I’ve loved Starwood Hotels for a long time now, especially after externing for one of their properties a few years ago. The diversity yet consistency of the brands, customer service, and their loyalty program are just a few of the reasons why I love Starwood so much. When I signed up for my AMEX Platinum, one of the most beneficial perks to me was the automatic Starwood Gold status you acquire just for being a Platinum cardholder. Now what are some of the wonderful perks you receive by being Starwood Gold….
Room Upgrades
Mind you I am Starwood Gold Pro, so I am not sure if the amazing upgrades I have gotten are directly related to my gold status or the pro aspect (pro is for meeting planners). However since becoming Starwood Gold, I have gotten some form of an upgrade at each property I have stayed at. Gold status promises a better view, higher floor, or corner room upgrade when available. At the Westin Playa Bonita in Panama, I received an upgrade to a suite. At the Royal Palm South Beach in Miami they gave me a corner oceanview/oceanfront room. At the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens, Greece I was upgraded to a junior suite. You most likely will not always be upgraded to a suite, but any upgrade is an upgrade!
Complimentary Beverage or Complimentary Wifi or Bonus Starpoints
This is such a small gesture that I appreciate so much. While in a city, I don’t often eat and drink on property at the hotel as I like to get out and explore as much as I can. Using my drink coupons however, I have had extremely enjoyable experiences (and cocktails) at the hotel bars. I may need to rethink my decision to typically forgo the hotel bar! From the poolside bar at Royal Palm South Beach spending hours talking with the cool bartenders on my birthday this past month, to currently sipping on one of the best cocktails I have ever had (Il Pepe Rosa: gin, aperol, sugar syrup, lime juice, mint, prosecco, pink peppercorn) at Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens, Greece with a view of the acropolis at sunset. This benefit saves me a little cash and also encourages me to experience another part of the hotel I may have not experienced otherwise. But for all you lobby bar dwellers, first round’s on you with this perk!
Late Check-Out
4pm late checkout when available. In Miami I was only able to stay until around 1pm, but it does not seem to be a problem often.
Extra Starpoints
Earn 3 starpoints for every US dollar spent on eligible stays, which is 50% more than Preferred.
Safe travels y’all!
Best,
Chelsea Rose Martin
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