How does Accor treat you as an Elite guest?

[oz_mark]

Well I thought I’d go back and check

I’ll let you be the judge on whether this is reasonable: the package as displayed on the ALL App before making a booking:


Given “champagne or sparking wine” can only possibly mean “sparking wine” - I think that’s what the advertised offer should say up front. No hotel is going to give $80-90 bottles of Champagne when they can get away with a $20 bottles of fizz.

They shouldn't really be changing it like that.

And I am sure they could get champagne cheaper than that (although in some cases, you might be better off with an Aust sparkling!)

 

[RooFlyer]

Well I thought I’d go back and check

I’ll let you be the judge on whether this is reasonable: the package as displayed on the ALL App before making a booking:

View attachment 436953

And this is what it says in the email confirmation terms received after booking:

View attachment 436954

Given “champagne or sparking wine” can only possibly mean “sparking wine” - I think that’s what the advertised offer should say up front. No hotel is going to give $80-90 bottles of Champagne when they can get away with a $20 bottles of fizz.

Champagne with a capital C can only mean the genuine stuff. They have no wriggle room at all & must deliver or give refund.

 

[Flyfrequently]

Well I thought I’d go back and check

I’ll let you be the judge on whether this is reasonable: the package as displayed on the ALL App before making a booking:

View attachment 436953

And this is what it says in the email confirmation terms received after booking:

View attachment 436954

Given “champagne or sparking wine” can only possibly mean “sparking wine” - I think that’s what the advertised offer should say up front. No hotel is going to give $80-90 bottles of Champagne when they can get away with a $20 bottles of fizz.

Google tells me this @muppet

Not sure what it is worth to you but I would certainly call and seek clarification.
I would certainly be ticked off to get a bottle of Yellowglen or worse........

 

[muppet]

In fairness to the hotel, I didn’t actually raise the issue of being given sparking vs Champagne, I only raised it here for people’s views. It was at least Chandon Blanc de Blanc. However, when I raised the lack of “in room gift” I was told I only booked bed and breakfast rate so ….

 

[DC3]

In fairness to the hotel, I didn’t actually raise the issue of being given sparking vs Champagne

And in fairness, you shouldn’t have to raise it. Seems odd that you were not provided with champers as per the offer.

 

[elanshin]

Property: Sofitel Guangzhou Sunrich
Status: Platinum (ALL Plus China, no Accor Plus)
Room booked: Superior King
Room upgraded/type: Yes to luxury King (bigger corner room highest tier before suites 60sqm).
Rate: 1 night at A$102, one at A$196 (discount voucher on Chinese side)
Free internet: yes (fast but chinese so VPN needed).
Free Breakfast: yes - extensive. I had to do a 1 minute walking tour for my partner to see everything.
Early check in/late out: available on request (no need for checkout dor my stay)
Welcome drink: on app AND given a voucher.
Welcome gift: fruits, sparkling water

Lounge is also one of the nicer lounges ive been in. Ill post some photos later when i edit them as I can't direct upload.

For the price i paid and the free benefits - this is extremely good value. The only downside is the hotel isn't close to PT. Most of thr time i don't mind that as I'll just Didi around but during peak traffic PT is preferable.

 

[ksthommo]

Property: Pullman Reef Hotel Casino
Status: Accor Plus Platinum
Room booked: Deluxe Room, 1 King Size Bed, Pool views with Spa
Room upgraded/type: Hit the Jackpot, Presidential Suite
Rate: Accor Plus free night (with paid upgrade to Deluxe Pool Views), Saturday Night.
Free internet: Yes
Free Breakfast: Yes
Early check in/late out: Asked for late checkout, offered 12pm
Welcome drink: Yes 1 voucher for normal beers, wine, spirits, didn't notice the platinum vouchers with the room key envelope until check out. Gave them to a gentleman in the lift on check out.
Welcome gift: No Welcome Gift except the upgrade, will take that.

 

[gaz0303]

Property: Pullman Cape Town City Centre
Status: Accor Plus Gold
Room booked: Classic room
Room upgraded/type: Superior room
Rate: bfod
Free internet: Yes
Free Breakfast: no
Early check in/late out: Asked for late checkout, 12pm, not an issue
Welcome drink: Yes 1 voucher, got what I requested
Welcome gift: bottle of wine, biltong, macarons and nuts

Hotel was fine and can’t complain about room or service, but the cbd isn’t the place to stay in Cape Town. While we found nice restaurants within walking distance (and felt safe in the area), Newlands or the waterfront are the places to be. Uber from hotel to waterfront was $6-8 hotel has a shuttle.

 

[Flyfrequently]

Property: Sofitel Saigon Plaza
Status: Accor+ Platinum
Room booked: Superior Room
Room upgraded/type: Yes, Superior Club Room
Rate: Accor+ member rate - $221/night
Free internet: Yes
Free Breakfast: Yes
Early check in/late out: Requested ahead of arrival and again at check in and was given till 4pm.
Welcome drink: Yes - via app voucher. 4 vouchers for 2 adults and 2 children.
Welcome gift: 3 beers in an ice box, some snacks and some chocolate truffles on sticks - well presented pack.
Recommended: Its a pretty nice hotel. We had dinner in the Koto restaurant which was excellent but pretty expensive by Vietnam standards (cheaper than Aus still). Accor+ gives 20% off food. Breakfast was reasonably busy but a huge range of options and mostly very high quality of food. Didn't try executive lounge as no under 12s allowed. I stuck my head in for the evening drinks [6-8pm] around 6:30 and no free tables, completely packed. Good beers, wine & coughtail selection plus option for each guest to choose 2 items from a menu that ranged from small snacks to small mains. Outside of that service the food offerings were very minimal - handful of small biscuits or cakes.
Rooms aren't the largest but probably fine if you don't have 2 small kids, a cot and 3 cases.
Shower was excellent with amazing pressure and great water temp.
Staff had done a fantastic job preparing a room for us - wigwam style teepee in the corner with a padded blanket and pillow which our 3 year old slept in, teddy bears and toys for the kids, a kids bathroom amenities kit etc. It both looked amazing and was pretty practical as it kept the kids entertained for a while.
Last year I stayed at the Hotel des Arts on a work trip and the rooms were larger and more opulent. The breakfast was similar, and the location is arguably better as there's more drinking and dining options in the immediate vicinity, whereas you need a 5-10 minute walk from the Sofitel to be surrounded by options.
The Hotel des Arts has a better rooftop bar with better views, but the pool is better and more useable at the Sofitel.
Travelling with kids I'd definitely pick the Sofitel, but otherwise I'd pick the Hotel des Arts if pricing was similar. That said, both are great options in Saigon.

On our way into Vietnam we had 2 nights at a non accor hotel, also district 1. Le Than Ton Signature by MVillage - huge rooms, reasonable breakfast, well located next to Japan Town and excellent staff - we were messaged via whatsapp frequently from before arrival asking if they could help with transfers (very reasonable) to if we needed housekeeping, if the stay was going OK and did we need anything etc and was just a level of service I've not had before at a hotel - it was actually the standout from a service perspective on the trip and was the only non 5 star hotel. Recommended if you are looking for a cheaper option in Saigon.

After re reading your post @Lemon_Party and tossing up between Sofitel and Hotel D'Artes have gone with Sofitel for a few nights in July, primarily as it was ~ $200 less.
Booked fully flexible so will keep an eye on prices.

 

[GCC]

Sorry if this a slightly OT, but looking at booking Sofitel DH for an upcoming stay. ALL platinum.
Best rate is superior room 2 double beds $299 (saver)
Superior room 2 double beds with DH view rate is $387
Cheapest king room is base superior rate is $526

Based on others experiences what are my chances of
Changing from double-double to King by request after booking?
Upgrade from base “superior” to higher floor with view.

Many thanks in advance.

 

[J-P]

Sorry if this a slightly OT, but looking at booking Sofitel DH for an upcoming stay. ALL platinum.
Best rate is superior room 2 double beds $299 (saver)
Superior room 2 double beds with DH view rate is $387
Cheapest king room is base superior rate is $526

Based on others experiences what are my chances of
Changing from double-double to King by request after booking?
Upgrade from base “superior” to higher floor with view.

Many thanks in advance.

I have never done it at that hotel but I've done it at other hotels with Platinum/Diamond status, I just contact the concierge and request a non-smoking room with a large bed (like I completely forgot to do this in the booking process).

Inevitably the manager (usually the Lounge manager if in a hotel that has one) replies to confirm my preferences

 

[eric2011]

A lot of Sofitels will give you a ring (if you are a high status) a couple of days before hand (i've just had a call for a stay this Sat) and you can advise of any requests then. I usually confirm the eta and the fact that I want a room with a walk in shower etc

 

[Lemon_Party]

After re reading your post @Lemon_Party and tossing up between Sofitel and Hotel D'Artes have gone with Sofitel for a few nights in July, primarily as it was ~ $200 less.
Booked fully flexible so will keep an eye on prices.

I stayed at the des artes on a work trip with a great red hot room rate. I think it shades the Sofitel on rooms and location but both are great and I’d select on price next time I visit. The Sofitel is only a few blocks walk from lively bars and restaurants. I’d happily stay there again!

 

[kangarooflyer88]

Property: ibis Curitiba Batel
Status: Accor Plus Platinum
Room booked: Superior apartment with a double bed
Room upgraded/type: Top floor?
Rate: Advance Saver Rate ($91 AUD/night)
Free internet: Yes
Free Breakfast: No
Early check in/late out: 3 PM late check out given
Welcome drink: 2 vouchers in-app which could be redeemed for non-alcoholic beverages from the bar
Welcome gift: No

Stayed here on a vacation to South America. Overall, it's one of the better ibis properties I've been to. This is located in the Batel district of Curitiba which is the more upscale part of the city. The rooms and facilities are quite modern and well appointed (something that cannot be said for many ibis properties, particularly in Australia). The hotel has a gym, restaurant, bar and decent work area in the lobby. Do be warned there are no laundry machines at this property. However, there are laundromats nearby. If I have to be picky, one downside of this property is I didn't receive any welcome gifts or special treatment (as would be the case when I stayed at ibis properties in Australia). It should be noted that since this Accor property is not in Asia-Pacific, there is no free breakfast provided as a Platinum perk. With that being said, they did grant me a 3 PM late check out which is something I have yet to receive at any Accor property (never mind ibis) in Australia.

Would I recommend staying here? Absolutely!



Notice the lack of shub at this hotel:



The room has a desk and storage area although surprisingly no tea or coffee maker provision (I am told by my girlfriend that such facilities are uncommon at hotels in Brazil):

 

[Assassin]

Pools are way busier at the Fairmont/Swissotel. I think there might be a kids pool there though?

As a plat, I've struggled to decent late checkouts at both Sofitel and Swissotel due to high occupancy. So can't really blame them.

Swissotel has amazing views from the club lounge. Sofitel is also right above a MRT. It's Singapore, you're never far from food

Plats at the Sofitel also get access to the Virgin Active gym that's connected. IF you care about that, it's a great perk IMHO.

I've just made Accor Platinum and have a trip to Singapore next week. I'm planning 3 nights in the Sofitel then have to stay elsewhere for a night then my wife is coming up and we have another three nights over the Easter break. Any suggestions on where to stay? Back to the Sofitel or the Fairmont (no lounge access, I assume) or somewhere else?

 

[Daver6]

I've just made Accor Platinum and have a trip to Singapore next week. I'm planning 3 nights in the Sofitel then have to stay elsewhere for a night then my wife is coming up and we have another three nights over the Easter break. Any suggestions on where to stay? Back to the Sofitel or the Fairmont (no lounge access, I assume) or somewhere else?

You could make some cancelable bookings. After staying at the Sofitel you could decide whether you want to go back or try somewhere different. IF lounge access is important then maybe consider the Swissotel. Views there can be amazing.

If you just want a resort to relax at, maybe Sofitel Sentosa? I've not been so I can't comment though.

What are you wanting to do over the Easter 3 days. That might sway where you stay.

 

[Assassin]

You could make some cancelable bookings. After staying at the Sofitel you could decide whether you want to go back or try somewhere different. IF lounge access is important then maybe consider the Swissotel. Views there can be amazing.

If you just want a resort to relax at, maybe Sofitel Sentosa? I've not been so I can't comment though.

What are you wanting to do over the Easter 3 days. That might sway where you stay.

Thanks Daver6

I have a cancellable booking at the Sofitel. We really only have 3 days so want to probably do a bit of shopping, check out Marina Bay sands, maybe the night zoo and the Singapore gardens plus some relaxing.

I don’t think Sentosa is the right place. I’ve stayed at the Fairmont before and like it but feel like I may not be maximising my Plat benefits there.. I haven’t stayed at the Sofitel.

 

[Daver6]

Thanks Daver6

I have a cancellable booking at the Sofitel. We really only have 3 days so want to probably do a bit of shopping, check out Marina Bay sands, maybe the night zoo and the Singapore gardens plus some relaxing.

I don’t think Sentosa is the right place. I’ve stayed at the Fairmont before and like it but feel like I may not be maximising my Plat benefits there.. I haven’t stayed at the Sofitel.

Location wise, Swissotel/Fairmont are possibly better located for what you want then. Not that it's hard to get around Singapore. Swissotel lounge has stunning views too.

Could you book the Swissotel as refundable and go check it out to see if it's to your liking during your first 3 days? Then make an informed decision about Sofitel or Swissotel?

If you're into going to the gym, Sofitel gives plats access to the Virgin Active gym that's connected. It's a great gym (if you care about that).

Sofitel certainly feels more exclusive and less busy. I love the pool there. Generally really tranquil. I don't love the lounge location and it's a bit of an afterthought IMHO but food and drink offerings are pretty strong.

Not current but will give you an idea of the Sofitel lounge offerings in the evening. Actual champagne is a winner for me.



And for me, this pool beats the Fairmont/Swissotel hands down

 

[Assassin]

Location wise, Swissotel/Fairmont are possibly better located for what you want then. Not that it's hard to get around Singapore. Swissotel lounge has stunning views too.

Could you book the Swissotel as refundable and go check it out to see if it's to your liking during your first 3 days? Then make an informed decision about Sofitel or Swissotel?

If you're into going to the gym, Sofitel gives plats access to the Virgin Active gym that's connected. It's a great gym (if you care about that).

Sofitel certainly feels more exclusive and less busy. I love the pool there. Generally really tranquil. I don't love the lounge location and it's a bit of an afterthought IMHO but food and drink offerings are pretty strong.

Not current but will give you an idea of the Sofitel lounge offerings in the evening. Actual champagne is a winner for me.
View attachment 438288
View attachment 438289

And for me, this pool beats the Fairmont/Swissotel hands down
View attachment 438290

Thanks again - super helpful!!

The pool and champagne are definitely pluses. What I will do is book the Swissotel as well and see how i like the Sofitel when I arrive and make a call from there.

Thanks again!

 

[Daver6]

Thanks again - super helpful!!

The pool and champagne are definitely pluses. What I will do is book the Swissotel as well and see how i like the Sofitel when I arrive and make a call from there.

Thanks again!

Sounds like a good plan. Report back

As much as I love the Sofitel, one disappointing thing is there are essentially only two room types. Regular and suites. All the base rooms are the same layout. Just different floors and views. IMHO, none of the views are spectacular. I think the higher category rooms might have some slightly better amenities in the room but I don't really know. Point being, just book a base room. Upgraded rooms there are a bit meaningless unless you get a suite, which I've never had (although one time booked 3 nights in a suite with the suite upgrade and the fourth night in a base room, but we kept the suite for the 4th night).