Hotel Reward Programs - Thomas Wahl presented by Traveljam

Hotel Reward Programs

When selecting a hotel often times your decision is influenced by the type of reward program the hotel offers. The larger chains all have their own ranging from Starwood’s Preferred Guest to Holiday Inn’s Priority Club.
There are differences though within these programs. If your goal is to earn free stays and you have a preferred brand it makes sense to stay within that chain. However, if you are looking to combine several of your frequent travel programs you should select a hotel program that allows you to convert their miles or points to your airline’s program.

In addition you should check if the hotel allows double dipping. Double dipping is the term used if you collect rewards from multiple programs for the same purchase. For example, if you stay at hotel X collect points from their program in addition to airline miles.

This is obviously costly to the hotel operator and as a result double dipping is frowned upon. But if you are traveling during a low demand period many properties have special offers that allow for double dipping.

The reward programs by the major brands shouldn’t deter you from booking with independent hotels. First, many of them offer airline miles instead and second, all these reward programs affect the hotel’s cost and as a result the independent’s room rate might be lower.

The bottom line obviously is buying value for your dollar. But before making the ultimate buying decision do your homework. You just might be leaving money on the table.

In hospitality Thomas

PS. An excellent online resource for frequent travel programs is WebFlyer operated by consumer advocate Randy Peterson. They are located at www.webflyer.com

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