================== =====
NAME.... IHG total (paid)/IC/EQP, break out IC spend if you can
Pseudo Nim 73 IC nights, $14.6K IC spend ($17.7K total),
Shoven 70 (50) IC nights, $17.3K IC spend ($17.3K total),
Unterwegs 52 IC nights, approx $12K net IC spend. No other brands this year! No more mediocre HIs to make status.
Kaix 63 IC nights, $14.4K IC spend ($15.1K total)
Tim O'Brien 26 IC Paid Nights as at Dec 27, when notified of RA renewal, 140,171 EQP, IC Net Spend 14, 017.
Vsevolod4 IHG total 132, IHG total paid 101, IC nights 85, IC Qualified Spend $16.5K, total EQP 398,800, Kimpton nights: 3, RA Ambassador Kit renewed Dec 27, RA renewal (again) and Kimpton Inner Circle upgrade Jan 4.
kaka(mom) 34 nights 1 country (all IC), IC spend:23k USD
JANUARY 2019 RA RENEWAL STATS [put total IHG vs. IC if you can]
================================================== =====
NAME.... IHG total (paid)/IC/EQP, break out IC spend if you can
Pseudo Nim 73 IC nights, $14.6K IC spend ($17.7K total),
Shoven 70 (50) IC nights, $17.3K IC spend ($17.3K total),
Unterwegs 52 IC nights, approx $12K net IC spend. No other brands this year! No more mediocre HIs to make status.
Kaix 63 IC nights, $14.4K IC spend ($15.1K total)
Tim O'Brien 26 IC Paid Nights as at Dec 27, when notified of RA renewal, 140,171 EQP, IC Net Spend 14, 017.
Vsevolod4 IHG total 132, IHG total paid 101, IC nights 85, IC Qualified Spend $16.5K, total EQP 398,800, Kimpton nights: 3, RA Ambassador Kit renewed Dec 27, RA renewal (again) and Kimpton Inner Circle upgrade Jan 4.
kaka(mom) 34 nights 1 country (all IC), IC spend:23k USD
Lewis42 / 81 Total (unknown IC) / $16k IC / $2k Kimpton / 4 Continents
81 nights total
$18k Kimpton / IC (about $2k kimpton)
stays in 4 continents
been Ra for ~3-4 years
ID;Name;Confirm;Kit msg; Revenue ;Nights;Challenge?;Additional Info
40;stimpy;+;none; $9,000.00 ;50;?;RA since 2001 - exceptional renewal
38;turner32;-;none; $9,000.00 ;?;?;8/9 years as RA
49;hannes08;+;01/16/2019; $9,990.00 ;52;2000;renewal probably because of challenge
17;Lewis42;+;12/27/2018; $10,000.00 ;?;2000;renewal probably because of challenge
27;scienm;+;none; $10,032.00 ;32;?;8 years RA
25;hclee01;+;none; $10,142.16 ;37;?;current RA since 2014 - manual renewal
18;annihilation;-;none; $10,605.00 ;39;?;
51;crosskonaftw;?;none; $10,700.00 ;35;?;not yet RA
30;Land-of-Miles;+;none; $10,999.00 ;19;?;
16;Kimsbrand;-;none; $11,297.88 ;5;?;not RA yet. 13,532.92 USD total?
48;Urby38;+;12/27/2018; $11,300.00 ;47;?;Royal since 2012
42;SAWorldVoyager;?;12/21/2018; $11,391.52 ;?;?;
14;Cielito_;+;none; $11,511.00 ;62;no;77/62/8 with 12042 USD after batch
45;whimike;+;none; $11,700.00 ;?;?;RA for about 7 years
10;Unterwegs;+;12/27/2018; $12,000.00 ;52;yes;
44;serendipity1211;+;01/16/2019; $12,300.00 ;45;no;first-time RA
28;cazane;+;12/27/2018; $12,600.00 ;61;no;4 prepaid nights not posted until 27th 11890 -> 12600
11;VaBeachGirl;+;12/27/2018; $12,750.00 ;68;no;
50;lukah;?;none; $12,800.00 ;80;?;3 years RA
15;336;-;none; $12,900.00 ;16;2000;NOT completed challenge / Lots of adjusted stays
1;DonPedro;+;12/21/2018; $12,971.00 ;49;no;
47;SD2019;+;none; $13,000.00 ;35;no;stays erroneously adjusted or marked as overlapping
36;BRUSS;+;01/16/2019; $13,001.00 ;?;?;
13;Tim O'Brien;+;12/27/2018; $14,017.00 ;26;?; Kimpton;
33;marlin1978;?;12/27/2018; $14,182.00 ;46;no;
26;Kaix;?;12/27/2018; $14,400.00 ;63;?;
9;Pseudo Nim;+;12/27/2018; $14,600.00 ;73;?;
41;PMMMDL;?;?; $15,000.00 ;50;?;
23;nicolas75;?;12/27/2018; $15,000.00 ;81;?;
5;sharps1337;+;12/21/2018; $15,200.00 ;79;no;
3;Raynyan (friend2);?;12/21/2018; $15,500.00 ;69;no;
22;pantanal;+;12/27/2018; $16,000.00 ;?;?;
24;vsevolod4;+;12/27/2018; $16,319.00 ;84;no;
34;boekel;?;12/27/2018; $16,950.00 ;60;no;
21;ILS2;+;none; $17,000.00 ;40;?;
8;skaya (2x);+;12/27/2018; $17,000.00 ;?;?;
7;shoven;+;12/27/2018; $17,304.00 ;50;?;
51;EmeraldLady;+;12/27/2018; $18,000.00 ;47;?;
32;Mr. Chan;?;12/21/2018; $19,582.00 ;45;yes;completed challenge
46;kaka;+;12/21/2018; $20,001.00 ;34;no;
31;christenlabelle;?;none; $22,000.00 ;51;1k + Kimpton;
39;marcel.baden;?;12/27/2018; $22,000.00 ;77;?;
35;Flying Lawyer;?;12/27/2018; $22,135.00 ;70;?;
37;Roey007;?;none; $25,000.00 ;42;?;9 years RA - 9k adjustment: no kit message with 11k before
12;IThink;+;12/27/2018; $25,000.00 ;85;no;
19;HadesNL;+;12/27/2018; $28,273.90 ;52;?;
4;Raynyan (friend3);?;12/21/2018; $30,000.00 ;73;no;
29;btravers33;?;12/27/2018; $30,000.00 ;98;?;
2;Raynyan (friend1);?;12/21/2018; $32,000.00 ;75;no;
20;Raynyan;+;12/27/2018; ? ;70;?;~30 nights not counted somehow
6;samjnz;?;12/21/2018; ? ;?;2000;
04 JAN 2018 RA RENEWAL STATS [put total IHG vs. IC if you can]
================================================== =====
NAME.... IHG total (paid)/IC/EQP, break out IC spend if you can
Pseudo Nim 139 (116)/85/192K, of which $18K in IC
Boekel 85 (70)55/170K, of which $15K in IC
Tim O'Brien 29 IC Nights 2 Non IC IHG nights, 341,976 EQP
scubaccr 55 paid IC Nights , us$13,000++ / 4paid non-IC nights us$900++ (plus 8x IC reward nights, 20x non-IC reward nights) <== Sorry.. forgot to cop exact EQP values before 1/1/2018 acct zeroing
Cielito_ 81/77/5 - $7,353 F&B + $11,656 Room = $19,009 IC net spend - EQP 468,000 (First Time RA)
hclee01 50 IC us$13k++
Land-of-Miles ?? IC us$10.5k++
cazane 60 IC us$11.8k++
VaBeachGirl 54 IC us$13k++
PiffPaffPuff 60IC us$25k++
??????? 35 IC us$10.2k++ <== first time RA ref PiffPaffPuff colleague
Spitcool 40 IC us$15k++
Eltham 40 IC us$12k++
shoven 43 IC us$15k++ <== first time RA
skaya (partner) ?? IC us$10.2k++ <== renewed
darby1970 62 IC us$13k++
The Mileage Millionaire 102 paid IHG nights / 100 paid IC nights / 229k EQP / $22.7k++ IC spend
Orion_1 8 nights at IC, spent at 2 properties - USD 10,200 in total at ICs (honeymoon...)
HadesNL Elite qualifying points: 239,095, Qualifying nights: 39
Aussielori 50 IC us$8k++ 9.2k overall renewed on 16 jan
04 JAN 2018 RA LOSS STATS [put total IHG vs. IC if you can]
================================================== =====
tarek.h ?? IC us$9.1k++
sharps1337 IC us$9.9k++ (and 129 non-IC us$17k++ )
04 JAN 2017 RA RENEWAL STATS (Please include 2016 y/end EQP count)
================================================== =====
NAME.... IHG/IC/IC's EQP $$$$s
SCUBACCR 80/56/13 EQP=14,979 (Split $12864 + $2115)
HANNES08 76/46/10 EQP=11,200
OZ_CATALYST 75/63/8 EQP=14,700 (first Time RA) ($12414 at ICs)
TAREK.H 46/37/4 EQP=14.500 ($10,917 IC Spend)
TravelTheWorld66 147/33/11 EQP=27.972 ($8500 IC Spend)
HCLEE01 67/50/6 EQP=14880
ATACAMA40 82/56/10 EQP=??,???
VaBeachGirl 84/42/12 EQP=15,000
Land-of-Miles 87/73/10 EQP=40,000
SSH4POOH 132/99/28 EQP=50,000
???????? 75/35/8 EQP=??,??? (First Time RA, ref SSH4POOH)
iThink 82/36/11 EQP = 18,200
aussielori 75/45/5 EQP =15,100
1010101 50/48/4 = 12,500
MYSTERY7 63/45/? EQP=25,000 (First Time RA)
EmeraldLady 68/42/10 EQP=15,500
NKU 86/80/5 EQP=20,000
Petrus 110/40/3 EQP=20,000 ($8500 IC Spend)
JOHHENRIK 74/65/10 EQP=16,800
SyLance 76/76/4 EQP=17,500 (RA again after 3years missed)
Pseudo Nim 90/58/15 IC spend $9,500, $17K across chain (175K EQP)
Tim O'Brien 58 nights, EQP 474,576 , July 31, 2017 Year End, renewed to Dec 29, 2017
HadesNL 22/20/7 and us$20,000 ref two posts.
PROTEOME 53/36/? $25,000 (Plus further 30x IC Non-qual nights and 18 IC Award nights) <== nb Maybe/Maybe-Not the IC Non-qual $$'s count as about half EQPs spend, probably > 10k IC qual spend
Chinatrvl 88 nights (in all brands, but c. 75 in ICs), 300,000 EQP, ADR c. 115 USD as I stayed mostly on a locally negotiated rate (spend c. 10k USD)
Unterwegs 78(my count 86)/63/10/285.000 (according to email, I would have expected less. my spending estimate is 15-20K$)
Lewis42 77/39/10 EQP=16010
Whimike 88/35/12 EQP=14220
04 JAN 2017 RA Demotion to xxx Ambassador stats (if > 75/30/3)
==================================================
NAME IHG/IC/IC's EQP $$$$s
[Archived - no longer valid] New (Royal) Ambassador Criteria
A document was unintentionally available in the internet about changes to the (Royal) Ambassador Qualifying and Re-Qualifying criteria.
The document is available on
http://viewfromthewing.img.boardinga...Ambassador.pdf
Older discussion
There was an ongoing discussion about the criteria for some time. This thread is now closed.
update from Executive Liaison Sept, 2023,
spend at other IHG luxury brands does count for RA, and Renewal.
Brands weren't stated, but reasonable to assume Six Senses, Regent, and Kimpton.
$18k Kimpton / IC (about $2k kimpton)
stays in 4 continents
been Ra for ~3-4 years
ID;Name;Confirm;Kit msg; Revenue ;Nights;Challenge?;Additional Info
40;stimpy;+;none; $9,000.00 ;50;?;RA since 2001 - exceptional renewal
38;turner32;-;none; $9,000.00 ;?;?;8/9 years as RA
49;hannes08;+;01/16/2019; $9,990.00 ;52;2000;renewal probably because of challenge
17;Lewis42;+;12/27/2018; $10,000.00 ;?;2000;renewal probably because of challenge
27;scienm;+;none; $10,032.00 ;32;?;8 years RA
25;hclee01;+;none; $10,142.16 ;37;?;current RA since 2014 - manual renewal
18;annihilation;-;none; $10,605.00 ;39;?;
51;crosskonaftw;?;none; $10,700.00 ;35;?;not yet RA
30;Land-of-Miles;+;none; $10,999.00 ;19;?;
16;Kimsbrand;-;none; $11,297.88 ;5;?;not RA yet. 13,532.92 USD total?
48;Urby38;+;12/27/2018; $11,300.00 ;47;?;Royal since 2012
42;SAWorldVoyager;?;12/21/2018; $11,391.52 ;?;?;
14;Cielito_;+;none; $11,511.00 ;62;no;77/62/8 with 12042 USD after batch
45;whimike;+;none; $11,700.00 ;?;?;RA for about 7 years
10;Unterwegs;+;12/27/2018; $12,000.00 ;52;yes;
44;serendipity1211;+;01/16/2019; $12,300.00 ;45;no;first-time RA
28;cazane;+;12/27/2018; $12,600.00 ;61;no;4 prepaid nights not posted until 27th 11890 -> 12600
11;VaBeachGirl;+;12/27/2018; $12,750.00 ;68;no;
50;lukah;?;none; $12,800.00 ;80;?;3 years RA
15;336;-;none; $12,900.00 ;16;2000;NOT completed challenge / Lots of adjusted stays
1;DonPedro;+;12/21/2018; $12,971.00 ;49;no;
47;SD2019;+;none; $13,000.00 ;35;no;stays erroneously adjusted or marked as overlapping
36;BRUSS;+;01/16/2019; $13,001.00 ;?;?;
13;Tim O'Brien;+;12/27/2018; $14,017.00 ;26;?; Kimpton;
33;marlin1978;?;12/27/2018; $14,182.00 ;46;no;
26;Kaix;?;12/27/2018; $14,400.00 ;63;?;
9;Pseudo Nim;+;12/27/2018; $14,600.00 ;73;?;
41;PMMMDL;?;?; $15,000.00 ;50;?;
23;nicolas75;?;12/27/2018; $15,000.00 ;81;?;
5;sharps1337;+;12/21/2018; $15,200.00 ;79;no;
3;Raynyan (friend2);?;12/21/2018; $15,500.00 ;69;no;
22;pantanal;+;12/27/2018; $16,000.00 ;?;?;
24;vsevolod4;+;12/27/2018; $16,319.00 ;84;no;
34;boekel;?;12/27/2018; $16,950.00 ;60;no;
21;ILS2;+;none; $17,000.00 ;40;?;
8;skaya (2x);+;12/27/2018; $17,000.00 ;?;?;
7;shoven;+;12/27/2018; $17,304.00 ;50;?;
51;EmeraldLady;+;12/27/2018; $18,000.00 ;47;?;
32;Mr. Chan;?;12/21/2018; $19,582.00 ;45;yes;completed challenge
46;kaka;+;12/21/2018; $20,001.00 ;34;no;
31;christenlabelle;?;none; $22,000.00 ;51;1k + Kimpton;
39;marcel.baden;?;12/27/2018; $22,000.00 ;77;?;
35;Flying Lawyer;?;12/27/2018; $22,135.00 ;70;?;
37;Roey007;?;none; $25,000.00 ;42;?;9 years RA - 9k adjustment: no kit message with 11k before
12;IThink;+;12/27/2018; $25,000.00 ;85;no;
19;HadesNL;+;12/27/2018; $28,273.90 ;52;?;
4;Raynyan (friend3);?;12/21/2018; $30,000.00 ;73;no;
29;btravers33;?;12/27/2018; $30,000.00 ;98;?;
2;Raynyan (friend1);?;12/21/2018; $32,000.00 ;75;no;
20;Raynyan;+;12/27/2018; ? ;70;?;~30 nights not counted somehow
6;samjnz;?;12/21/2018; ? ;?;2000;
04 JAN 2018 RA RENEWAL STATS [put total IHG vs. IC if you can]
================================================== =====
NAME.... IHG total (paid)/IC/EQP, break out IC spend if you can
Pseudo Nim 139 (116)/85/192K, of which $18K in IC
Boekel 85 (70)55/170K, of which $15K in IC
Tim O'Brien 29 IC Nights 2 Non IC IHG nights, 341,976 EQP
scubaccr 55 paid IC Nights , us$13,000++ / 4paid non-IC nights us$900++ (plus 8x IC reward nights, 20x non-IC reward nights) <== Sorry.. forgot to cop exact EQP values before 1/1/2018 acct zeroing
Cielito_ 81/77/5 - $7,353 F&B + $11,656 Room = $19,009 IC net spend - EQP 468,000 (First Time RA)
hclee01 50 IC us$13k++
Land-of-Miles ?? IC us$10.5k++
cazane 60 IC us$11.8k++
VaBeachGirl 54 IC us$13k++
PiffPaffPuff 60IC us$25k++
??????? 35 IC us$10.2k++ <== first time RA ref PiffPaffPuff colleague
Spitcool 40 IC us$15k++
Eltham 40 IC us$12k++
shoven 43 IC us$15k++ <== first time RA
skaya (partner) ?? IC us$10.2k++ <== renewed
darby1970 62 IC us$13k++
The Mileage Millionaire 102 paid IHG nights / 100 paid IC nights / 229k EQP / $22.7k++ IC spend
Orion_1 8 nights at IC, spent at 2 properties - USD 10,200 in total at ICs (honeymoon...)
HadesNL Elite qualifying points: 239,095, Qualifying nights: 39
Aussielori 50 IC us$8k++ 9.2k overall renewed on 16 jan
04 JAN 2018 RA LOSS STATS [put total IHG vs. IC if you can]
================================================== =====
tarek.h ?? IC us$9.1k++
sharps1337 IC us$9.9k++ (and 129 non-IC us$17k++ )
04 JAN 2017 RA RENEWAL STATS (Please include 2016 y/end EQP count)
================================================== =====
NAME.... IHG/IC/IC's EQP $$$$s
SCUBACCR 80/56/13 EQP=14,979 (Split $12864 + $2115)
HANNES08 76/46/10 EQP=11,200
OZ_CATALYST 75/63/8 EQP=14,700 (first Time RA) ($12414 at ICs)
TAREK.H 46/37/4 EQP=14.500 ($10,917 IC Spend)
TravelTheWorld66 147/33/11 EQP=27.972 ($8500 IC Spend)
HCLEE01 67/50/6 EQP=14880
ATACAMA40 82/56/10 EQP=??,???
VaBeachGirl 84/42/12 EQP=15,000
Land-of-Miles 87/73/10 EQP=40,000
SSH4POOH 132/99/28 EQP=50,000
???????? 75/35/8 EQP=??,??? (First Time RA, ref SSH4POOH)
iThink 82/36/11 EQP = 18,200
aussielori 75/45/5 EQP =15,100
1010101 50/48/4 = 12,500
MYSTERY7 63/45/? EQP=25,000 (First Time RA)
EmeraldLady 68/42/10 EQP=15,500
NKU 86/80/5 EQP=20,000
Petrus 110/40/3 EQP=20,000 ($8500 IC Spend)
JOHHENRIK 74/65/10 EQP=16,800
SyLance 76/76/4 EQP=17,500 (RA again after 3years missed)
Pseudo Nim 90/58/15 IC spend $9,500, $17K across chain (175K EQP)
Tim O'Brien 58 nights, EQP 474,576 , July 31, 2017 Year End, renewed to Dec 29, 2017
HadesNL 22/20/7 and us$20,000 ref two posts.
PROTEOME 53/36/? $25,000 (Plus further 30x IC Non-qual nights and 18 IC Award nights) <== nb Maybe/Maybe-Not the IC Non-qual $$'s count as about half EQPs spend, probably > 10k IC qual spend
Chinatrvl 88 nights (in all brands, but c. 75 in ICs), 300,000 EQP, ADR c. 115 USD as I stayed mostly on a locally negotiated rate (spend c. 10k USD)
Unterwegs 78(my count 86)/63/10/285.000 (according to email, I would have expected less. my spending estimate is 15-20K$)
Lewis42 77/39/10 EQP=16010
Whimike 88/35/12 EQP=14220
04 JAN 2017 RA Demotion to xxx Ambassador stats (if > 75/30/3)
==================================================
NAME IHG/IC/IC's EQP $$$$s
[Archived - no longer valid] New (Royal) Ambassador Criteria
A document was unintentionally available in the internet about changes to the (Royal) Ambassador Qualifying and Re-Qualifying criteria.
The document is available on
http://viewfromthewing.img.boardinga...Ambassador.pdf
Older discussion
There was an ongoing discussion about the criteria for some time. This thread is now closed.
update from Executive Liaison Sept, 2023,
spend at other IHG luxury brands does count for RA, and Renewal.
Brands weren't stated, but reasonable to assume Six Senses, Regent, and Kimpton.
New RA qualifying criteria based on IC Revenue
Feb 2, 2019, 3:20 am
#3301
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: In the air
Programs: Occasional RTW club
Posts: 6,917
16. InterContinental Ambassador one category room upgrade and Royal Ambassador two category room upgrade exclude Presidential and Specialty Suites. Royal Ambassadors purchasing a suite category will receive a one category suite upgrade excluding Presidential and Specialty Suites.
I used to book suites and got 2 cat higher suites at many ICs but it looks like gone from now.. what a disaster.. This was that I valued most with RA programs because we don't get an upgrade to standard suites from basic room category like other chains.
Now the minibar almost gone, 2-cat suite upgrade also gone, 2-cat upgrade usually lame, no benefits on reward nights. I'm really not sure to continue with ICs or move to Hyatt at this point
I used to book suites and got 2 cat higher suites at many ICs but it looks like gone from now.. what a disaster.. This was that I valued most with RA programs because we don't get an upgrade to standard suites from basic room category like other chains.
Now the minibar almost gone, 2-cat suite upgrade also gone, 2-cat upgrade usually lame, no benefits on reward nights. I'm really not sure to continue with ICs or move to Hyatt at this point
I will still stay at ICs when convenient, and with my travel habits I'll probably make another renewal next year, but I am no longer going to be religious about it - and if there's both a Hyatt and an IC in a city, I'll be more likely to go to the Hyatt. Seriously - Park Hyatts have spoiled me. Now that's a true luxury brand!
Feb 2, 2019, 3:29 am
#3302
Join Date: Jan 2016
Programs: QF Plat, IHG RA, Marriott Plat
Posts: 255
Sorry if this has already been taken up, but have you guys noticed this line below in the new T&Cs?
Some, including myself, were thinking that there might be an enhancement by which properties without a lounge would provide F&B credits in lieu of club experiences.
But as the compensation is given only in cases where a lounge access can physically be provided but for some reason is not given, this is not the case at properties without a lounge.
Some, including myself, were thinking that there might be an enhancement by which properties without a lounge would provide F&B credits in lieu of club experiences.
But as the compensation is given only in cases where a lounge access can physically be provided but for some reason is not given, this is not the case at properties without a lounge.
9. Benefits Guarantee: If a hotel is unable to fulfil the guaranteed benefits of a room category upgrade, 4pm late check-out, or Club InterContinental lounge access/alternate experience for Royal Ambassadors where provided, unless otherwise stated as an exception, the member will receive compensation for the undelivered benefit(s).
Feb 2, 2019, 12:20 pm
#3303
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: NYC
Programs: IHG, RC, HH, AA, QF, UA, Aeroplan
Posts: 2,685
if one level suite upgrade policy implemented, i'll be off too.
silly policy.
they must be wanting to drive RA's to book least expensive room, and get club suite (is that still minimum room category upgrade?)
keep the RA ADR's lower than Ambassadors?
no different to ambassador one room category upgrade policy, for $200 annually? better off booking on priceline, and giving the duty manager $100 tip.
my days of paying USD700 plus, value added lucrative for the properties, for suites two or three categories under Presidential are over, leave them sitting empty.
superior room $100
deluxe room $200
junior suite $300
1 bed suite $400
book a $200 deluxe room, and get a $400 1 bed suite
book a junior suite for $300, and get a $400 1 bed suite
silly policy
silly policy.
they must be wanting to drive RA's to book least expensive room, and get club suite (is that still minimum room category upgrade?)
keep the RA ADR's lower than Ambassadors?
no different to ambassador one room category upgrade policy, for $200 annually? better off booking on priceline, and giving the duty manager $100 tip.
my days of paying USD700 plus, value added lucrative for the properties, for suites two or three categories under Presidential are over, leave them sitting empty.
superior room $100
deluxe room $200
junior suite $300
1 bed suite $400
book a $200 deluxe room, and get a $400 1 bed suite
book a junior suite for $300, and get a $400 1 bed suite
silly policy
Feb 2, 2019, 12:27 pm
#3304
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: NYC
Programs: IHG, RC, HH, AA, QF, UA, Aeroplan
Posts: 2,685
Generic basic credit card membership benefits.
here is Visa Signature example
Visa Infinite is really not much different
Amex FHR OK
How different is this to RA now?
With your Visa Signature card, enjoy valuable perks with every stay
Best available rate guarantee
Automatic room upgrade upon arrival, when available
Complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, when available
Complimentary breakfast for two
$25 USD food or beverage credit
VIP Guest status
Late check-out upon request, when available
Terms & Conditions
*Hotels and offers must be booked online through the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection or with a Visa Concierge
here is Visa Signature example
Visa Infinite is really not much different
Amex FHR OK
How different is this to RA now?
With your Visa Signature card, enjoy valuable perks with every stay
Best available rate guarantee
Automatic room upgrade upon arrival, when available
Complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, when available
Complimentary breakfast for two
$25 USD food or beverage credit
VIP Guest status
Late check-out upon request, when available
Terms & Conditions
*Hotels and offers must be booked online through the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection or with a Visa Concierge
Feb 2, 2019, 2:32 pm
#3305
Join Date: Oct 2016
Posts: 182
Difference is, that AMB could eat for 20 USD in the restaurant or bar which has definitely more value to me as a 50USD mini-bar credit for a one night stay 
This is what I meant, when I asked what's left of the program except of the 2-cat upgrade, which does not hold anymore e.g. Park Lane when booking a suite
8am check in was really important to me. 10am is already a spire benefit. Join this uncertainty event every year for a 50USD minibar credit?
And why are they talking in the "new enhancements for RA" about complimentary spire, which is a necessary condition to obtain RA?
They must think potentially RA is stupid or just want to distract from the other "enhancements" xD
Tim, I thought you beat the revenue drum for the benefits to become more exclusive =D
This is what I meant, when I asked what's left of the program except of the 2-cat upgrade, which does not hold anymore e.g. Park Lane when booking a suite
8am check in was really important to me. 10am is already a spire benefit. Join this uncertainty event every year for a 50USD minibar credit?
And why are they talking in the "new enhancements for RA" about complimentary spire, which is a necessary condition to obtain RA?
They must think potentially RA is stupid or just want to distract from the other "enhancements" xD
Tim, I thought you beat the revenue drum for the benefits to become more exclusive =D
Last edited by Cielito_; Feb 2, 2019 at 2:54 pm
Feb 2, 2019, 8:00 pm
#3306
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: NYC
Programs: IHG, RC, HH, AA, QF, UA, Aeroplan
Posts: 2,685
Difference is, that AMB could eat for 20 USD in the restaurant or bar which has definitely more value to me as a 50USD mini-bar credit for a one night stay
This is what I meant, when I asked what's left of the program except of the 2-cat upgrade, which does not hold anymore e.g. Park Lane when booking a suite
8am check in was really important to me. 10am is already a spire benefit. Join this uncertainty event every year for a 50USD minibar credit?
And why are they talking in the "new enhancements for RA" about complimentary spire, which is a necessary condition to obtain RA?
They must think potentially RA is stupid or just want to distract from the other "enhancements" xD
Tim, I thought you beat the revenue drum for the benefits to become more exclusive =D
This is what I meant, when I asked what's left of the program except of the 2-cat upgrade, which does not hold anymore e.g. Park Lane when booking a suite
8am check in was really important to me. 10am is already a spire benefit. Join this uncertainty event every year for a 50USD minibar credit?
And why are they talking in the "new enhancements for RA" about complimentary spire, which is a necessary condition to obtain RA?
They must think potentially RA is stupid or just want to distract from the other "enhancements" xD
Tim, I thought you beat the revenue drum for the benefits to become more exclusive =D
remember the old marketing team wld take the piss out of Hilton's devaluations (driven by the most successful LBO by Blackstone, tippling their investment, doubling the share price)
if anything, the revenue model for status shld drive benefits in an upward trajectory, versus a downward one.
changing the mini bar rules being the unique "feel good, nothing to worry about " benefit to "something to worry about" was bad enough, but capping suite upgrade to a one tier is the deal breaker for me.
i'm banking on it not being imposed by the properties, but in the event they do, i'm out too, it's a pragmatic call, non emotional for me, it just doesn't stack up v the options of booking via other channels that give pretty much the same benefits, if not better, eg USD100 F&B benefit, and importantly flexibility re directing night/spend for loyalty benefits with Marriott/Ritz/Starwood, Hilton, and Hyatt.
i can get that from a bunch or credit cards, Amex FHR free breakfast, upgrade, early check in, late check out, USD100 F&B credit etc.....
what's the incentive for directing business to IC? when you can get it all across other brands via Amex FHR/ Visa Infinite/Signature, Club1 Hotels, Chase LHRC et al?
i believe booking via disc online travel, like Hotwire, and giving tip to MOD or Front Desk Manager, probably as good, if not better value.
if requiring guaranteed benefits, say travelling with a spouse, or family etc, then either Amex FHR, Visa Infinite, or Signature, or Club Hotel equivalent?
Amex FHR gets you free breakfast plus.........
i see the only RA benefit being Club?
for one night stays, the Amex USD100 F&B wld cover the cost of Club no?
the double points don't count for much, because no benefits on award stays?
Receive this exclusive suite of benefits with each Fine Hotels & Resorts stay:
- Noon check-in,when available. - 2 Hr difference
- Room upgrade upon arrival, when available. ... one category difference ( same as Ambassador, why pay $200)
- Daily breakfast for two people. - this has been offered for years ( i had been booking my no club Willard stays via Amex for the breakfast benefit)
- Guaranteed 4pm late check-out. - 2 Hr difference?
- Complimentary Wi-Fi. ... same
- Special amenity unique to each property, usually USD100 F&B credit, or massages etc real value more than Ambassador or RA (double the mini bar benefit)
Feb 3, 2019, 8:58 am
#3307
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Germany, Austria
Programs: IHG Diamond Ambassador, ALL Silver,, Miles&More
Posts: 1,122
So if Club Lounge access is granted during reward stays, and no 2 cat upgrade, will there be at least an upgrade to a "Club room" if booking a standard room (or a room on dedicated club floor levels)?
In case no Club lounge existing, the RA will get breakfast for two (one? Sorry I got confused with this rule, eventually AMB or Greater China or not) also during reward stays?
To become RA tier I am still interested in, despite the rising unsatisfaction here, and that difficulties may occure practically (coverage). The IHG nights in the year´s first month (1,000 Euro spent) were at a (very good) Holiday Inn (Zurichsee - the CP in Zurich would have also not count for RA spent of course), and also my other business stays were not in the near of an IC unfortunatelly. But there will be more options to come.
Feb 3, 2019, 9:05 am
#3308
Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,443
So, it is clear that IHG/IC has chosen to absolutely not care any longer about their guests, not even their long time loyal members.
What is behind this from a company perspective?
Do they want to capitalise on their member base? A few years of cost cutting in order to show off attractive figures to investors?
Or is management just out of touch with reality?
What is behind this from a company perspective?
Do they want to capitalise on their member base? A few years of cost cutting in order to show off attractive figures to investors?
Or is management just out of touch with reality?
Feb 3, 2019, 9:14 am
#3309
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
My take is the +2cat t+c change in Sep2016 came about with desire to prevent RAs booking cheap base rooms to get suites and make RAs book a few cats higher to get same suites. IHG overlooked that RAs booking Club rooms or j/S anyway would now get +2cat upgrades to much costlier suites, plus a big incentive on RAs to spend 100usd a night more to get a 1000usd v usd100 differential upgrade to premium suites.
I said 6months in from new +2cat RA upgrade terms (ie Mar2017), that I expected IHG to backtrack and limit full suite RA bookings to only a +1cat upgrade, ie
a)allow Club -> J-suite->Full suite +3cat upgrade
a)block 2cat upgrades for J-Suite->Full suite->special Suite / Full Suite-Special suite -> Pres/Amb/Royal Suite
If one looks at pre Sep2016 RA upgrades when booking base room
o Pre SEP2016 = mostly got upgrade to a J/Suite or Full-Suite (and 50% of IC's with lounge also foc club access too)
o Post SEP2016 = mostly got upgrade to club room (even in IC's that prev gave Full Suite + Club)
o Post Mar2019 -= likely as per post Sep2016
If one looks at RA booking Club Room
o Pre SEP2016 = mostly got +1/2cat upgrade to a J/Suite or Full-Suite (keeping paid for lounge)
o Post SEP2016 = I mostly got only +1 cat upgrade to J=Suite or Full Suite (even in IC's that prev gave Full Suite + Club). Definite reluctance to give a double suite upgrade. some exceptions eg IC KUL
o Post Mar2019 = should be +2cat still, but Expect only at those ICs who were good to RAs last year
If one looks at RA booking Full Suite
o Pre SEP2016 = mostly got +1cat upgrade to next full suite
o Post SEP2016 = 50/50 +1 or +2 cat upgrade Suite upgrade, especially if after full suite next is pres/Amb/Royal suite Definite reluctance to give a double suite upgrade. some exceptions eg IC KUL
o Post Mar2019 = 100% +1cat Suite upgrade (As per pre SEP16 ..... BBUUTTTT a large majority added suite exclusions post Sep2016 changes , so likely a zero upgrade compared to pre2016)
Going forwards Mar2019, the older pre Sep2016 RA t+c upgrade Exec, Club, Suite gives better rooms booking entry level (base) rooms for RA. Especially as to now get a nice suite post Sep2016, I was now booking a Club-Room , a bit crazy as Club is a foc RA benefit
To my mind the IHG RA program has been totally gutted, as to get a full suite the last 30months, I have been booking at least a Club room since Jan2017 . I preferred to get the old systems pre Sep2016 J-Suite and pay lounge access upsell if I could utilise an IC lounge on any day.
The Mar2019 RA change of t+c's to +1cat on a Suite juat takes us back to before Sep2016 changes .. EXCEPT ... Many ICs added many Suite Exclusions, so RAs are in fact worse off than pre Sep2016 when wanting a suite.
In effect from Feb2019, I no no longer need RA for a suite+club, I might as well just
o be a "Standard Spire Amb"
o book IC club room OR IC Junior-Suite (with Club)
o take Std Amb +1cat upgrade Club-> J-Suite OR J-Suite -> Full Suite
o Only stay 30nights a year at IC's / Spend usd4000-5000++/year
o 30nights at usd50 RA MINIBAR allowance (usd1500) makes spend 5500-6500 so quids in versus usd12000 new RA criteria
o no need to spend non-IC nights at CP/HI/Indigo, those other nights are now with MR/Hilton with foc Lounge/Breakfast/Guaranteed-Upgrades ! ! :-)
o I may eventually earn lifetime elite with MR or Hilton (unlike IHG)
Goodbye Royal Ambassador, I don't need chase RA 2020 status, or even need RA anymore going forwards !
I said 6months in from new +2cat RA upgrade terms (ie Mar2017), that I expected IHG to backtrack and limit full suite RA bookings to only a +1cat upgrade, ie
a)allow Club -> J-suite->Full suite +3cat upgrade
a)block 2cat upgrades for J-Suite->Full suite->special Suite / Full Suite-Special suite -> Pres/Amb/Royal Suite
If one looks at pre Sep2016 RA upgrades when booking base room
o Pre SEP2016 = mostly got upgrade to a J/Suite or Full-Suite (and 50% of IC's with lounge also foc club access too)
o Post SEP2016 = mostly got upgrade to club room (even in IC's that prev gave Full Suite + Club)
o Post Mar2019 -= likely as per post Sep2016
If one looks at RA booking Club Room
o Pre SEP2016 = mostly got +1/2cat upgrade to a J/Suite or Full-Suite (keeping paid for lounge)
o Post SEP2016 = I mostly got only +1 cat upgrade to J=Suite or Full Suite (even in IC's that prev gave Full Suite + Club). Definite reluctance to give a double suite upgrade. some exceptions eg IC KUL
o Post Mar2019 = should be +2cat still, but Expect only at those ICs who were good to RAs last year
If one looks at RA booking Full Suite
o Pre SEP2016 = mostly got +1cat upgrade to next full suite
o Post SEP2016 = 50/50 +1 or +2 cat upgrade Suite upgrade, especially if after full suite next is pres/Amb/Royal suite Definite reluctance to give a double suite upgrade. some exceptions eg IC KUL
o Post Mar2019 = 100% +1cat Suite upgrade (As per pre SEP16 ..... BBUUTTTT a large majority added suite exclusions post Sep2016 changes , so likely a zero upgrade compared to pre2016)
Going forwards Mar2019, the older pre Sep2016 RA t+c upgrade Exec, Club, Suite gives better rooms booking entry level (base) rooms for RA. Especially as to now get a nice suite post Sep2016, I was now booking a Club-Room , a bit crazy as Club is a foc RA benefit
To my mind the IHG RA program has been totally gutted, as to get a full suite the last 30months, I have been booking at least a Club room since Jan2017 . I preferred to get the old systems pre Sep2016 J-Suite and pay lounge access upsell if I could utilise an IC lounge on any day.
The Mar2019 RA change of t+c's to +1cat on a Suite juat takes us back to before Sep2016 changes .. EXCEPT ... Many ICs added many Suite Exclusions, so RAs are in fact worse off than pre Sep2016 when wanting a suite.
In effect from Feb2019, I no no longer need RA for a suite+club, I might as well just
o be a "Standard Spire Amb"
o book IC club room OR IC Junior-Suite (with Club)
o take Std Amb +1cat upgrade Club-> J-Suite OR J-Suite -> Full Suite
o Only stay 30nights a year at IC's / Spend usd4000-5000++/year
o 30nights at usd50 RA MINIBAR allowance (usd1500) makes spend 5500-6500 so quids in versus usd12000 new RA criteria
o no need to spend non-IC nights at CP/HI/Indigo, those other nights are now with MR/Hilton with foc Lounge/Breakfast/Guaranteed-Upgrades ! ! :-)
o I may eventually earn lifetime elite with MR or Hilton (unlike IHG)
Goodbye Royal Ambassador, I don't need chase RA 2020 status, or even need RA anymore going forwards !
Feb 3, 2019, 10:02 am
#3310
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Korea, USA
Programs: IC Dia RA / Marriott LT Plat / WOH Globalist / Hilton Diamond / OZ Diamond Plus
Posts: 340
Now the RA program has been deteriorated, but Hyatt re-launched the Hyatt Prive rate. So anyone can simply stay at Park Hyatt and Andaz with breakfast, $100 credit, welcome amenity, guaranteed 1-cat upgrade including suites, 4pm late check out without any status with them. Less benefits for Grand and Regency but still nice.
Last year, IHG forced hotels to follow the new standard of Club Lounge. Many ICs removed nice hot food selections which used to be good in Asia. In eg. many ICs in Vietnam, Japan and Thailand removed or simplified their food selection during the happy hour to just simple canapes. I really loved ICs club lounge offerings but now it's worse than even Sheraton with little exaggeration.
So for me, the guaranteed 2-cat upgrade was the most important and it will likely gone for sure at most properties.
I booked a suite for this month already where I used to stay, DTLA, so will see how it goes. If they deny 2-cat upgrade, I likely will say GOOD BYE to RA..
Last year, IHG forced hotels to follow the new standard of Club Lounge. Many ICs removed nice hot food selections which used to be good in Asia. In eg. many ICs in Vietnam, Japan and Thailand removed or simplified their food selection during the happy hour to just simple canapes. I really loved ICs club lounge offerings but now it's worse than even Sheraton with little exaggeration.
So for me, the guaranteed 2-cat upgrade was the most important and it will likely gone for sure at most properties.
I booked a suite for this month already where I used to stay, DTLA, so will see how it goes. If they deny 2-cat upgrade, I likely will say GOOD BYE to RA..
Feb 3, 2019, 3:47 pm
#3311
Suspended
Join Date: May 2018
Location: ord
Programs: UA 1k SPG Platinum
Posts: 365
Last year, IHG forced hotels to follow the new standard of Club Lounge. Many ICs removed nice hot food selections which used to be good in Asia. In eg. many ICs in Vietnam, Japan and Thailand removed or simplified their food selection during the happy hour to just simple canapes. I really loved ICs club lounge offerings but now it's worse than even Sheraton with little exaggeration.
.
Feb 3, 2019, 3:56 pm
#3312
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: In the air
Programs: Occasional RTW club
Posts: 6,917
[...]
To my mind the IHG RA program has been totally gutted, as to get a full suite the last 30months, I have been booking at least a Club room since Jan2017 . I preferred to get the old systems pre Sep2016 J-Suite and pay lounge access upsell if I could utilise an IC lounge on any day.
[...]
Goodbye Royal Ambassador, I don't need chase RA 2020 status, or even need RA anymore going forwards !
I stand corrected, this is a very fair post, and pretty much exactly summarises the mess IHG got themselves into with the upgrade madness.
Feb 3, 2019, 6:09 pm
#3313
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: NYC
Programs: IHG, RC, HH, AA, QF, UA, Aeroplan
Posts: 2,685
I must admit, I am shocked by this post. I’ve always considered you the #1 apologist/supporter of IHG, and I quite honestly expected you to come out swinging with some invented argument about how this will cull the ranks of RAs and “so much for the better”.
I stand corrected, this is a very fair post, and pretty much exactly summarises the mess IHG got themselves into with the upgrade madness.
in reality, it won't change for me, i always phone, get in contact with Sales Director if they manage the inventory for the specialty suites, Rooms Director, or Front Desk Manager, whoever makes the call, and ask their policy, and get a confirmation if i book a certain category, what they'll give me, whether they want a sneaky surcharge etc it's there and then that i make my mind up if i'm staying with them.
the alternative, if i'm travelling without spouse/family, i may just opt for the cheapest room, and stay in the Club suites (still the minimum RA upgrade?)
Feb 3, 2019, 6:11 pm
#3314
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: NYC
Programs: IHG, RC, HH, AA, QF, UA, Aeroplan
Posts: 2,685
This is generally valid for RA stays at all ICs from Feb 1st on? Looks like a hotel information sheet, therefore I ask.
So if Club Lounge access is granted during reward stays, and no 2 cat upgrade, will there be at least an upgrade to a "Club room" if booking a standard room (or a room on dedicated club floor levels)?
In case no Club lounge existing, the RA will get breakfast for two (one? Sorry I got confused with this rule, eventually AMB or Greater China or not) also during reward stays?
To become RA tier I am still interested in, despite the rising unsatisfaction here, and that difficulties may occure practically (coverage). The IHG nights in the year´s first month (1,000 Euro spent) were at a (very good) Holiday Inn (Zurichsee - the CP in Zurich would have also not count for RA spent of course), and also my other business stays were not in the near of an IC unfortunatelly. But there will be more options to come.
So if Club Lounge access is granted during reward stays, and no 2 cat upgrade, will there be at least an upgrade to a "Club room" if booking a standard room (or a room on dedicated club floor levels)?
In case no Club lounge existing, the RA will get breakfast for two (one? Sorry I got confused with this rule, eventually AMB or Greater China or not) also during reward stays?
To become RA tier I am still interested in, despite the rising unsatisfaction here, and that difficulties may occure practically (coverage). The IHG nights in the year´s first month (1,000 Euro spent) were at a (very good) Holiday Inn (Zurichsee - the CP in Zurich would have also not count for RA spent of course), and also my other business stays were not in the near of an IC unfortunatelly. But there will be more options to come.
Feb 3, 2019, 6:37 pm
#3315
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Korea, USA
Programs: IC Dia RA / Marriott LT Plat / WOH Globalist / Hilton Diamond / OZ Diamond Plus
Posts: 340