Questions and Answers

Hi! My Marriott Platinum Elite got downgraded to Gold recently. Enjoyed the PE status while I had it. The two biggest perks for me were the Lounge access and Free breakfasts. As is well documented, the new Marriott Gold is pretty worthless in terms of those perks. I think it is time to look at some other Hotel loyalty program. I am looking at a couple of CC offers- IHG Rewards Club Premier Card which will get me Platinum Elite there or Hilton Honors Ascend Card which will get me Gold status. Already have base Hilton membership. In terms of perks, what is the better status of the two and whether these status are better than Marriott Gold to begin with?? Would appreciate comments and feedback. Thanks!

Hilton Gold gives you free breakfast. IHG doesn’t even list that as a benefit at any level.

Hilton benefits: [URL]https://hiltonhonors3.hilton.com/en/explore/benefits/index.html[/URL]

IHG benefits: [URL]https://www.ihg.com/content/us/en/customer-care/member-tc/2nd-page[/URL]

I’d also look at your travel patterns. I find Hilton much easier to find properties in, unless you’re in a major city (where all hotels have properties)

Also, if you want to redeem points for non-standard rooms (and in Europe that can even mean rooms with 2 beds), I’d definitely look to Hilton where you can redeem points for multi-bedroom suites. Sure it costs a lot of points but at least they offer the option.

Thanks! Hilton it is. Although, I will call Marriott and see if they will restore Platinum status for points. Worth a try.