How do Hilton treat you as an Elite?

[drron]

Those were the days - driving home from the pub with the sun coming up.

You mean waking up at home with the car in the driveway wondering how you got home?:shock:

 

[Hvr]

Status: Diamond
Property: Hilton Sukhumvit
Date: 01 Jan 14
Rate: THB 5,902
Booked: King Deluxe Room
Received: Suite

Upon arrival at 2.30pm the front desk person apologised that my upgrade suite wasn't yet available but that they would take me to the executive lounge for drinks whilst the previous guest left and the room was cleaned.

The lounge manager Lilly recognised me from previous stays and came over to greet me whilst I was seated. She asked me if she could get me anything and I asked for a hot chocolate which she said would take a little while because they didn't have the ingredients there. She brought it to me in a few minutes. During this time another staff member came over and greeted me with a big smile and another 'welcome back'.

I also explained that I had previously asked for a Diet Coke which wasn't in the fridge. She was concerned about this and followed it up. They never appeared in the fridge but I was always given one when I asked.

After about 20 minutes when it became apparent that my room was taking longer than expected I asked for my small rollaboard to be bought to the lounge so I could use my laptop.

Not a problem and an internet code was provided. I rang Johnk's room and later he joined me in the lounge as did Vitagen. A precursor to our later meeting with their partners.

Eventually Lilly came over and asked if I knew my room was ready. I hadn't been told and she looked mortified and escorted me there and showed me the features. I asked for firm pillows to be supplied and they were there within minutes.

There was a small confectionery cage on a wooden hanger, placed on the coffee table. Very nice lollies and dried fruit.

Our evening get together went very well and we all ate and drank well. Thanks to Johnk for his planning expertise.

Next morning breakfast at the lounge was quite good.

During my stay I found what looked to be a sealed needle in saline under the desk. I wasn't harmed by it but it should've been found and removed by housekeeping. The front desk was most concerned when I showed them at check out.

 

[Hvr]

Status: Diamond
Property: Hilton DoubleTree Sukhumvit
Date: 03 Jan 14
Rate: THB 4,753
Booked: King Guest Room
Received:King Guest Room with disabled access

When walking in I met Johnk and his partner checking out.

Upon arrival at the front desk Max recognised me and said welcome back sir. As I handed over my Hilton card and Amex with my passport he mentioned he knew me from my previous stays. I said thought it was my third or fourth stay there. Max having gotten my booking up said it was my fourth.

Max said he was giving me an upgraded room because of my Diamond status.

I went up to my room and didn't notice any upgrade but wasn't too concerned. Again pillows too soft so I went downstairs to go outside and asked Max for some firm pillows. He made a phone call and I went out.

Upon my return no new pillows but a sweet cage (same as Hilton Sukhumvit) was in my room. The door bell rang and it was the housekeeper asking if she could turn down the bed. I then asked her for some firm pillows. She said of course sir and immediately fetched them.

I thanked her and then went out to dinner. Upon my return I tried to sleep but there was a bit of noise from the pool two floors below which disturbed me.

Breakfast next morning was again good with lots of fresh fruit and yoghurt.

Immediately across the road is the Prassapaya (sp) massage school and I had a wonderful Thai massage on the afternoon.

The next morning I found a local place beside the hotel where I had a foot massage and facial. The staff were quite intrigued that I wanted both treatments but happy to oblige. For THB1,050 it was quite relaxing before the trip home.

Upon check out I told Max that I was disappointed with the room and didn't consider it an upgrade. My profile says high room away from elevator and my room was on the lowest floor very close to the elevator. I also told him about the noise from the pool and the non-delivery of the required pillows until I spoke to the housekeeper. Notes were made and hopefully next time things will be better.

I was given a printed copy of a photo taken of me and staff when I first visited.

As I left I asked Max about bookings given the imminent political trouble. He explained that many bookings had been cancelled and that the hotel was nearly empty despite being at the peak of the tourist season. Here's hoping that it's not as bad as being mooted but sadly I think it will be bad.

 

[JMFK]

I have quite a few of these to get through...just making my way through the list.

Status: Diamond
Property: Parmelia Hilton Perth
Date: 30 Nov - Dec 3 13
Rate: Mixed $464 total.
Booked: Twin Hilton Guest Room
Received: King Hilton Deluxe

Another unremarkable stay at the Perth Hilton. The lack of lounge really hurts this property I think - especially for the rates you normally pay! I'd also like to see complimentary pressing of a few items in lieu.

I don't find the staff particularly warm.

I booked a Twin Room as was travelling with a colleague. On check in offered an upgrade to a King Deluxe, but had to check with house keeping that it was a zip king - it was, so bonus for us. Received 3 x 2 Free Drinks at Aldephi and Chocolates/Fruit/Wine daily.

It was also the first time I was slugged for espresso coffee in the morning at breakfast. Not a fan of that policy.

 

[JMFK]

Status: Diamond
Property: Conrad Hong Kong
Date: Nov 04 13
Rate: HKD$4950
Booked: King Bed Harbour View
Received: King Executive Harbour View (Supposedly)

This didn't feel like an upgrade at all. On previous stays have been escorted to the Executive Lounge for check-in and received great service. Not on this occasion. Checked-in at the desk, no recognition of Diamond status. As the agent handed me my keys, I asked if I'd been upgraded - without looking at the computer - was told I'd been upgraded to an executive room.

Wasn't on the two Executive levels, and I really get peeved when Hilton properties say it's an upgrade to an Exec room when it really isn't. I'd rather a token bottle of wine than a lie.

No welcome card, just the standard chocolates.

 

[JMFK]

Status: Diamond
Property: Hilton Singapore
Date: 12 Nov 13
Rate: SGD$682.66
Booked: King Hilton Deluxe
Received: King Hilton Executive Suite

It's a well located Hotel, but I'd had enough of Orchard Road after 1 day.

Great room upgrade, but didn't ease the sting of the HUGE room rate.

Gym is well equipped.

EL has the best design I think I've seen in a Hilton. Though the dress code is annoying.

I wouldn't stay at this Hotel in Singapore again - much better options around.

 

[Deleted member 29185]

On check in offered an upgrade to a King Deluxe, but had to check with house keeping that it was a zip king - it was, so bonus for us.

So Hiltons looseness with the truth WRT a king bed worked in your favour this time. That was good but it doesn't excuse a hotel from pretending two singles shoved together = a king bed. IMHO, it doesn't.

 

[JMFK]

So Hiltons looseness with the truth WRT a king bed worked in your favour this time. That was good but it doesn't excuse a hotel from pretending two singles shoved together = a king bed. IMHO, it doesn't.

True. They're king singles if that makes you feel any better . But yes, I suppose you don't expect it at a Hilton, but I find it quite common. Usually the Hilton has a rather thick 'pillow top' protector over the top so it's difficult to tell.

 

[nonpop]

Status: Gold
Property: Hilton Venice
Date: 23rd Dec '13
Rate: Points
Booked: King Deluxe Room
Received: King Deluxe Room with View

Very warm welcome at check-in & pleasant check-out process
Upon entering room there was 2 bottles water, a Christmas cake (mini server for 2) and some chocolates.
1 bottle of water per day was refreshed with evening turn down service including chocolates.
Wifi worked exceptionally well and was part of HH Gold ... but I suspect they may have offered free WiFi to everyone.
Exec lounge access (on 6th floor) for breakfast & evening drinks all included.
Free hotel water shuttle.
Room was very quiet and very comfortable with plenty of space. Bed excellent.
A very good stay indeed. Would happily recommend it.

Some pics

Hotel (entire building) on approach
View attachment 22337

Lobby
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Room
View attachment 22338

Exec lounge
View attachment 22339

Room view
View attachment 22340

 

[anat0l]

Status: Gold
Property: Hilton Venice
Date: 23rd Dec '13
Rate: Points
Booked: King Deluxe Room
Received: King Deluxe Room with View

Very warm welcome at check-in & pleasant check-out process
Upon entering room there was 2 bottles water, a Christmas cake (mini server for 2) and some chocolates.
1 bottle of water per day was refreshed with evening turn down service including chocolates.
Wifi worked exceptionally well and was part of HH Gold ... but I suspect they may have offered free WiFi to everyone.
Exec lounge access (on 6th floor) for breakfast & evening drinks all included.
Free hotel water shuttle.
Room was very quiet and very comfortable with plenty of space. Bed excellent.
A very good stay indeed. Would happily recommend it.

...

Looks really good!

Just a couple more questions:

• I see you used points for this stay. How much was the going rate in cash (if you know, approximately)? Can't imagine it'd be cheap, but curious anyway.
• How many nights did you stay?
• Where does the free hotel water shuttle take you to/from in Venice?
• Was breakfast in the executive lounge a full hot breakfast or more a European continental (i.e. cereals, breads, cold cuts, fruit)?

 

[nonpop]

Looks really good!

Just a couple more questions:

• I see you used points for this stay. How much was the going rate in cash (if you know, approximately)? Can't imagine it'd be cheap, but curious anyway.
• How many nights did you stay?
• Where does the free hotel water shuttle take you to/from in Venice?
• Was breakfast in the executive lounge a full hot breakfast or more a European continental (i.e. cereals, breads, cold cuts, fruit)?

A: Just had a look over some old notes ... seems the rate was approx 350 euro a night over Xmas for non water view entry level king room.
B: 3 nights ... wished we'd have stayed more
C: From hotel to 2 spots ... one being St Mark's Square. First shuttle is at 9am (approx) then runs a regular time table until about midnight
D: Lounge breakfast ... had 2 hot foods of scrambled eggs & bacon + all the usual cold stuff of cereal, cold cuts, fruit, breads, sweet muffins, cheese etc & tea / coffee. We found it very comprehensive for a free breakfast.
Lounge evening time ... red & white house wines, local Italian beer, a hot entree (varied each night), cheeses, crackers & chips, olives etc. Was very happy with the evening fare for a free spread.

Here are a few more lounge pics

View attachment 22342View attachment 22343View attachment 22344View attachment 22345View attachment 22346

 

[nonpop]

More lounge pics. Hope this helps gives you a view to what is on offer.
View attachment 22350
View attachment 22347View attachment 22348View attachment 22351View attachment 22349

 

[drron]

Looks like it hasn't changed since our stay there just over 6 years ago.
We used points(GLONP) as it was ~ $A1000 a night-500 Euro then.It was in October so past the really high season.

As well as the shuttle it is a very short walk to a vaporetto stop which basically gets you anywhere reasonably cheaply.

 

[nonpop]

Looks like it hasn't changed since our stay there just over 6 years ago.
We used points(GLONP) as it was ~ $A1000 a night-500 Euro then.It was in October so past the really high season.

As well as the shuttle it is a very short walk to a vaporetto stop which basically gets you anywhere reasonably cheaply.

Vaporetto stop ... yep very convenient as well being just a few mins 'up the path'. We found taking the shuttle to St Marks Square was an extra free boat ride and part of the entertainment value, so always took that route then jumped the Vaporetto.

 

[drross]

When we stayed there 2years ago the exec lounge was on ground floor and you could hang out the windows watching the World (and other cruise liners) go past. Free shuttle was very regular and very good. Couple of excellent restaurants just around the corner near Sir Elton John's summer residence.

 

[drron]

6 years ago it was were pictured now.possibly a refurb 2 years ago?

 

[Flashback]

Thanks nonpop, useful to know. I am spending my birthday there so looking forward to it.

Looks like it hasn't changed since our stay there just over 6 years ago.
We used points(GLONP) as it was ~ $A1000 a night-500 Euro then.It was in October so past the really high season.

As well as the shuttle it is a very short walk to a vaporetto stop which basically gets you anywhere reasonably cheaply.

Yeh, 450-500 EUR/night is pretty much the standard advance rate for the hotel. I'm using a free night I got with my HH Credit Card (which was free ), all I had to do was spend 750 quid on it, easy.

 

[JMFK]

Status: Diamond
Property: Conrad Macao
Date: Nov 05 -07 13
Rate: HKD 2098.60 p/n
Booked: King Deluxe Suite City View
Received: King Premier Suite City View

Great stay at this hotel. The Conrad is part of the Cotai Sands complex and admittedly, I wasn't filled with confidence when I arrived and saw it in the same tower as a Holiday Inn. You could basically spend a few days here and not need to go outside as the Venetian hotel is connected via an air-conditioned walkway. That said, a few days is MORE than enough. I wasn't a huge fan of Macao and won't need to hurry back there. Ever. You can do it in a day if you needed.

My concerns were quashed when we were escorted to our upgraded suite. It was massive, and beautiful! Lounge/Dining area with it's own ensuite, a media room, party shower, and large bath. The bathroom was typical Conrad Suite with powder room etc.
I don't know about you guys, but I find it a bit awkward when you're escorted to your room and show all the features...every. last. one. It just drags on and makes me a little uncomfortable, like I need to pretend to be interested in everything...all I really wanna do is jump on the bed.

The lack of executive lounge isn't too much of an issue, as they accommodate HH guests in a venue aptly called 'The Lounge' where afternoon tea and evening drinks are served. The Lounge is located off the Lobby and in the middle of the walkway connecting Conrad and the Holiday Inn and the shopping complex, it wasn't exactly noisy, but it certainly isn't as relaxing as a traditional EL. A very basic coughtail list for HH guests at coughtail time. Still, free booze is free booze.

You're also required to sign a check at the end of any session, I guess it's a way for them to track HH guests consumption, but I found it annoying. And as it wasn't explained initially, I had to ask and make sure it was still complimentary.

Breakfast in the Grand Orbit is probably one of the best hotel buffets I've been too. Huge spread. Was on a bit of a health kick so didn't go too crazy, but there is something for everyone and the quality is good too.

We also totally binged (so much for the health kick) one night for dinner at the Buffet. Again, it was a good spread with many, many different types of food, but it was busy, very busy. And as with all buffets, you walk out regretting eating so much.

Concierge allowed us to book and room charge (love any opportunity for extra HH points) our return ferry trip, and we utilised our complimentary Limo transfer to the Ferry terminal. Car was an S500.

The house always wins.

(Sorry about the coughpy iPhone photos!)

 

[nonpop]

As well as the shuttle it is a very short walk to a vaporetto stop which basically gets you anywhere reasonably cheaply.

Found couple of Hilton water shuttle shots for those curios

View attachment 22395 View attachment 22396 View attachment 22397 View attachment 22398 View attachment 22399

 

[Deleted member 29185]

View attachment 22399

How unusual. Look at the truck over yonder. It's obviously been barged there to unload freight, but surely one would think it far more economical to offload a container to be unpacked rather than tie up a whole rig for x number of hours. Must work out expensive for the recipient of the freight.