For the past several years I’ve been participating in the SPG Amex Stars program, which has taken me to some pretty awesome places. Earlier in the year I was able to attend the SPG Amex Card Member Event at the US Open, which is exclusively for card members. I love the SPG Amex, and it’s…
Continue reading: Introduction: Gin & Churros For The Weekend
Share your questions, experiences, and thoughts below.
I thought you had sworn off staying at all SPG hotels in Spain after what happened at the W Barcelona?
Complimentary flights to, and stays in Madrid! This looks great! How do we sign up for the Stars program?!
You know, you've been promising trip reports since January, and this 0, besides random hotel reviews, and AFAIK one in January, is the second, and it is November?
🙁
This looks interesting!
And delicious. I love churros!
@Joey/Bill - It's only for bloggers. I tweeted something at AskAmex wondering the same kind of thing and how they decide who gets to be a part of the "program." Of course, I received no reply. My interpretation is that the program exists as an inducement for those with some influence to push SPG/AMEX products. Whether that is good/bad/indifferent is up to you, but it does leave a bad (admittedly, also, jealous) taste in my mouth.
Ben:
Why do you continue to participate in the AMEX Stars program? It really hurts your credibility. I know your response is that you're not influenced by AMEX/SPG and/or that you're willing to say negative things about them. But you're so big and successful now that you should be able to wien yourself off this program. There are already serious concerns about your credit card recommendations given your obvious self-interest in promoting your links. I like to think I can rely on your air and hotel reviews at a minimum, but your participation in this program calls that into question.
I wanted to see a review of the trip to China that had to be re-routed from Dallas through London.
@Daniel M - There's a reason this trip is being review within a week as opposed to other one's mentioned and promised from months ago. It's the reason also you should take a lot of what is said on any blog with a grain of salt.
@Nick: So this trip report got bumped to the front of the queue as quid pro quo for the comped travel? That's certainly disappointing.
Really excited for the LHR-LAX review. Booked this exact flight last month during the $440RT business sale on BA. Can't wait to hear you thoughts and ideas for maximizing the flight experience.
I feel like the members of Tiffany's family have an awesome gig. She seems to always have a relative in tow!
Shit, I'm still waiting for the full qatar 787, the tap portugal review and the iceland trip...
@Bill - Of course, I don't know for sure, but appearances being what they are...
We have stayed at the Westin Madrid a couple of times. I think it's beautiful and location is ideal. However, the service was hit-and-miss both times The service in that gorgeous rotunda is slower than anything I have ever experienced.
Heading to Madrid tonight and will be staying at the Ritz.