Unlock IHG Platinum Elite Perks Today
You might have heard all about Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, and World of Hyatt – the loyalty programs that seem to hog the limelight. But hang on a second, IHG One Rewards deserves some love too. With its heavyweight hotel presence and a surprisingly decent loyalty program, it’s time to take a closer look.
In this article, let’s dive into the world of IHG One Rewards Platinum status. How exactly do you earn this coveted status? What juicy perks come with it? And is it even worth your time and effort? Let’s find out.
How to Earn IHG One Rewards Platinum Status
So, you’re wondering how to snag that Platinum status with IHG? Well, you’re in luck. There are several paths to glory: rack up enough nights at IHG hotels, splash some cash at their properties, snag a co-branded credit card, or buy your way in. Yes, it’s all possible!
Earning IHG Platinum Status with Hotel Stays
- Spend a total of 40 qualifying nights in a year (even those lovely award nights count towards this).
- Or, earn yourself 60,000 qualifying points annually. Typically, you’ll rack up 10 base points per dollar spent, which means $6,000 at IHG brands gets you there.
Earning IHG Platinum Status with Credit Cards
IHG rolls out the red carpet with three co-branded credit cards, two of which offer that Platinum status simply for being a cardmember. No need for fancy spending requirements, just hold onto these cards and soak up the perks year after year.
- The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- The IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Buying IHG Platinum Status via Ambassador
And then there’s the InterContinental Ambassador program, which feels like the VIP pass to this whole game. It gives you perks at fancy InterContinental and Six Senses hotels and costs $225 or 45,000 points annually. Buy this status and boom, you automatically score IHG Platinum. But honestly, why spend money when a credit card can get you there for less – I’m just saying.
IHG One Rewards Platinum Status Benefits
You’ve jumped through the hoops and landed that Platinum status. Now, what does IHG roll out for you in return? Here’s a rundown of those snazzy benefits:
60% IHG Bonus Points
Here’s where you start seeing your loyalty pay off – a 60% points bonus on all eligible stays. With 10x points per dollar spent, that extra 6x points sweetens the deal significantly, making your rewards pile up nicely.
Room Upgrades (Subject to Availability)
Ah, the allure of room upgrades. You’re entitled to these goodies, though do note, it’s at the hotel’s discretion. They might not always hand over a swanky suite, but if it’s available and you ask nicely… who knows?
Welcome Amenity at Check-In
Be prepared for a small token of appreciation upon arrival – a welcome amenity that usually consists of bonus points or a modest drink or snack. Don’t hold your breath for anything extravagant though.
Reward Night Discounts
Platinum members get the backstage pass to exclusive award night discounts a few times a year. With IHG’s dynamic pricing, these 15-20% discounts can make booking a steal.
Early Check-In & Late Check-Out (Subject to Availability)
You can enjoy early check-in and late check-out (as late as 2 PM), though remember, availability rules the roost here. But, it never hurts to ask, right?
Guaranteed Room Availability
Booking at a crowded hotel? With 72 hours’ notice, you’re guaranteed a room as a Platinum member. But be ready for some sky-high rates, especially during events when this perk would come in handy.
Access to Milestone Rewards Program
Saving the best for last, we have Milestone Rewards. Starting at 20 elite nights and going all the way up to 100, you get to cherry-pick bonuses like suite upgrades or lounge passes. These rewards can add serious value to your status.
- At 20 elite nights: choice of bonus points or suite upgrades
- At 30-70 elite nights: a mix of bonuses, food & beverage rewards
- At 80-100 elite nights: amazing bonuses like 10,000 bonus points
Is IHG One Rewards Platinum Status Worth It?
Now, here’s the million-dollar question. Is it worth it? In the realm of hotel loyalty programs, IHG Platinum status might feel a bit lackluster without Milestone Rewards. The absence of guaranteed late check-out and free breakfast stings, sure. But Milestone Rewards gives this status a shot of adrenaline, offering solid perks after just 20 elite nights.
Bottom Line
IHG One Rewards program is pretty nifty once you get rolling, with Platinum status being the ultimate attraction. Yeah, it doesn’t throw in all the frills like some competitors, but the possibility of hitting it big with Milestone Rewards should have you gunning for those elite nights. So, do you feel ready to test the waters? Pack your bags and check out this Val Seny ski resort for your next adventure.
If you’re rocking IHG One Rewards Platinum status, share your experience. Does it live up to the hype?