The Cost of Purchasing Elite Qualifying Points in the IHG One Rewards Program
The IHG One Rewards loyalty program offers a range of benefits to its members, including complimentary breakfast and the potential for room upgrades. These perks can enhance the overall hotel experience and make stays more enjoyable. However, the cost of purchasing Elite Qualifying Points, which can be used for Reward Nights across participating hotels, is quite high. In this article, we will explore the cost of purchasing 120,000 Elite Qualifying Points in the IHG One Rewards program and discuss whether it is worth the investment.
The price tag for 120,000 Elite Qualifying Points is USD 1,500, or approximately S$2,000. This is a significant amount of money to spend on points, especially when considering that it only provides access to complimentary breakfast and the possibility of an upgrade. While these benefits are certainly desirable, it is important to evaluate whether they justify the cost.
Complimentary breakfast is a common perk offered by many hotels, not just those within the IHG network. It is often included in the room rate or provided as a loyalty program benefit. Therefore, paying such a high price for access to breakfast may not be the most cost-effective option. It is worth comparing the cost of purchasing Elite Qualifying Points with the price of booking a room that already includes breakfast to determine if it is a worthwhile investment.
Similarly, the potential for a room upgrade can be enticing for frequent travelers. However, it is important to note that upgrades are not guaranteed and are subject to availability. Therefore, purchasing Elite Qualifying Points solely for the chance of an upgrade may not be the most practical decision. It is worth considering other factors such as the likelihood of receiving an upgrade and the potential value of the upgraded room before investing in points.
Another aspect to consider is how frequently you plan on staying in IHG properties in the future. If you are a frequent traveler and anticipate numerous stays at IHG hotels, then purchasing Elite Qualifying Points may be a more reasonable investment. However, if you only plan on staying in IHG properties occasionally or if there are alternative hotel options available, it may be more cost-effective to seek out other loyalty programs or booking options.
It is also essential to consider the overall value of the IHG One Rewards program and whether it aligns with your travel preferences and needs. While the program offers a range of benefits, it is important to evaluate whether these benefits outweigh the cost of purchasing Elite Qualifying Points. Factors such as the quality and variety of participating hotels, the availability of desirable locations, and the overall customer service provided by the program should all be taken into account when considering the value of the program.
In conclusion, the cost of purchasing 120,000 Elite Qualifying Points in the IHG One Rewards program is quite high. While the benefits of complimentary breakfast and the potential for room upgrades are certainly desirable, it is important to evaluate whether they justify the expense. Factors such as the availability of alternative options, the likelihood of receiving upgrades, and the overall value of the program should all be considered before investing in points. Ultimately, it is up to the individual traveler to determine whether the cost of purchasing Elite Qualifying Points is worth the investment in the IHG One Rewards program.