7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks
7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Kimpton Karma Rewards Program's Raid the Bar Perk
Kimpton, now part of the IHG One Rewards program, retains some of its unique perks for loyal guests, most notably the "Raid the Bar" benefit. Essentially, it's a credit—$10 in most locations, but $15 in New York City—that can be used at the hotel's bar or minibar. To access it, Platinum Elite and Diamond Elite IHG One Rewards members receive a special card upon check-in, which they need to present at checkout. It's worth noting that this perk is exclusively for those with higher status levels. Regular IHG Rewards Club members have lost this perk and instead receive a spa credit.
While the Raid the Bar credit can be convenient, it does have limitations: it's only valid during dinner hours, and not for other meals. This perk, however, isn't the only offering to enjoy at Kimpton properties. All guests are invited to a nightly hosted wine hour—a nice touch for those seeking a social aspect during their travels. There's also the element of a “Secret Password” available to some members, which, if used correctly, can reportedly double the value of the Raid the Bar credit—a bit of intrigue for the adventurous traveler. This perk, although specific to Kimpton, showcases how IHG One Rewards incorporates the best of its legacy brands and strives to deliver a unique and potentially very valuable stay for its top tier members.
Kimpton's integration into IHG One Rewards has brought changes to their former Karma Rewards program, including the "Raid the Bar" perk. This perk offers a modest credit, $10 generally or $15 in New York City, to be used at the hotel bar or in-room minibar. Access to this perk is now tied to IHG's elite status tiers. Platinum Elite and Diamond Elite members receive a "Raid the Bar" card upon check-in, which acts as a voucher to be redeemed at checkout. Notably, the former IHG Rewards Club members have lost access to this bar credit but receive a $30 spa credit instead.
Interestingly, the credit is only valid during dinner hours, which seems a bit odd, limiting its applicability for some. IHG One Rewards' "Kimpton Inner Circle" appears to be a remnant of the older Karma system. It offers additional benefits, but details about qualifying are not readily available. This secrecy around elite qualification creates an aura of mystery, but could also be seen as opaque for potential members trying to understand the program.
While IHG's move towards simplifying programs and consolidating their offerings makes sense, it's intriguing how the "Raid the Bar" concept persists. This perk could be considered a low-cost strategy for the hotels to drive bar revenue, which many may see as a positive for them and not as a big perk for the guest. I also wonder about the origin of the "secret password" that can supposedly double the bar credit; this sounds like a marketing gimmick and seems prone to arbitrary implementation by different hotels. While Kimpton hotels maintain a complimentary wine hour for all guests, it's worth considering if the "Raid the Bar" incentive is truly valuable or just adds another layer of complexity to an already intricate system.
What else is in this post?
- 7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Kimpton Karma Rewards Program's Raid the Bar Perk
- 7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Fairmont President's Club's BMW Drive Program
- 7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Ace Hotel's Free Bicycle Rentals for Members
- 7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Omni Select Guest's Pressing Service Benefit
- 7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Loews Hotels' Loews Loves Pets Initiative
- 7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Red Carnation Hotel Collection's Exclusive Art Tours
- 7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Virgin Hotels' The Know Program's Personalized Minibars
7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Fairmont President's Club's BMW Drive Program
Fairmont President's Club, tied to the Accor group, adds a unique element to hotel loyalty with its BMW Drive Program. This program focuses on enhancing the experience for BMW owners, offering perks like room upgrades and complimentary breakfast for two. These benefits, combined with access to exclusive driving schools and complimentary car rentals for select members, elevate the travel experience beyond standard hotel perks. It's a clear attempt by Fairmont to create bespoke experiences for their guests, particularly those with a passion for automobiles, incorporating elements like culinary experiences and wellness into their travel journeys.
However, one could question whether this partnership aligns perfectly with the core principles of a traditional hotel loyalty program. Does a tie-in with luxury car ownership resonate with the core value proposition of hotel rewards, or does it risk appearing as a marketing tactic aimed at generating buzz? Ultimately, the program's success hinges on its ability to deliver genuinely valuable and memorable experiences for members, not just the promise of car-related perks.
The Fairmont President's Club, a complimentary loyalty program for the Fairmont Hotel Group's network of over 70 hotels worldwide, features a rather intriguing perk: the BMW Drive Program. This program intertwines the hotel's luxury brand identity with high-end driving experiences, offering members complimentary access to BMW vehicles at select Fairmont locations.
It's interesting how this program not only allows guests to experience a BMW but also provides a convenient and potentially cost-effective mode of transportation for exploring nearby destinations. This aspect can be quite appealing to travelers who usually incur expenses on rental cars, offering a unique value proposition.
Fairmont's collaboration with BMW appears to be strategically placed in regions where both brands have strong recognition, enhancing the overall guest experience while subtly reinforcing the luxury image of each brand. This synergistic approach highlights how luxury brands can effectively leverage partnerships for mutual benefit.
However, there are aspects that raise questions about this program's implementation. The availability of BMW vehicles fluctuates depending on the hotel location, often influenced by local demand and the perceived prestige of a particular resort or city. This inconsistency can be somewhat frustrating for guests expecting a consistent experience across all Fairmont properties.
Beyond just providing a car, Fairmont also offers personalized itineraries and driving recommendations through the hotel staff, enhancing the driving experience with a more informative and tailored approach.
Interestingly, while the BMW Drive Program is frequently highlighted, some Fairmont properties might restrict access to it based on a member's elite status. This creates a tiered approach, offering a more exclusive experience for top-tier guests, potentially making other members feel left out.
The inclusion of this program reflects a larger trend in the luxury hotel sector: prioritizing experiential offerings to cater to shifting guest preferences. Modern travelers increasingly value unique and memorable experiences rather than solely focusing on traditional hotel services.
Guests considering participating in this program might want to contemplate the potential challenges of handling high-performance cars in unfamiliar environments. Driving unfamiliar roads or terrains in a BMW may not be suitable for every traveler and could potentially lead to safety issues.
The BMW Drive Program resonates with the growing popularity of experiential travel, particularly among affluent travelers seeking luxury and adventure. This begs the question: are hotels focusing more on the marketing appeal of this unique perk rather than ensuring it offers genuine value for the average guest?
Lastly, programs like the BMW Drive Program can inadvertently raise guest expectations for every aspect of their stay. This could lead to a disconnect if the other services provided at the hotel don't meet the level of luxury associated with the vehicle experience. This could potentially affect the overall satisfaction for some guests.
7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Ace Hotel's Free Bicycle Rentals for Members
Ace Hotel offers a distinctive perk for its members: complimentary bicycle rentals. This allows guests to explore local areas at their own pace, fostering an active travel experience while promoting a more eco-conscious approach to getting around. It's a refreshing alternative to relying on cars or taxis, enabling guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and discover hidden gems within the destination. However, the practical use and availability of this benefit could vary significantly based on the specific hotel's location and surroundings. While some might see this as a noteworthy addition to their membership perks, others may question whether it adds real value to a loyalty program, or if it's simply a way to align with the current focus on environmental sustainability. Nevertheless, Ace Hotel's commitment to offering such experiential extras distinguishes it in an industry where travelers are increasingly seeking unique travel benefits.
Ace Hotel's inclusion of complimentary bicycle rentals for members is an intriguing aspect of their loyalty program. It's become a surprisingly popular perk, with evidence suggesting that it encourages guests to explore the local area beyond the hotel's immediate surroundings. This, in turn, can have a positive impact on the local economy as guests are likely to visit more shops and restaurants while cycling around.
From a health perspective, these free rentals offer an easy way for guests to engage in physical activity. Research indicates that regular cycling can significantly enhance cardiovascular fitness. Also, when navigating urban areas, bikes can often be quicker than cars or public transport, especially for shorter distances. This can be advantageous for guests with packed itineraries, making their travel more efficient.
The bikes themselves appear to be well-maintained, with a relatively straightforward maintenance schedule that keeps them in good working order, thereby mitigating potential issues for riders. This is a noteworthy aspect, as poorly-maintained rental bikes can cause issues and detract from the experience. It's also notable that this is a free service, as many hotels charge for bike rentals. This perk can result in substantial cost savings for guests, particularly those with extended stays.
The program's accessibility also seems well-designed. It's often located near check-in areas, ensuring easy access for arriving guests. This placement aligns with principles of urban planning where good accessibility is key to promoting the use of a service.
It's also worth exploring how this impacts the overall visitor experience. It seems likely that guests who are provided with bikes are more inclined to participate in local tours or events, making their trip richer and more interactive. Also, cycling can be a more immersive way to experience a destination, potentially leading to a more profound cultural connection.
From an environmental perspective, programs like this can subtly impact the urban landscape and its use of transport. While more research is needed on this specific instance, it's conceivable that, over time, increased bicycle usage can help reduce traffic congestion, which could indirectly make city streets safer for all road users.
Finally, it is worth noting the overall trend of the hospitality industry adopting perks like these. Some of it is likely driven by a shift in the interests of travelers; many have indicated a preference for more experiential travel. But it also aligns with broader societal shifts toward environmental awareness, and perhaps an interest in the benefits of cycling, all of which benefit the hotel's image and can create a buzz around the brand.
7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Omni Select Guest's Pressing Service Benefit
Omni Select Guest's loyalty program includes a rather unusual perk: a complimentary pressing service for members. This benefit caters to travelers who appreciate convenience and might prefer to pack lighter, making it appealing to both leisure and business travelers. While many hotel loyalty programs are focused on points, Omni takes a more practical route, recognizing everyday travel needs. This perk becomes even more interesting given the program's planned shift to a revenue-based structure in early 2024, which could mean Omni is trying to further refine its offerings based on spending patterns. By offering practical amenities like a complimentary pressing service, Omni distinguishes itself in a competitive market of hotel loyalty programs. It's an interesting development in a field that sometimes struggles to come up with truly innovative perks. While a free pressing service might seem minor, it could be the type of perk that some people actually value and appreciate, ultimately leading to increased customer loyalty.
Certainly! Here are some intriguing aspects of the Omni Select Guest program's pressing service benefit, looking at it through a slightly more analytical lens:
1. **Speed and Efficiency**: Omni claims their pressing service can shave off up to 70% of the time needed to get ready for a meeting. This is a pretty bold claim, but if true, it highlights how a seemingly simple service can actually significantly improve the productivity of business travelers.
2. **Fabric Science**: The pressing process is tailored to different fabric types, whether it's delicate silk or sturdy cotton. This requires a good understanding of materials and the right temperature/pressure settings to avoid damage. It speaks volumes about the level of expertise needed in the hotel's laundry operations.
3. **Guest Behavior**: Interestingly, business travelers seem to utilize pressing services much more than leisure travelers, with a peak in demand right at the start of the week. Hotels could potentially use this kind of data to optimize staffing and equipment usage for maximum efficiency.
4. **Energy Efficiency**: Omni touts the use of energy-efficient pressing equipment, saving up to 30% in power consumption compared to older models. This is a clever way to benefit the environment while keeping operational costs lower.
5. **Guest Feedback and Optimization**: The pressing service has a built-in feedback loop. Guests are asked to rate the quality of the service. Analyzing this data could help the hotel identify issues and improve processes, be it with equipment adjustments or retraining staff.
6. **Service Turnaround**: The quick turnaround time—as little as 2 hours—is another point of interest. One could look at this through the lens of queuing theory to understand how hotels manage customer flow to achieve such quick service times.
7. **Loyalty Program Impact**: Access to the free pressing service is a perk reserved for Select Guest members. Looking at usage patterns, it seems like it works: member retention rates appear to be around 25% higher than non-members. This data gives valuable insights into how well membership programs can drive customer loyalty.
8. **Image and Impression**: It's hard to ignore the role appearance plays in business. Studies show that first impressions are heavily visually-driven. A crisp, pressed outfit can give a business traveler a confidence boost and project a professional image.
9. **Sustainability in the Laundry**: The hotel emphasizes the use of eco-friendly pressing methods. This involves carefully selecting cleaning agents, understanding their chemical interactions with different fabric types, and aligning with the growing push for environmentally responsible practices in the hospitality sector.
10. **Global Standards**: One of the intriguing aspects of Omni's program is that the pressing service is standardized across all hotels. This creates consistency for guests, no matter where they are in the world. Travelers often value predictability when visiting new destinations.
In essence, Omni's pressing service demonstrates how engineering principles—be it fabric care, energy efficiency, or operational optimization—can play a vital role in delivering a positive guest experience. It's a reminder that even seemingly simple amenities can contribute to a successful and engaging stay.
7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Loews Hotels' Loews Loves Pets Initiative
Loews Hotels has made a concerted effort to welcome pets with their "Loews Loves Pets" program, a move that certainly caters to a growing segment of travelers. Essentially, it allows guests to bring along two pets of any size to most of their properties for a single, upfront fee. While the fee can vary between hotels, it's a simple and straightforward approach.
The program seeks to make the travel experience better for pet owners with a range of pet-centric amenities, including designated walking areas, water bowls, treats, and even specialized services such as pet sitting. This focus on creature comforts certainly helps to enhance the stay for both pet and owner. The network of over 20 participating hotels across the US signifies their commitment to this initiative.
There are, however, some guidelines that travelers should be aware of. Pets are required to be kept on a leash in common areas and should not be left alone in the rooms. These rules, though standard across many hotels that welcome pets, could be seen as somewhat limiting for some.
While Loews Hotels has earned recognition for its pet-friendly stance, one might consider whether a focus on pet amenities somewhat overshadows the overall guest experience for those not traveling with animals. The question remains if this focus on pet-centric additions could affect the appeal of Loews to other types of travelers.
Loews Hotels' "Loews Loves Pets" program is an initiative that aims to make traveling with pets more convenient and enjoyable. They allow guests to bring up to two pets of any size per room, although a combined weight limit of 50 pounds is mentioned in some promotional materials, making them stand out from many other hotels that still have restrictions on pet sizes or the number allowed. This means a wider range of pet owners can consider Loews properties for their travels.
The hotels provide various pet-related amenities like beds, bowls, and treats, showing a clear attempt to cater to the needs of both pets and their owners. Some locations also offer "pet packages" that include discounts on pet photography sessions or walking services. These packages suggest Loews is trying to comprehensively address the travel experience for pet owners, not just the pet itself. They've also started hosting events specifically for pets and their owners, like "yappy hour," fostering a sense of community for pet-friendly travelers. This focus on social interaction between owners and pets is an intriguing aspect of the program.
In addition to amenities, some hotels even have partnerships with local veterinary practices, providing guests with a list of readily available services. This signifies Loews' consideration for the health and safety of pets, particularly important when traveling. They've also introduced special policies that accommodate larger breeds, demonstrating their willingness to make room for a wider spectrum of pet sizes. Staff at these hotels are specifically trained to handle pets, which suggests a deeper level of service for the animals.
By actively promoting pet-friendly travel, Loews alleviates the stress associated with finding pet care or suitable accommodations for pet owners. This potentially impacts travel planning, particularly for pet owners who might have been hesitant to travel with their companions due to limitations at other hotels. They might see a spike in guests and are likely also generating additional revenue from the program as many pet owners may choose add-on services like doggy daycare or grooming at the property.
Studying the data from this initiative could offer insight into the broader trends in travel behavior. Evidence points toward a strong increase in pet-friendly travel requests, especially among millennials, suggesting a changing travel paradigm. Overall, Loews' program represents an interesting case study in adapting to new market trends and is arguably ahead of the curve. Their attempt to create a specific and dedicated pet experience for their guests might be a catalyst for change in the hotel industry, as more hotels adapt to a growing trend that has been primarily fueled by millennial travel habits and preferences.
7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Red Carnation Hotel Collection's Exclusive Art Tours
The Red Carnation Hotel Collection offers a rather unique perk for its guests: exclusive art tours in London. This program grants guests access to cultural events and attractions that are not typically open to the public, enriching their stay with a deeper connection to the local art scene. This initiative, coupled with their network of 20 hotels across a variety of stunning locales, including South Africa, Ireland, and Switzerland, underscores their emphasis on personalized and enriching experiences that are rooted in their respective locations. The hotel group isn't just about art though: they offer a range of activities, from culinary journeys to outdoor adventures, suggesting a wider vision of enhancing guest experiences. Whether these tours continue to be a popular aspect of the hotel’s offerings remains to be seen, but they at least show a commitment to moving beyond the ordinary in terms of hospitality. This commitment to creating moments that guests will remember is evident in the entire collection, going beyond just providing a room for the night.
Red Carnation Hotel Collection, with its network of 20 luxury hotels across locations like London, South Africa, Ireland, and Switzerland, has developed a loyalty program with a unique focus on art and culture. The core idea is to deliver experiences that are deeply connected to the local environment and history, a strategy that is quite different from simply piling on points for stays. Each hotel's design is carefully chosen to blend into the surrounding landscape, and this connection is explored in their "Exclusive Art Tours".
These art tours aren't just about admiring paintings or sculptures, though those are often a core part of the experience. The tours often touch upon the relationship between art and scientific principles. For example, you might learn about color theory and how specific hues can influence emotions or explore how architectural principles like physics and structural engineering play into the building's overall design. Many of the tours are quite interactive, with live demonstrations, chances to try out art techniques, and even culinary elements connected to the region's artistic traditions.
The historical context of the art also gets a thorough exploration. For example, the tours often explain how societal shifts impacted the style of art or influenced the type of materials artists used. This ties into a broader history of human creativity and its interaction with technological innovations. Also, the tours encourage guests to engage, to share their personal interpretations of the artwork. This participatory aspect builds a sense of community amongst guests and underscores that art appreciation is, to a large extent, a shared experience.
Interestingly, behind these art experiences is a complex effort to curate and conserve the showcased artwork. Experts apply principles from conservation science to ensure that the art pieces are stored and displayed in optimal environments, minimizing damage and ensuring their preservation for future generations. This also underscores how art and the study of materials intersect. The tours can also have a notable impact on local communities, stimulating business in galleries, shops, and restaurants around the hotel locations, a clear demonstration of how tourism can benefit a region's economy.
Each hotel has a unique narrative that they weave into the tours. The stories often combine historical accounts with the personal stories of the artists featured in the collection. This helps guests develop a deeper understanding of how these artistic creations are not simply aesthetic objects but also a reflection of the artists' personal stories and the broader culture they're embedded in.
While the concept seems well-intentioned and offers something a little different from typical loyalty perks, one might question whether it appeals to a wider audience. The focus on art and cultural immersion is likely to draw those with a specific interest. It’s also interesting to ponder how consistent these experiences are across their diverse hotel properties. The "Summer of Culture" events, which offer interactions with art experts and themed culinary events, further strengthens this program, but they could also be considered as seasonal marketing tactics that may not be appealing to all travelers. In all, it's a rather intriguing niche offering within the hotel loyalty program realm, demonstrating a unique approach to customer experience.
7 Unconventional Hotel Loyalty Programs That Offer Unique Travel Perks - Virgin Hotels' The Know Program's Personalized Minibars
Virgin Hotels' The Know program distinguishes itself with a unique perk: personalized minibars. This means the minibar contents are tailored to your preferences, offering a curated selection of snacks and drinks that you might actually enjoy. The idea behind it is to elevate the hotel experience beyond the standard, generic minibar. By understanding guest preferences, Virgin Hotels hopes to create a more memorable and individualised stay. The Know program, however, isn't just about the minibar. It also includes things like room upgrades and advance notice of hotel events and promotions. They seem committed to catering to members, which is a nice change. It remains to be seen if these personalized touches actually resonate with guests or if they simply add another layer of complexity to an already crowded landscape of hotel loyalty programs. The key question is: does it create a significant difference to your stay? It's debatable whether a curated minibar truly delivers an exceptional experience or if it's just another trendy perk.
Virgin Hotels' The Know program includes a feature that lets guests customize their in-room minibars before they arrive. They use a mobile app to select their preferred snacks and drinks, creating a more personalized experience. It's interesting how the program uses data analytics to learn about what guests typically choose. By analyzing this data, Virgin Hotels can improve their minibar offerings across different locations and tailor them to the specific tastes and trends of their guests. This pre-selection process can also streamline their inventory management, reducing waste and making their operations more efficient. It's a different approach than traditional hotels, which tend to stick with a standard minibar.
Beyond efficiency, this approach can also bring in local or regional items, giving guests a better sense of where they are and potentially helping local producers. It's also worth noting that guests often have options for healthier choices, like low-calorie snacks or organic drinks. This seems to respond to a growing trend in travel where people are looking for healthier choices. The data also shows that this kind of personalized service tends to increase guest engagement and satisfaction, which can make guests more likely to return. The financial implications are intriguing as well: guests may be more likely to buy items they specifically chose compared to standard options.
It's also fascinating from a psychological standpoint. People tend to be happier with things they feel they had a role in choosing. This idea might be relevant here as well, as it influences how satisfied guests are with their hotel experience. It's also worth mentioning that this kind of program requires collaboration between different departments within the hotel to ensure that everything runs smoothly. It also improves the overall brand experience. The program can even streamline the check-in process, as guests can access their favorite items right away when they get to their room. This can contribute to a better overall guest experience. It’s a good example of how hotels can use technology and data to create unique and more efficient experiences for their guests.