Please post your Royal Ambassador experiences 2017
Sep 3, 2017, 7:24 am
#181
Join Date: Mar 2016
Location: Cologne
Programs: FB Plat, IHG RA Spire, TK Elite+, HH Diamond, LH SEN, Marriott Titanium
Posts: 972
Presidente Mexico City
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yeah it's ok.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest advance flex rate, received club room.
How are the rooms?
Pretty good and modern, some cool features. A walk in shower.
How is the exec. lounge?
Lovely view, pretty good morning and evening food selection. I liked it!
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yeah, a small tequila cup.
How was the minibar?
Standard, all of the essentials, nothing special though.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- The lounge
- The view
-Bad
- The lobby is horrid, feels like a shopping mall.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
for the price I paid (like $150...) yes.
Would you return?
hmmm for work, yes. For personal...no.
Yeah it's ok.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest advance flex rate, received club room.
How are the rooms?
Pretty good and modern, some cool features. A walk in shower.
How is the exec. lounge?
Lovely view, pretty good morning and evening food selection. I liked it!
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Yeah, a small tequila cup.
How was the minibar?
Standard, all of the essentials, nothing special though.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- The lounge
- The view
-Bad
- The lobby is horrid, feels like a shopping mall.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
for the price I paid (like $150...) yes.
Would you return?
hmmm for work, yes. For personal...no.
Sep 3, 2017, 7:28 am
#182
Join Date: Mar 2016
Location: Cologne
Programs: FB Plat, IHG RA Spire, TK Elite+, HH Diamond, LH SEN, Marriott Titanium
Posts: 972
Presidente Santa Fe
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
No...it's more like a Crowne Plaza
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Book cheapest, received some suite.
How are the rooms?
Large but a bit bland...really soulless
How is the exec. lounge?
Pretty terrible, everyone has breakfast there...
Did you receive a welcome gift?
A POSTCARD!!! A FREAKIN POSTCARD!
How was the minibar?
Ok, no tequila though?
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Cost ($120)
- Service from the Concierge
-Bad
- Room
- Lounge
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
For the cost I paid it is ok...but not great.
Would you return?
Probably not.
No...it's more like a Crowne Plaza
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Book cheapest, received some suite.
How are the rooms?
Large but a bit bland...really soulless
How is the exec. lounge?
Pretty terrible, everyone has breakfast there...
Did you receive a welcome gift?
A POSTCARD!!! A FREAKIN POSTCARD!
How was the minibar?
Ok, no tequila though?
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Cost ($120)
- Service from the Concierge
-Bad
- Room
- Lounge
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
For the cost I paid it is ok...but not great.
Would you return?
Probably not.
Sep 15, 2017, 4:51 pm
#183
Join Date: Dec 2012
Programs: AAdvantage Executive Platinum (3 Million Miler), IHG Spire Royal Amdassador
Posts: 280
IC London Park Lane
IC London Park Lane
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you
generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not like it used to be. The paid night was OK (with mediocre upgrade) but the reward night was a struggle.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Classic rooms (one night paid, one night reward). Got an email well in advance saying that they would only upgrade the paid night to London Superior, would not upgrade the reward night unless I paid an extra Ł105.
I emailed back and just asked to be able to remain in the same room for both nights, so had to get a downgrade for the first night to be able to confirm the same room. Finally, a day before our arrival, they confirmed London Superior (definitely not in the top rooms I've had there). We checked in and just received the London superior.
**I'm not a frequent guest here like I am at IC Willard, but I at least stay once a year here.
How are the rooms?
Small, smelled like cigarette smoke, over looking a noisy outdoor patio. Not impressive
How is the exec. lounge?
When we checked in, the desk clerk was very adamant that we would only get club access for the paid stay (ie "don't even try sneaking in on your reward night") and "theoretically" , no free mini bar the last night) . But when we went it was great! Still hot cooked breakfast, and light canapés at night (but great cheese selection),pouring Moet
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Small box of shortbread cookies (plus water, an apple, banana, peach and grapes)
How was the minibar?
Ok, no red wine. Tiny bottle of white wine and champagne, 4 JW Black's, though. 4 bottles of beer, 2 local. They made a point of telling me that there would be no free mini bar on the reward night
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- when we had access to the lounge, it was great. There is someone standing at the door at all times checking off room numbers, though.
-Bad
- Room - poor upgrade (but apparently standard on paid classic night now? They made a big deal about giving us an upgrade on the reward night - they didn't have to and they let me know about it)
- Lounge - OK when we had access
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? No
Not the greatest value for paid night, considering I'm RA. Reward night was totally disappointing
Would you return?
If not RA, no way. As RA would consider it only if RA program got a little better regarding loyalty amenities. My sister is IHG gold (no amb status) and was telling me how great she gets treated at HIs
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you
generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Not like it used to be. The paid night was OK (with mediocre upgrade) but the reward night was a struggle.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Classic rooms (one night paid, one night reward). Got an email well in advance saying that they would only upgrade the paid night to London Superior, would not upgrade the reward night unless I paid an extra Ł105.
I emailed back and just asked to be able to remain in the same room for both nights, so had to get a downgrade for the first night to be able to confirm the same room. Finally, a day before our arrival, they confirmed London Superior (definitely not in the top rooms I've had there). We checked in and just received the London superior.
**I'm not a frequent guest here like I am at IC Willard, but I at least stay once a year here.
How are the rooms?
Small, smelled like cigarette smoke, over looking a noisy outdoor patio. Not impressive
How is the exec. lounge?
When we checked in, the desk clerk was very adamant that we would only get club access for the paid stay (ie "don't even try sneaking in on your reward night") and "theoretically" , no free mini bar the last night) . But when we went it was great! Still hot cooked breakfast, and light canapés at night (but great cheese selection),pouring Moet
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Small box of shortbread cookies (plus water, an apple, banana, peach and grapes)
How was the minibar?
Ok, no red wine. Tiny bottle of white wine and champagne, 4 JW Black's, though. 4 bottles of beer, 2 local. They made a point of telling me that there would be no free mini bar on the reward night
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- when we had access to the lounge, it was great. There is someone standing at the door at all times checking off room numbers, though.
-Bad
- Room - poor upgrade (but apparently standard on paid classic night now? They made a big deal about giving us an upgrade on the reward night - they didn't have to and they let me know about it)
- Lounge - OK when we had access
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? No
Not the greatest value for paid night, considering I'm RA. Reward night was totally disappointing
Would you return?
If not RA, no way. As RA would consider it only if RA program got a little better regarding loyalty amenities. My sister is IHG gold (no amb status) and was telling me how great she gets treated at HIs
Sep 17, 2017, 1:08 pm
#184
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Programs: IHG Royal Ambassador
Posts: 819
InterContinental Hong Kong
InterContinental Hong Kong
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, perfect as always.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe Plaza View Room, received Deluxe Harbour View Room.
How are the rooms?
40sqm. View is probably best position in this hotel (except 17th Floor Rooms), but I couldn't see any other advantages VS Superior Harbour View Room.
Video of Deluxe Harbour View Room
How is the exec. lounge?
Excellent as always! Excellent F&B offering, Friendly and Fun staff. I love here.
How was the mini-bar?
Best mini-bar except no champagne.
What was your welcome gift?
NOBU Restaurant signature Ochoko (small pottery glass for Japanese Sake) and Chocolate assortment.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
Everything except Superior Junior Suite positioning in latest RA upgrade policy.
Bad
Superior Junior Suite positioning in latest RA upgrade policy.
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Absolutely.
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, perfect as always.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe Plaza View Room, received Deluxe Harbour View Room.
How are the rooms?
40sqm. View is probably best position in this hotel (except 17th Floor Rooms), but I couldn't see any other advantages VS Superior Harbour View Room.
Video of Deluxe Harbour View Room
How is the exec. lounge?
Excellent as always! Excellent F&B offering, Friendly and Fun staff. I love here.
How was the mini-bar?
Best mini-bar except no champagne.
What was your welcome gift?
NOBU Restaurant signature Ochoko (small pottery glass for Japanese Sake) and Chocolate assortment.
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes.
What was good and what was bad?
Good
Everything except Superior Junior Suite positioning in latest RA upgrade policy.
Bad
Superior Junior Suite positioning in latest RA upgrade policy.
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Absolutely.
Sep 19, 2017, 7:27 am
#185
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: SYD
Programs: QF Emerald EY Plat HH D
Posts: 1,270
ATHENS IC
What is your IHG Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, even if room upgrade was not so nice as usual.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest advance rate and received a Deluxe Room with Acropolis view and club 6th floor.
How are the rooms?
35 sqm.
Seating area
Bedroom with comfortable bed, desk. Flat screen television with large selection of international channels
Bathroom with bathtub. Korres amenities.
View over Athens and Acropolis thru 2 buildings
Recently renovated in an elegant contemporary design
Fast wifi
Very quiet (2 double glass)
How is the exec. lounge?
Very good breakfast.
Good selection of evening hot meals, drinks and afternoon pastries
Great staff
Nice view and pleasant terrace
2 PCs with printer
Quiet
Somewhat dated decor
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Wonderful staff ( housekeeping (smiling, responsive, proactive)
- Pleasant Club lounge.
Bad
- New poor upgrade policy
- poor minibar a couple of liquor and mixers 2 beer 2 coke etc
Value for $ ? Would you return?
I find this an expensive hotel.
Maybe i would return if still RA if not NO
22 euro for parking when there is free parking outside the hotel is ridiculous.
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, even if room upgrade was not so nice as usual.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest advance rate and received a Deluxe Room with Acropolis view and club 6th floor.
How are the rooms?
35 sqm.
Seating area
Bedroom with comfortable bed, desk. Flat screen television with large selection of international channels
Bathroom with bathtub. Korres amenities.
View over Athens and Acropolis thru 2 buildings
Recently renovated in an elegant contemporary design
Fast wifi
Very quiet (2 double glass)
How is the exec. lounge?
Very good breakfast.
Good selection of evening hot meals, drinks and afternoon pastries
Great staff
Nice view and pleasant terrace
2 PCs with printer
Quiet
Somewhat dated decor
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- Wonderful staff ( housekeeping (smiling, responsive, proactive)
- Pleasant Club lounge.
Bad
- New poor upgrade policy
- poor minibar a couple of liquor and mixers 2 beer 2 coke etc
Value for $ ? Would you return?
I find this an expensive hotel.
Maybe i would return if still RA if not NO
22 euro for parking when there is free parking outside the hotel is ridiculous.
Last edited by aussielori; Sep 22, 2017 at 10:06 am
Sep 22, 2017, 10:54 am
#186
Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: SYD
Programs: QF Emerald EY Plat HH D
Posts: 1,270
IC Mar Menor Golf Resort Murcia Spain
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked base room upgraded days before to a junior suite which was a 2 room suite with a large balcony and several lounges
How are the rooms?
very spanish,tiled floor king bed
How is the exec. lounge?
Nil but they did give me comp breakfast!
Did you receive a welcome gift?
small bottle of local liquor, fruit and large water daily
How was the minibar?
the usual suspects and a spanish red white and cava
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
great upgrade and breakfast inc plus fabulous desk staff who went out of their way to find a restaurant I hadnt been to for 20 yrs
great fast internet
-Bad
nothing really bad I should have stayed more than 2 days to relax
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
very good
Would you return?
Yes if in area.though the tolls in Spain kill the cost of driving
yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked base room upgraded days before to a junior suite which was a 2 room suite with a large balcony and several lounges
How are the rooms?
very spanish,tiled floor king bed
How is the exec. lounge?
Nil but they did give me comp breakfast!
Did you receive a welcome gift?
small bottle of local liquor, fruit and large water daily
How was the minibar?
the usual suspects and a spanish red white and cava
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
great upgrade and breakfast inc plus fabulous desk staff who went out of their way to find a restaurant I hadnt been to for 20 yrs
great fast internet
-Bad
nothing really bad I should have stayed more than 2 days to relax
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
very good
Would you return?
Yes if in area.though the tolls in Spain kill the cost of driving
Sep 23, 2017, 6:37 pm
#187
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Programs: IHG Royal Ambassador
Posts: 819
InterContinental Singapore
InterContinental Singapore
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
This is my after 3years interval stay. Over all is Yes. But I have a little mixed feelings.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked the Executive Suite of InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, but as you guys know their opening date has been postponed, reservation office transferred my reservation to InterContinental Singapore, then received the Ambassador Suite plus 30000pts and future guaranteed upgrade for the Penthouse of InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay. (This alternatives required some negotiations)
How are the rooms?
114sqm. The renovation has done in 2015. Extremely comfortable bed, High ceiling, Huge living, Two large LCD TV in the living and bedroom, and one small LCD TV in the study room. Bathroom is just a refurbish level, I couldn’t see any difference to before the renovation in this bathroom.
Video of Ambassador Suite
How is the exec. lounge?
Staff’s service level is still excellent even though most of staff have been changed in past 3years. On the other hands, F&B offering is downhill. 7years ago, this Club Lounge F&B offering was one of the best in the world. But now I must say F&B offering of here is one of the worst in the world. Especially Cocktail Time is disaster! Poor meal options and weak (nearly mocktail) Singapore Sling... OMFG! I cannot justify 177SGD price gap between Deluxe and Club Room!
How was the mini-bar?
So-so. But 5~7years ago was much better.
What was your welcome gift?
TWG Tea Box (Hotel exclusive blend)
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes
What was good and what was bad?
Good
+++++ Renovated Ambassador Suite
+++++ Excellent Club staff services
+++++ Victoria BAR
+++++ In-room snacks as Ambassador amenity
Bad
---------- Club Lounge F&B offering (It must be improved immediately!)
----- WiFi speed is JOKE
----- I had kept to wait for room is ready until 5PM. (Even though I understand need to wait other Ambassador member’s check-out)
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Probably.
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
This is my after 3years interval stay. Over all is Yes. But I have a little mixed feelings.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked the Executive Suite of InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, but as you guys know their opening date has been postponed, reservation office transferred my reservation to InterContinental Singapore, then received the Ambassador Suite plus 30000pts and future guaranteed upgrade for the Penthouse of InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay. (This alternatives required some negotiations)
How are the rooms?
114sqm. The renovation has done in 2015. Extremely comfortable bed, High ceiling, Huge living, Two large LCD TV in the living and bedroom, and one small LCD TV in the study room. Bathroom is just a refurbish level, I couldn’t see any difference to before the renovation in this bathroom.
Video of Ambassador Suite
How is the exec. lounge?
Staff’s service level is still excellent even though most of staff have been changed in past 3years. On the other hands, F&B offering is downhill. 7years ago, this Club Lounge F&B offering was one of the best in the world. But now I must say F&B offering of here is one of the worst in the world. Especially Cocktail Time is disaster! Poor meal options and weak (nearly mocktail) Singapore Sling... OMFG! I cannot justify 177SGD price gap between Deluxe and Club Room!
How was the mini-bar?
So-so. But 5~7years ago was much better.
What was your welcome gift?
TWG Tea Box (Hotel exclusive blend)
Did you receive fruit in the room?
Yes
What was good and what was bad?
Good
+++++ Renovated Ambassador Suite
+++++ Excellent Club staff services
+++++ Victoria BAR
+++++ In-room snacks as Ambassador amenity
Bad
---------- Club Lounge F&B offering (It must be improved immediately!)
----- WiFi speed is JOKE
----- I had kept to wait for room is ready until 5PM. (Even though I understand need to wait other Ambassador member’s check-out)
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Probably.
Sep 24, 2017, 10:23 am
#188
Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: Stuck on this planet - mainly in STR and LAX
Posts: 5,019
IC Cairo Citystars
IC Cairo Citystars
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
More or less yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest, got Suite (xx01), corner at the front of building with club
How are the rooms?
Separate living room and bedroom, very small bathroom (shower only), separate second toilet. Room showing age. The cover of the main light in bedroom was broken, the switch for one of the two reading lights was broken and a few other minor problems
How is the exec. lounge?
Spacious, breakfast extremely limited (downstairs in the main restaurant has somewhat more choices, but still very disappointing), hight tea ok, happy hour very limited and mediocre quality.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Was offered a choice between several items, picket the 2000 points but the did not post yet.Small fruit plate, exchanged the next day. No extra water.
How was the minibar?
somewhat below average. One softdrink, 2 beers, 4 small bottles of alcohol etc
Strange: I was running up a substantial minibar bill on two days, but did not use anything. Could this be some kind of internal scam since a RA normally would never see the minibar bill. Charges were removed at check out afer requesting this.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- upgrade to a real suite and club
- massage in spa was good and reasonably priced
- location close to airport
-Bad
- bathroom far too small
- no turndown service
- room needed maintenance
- breakfast fairly bad in club and restaurant
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
This place is a bit on the expensive side for Cairo. With RA benefits it is ok, otherwise i would stay somewhere else.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Yes if there are well priced RTW tickets from CAI again in the future and I don't need to be in the city.
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
More or less yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest, got Suite (xx01), corner at the front of building with club
How are the rooms?
Separate living room and bedroom, very small bathroom (shower only), separate second toilet. Room showing age. The cover of the main light in bedroom was broken, the switch for one of the two reading lights was broken and a few other minor problems
How is the exec. lounge?
Spacious, breakfast extremely limited (downstairs in the main restaurant has somewhat more choices, but still very disappointing), hight tea ok, happy hour very limited and mediocre quality.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Was offered a choice between several items, picket the 2000 points but the did not post yet.Small fruit plate, exchanged the next day. No extra water.
How was the minibar?
somewhat below average. One softdrink, 2 beers, 4 small bottles of alcohol etc
Strange: I was running up a substantial minibar bill on two days, but did not use anything. Could this be some kind of internal scam since a RA normally would never see the minibar bill. Charges were removed at check out afer requesting this.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- upgrade to a real suite and club
- massage in spa was good and reasonably priced
- location close to airport
-Bad
- bathroom far too small
- no turndown service
- room needed maintenance
- breakfast fairly bad in club and restaurant
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
This place is a bit on the expensive side for Cairo. With RA benefits it is ok, otherwise i would stay somewhere else.
Would you return?[/QUOTE]
Yes if there are well priced RTW tickets from CAI again in the future and I don't need to be in the city.
Sep 25, 2017, 5:13 pm
#189
Join Date: Dec 2012
Programs: AAdvantage Executive Platinum (3 Million Miler), IHG Spire Royal Amdassador
Posts: 280
IC Paris Le Grand
IC Paris Le Grand
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you
generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Classic rooms (two nights on Ambassador BOGO cert, one night reward), received a Junior Suite for all three nights
How are the rooms?
The room itself was fantastic, lots of room with a couch/coffee table in a sitting area, with the windows facing one of the courtyards. This JS was room 1500 in Haussman, and unfortunately, we looked directly into the glass pyramid. One floor higher would have been great!
How is the exec. lounge?
It was great! We had access for all three nights we were there (the Welcome Letter indicated that on Reward nights, your privileges do apply with the exception of upgrade and fee pay TV film).
Breakfast can be ordered off the menu or there are hot items available for self service, plus bakery items, fruit, plus champagne, etc. At night, there is a vast selection of canapés, hot entrees, salads, etc.
The second floor of the lounge was more spacious with great views of the Opera
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Box of plums
How was the minibar?
Great -- wine, champagne (rose and white), plenty of liquour, beer
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- The upgrade on all three nights (even the reward night)
- The lounge and the fact that they let you use it on reward nights
- Just about everything was great
- The staff was great
-Bad
- Nothing. It would have been nice to have a room that wasn't on the First Floor that looked into the pyramid (and the trash that collects at the base), but we weren't in the room that much
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Good value if using the BOGO and definitely a great value if using points since mini bar is still free and access to the lounge is granted.
Would you return?
Yes, defnitely!!
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you
generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes!
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Classic rooms (two nights on Ambassador BOGO cert, one night reward), received a Junior Suite for all three nights
How are the rooms?
The room itself was fantastic, lots of room with a couch/coffee table in a sitting area, with the windows facing one of the courtyards. This JS was room 1500 in Haussman, and unfortunately, we looked directly into the glass pyramid. One floor higher would have been great!
How is the exec. lounge?
It was great! We had access for all three nights we were there (the Welcome Letter indicated that on Reward nights, your privileges do apply with the exception of upgrade and fee pay TV film).
Breakfast can be ordered off the menu or there are hot items available for self service, plus bakery items, fruit, plus champagne, etc. At night, there is a vast selection of canapés, hot entrees, salads, etc.
The second floor of the lounge was more spacious with great views of the Opera
Did you receive a welcome gift?
Box of plums
How was the minibar?
Great -- wine, champagne (rose and white), plenty of liquour, beer
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- The upgrade on all three nights (even the reward night)
- The lounge and the fact that they let you use it on reward nights
- Just about everything was great
- The staff was great
-Bad
- Nothing. It would have been nice to have a room that wasn't on the First Floor that looked into the pyramid (and the trash that collects at the base), but we weren't in the room that much
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Good value if using the BOGO and definitely a great value if using points since mini bar is still free and access to the lounge is granted.
Would you return?
Yes, defnitely!!
Sep 29, 2017, 9:27 am
#190
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: FRA
Programs: LH HON, Discovery Black, IHG Spire, random stuff at Accor, Hyatt, Hilton, SPG, Hertz, Sixt
Posts: 492
IC Paris Av. Marceau
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you
generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Ok for one night...
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Standard, upgraded to Prestige.
How are the rooms?
With just 25sqm still small even for Parisian standards. Starts to show age. Furnishing looks fancy but feels cheap. Very small desk overloaded with stuff, not good if you want to work. TV is very small. Coffee (Nespresso) and tea in room. Comfortable bed. Bathroom feels cheap as well, good size though. Bathroom ventilation does not turn off, creating constant noise during night.
How is the exec. lounge?
n/a, no replacement whatsoever
Did you receive a welcome gift?
No
How was the minibar?
Good -- Selection of softdrinks, wine, champagne, beer, miniature spirits
Used to have superior quality local juices and lemonade though, now back to basic stuff.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Location
- Service
- Comfortable bed for one night
-Bad
- RA treatment
- Room size and comfort
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Mediocre value in general. Especially low for RA since they do not have proper rooms for upgrades (only 2 Suites, which I would rather call Studio with 30sqm only).
Would you return?
Managed to avoid this property for 2 years. No choice this time due to Fashion Week. Would always choose Le Grand otherwise.
generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Ok for one night...
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Standard, upgraded to Prestige.
How are the rooms?
With just 25sqm still small even for Parisian standards. Starts to show age. Furnishing looks fancy but feels cheap. Very small desk overloaded with stuff, not good if you want to work. TV is very small. Coffee (Nespresso) and tea in room. Comfortable bed. Bathroom feels cheap as well, good size though. Bathroom ventilation does not turn off, creating constant noise during night.
How is the exec. lounge?
n/a, no replacement whatsoever
Did you receive a welcome gift?
No
How was the minibar?
Good -- Selection of softdrinks, wine, champagne, beer, miniature spirits
Used to have superior quality local juices and lemonade though, now back to basic stuff.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Location
- Service
- Comfortable bed for one night
-Bad
- RA treatment
- Room size and comfort
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Mediocre value in general. Especially low for RA since they do not have proper rooms for upgrades (only 2 Suites, which I would rather call Studio with 30sqm only).
Would you return?
Managed to avoid this property for 2 years. No choice this time due to Fashion Week. Would always choose Le Grand otherwise.
Oct 8, 2017, 8:50 am
#191
Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: Sydney
Posts: 5,769
IC LISBON
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 usual.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest room given a jnr suite( jsut a bigger troom with 2 lounge sofas with club
How are the rooms?
Around 30sqm.
Comfortable bed.
Sofa and desk
Nice marble bathroom with double sink( why do they do that)!, bathtub. Very nice Castelbel amenities
Flatscreen television with large selection of international channels.
Nespresso expresso machine, kettle
Elegant classic design
Very quiet.
View over the park
Impressive minibar.inc 375ml taittinger champage.
How is the exec. lounge?
breakfast is one of the ncier ones of any intercon i have stayed at.
Recently renovated
Friendly staff but run off their feet with 8 people in lounge!
Good evening spread
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- New renovated hotel (lobby, club lounge, restaurant)
- Central location, 15 minutes walk to the Bairro Alto historical district. Metro station is at 5 minutes walk to the hotel. 5 euro by uber
- Great attentive and smiling staff
- Great weather
Bad
- Club lounge open lately but with evening option until 7pm only
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Absolutely.
one of my favourites
the AKLA restaurant is very nice with great deals for lunch.
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay ?
Yes, as usual.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked cheapest room given a jnr suite( jsut a bigger troom with 2 lounge sofas with club
How are the rooms?
Around 30sqm.
Comfortable bed.
Sofa and desk
Nice marble bathroom with double sink( why do they do that)!, bathtub. Very nice Castelbel amenities
Flatscreen television with large selection of international channels.
Nespresso expresso machine, kettle
Elegant classic design
Very quiet.
View over the park
Impressive minibar.inc 375ml taittinger champage.
How is the exec. lounge?
breakfast is one of the ncier ones of any intercon i have stayed at.
Recently renovated
Friendly staff but run off their feet with 8 people in lounge!
Good evening spread
What was good and what was bad?
Good
- New renovated hotel (lobby, club lounge, restaurant)
- Central location, 15 minutes walk to the Bairro Alto historical district. Metro station is at 5 minutes walk to the hotel. 5 euro by uber
- Great attentive and smiling staff
- Great weather
Bad
- Club lounge open lately but with evening option until 7pm only
Value for $ or Priority Club Points? Would you return?
Absolutely.
one of my favourites
the AKLA restaurant is very nice with great deals for lunch.
Oct 9, 2017, 7:27 am
#192
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Shanghai and Bavaria
Programs: Spire RA, 1865 Voyager, Bonvoy Titanium, FB LP, LH SEN.
Posts: 3,104
IC Hong Kong
InterContinental Hong Kong
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, perfect.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe Plaza View Room, received 15th floor Deluxe Harbour View Room; requested high floor in advance.
How are the rooms?
40sqm.
Immaculately maintained
Large bathroom, smallish shower
Unrivaled views of HK
Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries
Unrivaled minibar
How is the exec. lounge?
Excellent.
Great, professional staff.
Good quality breakfast and evening buffet (repetitive after one week, but I guess few people stay this long)
Drinks are generally good, hard liquor could be better (only Black Label?)
Breakfast also on weekends ends at 10:30. 11:00 would be better, the lounge is also full at that time.
What was good and what was bad?
Flawless hotel in general - great experience overall
Upgrade used to be better before the RA rule changes
Any staff is well trained and professional - fantastic
Dinner at NOBU was rather disppointing, despite excellent service
Dinner at the Steak House was an excellent experience with flawless service and food (and a cheque of 3000 HKD p.P.)
Immaculate, flawless housekeeping, incl. second service
Very nice pool and gym with attentive service
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Of course, can't wait.
What is your IHG Rewards Club status?
Spire Royal Ambassador
Were you happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes, perfect.
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked Deluxe Plaza View Room, received 15th floor Deluxe Harbour View Room; requested high floor in advance.
How are the rooms?
40sqm.
Immaculately maintained
Large bathroom, smallish shower
Unrivaled views of HK
Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries
Unrivaled minibar
How is the exec. lounge?
Excellent.
Great, professional staff.
Good quality breakfast and evening buffet (repetitive after one week, but I guess few people stay this long)
Drinks are generally good, hard liquor could be better (only Black Label?)
Breakfast also on weekends ends at 10:30. 11:00 would be better, the lounge is also full at that time.
What was good and what was bad?
Flawless hotel in general - great experience overall
Upgrade used to be better before the RA rule changes
Any staff is well trained and professional - fantastic
Dinner at NOBU was rather disppointing, despite excellent service
Dinner at the Steak House was an excellent experience with flawless service and food (and a cheque of 3000 HKD p.P.)
Immaculate, flawless housekeeping, incl. second service
Very nice pool and gym with attentive service
Value for $ or Rewards Club Points? Would you return?
Of course, can't wait.
Oct 16, 2017, 12:17 pm
#193
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: in a cabin
Posts: 6,515
IC Park Lane
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes very
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked LDN Classic (lowest cat) on corp rate - ended up in King London Exec x42, one of my favourites. Booking first showed London Deluxe after modification (standard RA UG) but two days before moved two more cats. So essentially a 4 cat UG.
How are the rooms?
Large, about 32m2 with ample space, sofa, work space, clean crisp interior.
How is the exec. lounge?
It is very good however didn't use this time.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
The usual large bottle of Mineral water, shortbread cookies and fruit plate.
How was the minibar?
Superb as always. Very well stocked with Champagne, premium spirits, Fiji water and plenty of snacks (also free).
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Generous upgrade considering new RA policy.
- Warmly greeted welcome back by plenty of staff.
- They make me feel at home here (it's been a second home for years).
-Bad
- Nothing
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yes.
Would you return?
Of course! Once you become a regular here they look after you.
Yes very
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked LDN Classic (lowest cat) on corp rate - ended up in King London Exec x42, one of my favourites. Booking first showed London Deluxe after modification (standard RA UG) but two days before moved two more cats. So essentially a 4 cat UG.
How are the rooms?
Large, about 32m2 with ample space, sofa, work space, clean crisp interior.
How is the exec. lounge?
It is very good however didn't use this time.
Did you receive a welcome gift?
The usual large bottle of Mineral water, shortbread cookies and fruit plate.
How was the minibar?
Superb as always. Very well stocked with Champagne, premium spirits, Fiji water and plenty of snacks (also free).
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Generous upgrade considering new RA policy.
- Warmly greeted welcome back by plenty of staff.
- They make me feel at home here (it's been a second home for years).
-Bad
- Nothing
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yes.
Would you return?
Of course! Once you become a regular here they look after you.
Oct 16, 2017, 12:30 pm
#194
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: in a cabin
Posts: 6,515
IC ANA Tokyo
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Executive. Received Premium. That is a 1 cat UG... arrived very late so hotel was full. They said to speak to manager in the morning and apologised. As it was late after a long day of travel this was a good idea.
Spoke to Club manager next day who profusely apologised that all rooms over Premium sold out during stay (was correct). Offered 10K points, 3 extra drink vouchers and as late check as needed effectively on last day. Had a midnight departure so this was a fair arrangement.
How are the rooms?
Probably about 22m2 but in good nick with modern IC interior with a Japanese twist. Bed and pillows super comfortable. Fantastic view over parts of Tokyo from 29th floor. Work desk and a sofa by the window.
How is the exec. lounge?
It is very good.Best I've visited to date. Generous breakfast, lots of made to order items. Superb service. Supper is great also and there's a bartender.
I only had breakfast once and supper once though as there's so much food to discover in Tokyo!
Did you receive a welcome gift?
The usual large bottle of Mineral water and and fruit plate.
How was the minibar?
OK. Well stocked with Champagne, premium spirits, wine beer etc.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Fantastic lounge
- Great gym. Good facilities.
- Nice bar on 36
- Fantastic Teppanyaki with Wagyu steak on 37. Takeshi blew me away. Expensive but worth it on special occasions.
- Location. As close you can get to most areas in massive Tokyo. Area around hotel a bit dull however you walk 15 miutes to Roppongi, 25 to Ginza, 30 to Tsukiji.
- As mentioned, I got to stay and use hotel facilities until my 21.30 departure for Haneda. Nice gesture.
-Bad
- Poor upgrade but well compensated for.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yes.
Would you return?
Absolutely.
Yes
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked King Executive. Received Premium. That is a 1 cat UG... arrived very late so hotel was full. They said to speak to manager in the morning and apologised. As it was late after a long day of travel this was a good idea.
Spoke to Club manager next day who profusely apologised that all rooms over Premium sold out during stay (was correct). Offered 10K points, 3 extra drink vouchers and as late check as needed effectively on last day. Had a midnight departure so this was a fair arrangement.
How are the rooms?
Probably about 22m2 but in good nick with modern IC interior with a Japanese twist. Bed and pillows super comfortable. Fantastic view over parts of Tokyo from 29th floor. Work desk and a sofa by the window.
How is the exec. lounge?
It is very good.Best I've visited to date. Generous breakfast, lots of made to order items. Superb service. Supper is great also and there's a bartender.
I only had breakfast once and supper once though as there's so much food to discover in Tokyo!
Did you receive a welcome gift?
The usual large bottle of Mineral water and and fruit plate.
How was the minibar?
OK. Well stocked with Champagne, premium spirits, wine beer etc.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Fantastic lounge
- Great gym. Good facilities.
- Nice bar on 36
- Fantastic Teppanyaki with Wagyu steak on 37. Takeshi blew me away. Expensive but worth it on special occasions.
- Location. As close you can get to most areas in massive Tokyo. Area around hotel a bit dull however you walk 15 miutes to Roppongi, 25 to Ginza, 30 to Tsukiji.
- As mentioned, I got to stay and use hotel facilities until my 21.30 departure for Haneda. Nice gesture.
-Bad
- Poor upgrade but well compensated for.
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Yes.
Would you return?
Absolutely.
Oct 16, 2017, 12:35 pm
#195
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: in a cabin
Posts: 6,515
IC Park Lane
Were you (or for multi-stayers are you generally) happy with the hotel/stay?
Yes very! Last minute award booking received 4 cat UG to London Exec plus Club Access ^
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked LDN Classic (lowest cat) on points last minute booking - ended up in King London Exec x36, one of my favourites.
How are the rooms?
Large, about 32m2 with ample space, sofa, work space, clean crisp interior.
How is the exec. lounge?
It is very good
Did you receive a welcome gift?
The usual large bottle of Mineral water, shortbread cookies and fruit plate.
How was the minibar?
Superb as always but not included on award stay.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Very Generous upgrade considering new RA policy.
- Warmly greeted welcome back by plenty of staff.
- They make me feel at home here (it's been a second home for years).
- Received Club access on reward stay. They don't have to, but I suppose being a regular has its perk.s
-Bad
- Nothing. How can one complain!?
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Outstanding.
Would you return?
Of course! Once you become a regular here they look after you.
Yes very! Last minute award booking received 4 cat UG to London Exec plus Club Access ^
Which room did you book and which upgrade did you receive?
Booked LDN Classic (lowest cat) on points last minute booking - ended up in King London Exec x36, one of my favourites.
How are the rooms?
Large, about 32m2 with ample space, sofa, work space, clean crisp interior.
How is the exec. lounge?
It is very good
Did you receive a welcome gift?
The usual large bottle of Mineral water, shortbread cookies and fruit plate.
How was the minibar?
Superb as always but not included on award stay.
What was good and what was bad?
-Good
- Very Generous upgrade considering new RA policy.
- Warmly greeted welcome back by plenty of staff.
- They make me feel at home here (it's been a second home for years).
- Received Club access on reward stay. They don't have to, but I suppose being a regular has its perk.s
-Bad
- Nothing. How can one complain!?
Value for $ or Priority Club Points?
Outstanding.
Would you return?
Of course! Once you become a regular here they look after you.