Categories
Resources

Rewards Program Guides

 

Advertiser Disclosure

Hotel Resources

Hotels are, at times, a beacon at the end of a long journey – be it by plane, train, or automobile. Much like a hotel is a place to lay your weary head when navigating your way into uncharted territory after a lengthy trip, HotelCards is a sight for sore eyes for those who are navigating the world of credit cards and may need some guidance. Our team provides comprehensive reviews of several co-branded hotel rewards cards, along with helpful how-to guides, credit basics blogs, and erudite editorials.

Get Started 

At HotelCards, we know that finding the right credit card can be a daunting task – it’s often difficult to make heads or tails of hotel rewards programs and how they work, how co-branded cards fit into the equation, and how to decide which credit card is best both for your needs as a consumer and also to maximize your rewards and savings. Our editors make the task simpler by doing the research for you and getting the pertinent information in front of you in easy-to-understand terms – and this is just one of our goals; HotelCards also provides insight into the team’s our own experiences along with real-world applications. We’re here to help, and like a good hotel concierge, we pay attention to every little detail.  Rest assured, you’ll leave HotelCards with the answers you seek.

Learn More About Leading Hotel Rewards Programs:

Best Western Rewards

Hilton Honors

IHG Rewards Club

Marriott Bonvoy

Radisson Rewards

World of Hyatt

Wyndham Rewards  

Read and Learn in Our Blog

Catch the latest news in the world of credit cards, learn the ins and outs of hotel loyalty and rewards programs, and browse our educational blog posts – HotelCards is your one-stop-shop for hotel credit card information. We break down what you need to know to make an informed decision based on popular card features. Want to know which cards offer an anniversary bonus or a complimentary stay, by hotel or card issuer? We’ve got you covered. On top of that, we’ve analyzed the loyalty program for every major hotel chain that features a co-branded credit card and laid out what you need to know in comprehensive, easy-to-read guides.

Help Me, HotelCards! 

If you’re looking for the latest information about hotel loyalty programs, hotel credit cards, and the credit card industry at large, HotelCards is the right place to be. We strive to provide you with up-to-date industry info along with comprehensive analyses of relevant, real-life topics related to hotel credit cards and hotel loyalty programs. If you have a question that we haven’t answered, feel free to contact us – odds are, we can help!

 

Editorial Disclosure — The opinions expressed on HotelCards’ reviews, blogs, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author. They are not reflective of any card issuer or financial institution and have not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless otherwise noted. Further, HotelCards lists credit card offers that are updated daily with information believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Categories
Resources

Hilton Honors

 

Advertiser Disclosure

hilton credit card

Hilton Honors are the rewards and loyalty program from Hilton Worldwide Holdings – more commonly known as Hilton Honors hotelsThe Hilton Honors program is regarded as one of richest rewards programs available today. This reputation is built on the backs of the impressive sign-up bonuses of Hilton co-branded credit cards, such as the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, which offers a massive 150,000-point sign-up offer, as well as 14x points per dollar spent on Hilton purchases. 

To get the most out of the Hilton Honors rewards program, it is essential to understand how the program works, how to earn the most points and the best options for point redemptions. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about the Hilton Honors program and help you get the most out of your hotel rewards credit cards. 

Hotels in the Hilton Portfolio 

The following hotels and resorts make up the Hilton Worldwide Holdings  portfolio, and participate in the Hilton Honors program: 

  • Canopy by Hilton 
  • Conrad Hotels & Resorts 
  • Curio Collection by Hilton 
  • DoubleTree 
  • Embassy Suites 
  • Hampton by Hilton 
  • Hilton Hotels & Resorts 
  • Hilton Garden Inn 
  • Home2 Suites by Hilton 
  • Homewood Suites 
  • LXR Hotels & Resorts 
  • Motto by Hilton 
  • Tapestry Collection 
  • Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts 

Value of Hilton Honors Points 

Current Value of Hilton Honors Points: .55 to .6 cents per point 

Valuing rewards points is not an exact science. Point valuations continuously fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including the ease of earning points, sign-up bonuses, changes in room rates, and the availability of award bookings. While points valuations change often, there are practical steps that can be taken to come up with an estimated value for rewards points, such as Hilton Honors. 

At HotelCards, we use several metrics to determine the point value of hotel rewards programs. These metrics include how many points it would take to book standard hotel rooms in different geographical areas with points, and how this compares to bookings with cash. These calculations are made for rooms of different tiers and locations, as well as for peak and off-peak booking times, to reach a general estimate of the value of points. 

Hilton Honors points tend to be regarded as less valuable than rewards points from other hotel loyalty programs. Based on current calculations, Hilton Honors points have a value of between $.0055 to $.006 (.55 cents to .6 cents) per point.  

How to Earn Points 

Hotel Stay 

The easiest way to earn Honors points is through stays booked directly with Hilton properties. Basic Hilton Honors members earn ten base points for every dollar they spend on their room when booking through Hilton.  

Bonus Promotions 

Honors Program members can also earn additional points when they take part in bonus promotions designed to encourage members to stay at participating Hilton hotels, resorts, and suites. These promotions typically offer the prospect of double, triple, or even more points with every participating stay.  

Honors Elite Status Bonuses 

  • Blue: Blue, the base level in the Honors elite status levels, earns 10 points for every dollar spent on bookings and purchases with Hilton. 
  • SilverSilver tier earns a 20% bonus on points earned. This means they earn 11 points for every $1 spent with most Hilton brands. 
  • GoldGold tier earn an impressive 80% bonus on points earned, meaning they earn 18x points per $1 spent with Hilton bookings.  
  • DiamondDiamond is the premier status in the Hilton Honors program, with members earning 100% bonus points – 20x points for every dollar spent with Hilton stays. 

Travel Partners 

Lyft 

Honors Club members earn 3x points for every dollar spent on eligible Lyft rideshares in the U.S. and Canada (excluding shared rides) and 2x points for every dollar spent on eligible Lyft shared rideshares.  

Priority Pass 

Honors members who join Priority Pass not only receive access to over 1,000 lounges across the globe but also earn up to 10,000 bonus Honors points.  Priority Pass sign-up bonuses are as follows: 

  • 4,000 Points for a standard membership 
  • 6,500 points for a standard plus membership 
  • 10,000 points for a Priority Pass Prestige membership 

Car Rentals 

Hilton Honors members can earn bonus points when they book with e=select car rental companies and present their Honors card at the counter. 

  • AlamoHonors members can earn 500 bonus points on each Alamo rental, up to a maximum of 5,000 points.  
  • EnterpriseHonors members can also earn 500 bonus points on Enterprise car rentals, up to a maximum of 5,000 points. 
  • National: Honors members receive 25% savings on National car rentals and can earn up to 500 bonus points with qualifying rentals – up to maximum of 5,000 points. 

Shopping 

Hilton has partnerships with thousands of retailers around the world, making it easy to earn rewards points. For a complete list of participating shopping or retail locations, visit the dedicated Hilton shopping page. 

Dining 

Honors members can earn up to 8x points for every $1 spent with over 10,000 dining partners worldwide. Members also earn an additional 5x points per dollar spent when they sign up for Hilton Dining email alerts notifying them of new locations near them, and they then book a table. 

Special Events 

Hilton offers far more than just hotel rooms, as it also plays host to thousands of events each year. The Hilton Honors program allows event planners to earn one point per dollar spent when they book their events with participating Hilton hotels and properties – up to 100,000 points. To earn points an event planner must contact the sales department at the participating hotel directly, request a proposal, and ask for events planner points and have them included in the event contract. 

Credit Cards 

One of the best ways to earn Honors points is by using a Hilton Honors co-branded credit card. American Express issues several Hilton credits cards, all of which provide additional ways to earn ample Honors points after an initial spend of $4,000 in the first three months, as well as 14x points for Hilton purchases.  

The Hilton Honors Aspire Card, for instance, offers a hugely impressive sign-up bonus of 150,000 points Both the Hilton Honors Surpass and the Hilton Honors Business Card earn 130,000 points after an initial spend threshold is met, as well as the chance to earn 12x points with Hilton purchases, and 6x points in select categories.  

Read HotelCards‘ comprehensive reviews of Hilton Honors co-branded credit cards including: 

Other Ways to Earn Points 

  • Buy Points: Hilton allows members to buy points through their dedicated Buy Points portal Hilton sells points at a value of one cent per point, with a minimum purchase of at least 1,000 points. Given that Hilton points are currently valued at less than one cent per point, however, buying points isn’t the best way to boost point levels, with other methods much more cost-effective. 
  • Gift Points: Hilton also allows members to either share their points with loved one through gifting. 
  • One SimCardHonors members earn 100 bonus points when they purchase a One SimCard outside of the United States and an additional one point per minute on both incoming and outgoing calls outside the U.S. 

Limitations on Points Earning 

As with many hotel rewards programs, there are limitations on how points can be earned in the Honors loyalty program. Points cannot be earned on bookings made through third-party discount websites, such as Trivago, Orbitz, Priceline, Booking.com, Expedia, Kayak, Hotwire, Travelocity, or others. 

How to Redeem Points 

Free Night Awards 

The easiest way to redeem Hilton Honors points is through booking free night stays with participating Hilton properties. While Hilton claims that reward nights start as low as 5,000 points, most free nights usually cost between 30,000 and 40,000 points.  

The exact rate of points required for booking a free night depends on the category of the hotel, the time of proposed booking (whether off-peak or peak season), the room is booked, and the location of the property.  Silver, Gold, and Diamond Elite members also receive a complimentary 5th night free when they book standard rewards stays of five consecutive nights or more.  

To book rewards nights, members need to book their stay via the Hilton website or through the mobile app, and check the box labeled “Use Hilton Honors Points.” 

How to Transfer Points to Airlines and Other Travel Partners 

Hilton Honors points also transfer to the frequent flyer rewards programs of over 40 different airlines, as well as with Amtrak All a Bonvoy member has to do is log in to their Bonvoy account, click on “Redeem Points,” choose “Travel,” and click on the box titled “Transfer Points to Miles.” 

The following airlines are partners with Marriott: 

Transfer rates of Honors points to frequent flyer miles are relatively uniform, with a few key exceptions. 10,000 Honors points equate to 1,500 AAdvantage Miles with American Airlines, for example, but only 1,000 Delta SkyMiles.  

Other Ways to Redeem Points 

  • Shopping: Honors points are redeemable towards merchandise through the dedicated Hilton Honors Shopping Mall, for gift certificates with some of the largest merchants in the world, or shopping with Amazon. 
  • Share or Pool Points: Hilton also allows members to either share their points with loved ones through gifting, or pooling points with friends or family to help reach expensive redemption goals. 

Rewards Program Tier Levels  

Silver  

Silver is the first elite tier in the Hilton Honors program that offers perks beyond what regular (Blue) members can expect.  

Silver Requirements 

Reservations Per Yearfour stays or ten nights per year, or a Hilton Honors AMEX Cardholder 

Silver Benefits 

Silver Elite members can expect the following perks: 

  • 20% bonus points on stays 
  • Priority late check-out 
  • Access to the dedicated reservations line 
  • Elite tier rollover nights 
  • 5th night free 
  • The second guest stays free 
  • No resort fees on reward stays 
  • Two complimentary bottles of water 
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi 

Gold  

Gold is the next tier in the Honors loyalty program and offers enhanced perks beyond those of Silver Elite members.  

Gold Requirements 

Reservations Per Year2o stays, 40 nights per year, 75,000 points, or Hilton Honors AMEX Surpass or Hilton Honors AMEX Business Cardholders 

Gold Benefits 

Gold members can expect the following perks in addition to those experienced by Silver members: 

  • 80% bonus points on stays 
  • Space available room upgrades (up to Executive room-type) 
  • Complimentary breakfast 
  • Unlimited milestone bonuses 

Diamond 

Diamond is the top tier in the Hilton Honors in the loyalty program and offers further enhancements than those Gold members can expect.  

Platinum Elite Requirements 

Reservations Per Year30 stays, 60 nights per year, 120,000 points, or Hilton Honors AMEX Aspire Cardholders 

Diamond  Benefits 

Diamond members can expect the following perks beyond Gold: 

  • 100% bonus points on stays 
  • Up to one suite upgrade 
  • Executive lounge status 
  • Elite status gift 
  • 48-hr room guarantee 
  • Diamond status extension 
  • Choice of a free welcome gift of points, breakfast, or amenities 

Hilton Honors Elite Membership Terms Defined 

  • Elite Status Gifting: Members who receive Elite Status Gifting benefits can gift Gold status to another individual should they achieve 60 nights in one calendar year, or gift Diamond status should they stay for at least 100 nights in a calendar year, 
  • Diamond Status Extension: Members who receive the Diamond Status Extension receive the ability to extend their Diamond tier membership for the next year without the need to meet the points or stays qualifications. 
  • 48-Hr. Room Guarantee: Room bookings are guaranteed when reservations are made and paid for at least 48 hours (2 days) before stay. 
  • Unlimited Milestone Bonuses: Members earn bonus points for Hilton stays once they surpass certain milestones, starting at 40 nights within a calendar year. 


Editorial Disclosure 
— The opinions expressed on HotelCards’ reviews, blogs, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author. They are not reflective of any card issuer or financial institution and have not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless otherwise noted. Further, HotelCards lists credit card offers that are updated daily with information believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Categories
Resources

Radisson Rewards

Advertiser Disclosure

radisson rewards credit card

 

Radisson Rewards is the rewards and loyalty program from Radisson Hotels. The current rewards program, formerly known as Club Carlson, allows members to earn impressive rewards points for stays at the over 1,400 hotels and 200,000+ rooms and suites that make up the  Radisson Hotels group of properties. 

Points in the Radisson Rewards program have one of the lowest redemption values in the hotel loyalty program sector, but for those who prefer to stay with Radisson, the ability to earn large amounts of points – especially through co-branded credit cards – there can be great value for money. 

Radisson credit cards, offered by U.S. Bank, offer great points-earning potential and slid perks. This is especially true of the Radisson Rewards™ Premier Visa Signature® Card, which earns an impressive 10x points on stays with Radisson, as well as 85,000 bonus points after meeting introductory spending requirements. 

Hotels in the Radisson Hotel Group Portfolio 

The following hotels and resorts make up the Radisson portfolio, and participate in the Rewards Program: 

  • Radisson Collection 
  • Radisson Blu 
  • Radisson 
  • Radisson Red 
  • Park Plaza 
  • Park Inn 
  • Country Inn & Suites 

Value of Radisson Rewards Points 

Current Value of Radisson Points: .35 to .4 cents per point 

Valuing rewards points is not an exact science. Point valuations continuously fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including the ease of earning points, sign-up bonuses, changes in room rates, and the availability of award bookings. While points valuations change often, there are practical steps that can be taken to come up with an estimated value for rewards points, such as Radisson Rewards. 

At HotelCards, we use several metrics to determine the point value of hotel rewards programs. These metrics include how many points it would take to book standard hotel rooms in different geographical areas with points, and how this compares to bookings with cash. These calculations are made for rooms of different tiers and locations, as well as for peak and off-peak booking times, to reach a general estimate of the value of points. 

Based on current calculations, Radisson Rewards points have a value of between $.0035 to $.004 (.35 cents to .4 cents) per point.  

How to Earn Points 

Hotel Stays

The most straightforward way to earn Radisson Rewards points is through booking stays with any member of the Radisson family of hotels 

Points from hotel stays vary depending upon the membership status of the individual with the points breakdown for hotel stays is as follows: 

  • Club: Club members earn 20 points for every $1 spent with Radisson. 
  • Silver: Silver tier members earn 22 points for every $1 spent with Radisson. 
  • Gold: Gold tier members earn 25 points for every $1 spent with Radisson. 
  • Platinum: Platinum tier members earn 35 points for every $1 spent with Radisson. 

Travel Partners 

Radisson Rewards points are also earnable when booking vehicle rentals through select car rental partners worldwide. Current partners include: 

  • Alamo Members earn 300 points for every day of their qualifying rental. 
  • AvisEarn 750 points when booking with Avis, as well as 25% discounts on Avis base rates. 
  • Budget: Earn 750 points when booking with Budget, as well as 25% discounts on Budget base rental rates. 
  • Enterprise: Members earn 300 points for every day of their rental in Europe. 
  • Europcar: Radisson Rewards members can earn up to 1,800 points on eligible car rentals. 
  • National: Members receive  25% discount on every qualifying rental and earn 300 points for every day of their rental with National. 
  • Sixt: Members receive 750 points for every Sixt care rental worldwide, as well as a 15% discount. Radisson Rewards Gold members also receive a free upgrade when available. 

Wine Club 

Radisson Rewards members can earn up to 12,500 points when they join Vinesse Wines’ wine club. Members earn 5,000 points when they join the club and order their first wine shipment, as well as 7,500 additional points when they order their second shipment. Members earn ten points for every dollar sent on all other wine or wine accessory purchases.  

Shopping 

Rewards members earn points when shopping with select Radisson partners, including FTD Flowers and the Bicester Village Shopping Collection. 

  • Bicester  Village Shopping Collection: Members earn ten points for every yuan spent on purchases with Bicester Village Shopping Collections in China, as well as ten points for every euro spent on purchases with Bicester in Europe. 
  • FTD Flowers: Rewards members earn 1,500 points when they order flowers through FTD and enter their Radisson membership.  

Special Events 

Travel agents and small-to-medium-sized companies receive ten points for every dollar spent on bookings with over 1,100 Radisson properties worldwide.  Event planners who are Rewards members earn five points for every dollar spent on events or meetings booked with Radisson. 

Credit Cards 

Co-branded credit cards offer one of the best ways to earn additional points with the Radisson Rewards loyalty program. U.S. Bank – a leading credit card issuer – offers two Visa credit cards in association with Radisson Hotels. These cards allow members to earn additional points when booking stays through Radisson hotels, as well as for other everyday purchases. 

The Radisson Rewards™ Premier Visa Signature® Card Is the pinnacle of the Radisson Rewards credit cards, offering the ultimate in points-earning potential. This card offers complimentary Gold tier status and allows holders to earn an additional 10x points on Radisson stays, plus 5x points for every other purchase made with the card. Each year of membership with the card also comes with an annual bonus of 40,000 points, and new accounts earn an impressive 85,000 additional points when they spend at least $2,500 on purchases in the first 90 days of opening the account. The Premier Visa Signature has an annual fee of $75, which is a very modest price to pay for those who favor the Radisson brand.  

The Radisson Rewards™ Visa® Card is the other option available from U.S. Bank. The straightforward Visa card does not feature an annual fee, making it an excellenchoice for those who love the Radisson brand and want to earn points – but don’t travel enough to justify the $75 annual fee.  

The Radisson Rewards Card earns an additional 3x points for Radisson stays and a single point for all other purchases made with the card. New accounts also benefit from in introductory bonus of 30,000 points hen they use their card to make just $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days – a very achievable goal.  

For more information about Radisson co-branded hotel rewards credit cards, please visit our dedicated Radisson Credit Cards page. 

Other Ways to Earn Points 

  • Buy Points: Radisson allows members to buy points through their dedicated Purchase Points” portal. Rewards points can be purchases in increments of 1,000 points for $7 (up to 80,000 points per account), placing the value of points at $.007 (.7 cents per point). This valuation is far higher than the redemption value of Radisson Rewards points, which currently is around .4 cents per point, making purchasing points a less-than-favorable option for earning points in the loyalty program. 
  • Gift Points: Radisson also allows members to either share their points with loved one through gifting. Points gifts must be in increments of 1,000 points, up to a maximum of 80,000 points.  

Limitations on Points Earning 

As with other hotel loyalty programsRadisson places restrictions on how members can earn points.  Points, for example, cannot be earned on bookings made through third-party discount websites, such as Trivago, Orbitz, Priceline, Booking.com, Expedia, Kayak, Hotwire, Travelocity, or others. 

How to Redeem Points 

Free Night Awards 

The most obvious – and simplest – way to redeem Radisson Rewards points is by booking free night stays with any of Radisson’s seven brands and 1,400 properties worldwide. As Radisson separates its features into seven distinct categories based upon the location, amenities, and quality of the room being booked, the number of points required for each free night stay will vary. 

Free night bookings with Radisson can be made either through points or “Cash + Points,” with redemption rates starting as follows: 

  • Points: Points are the primary method of redemption within Radisson Rewards, with free nights starting at 9,000 points for off-peak stays in standard rooms at Category 1 properties, and 13,500 for premium rooms in similar properties.  
  • Points + Cash: Points + Cash allows Rewards members to pay for part of their stay with points – paying the rest with cash.  Redemptions using Points + Cash start as low as 5,000 points and cash at Category 1 properties. 

How to Transfer Points to Airlines  

Radisson Rewards points also transfer to the frequent flyer rewards programs of many of the world’s leading airlines. The following airlines are partners with Radisson: 

Points Transfer Rules 

Radisson stipulates that members transfer their points to airline miles through one of three options: 2,000 points for 200 air miles, 50,00 points for 5,000 miles, or 100,000 points for 10,000 miles.  

Other Ways to Redeem Points 

  • Express Points: Rewards points are redeemable for instant access to Radisson perks and upgrades during stays at participating hotels. Members can quickly redeem points for in-room entertainment options, room upgrades or enhancements, in-hotel food or beverage purchases, or even spa access where available.  
  • Shopping: Radisson Reward points are redeemable for gift cards in values of $10, $25, and $50. $10 gift cards cost 7,000 points, $25 gift cards cost 18,000 points, and $50 cards cost 34,000 reward points. Gift cards are also available in both euros and British pounds for European travelers.  
  • Gift cards are also available as prepaid Visa cards, at the cost of 20,000 points for a $25 Visa prepaid card, 35,000 points for a $50 prepaid card, and 67,000 points for a $100 Visa prepaid card. 
  • Priority Pass: Members can redeem 125,000 points for a Priority Pass Standard Plus membership (a $249 value). Priority Pass Standard Plus membership entitles holders to ten free visits per year to the over 1,000+ airport lounges in the Priority Pass network. After the tenth visit, subsequent lounge visits cost $27 per visit. 125,000 points for a years membership values rewards points at around .2 cents per point, meaning points are better used for booking stays – not lounge access.  
  • TSA Precheck: Members can also redeem 65,000 points to cover the cost of a TSA Precheck application – normally valued at $85. This redemption places the value of Radisson Rewards points at roughly .15 cents per points, meaning it isn’t the best way to redeem points – instead pay for the application fee with your Radisson Rewards credit card. 
  • Charitable Donations: Points can be donated to support SOS Children’ Villages, the American Red Cross, or First Climate, a non-profit that promotes climate protection projects. 
  • Gift Points: Radisson also allows members to either share their points with loved one through gifting. Points gifts must be in increments of 1,000 points, up to a maximum of 80,000 points.  

Rewards Program Tier Levels  

Club 

Club is the entry-level tier in the Radisson Rewards program, offering basic perks and benefits to all members.  

Club Benefits 

Club members can expect the following perks: 

  • 10% savings on hotel bookings made online with Radisson 
  • 20 points/$1 on Radisson purchases 
  • 5% food and beverage discount at participating hotel restaurants  
  • Complimentary two bottles of water per stay 

Silver 

Silver is the next tier in the Radisson loyalty program and offers enhanced perks beyond those of Club members.  

Silver Requirements 

Reservations Per YearNine nights or six stays in a calendar year 

Silver Benefits 

Silver members can expect the following perks on top of what Club members receive: 

  • 22 points/$1 on Radisson purchases 
  • 10% food and beverage discount at participating hotel restaurants  
  • Eligible nights automatically rollover towards Elite status for the next year 
  • Complimentary room upgrades when available 
  • Early check-in/ late check-out 

Gold 

Gold is the next tier of the Elite status tiers in the Radisson Rewards program, offering further enhancements than those of Silver tier. 

Gold Requirements 

Reservations Per Year30 nights or 20 stays in a calendar year  

Gold Benefits 

Gold  members can expect the following perks and benefits in addition to Silver-tier perks: 

  • 25 points/$1 on Radisson purchases 
  • 15% food and beverage discount at participating hotel restaurants  
  • In-room welcome gift upon arrival 
  • 72 hr. room availability guarantee  

Platinum  

Platinum is the premier tiers in the Radisson loyalty program and offers the program’s mostexceptional perks and benefits. 

Platinum Requirements 

Reservations Per Year60 nights or 30 stays in a calendar year  

Platinum Benefits 

Titanium Elite members can expect the following perks: 

  • 35 points/$1 on Radisson purchases 
  • 20% food and beverage discount at participating hotel restaurants  
  • 48 hr. room availability guarantee  
  • Complimentary breakfast at participating hotel restaurants during stay 
  • Exclusive 24/7 access to Platinum Member Service line for bookings and travel assistance 


Editorial Disclosure — The opinions expressed on HotelCards’ reviews, blogs, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author. They are not reflective of any card issuer or financial institution and have not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless otherwise noted. Further, HotelCards lists credit card offers that are updated daily with information believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Categories
Resources

IHG Rewards Club

Advertiser Disclosure

ihg credit card

Ranked as one of the best hotel loyalty programs in the industry, the IHG® Rewards Club features four membership tiers and allows participants to earn points on all hotel bookings. These earnings can be redeemed for a number of options including Reward Nights, merchandise and gift cards, exclusive experiences, airline miles, and more. 

Membership within the program turns each hotel booking into a rewarding experience. As host to a number of well-known names in the hotel industry that range from affordable to extravagant, the IHG® Rewards Club is an accessible loyalty program that can appeal to travelers of all types and budgets. 

In addition to earning points towards complimentary hotel stay (available for as little as 5,000 points), IHG Rewards Club members can earn their way to advancing to higher membership ranks and unlocking additional luxurious hotel amenities with every status level. 

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts Portfolio 

IHG® Hotels & Resorts has 14 brands, which feature over 5,600 IHG® properties located worldwide that range from budget-friendly to upscale luxury. 

  • Regent® Hotels and Resorts 
  • Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts 
  • Kimpton® Hotels & Restaurants 
  • Hotel Indigo® 
  • Even® Hotels 
  • Hualuxe® Hotels and Resorts 
  • Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts 
  • voco® 
  • Holiday Inn® 
  • Holiday Inn Express® 
  • Holiday Inn Resort® 
  • Holiday Inn Club Vacations® 
  • avid® Hotels 
  • Staybridge Suites® 
  • Candlewood Suites® 

How to Earn IHG Rewards Points: 

Booking Hotel Reservations 

Hotel bookings with all but two IHG® properties will yield a base of 10 points per dollar – amounts may increase depending on membership levels. Staybridge Suites® and Candlewood Suites® are the exceptions and will instead earn 5 points per dollar. Increased earnings are possible depending on the level of membership within the IHG® Rewards Club. 

IHG® Credit Cards 

Cardholders can use the IHG® Rewards Club Premier Credit Card or the IHG® Rewards Club Traveler Credit Card to expedite point earning opportunities. In addition to providing up to 40X points per dollar spent on hotel stay, cardholders can earn IHG points through everyday purchases with 2X points on gas, groceries, and restaurants, and 1X point for everything else. 

Dining at Participating Restaurants 

Earn up to 8X points per dollar spent on dining at eligible restaurants, including tax and tip. 

A free program that’s open to all, the IHG® dining program awards points to those who dine at any of their 10,000 participating restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs.  

Joining the IHG® Rewards Club Dining program is simple and straightforward. You will be required to link at least one credit or debit card to your account, which you must use to pay for dining out in order to receive bonus points when dining at a participating establishment. 

New members can earn up to 1,000 Rewards Club bonus points by spending $30 or more at any participating restaurant within 30 days of signing up and completing an online review on their dining experience. 

Purchases at Apple.Com 

Earn 4X points per dollar spent on a purchase of a Mac or iPad by shopping through IHG® Rewards Club. To take advantage of this partner offer, visit the signup page and register using the same email address associated with your IHG® Rewards Club account. Earnings from qualified purchases will be added to accounts within 30 days. 

Surveys 

Earn 1,000 IHG® Rewards Club points after registering and completing your first online consumer survey with Opinion Check-InAfterwards, receive points for every completed survey (individual survey rewards amounts may vary). 

Car Rentals 

Earn 1,500 or more IHG® Rewards Club points when booking a rental car through the IHG portal. IHG Rewards Club members can enjoy up to 35% in savings on base rental rates in addition to bonus points per day. 

Club members renting a Hertz vehicle will receive 125 points per day while Elite members will receive 500 points per day. Dollar and Thrifty car rentals will earn members a flat rate of 125 points per day, regardless of membership level. 

Opt-Out of Housekeeping Services 

Earn 500 points (maximum) by declining housekeeping at select hotels. Requires a minimum of 2 consecutive nights stays, look for hotels with “A Greener Stay” option. 

Redeeming IHG® Rewards Club Points: 

Complimentary Hotel Stay 

Redeeming points for Reward Nights are easily the most worthwhile method of point redemption within the IHG® Rewards Club. Points can be used for complimentary hotel stay for as little as 10,000 points and used for booking reservations at any of IHG’s thousands of properties. IHG also features PointBreaks at select locations that can be reserved for as little 5,000 points. 

Specific point redemption amounts will vary by hotel property (you can look up the specific rates here) and require advanced reservations. All reservations are subject to room availability, but points can be redeemed with no restrictions of blackout dates. 

Points & Cash 

An alternative point redemption method for hotel stay, IHG Rewards members can use points for partial payment of a hotel booking. This is useful for those who don’t have enough points to cover an entire booking, or for those who want to stretch their points as much as possible. Requires a minimum of 5,000 points to redeem. 

Member Exclusive Experiences 

Known as IHG® Rewards Club Access, members can bid on unique, members-only experiences that range from vacations, lifestyle, and entertainment. Opening bid amounts may vary, but typically require bid increments of 1,000. Not for the easily discouraged, bidding wars can cause costs to go into the hundreds of thousands (in points). 

Online Catalog 

IHG offers an online portal where rewards club members can redeem their points for numerous items and ranges in cost from 5,000 points to over 1 million points: 

  • Merchandise 
  • Gift Cards 
  • Magazine Subscriptions 

While there is an impressively wide range of merchandise available for redemption, points have half the value compared to when they are redeemed for hotel stay – making this a less than lucrative redemption method for IHG Reward Club members. 

Gift or Transfer Points 

Points can be given to other rewards members starting at a 1,000-point minimum. Useful for helping loved ones achieve redemption minimums or to pay for lodging of those accompanying your travels. 

Donate to Charity 

Use points to donate between 2,500 – 10,000 points to five charitable establishments: Goodwill, the American Red Cross, The Prince’s Trust Donation, Youth Career Initiative, and CARE International UK Donation. Unfortunately, such generosity is not tax-deductible. These options can also be found via the IHG online catalog. 

Exchange for Airline Miles 

IHG® has 39 airline partners and includes all major U.S. airlines. Redemption rates will vary, but the majority of IHG airline partners require a minimum of 10,000 points for 2,000 miles. Redemption cannot be done online and requires contacting IHG® Rewards Club Customer Care. After crunching the numbers, this method of redemption seems to be extremely costly compared to purchasing miles directly with the respective airline.

 

Airline Partner IHG Rewards Points Minimum Airline Miles/Points
Aeromexico 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Aeroplan 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Air China 10,000 points 2,000 kilometers
Air France 10,000 points 2,000 miles
AIR MILES® reward miles 10,000 points 250 miles
Air New Zealand Airpoints 10,000 points 25 Airpoints
Alaska Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Alitalia MilleMiglia 10,000 points 2,000 miles
All Nippon Airways 10,000 points 2,000 miles
American Airlines AAdvantage® 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Asia Miles 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Asiana Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
British Airways 10,000 points 2,000 Avios
China Eastern 10,000 points 2,000 kilometers
China Southern Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 kilometers
Delta SkyMiles 10,000 points 2,000 miles
El Al Israel Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Emirates 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Etihad Airways 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Gulf Air 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Hainan Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 kilometers
Hawaiian Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Iberia Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Japan Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Jet Airways 10,000 points 2,000 miles
JetBlue TrueBlue 10,000 points 2,000 points
KLM 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Lanchile 10,000 points 2,000 kilometers
LifeMiles 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Malaysia Airlines 10,000 points 1,500 miles
Qantas Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Saudi Arabian Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Singapore Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
South African Airways 10,000 points 2,000 miles
TAP Air Portugal 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus 10,000 points 2,000 miles
United Airlines 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Virgin Atlantic 10,000 points 2,000 miles
Velocity Frequent Flyer 10,000 points 2,000 miles

IHG® Rewards Club Membership Tiers 

There are four levels of membership with the IHG Rewards Club program, in addition to an ‘Ambassador’ status that can be purchased for a flat-rate fee. Moving into the higher tiers of membership will require meeting either a certain level of Qualified Nights or Elite Qualifying Points. Each advancement within the IHG Rewards Club results in an increase of hotel perks, bonus earning rates, and special hotel privileges.  

Club Member 

The starting level for new IHG Rewards Club members offers new members the most basic of privileges:  

  • Welcome Amenity 
  • Raid the Bar (credit to use towards the restaurant bar or in-room mini-bar, only available at Kimpton Hotels) 
  • Points no longer expire (must maintain Elite status)  
  • 1 Free Amazon Kindle eBook per Quarter 

Platinum Elite Member  

Qualifying requires 40 Qualified Nights or 40,000 Elite Qualifying Points and offers all the amenities of Gold Elite status in addition to: 

  • 50% Bonus Earnings on Top of Base Points (earn 15 points per dollar instead of 10) 
  • Complimentary Room Upgrades 
  • Guaranteed Room Availability (requires 72 hours advance notice, not valid for Reward Nights) 
  • Elite Rollover Nights 
  • 2 Free Amazon Kindle eBooks per Quarter 

Spire Elite Member 

The highest tier of IHG Rewards Club membership requires 75 Qualified Nights or 75,000 Qualifying Points. This membership includes the amenities of the previous tier in addition to: 

  • 100% Bonus Earnings on Top of Base Points (earn 20 points per dollar instead of 10) 
  • Choice of benefits (Receive 25,000 IHG points or gif IHG Platinum status to a friend/family member)  
  • Complimentary Night Stay at New Kimpton Hotels (view list here) 
  • Exclusive access to Kimpton’s CEO (only available at Kimpton properties) 
  • Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® Five Star® Status 
  • Early Check-In (10 am) 
  • Inner Circle Amenity (personalized welcome of favorite drink and snack delivered to your room each day – only available at Kimpton properties) 
  • Complimentary Chef’s Taste (during Dinner hours only) 
  • 3 Free Amazon Kindle eBooks per Quarter 

InterContinental® Ambassador 

A loyalty status that does not follow the track of the other IHG membership levels. Instead, it can be purchased for a flat rate of $200 USD and provides extra perks specifically for stay aInterContinental hotels and resorts.  

  • Guaranteed room upgrade 
  • Extended 4 PM check-out 
  • Complimentary weekend night 
  • $20 credit for restaurants and bars per stay 
  • Complimentary mineral water 
  • Complimentary internet 
  • Platinum Elite Status in IHG Rewards Club 

Those who frequently travel to China, in particular, will find this status even more rewarding as InterContinental Ambassador status includes perks only applicable to stays in Greater China. 

  • Complimentary breakfast for one, for every night of your stay (Mainland China, only) 
  • 15% discount at restaurants and bars (excludes minibar) 
  • RMB120 credit for restaurants and bars (Spire Elite members only) 
  • Welcome fruit platter 

How to Become an Elite IHG Rewards Club Member 

Members can advance to the higher rankings within the IHG Rewards Club by either meeting specific tier requirements of a hotel stay or through certain IHG products offers which provide automatic Elite status (Ambassador of by owning an IHG credit card).  

When it comes to earning Elite status through account activity, IHG Rewards Club Members have two options: accumulating the necessary Elite Qualifying Points or Elite Qualifying Nights –which varies depending on the specific membership level Once earned, Elite Status lasts until the end of the following calendar year. 

What Are Elite Qualifying Points? 

Elite Qualifying Points and are used to qualify IHG Rewards Club members for higher membership tiers and can be earned through various types of IHG account activity. Unlike Elite Qualifying Nights, points that exceed the needed amount to upgrade to the next higher tier do not roll over and will not count towards maintaining Elite status the following year.   

How to Earn Elite Qualifying Points 

The most common way to earn Elite qualifying points will be from booking hotel stay directly through IHG – any hotel reservations made through a third-party site will not earn points towards Elite status. Elite Qualifying Points are earned at the base rate of 10X points per dollar spent, regardless of the multiplier that your current membership level denotes.  

What Are Elite Qualifying Nights? 

Elite Qualifying Nights are hotel bookings made directly through IHG that contribute towards meeting the necessary requirement to be upgraded to a higher membership tier or towards maintaining one’s current elite status.  

Earning Elite Qualifying Nights 

Elite Qualifying Nights can only be earned with bookings made directly through IHG. Additionally: Reward Nights, complimentary reservations, and Chase Free Nights are ineligible.  

Elite Rollover Nights 

While there are more opportunities to earn Elite Qualifying Points, Elite Qualifying Nights have the advantage where they can be rolled over to the next year in order to maintain current membership statusElite Rollover Nights are only available those of Platinum of Spire Elite status. 

If within the calendar year you earn more than the minimum number of nights for your membership tier, but fewer than the number of nights needed to advance to the next tier, any leftover amounts will automatically be applied to maintaining your current membership status.  

For example: Say you are a Platinum Elite member which requires 40 Elite Qualifying Nights of eligible hotel stay. Moving to the next tier, Spire Elite requires 75 Elite Qualifying Nights. If you were to only earn 60 Elite Qualifying Nights before the end of the year, 20 of those Nights would instead, be applied towards maintaining your Platinum Elite status for the following year and you would need to book an additional 20 nights to maintain your Platinum Elite status. 
    –

Editorial Disclosure — The opinions expressed on HotelCards’ reviews, blogs, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author. They are not reflective of any card issuer or financial institution and have not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless otherwise noted. Further, [SITE NAME] lists credit card offers that are updated daily with information believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Categories
Resources

Wyndham Rewards  

 

Advertiser Disclosure

Wyndham Rewards® is the loyalty program from Wyndham Hotels. This worthwhile Wyndham program rewards customers who love to stay at Wyndham hotel properties across the globe, awarding bonus points that can be redeemed for free or discounted stays, merchandise, tours and excursions, and much more.

Wyndham Rewards is free to join, and members will enjoy exclusive perks from one of the world’s most generous rewards programs. There are three tiers for free nights – overnight stays worth 7,500, 15,000, or 30,000 points per bedroom; members can also use points to book a bedroom at a participating club resort or vacation rental, which ranges from 15,000 to 30,000 points per night. Wyndham Rewards offers several redemption options for its members, including go freeSM rewards (free night redemptions using only pointsand go fastSM rewards (free night redemptions using points + cash). Points can also be redeemed for special events, merchandise, travel, and more! As of April 3, 2019, Wyndham Rewards has debuted a host of new and expanded partnerships as well as a brand-new shopping portal. These updates, based on feedback from Wyndham Rewards Members, reflect a dedication to customer service and underscore a commitment to delivering a simple, generous rewards program designed for the needs of everyone.

Wyndham prides themselves on their service, and with a plethora of prolific properties across the country, Wyndham’s site says, “Chances are, you’re about 10 minutes from a hotel by Wyndham.” Take your pick from more than 9,000 properties across twenty brands in more than eighty countries:

  • AmericInn® by Wyndham
  • Wyndham Grand®
  • Wyndham Garden®
  • Trademark Collection by Wyndham
  • Dolce Hotels and Resorts® by Wyndham
  • Ramada® by Wyndham
  • Wyndham®
  • Baymont® by Wyndham
  • La Quinta® by Wyndham
  • Days Inn® by Wyndham
  • Super 8 by Wyndham
  • TRYP by Wyndham
  • Howard Johnson® by Wyndham
  • Travelodge by Wyndham
  • Microtel by Wyndham
  • Hawthorn® Suites by Wyndham
  • Wingate® by Wyndham
  • Dazzler by Wyndham
  • Esplendor by Wyndham

How Wyndham Rewards Works

Membership

Currently, there are 4 membership tiers in the Wyndham Rewards program: Blue, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Each level of membership affords different perks and benefits that can be earned

How To Earn Wyndham Rewards Points 

Earn Points with Wyndham Hotel properties: For every qualified stay at a participating property, Wyndham Rewards members will receive 10 Wyndham Rewards points for every dollar spent, or 1,000 Wyndham Rewards points, whichever is greater. Points can be earned for dollars spent on the room rate only (exempt at Dolce Hotels and Resorts, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, Wyndham Garden, and Wyndham Grand Hotels. Each of these hotel properties grants 10 points for each dollar spent on the total folio.)

  • gfast awards: At participating properties, members can earn Wyndham Rewards points from go fast awards. Points are earned on the cash portion paid on room rate only (excluding taxes, incidentals and other applicable fees – except at Dolce Hotels and Resorts, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, Wyndham Garden and Wyndham Grand hotels, where points are earned on the total cash portion paid).
  • go meetSM awards: For program members who are planning to host a business gathering, wedding or another special event at a Wyndham hotel property, earn 1 point for every $1 spent on qualifying revenue for event spaces, guest room blocks, and food and beverage charges.
  • Wyndham Rewards® Visa® Card: Cardholders can earn an introductory bonus of up to 30,000 bonus points when they apply for the Wyndham Rewards® Visa® Card, as well as up to 5 points per dollar spent in addition to the 10 points you already earn with your Wyndham Rewards membership. 30,000 bonus points can add up to 4 free nights!
  • Shop and Earn: Sign into your Wyndham Rewards account, start shopping and earn points from the purchases you make.
  • Marathon Gas Stations: Get rewarded for fueling up, and for purchasing select items at participating Marathon Gas locations across the U.S. with the MakeItCount™ program. Earn 2 points for every gallon of fuel purchased. Wyndham Rewards members must also be a member of the MakeItCount = program to earn rewards.
  • Tours and Activities: Make the most of your travels by maximizing your spending. Earn 10 points per dollar when you book your next adventure through Wyndham.
  • Viator (tours and activities around the globe): Wyndham will be launching their partnership with Viator soon. Stay tuned for more details!
  • DoorDash: Earn 250 Wyndham Rewards points for every DoorDash order you place – while traveling or at home.
  • Avis and Budget Car Rentals: Earn 100 points per day for all qualifying car rentals from Avis and Budget, with a maximum of 500 points per rental. Save up to 30% on all qualifying rentals with your Wyndham Rewards membership, too.
  • Opinion Rewards: After joining Opinion Rewards, which is a free program for Wyndham Rewards members, you can earn 500 rewards points just for completing your first survey. Additional points are earned each time you participate in a new survey.

How to Earn Travel Partner Currency

Wyndham Rewards members can choose to earn Travel Partner Currency (airline miles, rail points, etc) in lieu of Wyndham Rewards points for qualified stays and Go Fast Awards at participating hotels only. Travel Partner Currency cannot be earned for qualified stays or Go Fast awards at participating Caesars Entertainment Properties or participating destinations. If you choose to earn Travel Partner Currency instead of Wyndham Rewards points, the number of miles or points earned per dollar spent varies by the partner you wish to earn points with. You must be a member of a participating airline travel rewards program to earn miles or points in that program. Explore Wyndham’s rewards partners:

  • American Airlines AAdvantage:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Aeroplan:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Amtrak Guest Rewards:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Avianca LifeMiles:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Eastern Miles:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Frontier Miles:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Fortune Wings Club:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Hawaiian Miles®:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Lufthansa Miles & More:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • United Mileage Plus:
    • Blue and Gold members earn 1 mile for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
    • Platinum and Diamond members earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on qualified stays for all hotel brands.
  • Aeromexico Club Premier: Earn 3.2 Club Premier Points for every $1 (USD) spent on qualified stays at participating AmericInn, Baymont, Days Inn, Dazzler, Esplendor, Howard Johnson, La Quinta, Microtel, Ramada, Super 8, Trademark, Travelodge and Wingate by Wyndham hotels.
    • Earn 800 club premier points for every qualified stay at participating Dolce Hotels & Resorts, Hawthorn, TRYP by Wyndham, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
  • Air China Phoenix Miles:
    • Earn 800 km (500 miles) for each qualified stay at Ramada, Howard Johnson and Days Inn/Hotel/Suites within the P.R. China.
    • Earn 800 km (500 miles) per stay at Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, Hawthorn Suites, TRYP by Wyndham worldwide, and Dolce Hotels and Resorts locations.
    • Additionally, earn 400 km (250 miles) per stay at Super 8 within the P.R. China. Earn 3km (2 miles) per US dollar spent at all other participating properties outside of the P.R. China.

What is a Qualified Stay?

A qualified stay is defined by Wyndham as an overnight stay of one or more nights that is booked on Wyndham channels and does not include third-party online bookings.

How to Redeem Points

  • go freeSM Awards: Redeem your points at thousands of Wyndham Rewards properties worldwide with three simple free night tiers: 7,500, 15,000, or 30,000 points per bedroom.
  • go fastSM Awards: Get a discounted night in a bedroom in each of three tiers available by combining cash with either 1,500, 3,000, or 6,000 Wyndham Rewards points. You’ll still receive points for every dollar you spend on your room even as you get a discounted rate thanks to the points you redeem!
  • Points can be redeemed at more than 30,000 hotels, vacation club resorts, and vacation rentals across the globe. Points can be used at:
    • More than 9,000 Wyndham Hotels and Resorts worldwide.
    • Spacious vacation club resorts, including Club Wyndham, WorldMark by Wyndham, Margaritaville, and Shell Vacation Clubs. These resorts include conveniences like kitchens and separate living areas, as well as amenities that include swimming pools, lazy rivers, and more.
    • More than 30 Caesars Entertainment hotels in top casino destinations like Atlantic City, Las Vegas, and more.
    • Wyndham Vacation Rentals, unique homes and condo-style resorts across the globe.
    • Cottages.com, which features picturesque holiday rentals and a collection of unique properties across the UK, Ireland, France and Italy.
    • Landal GreenParks, which features spacious bungalow parks that nature lovers will adore, at properties across Europe.
  • Tours and Activities: Use your Wyndham Rewards points to book unique experiences; activities include food tours, outdoor adventures, and much more.
  • Marathon Gas Stations: Wyndham Rewards points can be redeemed for CentsOff® fuel rewards at thousands of participating Marathon locations.
  • Merchandise: Shop in Wyndham’s exclusive portal and redeem your points for everything from electronics to handbags and more from their expansive online points catalog.
  • Gift Cards: Use points to buy gift cards from Amazon, Best Buy, Starbucks, and more of your favorite brands.
  • Charity: Wyndham Rewards members can donate their points to participating charities, like Save the Children and Hotels for Heroes.
  • Transfer Your Points to Wyndham’s Partners: Wyndham Rewards points are converted to points or miles for the following programs at a rate of 5 Wyndham Rewards points to one point/mile from the participating program. You must have a minimum of 6,000 points in order to transfer, and they will transfer at a ratio of 6,000 Wyndham Rewards points to 1,200 miles/points in the receiving program. You must be a member of a participating travel rewards program to earn miles or points in that program. Participating programs include:
    • Aeromexico Club Premier Miles
    • Air Canada Aeroplan Miles
    • Air China PhoenixMiles
    • American Airlines AAdvantage Miles
    • Amtrak Guest Rewards Points
    • Avianca LifeMiles
    • China Eastern Miles
    • Fortune Wings Club Kilometers
    • Frontier Airlines FRONTIER Miles
    • Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles
    • PAYBACK Points
    • Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles
    • United MileagePlus Miles


Editorial Disclosure
— The opinions expressed on HotelCards’ reviews, blogs, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author. They are not reflective of any card issuer or financial institution and have not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless otherwise noted. Further, HotelCards lists credit card offers that are updated daily with information believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Categories
Resources

Marriott Bonvoy

Advertiser Disclosure

Marriot Bonvoy is the rewards and loyalty program from the Marriott hotel group. The current Bonvoy program is based in part on the luxurious rewards programs of two hotels that now compose part of the Marriott brand: Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) and The Ritz-Carlton.  

The Marriott Bonvoy program is regarded as one of the most exceptional hotels rewards programs available today and prides itself on offering elite-level benefits and excellent redemption value. The Bonvoy family of credit cards are especially well-regarded for their excellent sign-up bonuses, with the Marriott Bonvoy™ Boundless Card from Chase a prime example: New cardholders receive a whopping 100,000 points when they use the card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first three months. 

To get the most out of the Bonvoy rewards program, it is essential to understand how the program works, how to earn the most points and the best options for point redemptions. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about the Marriott Bonvoy program and help you get the most out of your hotel rewards credit cards. 

Hotels in the Marriott Portfolio 

The following hotels and resorts make up the Marriott International portfolio, and participate in the Bonvoy™ program: 

  • AC Hotels 
  • Aloft 
  • Autograph Collection 
  • Bulgari Hotels  
  • Courtyard by Marriott 
  • Element 
  • Fairfield Inn 
  • Four Points 
  • Gaylord Hotels 
  • Homes & Villas by Marriott 
  • JW Marriott 
  • Le Meridien 
  • Marriott Hotels & Resorts 
  • Renaissance Hotels 
  • Residence Inn 
  • Ritz-Carlton 
  • Sheraton 
  • SpringHill Suites 
  • St. Regis 
  • TownePlace Suites 
  • W Hotels 
  • Westin 

How to Earn Points 

Hotel Stays

The simplest way to earn points through the Bonvoy program is by booking a stay with a Marriott International hotel or resort.  

Points from hotel stays vary depending upon the membership status of the individual, as well as the type of property the stay is booked in. Long-stay brands like Residence Inn, Element, or TownePlace Suites, for example, earn half the points of typical stays with other Marriot brands.  

The points breakdown for hotel stays is as follows: 

  • Basic Member: Basic members earn 10 points for every $1 with most Marriot brands, and 5 points per $1 spent with long-stay brands. 
  • Silver Elite: Silver Elite tier members earn a 10% bonus on points earned. This means they earn 11 points for every $1 spent, and 5.5 points for every $1 at long-stay hotels. 
  • Gold Elite: Gold Elite tier earns a 25% bonus on points earned. This means members earn 12.5 points for every $1 spent with most Marriott brands and 6.25 points for every $1 at long-stay hotels. 
  • Platinum Elite: Platinum Elite tier earns a 50% bonus on points earned. This means members earn 15 points for every $1 spent with most Marriott brands and 7.5 points for every $1 at long-stay hotels. 
  • Titanium Elite and Ambassador Elite: These two premier tiers earn members a 75% bonus on points, meaning they’ll receive 17.5 points per $1 spent with most Marriott brands, and 8.75 points per $spent with long-stay brands. 

Travel Partners

Another great way to earn Bonvoy points is through travel bookings with select Marriott partners. Currently, Marriott only has two ways where members can earn points through partner bookings: 

  • Hertz: Members earn up to 2,000 points for each car rental made through Hertz. 
  • Cruises: Members can also earn up to 6 points per dollar by booking cruises through select partners, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line. 

Special Events

Marriott offers far more than just hotel rooms, as it also plays host to thousands of events each year. Marriott Bonvoy also rewards event planners by allowing them to earn points on money spent on events hosted by Marriott. Members earn 2 points for every dollar spent on events (up to 60,000 points), while Titanium Elite or higher members can earn up to 105,000 points per dollar spent. When hosting the first event each year, members can also earn up to 10 free nights with Marriott, plus an additional free night for every 20 rooms they book. 

Credit Cards 

One of the best ways to earn Bonvoy points is by using a Marriot Bonvoy co-branded credit card. Both American Express and Chase Bank issue Marriott Bonvoy credit cards and provide several ways to earn points beyond booking eligible stays with Marriott Hotels.  

The Marriott Bonvoy™ Bold Card from Chase, for example, earns double points (2 points for every $1 spent) on travel purchases, such as taxis, train tickets, vacation packages and more. The Marriott Bonvoy™ Brilliant™ American Express® Card earns triple points (3 points per $1 spent) not only on travel but also on dining purchases. All the Bonvoy credit cards come with impressive sign-up bonuses of up to 100,000 bonus points, as well as points earned on every purchase. 

Read HotelCards comprehensive reviews of Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit cardsincluding: 

Other Ways to Earn Points 

  • Buy Points: Marriott allows members to buy points through their dedicated Buy Points site. The site typically offers deals on points purchases, usually around 25-35% in points bonuses for each purchase over a set amount. The maximum number of points that can be purchased in one transaction is 50,000 – though this level is frequently raised to 100,000 in special events. 
  • Gift Points: Marriott also allows members to share their points with a loved one through gifting. 

Limitations on Points Earning 

As with many hotel rewards programs, there are limitations on how points can be earned in the Bonvoy loyalty program. Points cannot be earned on bookings made through third-party discount websites, such as Trivago, Orbitz, Priceline, Booking.com, Expedia, Kayak, Hotwire, Travelocity, or others. 

Value of Marriott Bonvoy Points 

Current Value of Marriott Bonvoy Points: 0.75 to 0.8 cents per point. 

Valuing rewards points is not an exact science. Point valuations continuously fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including the ease of earning points, sign-up bonuses, changes in room rates, and the availability of award bookings. While point valuations change often, there are practical steps that can be taken to come up with an estimated value for rewards points, such as Marriott Bonvoy’s™. 

At HotelCards, we use several metrics to determine the point value of hotel rewards programs. These metrics include how many points it would take to book standard hotel rooms in different geographical areas and how this compares to bookings with cash. These calculations are made for rooms of different tiers and locations, as well as for peak and off-peak booking times, to reach a general estimate of the value of points. 

Based on current calculations, Marriott Bonvoy™ points have a value of between $.0075 to $.008 (.75 cents to .8 cents) per point. 

How to Redeem Points 

Free Night Awards 

Perhaps the most obvious way to redeem Bonvoy points is through booking free night stays with Marriott properties. Points are redeemable for stays in three different ways: PointSaversPoints, or Cash + Points. 

  • PointSaver: PointSaver is a revolving list of Marriott properties and offers the best value for money, with increased discount rates. Redemptions with PointSaver start as low as 4,000 points for off-peak stays, 6,000 for regular stays, and 8,500 points for peak-season stays.  
  • Points: Points are the primary method of redemption with the Bonvoy program, with free nights starting at 5,000 points for off-peak stays at Category 1 properties, 7,500 for typical stays, and 10,000 for peak-season stays.  
  • Cash + Points: Cash + Points allows Bonvoy members to pay for part of their stay with points – paying the rest with cash.  Redemptions using Cash + Points start as low as 1,500 points and 55 USD.

How to Transfer Points to Airlines  

Marriott Bonvoy points also transfer to the frequent flyer rewards programs of over 40 different airlines.  All a Bonvoy member has to do is log in to their Bonvoy account, click on “Redeem Points,” choose “Travel,” and click on the box titled “Transfer Points to Miles.” 

The following airlines are partners with Marriott: 

Transfer rates of Bonvoy points to frequent flyer miles are fairly uniform, with a few key exceptions. The majority of airlines offer frequent flyer miles for Bonvoy points at a rate of 3 Bonvoy points for every mile (3:1). The following, however, are exceptions: 

  • Air New Zealand: 200 Bonvoy points for every mile. 
  • JetBlue: 6 Bonvoy points for every mile. 
  • United: 3 Bonvoy points for every 1.1 miles. This rate is unique, as United offers a 10% bonus on every point transfer. 

Points Transfer Rules 

Marriott stipulates that each points-to-airline-miles transfer must be a minimum of 3,000 Bonvoy points or a maximum of 240,000 Bonvoy points. 

Other Ways to Redeem Points 

  • Shopping: Bonvoy points are redeemable towards merchandise through the dedicated Shop with Points portal. While shopping with points never offers the best value for money when it comes to redemptions, the Shop with Points portal does offer a wide selection of goods and gift cards from some of the biggest names, including Yeti, HP, Garmin, and more. 
  • Share or Pool Points: Marriott also allows members to either share their points with loved ones through gifting, or pooling points with friends or family to help reach expensive redemption goals. 

Rewards Program Tier Levels  

Silver Elite 

Silver Elite is the first elite tier in the Bonvoy program that offers perks beyond what regular members can expect.  

Silver Elite Requirements 

  • Reservations Per Year10 nights per year 
  • Lifetime Status: 250lifetime stays and 5 years of Elite status 

Silver Elite Benefits 

Silver Elite members can expect the following perks: 

  • 10% bonus points on stays 
  • Priority late check-out 
  • Access to the dedicated reservations line 

Gold Elite

Gold Elite is the next tier in the Bonvoy loyalty program and offers enhanced perks beyond those of Silver Elite members.  

Gold Elite Requirements 

  • Reservations Per Year: 25 nights per year (including redemption nights). 
  • Lifetime Status: 400 lifetime nights and 7 years of Gold Elite status or higher. 

Gold Elite Benefits 

Gold Elite members can expect the following perks: 

  • 25% bonus points on stays 
  • Priority 2 pm late check-out 
  • Enhanced room upgrades 
  • Free improved in-room Wi-Fi 
  • Access to the dedicated reservations line 
  • Welcome gift with points redemptions 

 Platinum Elite 

Platinum Elite is the middle tier of the Elite status tiers in the Bonvoy loyalty program and offers further enhancements than those Gold Elite members can expect.  

Platinum Elite Requirements 

  • Reservations Per Year: 50 nights per year (including redemption nights). 
  • Lifetime Status: 500 lifetime nights and 10 years of Platinum Elite status or higher. 

Platinum Elite Benefits 

Platinum Elite members can expect the following perks: 

  • 50% bonus points on stays 
  • Priority 4 pm late check-out 
  • Room upgrade, including with Select Suites 
  • Free enhanced in-room Wi-Fi 
  • Access to hotel lounges (where available) 
  • Access to the dedicated reservations line 
  • Choice of a free welcome gift of points, breakfast, or amenities 

Titanium Elite 

Titanium Elite is one of the premier tiers in the Bonvoy loyalty program and offers some of the programs most exceptional perks and benefits. 

Titanium Elite Requirements 

  • Reservations Per Year: 75 nights per year (including redemption nights). 
  • Lifetime Status: N/A 

Titanium Elite Benefits 

Titanium Elite members can expect the following perks: 

  • 75% bonus points on stays 
  • Priority 4 pm late check-out 
  • Room upgrade, including with Select Suites 
  • Free enhanced in-room Wi-Fi 
  • Access to hotel lounges (where available) 
  • Access to the dedicated reservations line 
  • Choice of a free welcome gift of points, breakfast, or amenities 
  • Annual gift choice of one of the following: 
  • 5 Suite Night Awards 
  • 1 Free Night Award 
  • Gold Elite status 
  • 40% favorite mattress 
  • 5 Elite Night Credits 
  • $100 charity donation 

Ambassador Elite 

Ambassador Elite status is the pinnacle tier within the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, offering the highest level of perks to members.  

Ambassador Elite Requirements 

  • Reservations Per Year: 100 nights per year and $20,000 in spending with Marriott. 
  • Lifetime Status: N/A 

Ambassador Elite Benefits 

Ambassador Elite members can expect the following perks: 

  • 75% bonus points on stays 
  • Your24 – choose the 24 hours of your visit and checkin and out when it suits you 
  • 48hour booking guarantee 
  • Personalized assistance with all stays 
  • Room upgrade, including with Select Suites 
  • Free enhanced in-room Wi-Fi 
  • Access to hotel lounges (where available) 
  • Choice of a free welcome gift of points, breakfast, or amenities 

Bonvoy™ Elite Restrictions and Limitations 

Breakfast: The following hotels are exempt from offering free breakfast to Elite status members:  

  • Design Hotels 
  • Edition 
  • Gaylord Hotels 
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Marriott Executive Club 
  • Marriott Vacation Club 

For an up-to-date listing of the restrictions and limitations with the Bonvoy loyalty program it is always advisable to check with Marriott’s Terms & Conditions page before booking a stay.


Editorial Disclosure — The opinions expressed on HotelCards’ reviews, blogs, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author. They are not reflective of any card issuer or financial institution and have not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless otherwise noted. Further, HotelCards lists credit card offers that are updated daily with information believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Categories
Resources

Best Western Rewards

Advertiser Disclosure

Best Western Rewards is the loyalty program of the Best Western portfolio of hotels and suites. The program, formerly called the Gold Crown Club, was rechristened Best Western Rewards in 2008. Best Western operates more than 4,100 properties worldwide, including over 2,000 in North America alone.

Hotels in the Best Western Portfolio 

The following hotels and resorts make up the Best Western  portfolio and participate in the Best Western Rewards program:

  • Aiden by Best Western
  • Best Western
  • Best Western Plus
  • Best Western Premier
  • BW Premier Collection
  • BW Signature Collection
  • Executive Residency by Best Western
  • Glo
  • Sadie
  • Surestay
  • Surestay Collection
  • SureStay Plus
  • Vib

Value Best Western Rewards Points 

Current Value of Best Western Points: 0.7 cents per point

Valuing rewards points is not an exact science. Point valuations continuously fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including the ease of earning points, sign-up bonuses, changes in room rates, and the availability of award bookings. While valuations change often, there are practical steps that can be taken to come up with an estimated value for rewards points, such as Best Western Rewards’.

At HotelCards, we use several metrics to determine the point value of hotel rewards programs. These metrics include how many points it would take to book standard hotel rooms in different geographical areas with points, and how this compares to bookings with cash. These calculations are made for rooms of different tiers and locations, as well as for peak and off-peak booking times, to reach a general estimate of the value of points.

Best Western Rewards points tend to be regarded as less valuable than rewards points from other hotel loyalty programs. Based on current calculations, Rewards points have a value of around $.007 (.7 cents) per point.

How to Earn Points 

Hotel Stays 

The easiest way to earn points through the Best Western Rewards program is through booking eligible stays at participating Best Western properties worldwide.

Eligible stays are defined as stays that are not booked through a tour operator, through a discount travel website or app (such as Orbitz, Travelocity, Hotels.com, Priceline, etc.), or with other discounted rates – including employee rates.

Rewards Status Bonuses 

The amount of points a guest earns with eligible stays at Best Western varies depending upon their membership tier in the Rewards program. These points-earning rates break down as follows:

  • Blue: Blue, the base level in the Best Western Rewards status levels, earns 10 points for every dollar spent on bookings and purchases with Best Western.
  • Gold: Gold tier earns a 10% bonus on points earned. This means guests earn 11 points for every $1 spent with Best Western.
  • Platinum: Platinum tier earns an impressive 15% bonus on points earned, meaning customers earn 11.5 points per $1 spent on bookings. 
  • DiamondDiamond members earn a 30% bonus points – 13 points for every dollar spent.
  • Diamond Select: Diamond Select is the premier tier in the Rewards program, with members earning a 50% bonus on the base 10 points per dollar spent. This means Diamond Select members earn 15 points per every $1 spent at Best Western.

Travel Partners 

Best Western has partnerships with over 30 airlines and frequent flyer programs worldwide, meaning Rewards members can earn points when booking flights through select partners. Best Western Partners currently include:

  • Avios: Rewards members receive 500 Avios when they book their travel directly through Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Air Italy, or Vueling Air.
  • Aeroflot: Members also earn 500 miles when they book flights through Aeroflot.
  • Aeroplan: Members who book flights through Air Canada’s Aeroplan earn 250 miles.
  • Air Miles: Canadian members also earn 20 Air Miles reward miles when booking.
  • Alaska Mileage Plan: Bookings with Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan earn Rewards members an extra 250 miles.
  • Alitalia Millemiglia: Rewards members also earn 500 miles when booking with Alitalia. 
  • AAdvantage: Rewards members earn 250 American Airlines AAdvantage miles when booking through the carrier.
  • Asia MilesMembers earn 250 rewards points when booking with Cathay Pacific.
  • Asiana Club: Members earn 250 reward points when booking with Asiana Airlines.
  • China Southern Sky Pearl ClubMembers also earn 250 miles when booking with China Southern.
  • Club Premier: Rewards members earn 800 kilometers when booking with Aeromexico.
  • Czech Airlines OK Plus: Rewards members earn 500 miles when booking with Czech Airlines.
  • Flying Blue: Travelers also earn 250 miles when booking with Flying Blue carriers, including KLM and Air France.
  • Hainan Airlines: Members earn 250 miles when booking with Hainan Airlines.
  • Life Miles: Members earn 250 Life Miles when making flight bookings with Avianca.
  • Miles & More: Rewards members earn 500 miles when making bookings with carriers in the Lufthansa Miles & More program.
  • Payback: Best Western Rewards members earn 500 points when spending with Payback Italia, and 250 points when booking with Payback Germany.
  • SAA Voyager: Members earn 500 miles on bookings made with South African Airways.
  • SAS Euro Bonus: 600 points are earned on bookings with Scandanavian Airlines through its SAS Euro Bonus program.
  • Southwest Rapid RewardsMembers earn 600 points with Southwest Airlines.
  • Turkish Miles & Smiles: Members earn 250 Life Miles when making flight bookings with Turkish Airlines’ Miles & Smiles program.
  • United MileagePlus: Grants 250 miles through United’s MileagePlus program.
  • Virgin Flying Club: Members earn 500 miles when making bookings with Virgin Atlantic.

Car Rentals 

Best Western Rewards members can earn bonus points when they book with select car rental companies:

  • AlamoRewards members earn 3 Best Western Rewards points for every dollar spent on both time and mileage at participating Alamo locations.
  • Avis: Rewards members earn 1,000 points for every rental, plus enjoy 25% savings on base rates with Avis.
  • Budget: Members will also earn 1,000 points and receive 25% savings on base rates with Budget at participating locations.
  • National: Members receive 25% savings on all rentals and earn 3 points for every dollar spent on time and mileage at select National locations.
  • SixtRewards members earn 1,000 points for every Sixt car rental or 2,000 points with every Sixt limo service – plus 15% on every rental.

Shopping 

Best Western Rewards does not have a shopping portal where members can earn additional points. That doesn’t mean, however, that members cannot earn points with purchases. Members can earn points when shopping with the following partners:

  • Teleflora: Members earn 1,250 points on every order when they use the promo code BAABW and provide their membership number when prompted.
  • Vinesse Wine Club: Members earn 5,000 points when they sign-up for the club through the Best Western site. 

Credit Cards 

One of the best ways to earn Rewards points is by using a Best Western co-branded credit card. First Bankcard – a division of First National Bank of Omaha – issues two Best Western hotel rewards credit cards that offer great value for money for frequent Best Western guests.

The Best Western Premium Rewards Card, for example, is a Mastercard that earns an additional 10 points for every dollar spent with Best Western. This means cardholders earn 20 points for every $1 spent at Best Western properties.  Cardholders also earn automatic Platinum status in the Rewards program – all for an annual fee of $59 (waived for the first year).

The Best Western Rewards Card – the other offering from First Bankcard – is a no-annual-fee version of the Premium Rewards Card, allowing cardholders to earn an additional 3 points at Best Western (13 points for every dollar spent). The card also provides instant Gold status in the Rewards program.

Read HotelCards‘ comprehensive reviews of Best Western co-branded credit cards, including:

Other Ways to Earn Points 

  • Diners Club: Diners Club Rewards members can transfer their Diners Club Rewards points to their Best Western Rewards account, with Diners Club points transferring to Best Western points at a rate of around 1:2.6.

How to Redeem Points 

Free Night Awards 

The easiest way to redeem Best Western Rewards points is through booking stays with Best Western properties around the globe. To book, all you need to do is visit the Best Western Free Night page and enter the details of your trip. Reward nights vary based on the city and date of stay, with free nights in Los Angeles starting from 8,000 points and nights in New York City or Miami starting from around 20,000 points per night.

How to Transfer Points to Airlines and Other Travel Partners 

Rewards points also transfer to the frequent flyer rewards programs of over 30 different airlines.  All a rewards member needs to do is log in to their Rewards account, visit the Redeem Points portal and transfer points.

The following is a list of airlines and frequent flyer programs that are partners with Best Western. The list also details the rate at which points transfer to miles:

  • Avios: 5,000 points = 1,000 Avios
  • Aeroplan: 5,000 points = 1,000 miles
  • Air Miles: 5,000 points = 80 miles
  • Alaska Mileage Plan: 5,000 points = 1,000 points
  • Alitalia Millemiglia6,000 points = 1,000 miles
  • AAdvantage: 5,000 points = 1,000 miles
  • Asia Miles: 5,000 points = 1,000 miles
  • Asiana Club: 5,000 points = 1,000 miles
  • Club Premier: 5,000 points = 1,600 kilometers
  • Flying Blue: 6,000 points = 1,000 miles
  • Life Miles: 5,000 points = 1,000 miles
  • Southwest Rapid Rewards: 5,000 points = 1,200 points

Other Ways to Redeem Points 

  • Gift CardsRewards points are redeemable towards gift cards through the Best Western redemption portal. Gift cards are available for airlines (like American Airlines), Canadian and American retailers (such as Amazon, Krogers, Loblaws, Macy’s, Kohl’s, Best Buy, and more), dining and food providers (like Starbucks, Subway, Cheesecake Factory, and more), gas and auto retailers, and more.
  • Merchandise: Points are also applicable to select merchandise rewards, including products from Black & Decker, Calvin Klein, and more.
  • Best Western Vouchers: Points apply to Best Western gift cards, suitable for free nights worldwide.
  • Entertainment and Travel: Gift cards are also available for National Parks, SeaWorld, and Carnival Cruise Lines.
  • Charitable Donations: Rewards points can be donated to select Canadian and American charities.
  • Share or Pool Points: Best Western also allows members to either share their points with loved ones through gifting or pooling points with friends or family to help reach loftier redemption goals.

Program Tier Levels  

Blue 

Blue is the introductory level in the Best Western Rewards program and offers the base level of benefits and perks.

Blue Benefits 

  • 10 points per $1 spent at Best Western
  • No blackout dates
  • Points never expire
  • Access to the exclusive reservation line
  • Free nights count towards elite tier status
  • Early check-in/ late check-out

Gold 

Gold is the first elite tier in the Best Western Rewards program that offers perks beyond what regular (Blue) members can expect.

Gold Requirements 

Gold status requires a minimum of either ten nights at Best Western, seven qualifying stays, or 10,000 points. Best Western Rewards Cardholders also receive complimentary Gold status.

Gold Benefits 

Gold members can expect the following perks beyond what Blue members receive:

  • 10% bonus points on stays
  • Choice of a thank you gift or points upon arrival
  • Free room upgrades

Platinum 

Platinum is the next tier in the Best Western loyalty program and offers enhanced perks beyond those of Gold members.

Platinum Requirements 

Platinum status requires a minimum of either 15 nights at Best Western, ten qualifying stays, or 15,000 points. Best Western Premium Rewards Cardholders also receive complimentary Platinum status.

Platinum Benefits 

Platinum members can expect the following perks in addition to those experienced by Gold members:

  • 15% bonus points on stays

Diamond 

Diamond is the second-highest tier in the loyalty program and offers further enhancements than those Diamond members can expect.

Diamond Requirements 

Diamond requires a minimum of either 30 nights, 20 qualifying stays, or 30,000 points.

Diamond Benefits 

Diamond members can expect the following perks beyond Platinum:

  • 30% bonus points on stays

Diamond Select 

Diamond is the top tier in the loyalty program and offers additional benefits from those Diamond members can expect.

Diamond Select Requirements 

Diamond Select requires either 50 nights at Best Western, 40 qualifying stays, or 50,000 points.

Diamond Select Benefits 

Diamond members can expect the following perks beyond Diamond:

  • 50% bonus points on stays


Editorial Disclosure
— The opinions expressed on HotelCards’ reviews, blogs, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author. They are not reflective of any card issuer or financial institution and have not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless otherwise noted. Further, HotelCards lists credit card offers that are updated daily with information believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Categories
Resources

World of Hyatt

 

Advertiser Disclosure

World of Hyatt is the loyalty and rewards program from Hyatt. This lucrative rewards program opens a world of great amenities for travelers who love to stay with Hyatt. Enjoy nearly 1,200 properties on six continents and earn points that can be redeemed for free stays at luxurious Hyatt hotels, resorts and vacation properties across the globe.

The World of Hyatt program is free to join and offers not only exclusive rates and special amenities for members but incredible redemption value as well. Free nights range from 5,000 points per night up to 40,000 (or more) points per night; point pricing may vary by time of year (holidays typically are more expensive to book during), property type, location, and more. Points can be used towards free nights, all-inclusive properties, free room upgrades, and even dining and spa options! Best of all, points are earned through a variety of purchases – including overnight stays.

Explore the World of Hyatt and enjoy hotels from a multitude of properties located in some of the world’s most popular travel destinations. Visit Paris, London, Edinburgh, Rome, Hong Kong, New York City, the Yucatan Peninsula, Sydney, Bali, and more. Hotel properties are available from a variety of hotel groups; the portfolio includes the following hotels and resorts:

  • Park Hyatt®
  • Miraval
  • Grand Hyatt
  • Hyatt Regency
  • Hyatt
  • Hyatt Ziva
  • Hyatt Zilara
  • Hyatt Place
  • Hyatt House
  • Hyatt Residence Club
  • Andaz
  • Alila
  • Thompson Hotels
  • Hyatt Centric
  • Destination Hotels
  • Joie de Vivre Hotels and Resorts
  • Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH)

How the World of Hyatt Works

World of Hyatt Tiers

Currently, the World of Hyatt program features four individual membership tiers. Each calendar year, when you meet the qualifying criteria, you’ll advance through each elite tier to enjoy elevated rewards and experiences, which are broken down below. The four levels of membership are:

  • Member
  • Discoverist
  • Explorist
  • Globalist

Member 

This is the basic tier, which is free to join. At this tier level, members enjoy a Member Rate that allows them to save up to 10% off stays at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts.

Additional Hyatt hotel perks available to all Members include complimentary Internet access; free breakfast at participating Hyatt Place hotels (not available in all countries); waived resort fees on free night rewards.

SLH hotel perks available to all Members: Complimentary continental breakfast; complimentary Wi-Fi access; early check-in at 12 PM (based on availability at check-in); late check-out at 2 PM (based on availability at check-in); one category room upgrade (based on availability at check-in).

Member Privileges: Save up to 10% with the Member Rate at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts; receive Sapphire status with M life Rewards, the loyalty program of MGM Resorts International.

Discoverist 

Discoverist status allows you to enjoy a higher level of service and comfort around the world; complete 10 qualifying nights, or earn 25,000 Base Points, or hold 3 qualifying meetings or events per the calendar year to achieve Discoverist status. Discoverist members will enjoy premium Internet access and a bottle of water daily at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts, in addition to the standard perks available to basic tier Members.

Additional Hyatt hotel perks available to Discoverist-tier members include complimentary premium internet access, where available; free breakfast at participating Hyatt hotels (not available in all countries); a complimentary bottle of water each day; a preferred room based on availability at check-in; expedited check-in at an area reserved exclusively for elite members; late check-out extended until 2 PM upon request; waived resort fees on free night rewards.

SLH hotel perks available to Discoverist Members: Complimentary continental breakfast; complimentary Wi-Fi access; Early check-in at 12 PM (based on availability at check-in); late check-out at 2 PM (based on availability at check-in); one category room upgrade (based on availability at check-in).

Discoverist Privileges: Save up to 10% with the Member Rate at participating Hyatt Hotels; book your stay through an exclusive reservation line; receive Pearl status with M life Rewards, the loyalty program of MGM Resorts International.

Explorist

Achieving the Explorist tier requires a Member to complete 30 qualifying nights, or earn 50,000 Base Points, or hold 10 qualifying events or meetings in a calendar year. Explorist Members will enjoy access to upgraded rooms and late check-out on qualifying nights, in addition to 20% bonus points on all eligible purchases and the standard perks available to basic tier Members.

Additional Hyatt hotel perks available to Explorist-tier members include complimentary premium Internet access, where available; free breakfast at participating Hyatt Place hotels (not available in all countries); a complimentary bottle of water each day; room upgrade based on availability at check-in, excluding suites and other rooms with Club lounge access; expedited check-in at a dedicated area reserved exclusively for elite members; late check-out extended until 2 PM upon request; waived resort fees on free night awards.

SLH hotel perks available to Explorist Members: Complimentary continental breakfast; complimentary Wi-Fi access; early check-in at 12 PM (based on availability at check-in); late check-out at 2 PM (based on availability at check-in); one category room upgrade (based on availability at check-in).

Explorist Privileges: Save up to 10% with the Member Rate at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts; fast track to a higher elite status in the American Airlines AAdvantage® program; Receive Gold status with M life Rewards, the loyalty program of MGM Resorts International; book your stay through an exclusive reservation line; ensure a room is available at participating Hyatt hotels up to 72 hours in advance (blackout dates apply); enjoy a Week of Wellbeing at participating Exhale locations, with complimentary fitness classes and savings on spa therapies and boutique purchases.

Globalist 

The highest level of World of Hyatt’s luxury membership program, Globalist status requires each member to complete 60 qualifying nights, or earn 100,000 Base Points, or hold 20 qualifying meetings or events per calendar year. Globalist Members will travel in luxury with complimentary room upgrades – up to standard suites, Club lounge access (which includes breakfast), and waived resort fees on free night awards.

Additional Hyatt hotel perks include complimentary premium Internet access, where available; free breakfast at participating Hyatt Place hotels (not available in all countries); a complimentary daily bottle of water; expedited check-in at a dedicated area reserved exclusively for elite members; late check-out – until 4:00 PM upon request; free complimentary parking on free night awards (available at properties where parking can be charged to your room); Continental breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres daily in the Club lounge, or complimentary full breakfast daily for each registered guest (up to 2 adults and 2 children) at Hyatt hotels and resorts that do not have a Club lounge; Priority access to available rooms when checking in early; waived resort fees on free night awards.

SLH hotel perks available to Globalist Members: complimentary continental breakfast; complimentary Wi-Fi; early check-in at 12 PM (based on availability at check-in); late checkout at 2 PM (based on availability at check-in); one category room upgrade (based on availability at check-in).

Globalist Privileges: Save up to 10% with the Member Rate at participating Hyatt hotels and resorts; opportunities to fast track to a higher elite status in the American Airlines AAdvantage® program; receive Gold status with M life Rewards, the loyalty program of MGM Resorts International; book your stay through an exclusive reservation line for members; ensure a room is available at participating Hyatt hotels up to 48 hours in advance (blackout dates apply); share your in-hotel benefits with your Guest of Honor when you gift an eligible award to someone; enjoy a Week of Wellbeing at participating Exhale locations, including complimentary fitness classes and savings that can be applied to spa therapies and boutique purchases; enjoy complimentary fitness classes at participating Exhale locations when on qualifying stays at any Hyatt hotel.

Lifetime Globalist

When a program Member earns 1,000,000 Base Points over the course of their membership, they will achieve Lifetime Globalist status and have access to World of Hyatt’s highest level of luxury, without having to re-qualify each year. Enjoy each of the perks and benefits available to Globalist-tier Members, for life!

.
Editorial Disclosure — The opinions expressed on HotelCards’ reviews, blogs, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author. They are not reflective of any card issuer or financial institution and have not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless otherwise noted. Further, HotelCards lists credit card offers that are updated daily with information believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.