Ritz Carlton has a program similar to FHR, FSPP, Virtuoso, etc. for its properties that confers benefits when booking through a STARS agent. I've had luck sometimes piggybacking benefits for example getting both STARS and Virtuoso benefits on the same booking. Helpful to have an agent that is FSPP, Virtuoso, and a STARS agent. Many properties run specials for STARS agents in addition to the standard benefits of: Daily continental breakfast for two; Welcome gift/amenity; 4:00pm late check-out, based upon availability; VIP recognition. For example two years ago RC-Georgetown had a STARS benefit of confirmed upgrades to a suite at the time of booking. IN addition each property has an "ANGEL" that responds to special requests and questions from STARS agents. In this case the Angel got us upgraded to the Georgetown Suite (1500+ sqft) for the same price as a deluxe room. Again, never had a problem with a STARS booking conferring benefits. There are a number of STARS agents around...
The key thing lacking compared to all other luxury programs is the room upgrade. It's a special deal at a few hotels maybe, but not generally available.
Yeah -- I agree, but if you have your agent email the angel I'd say 80 percent of the time I can negotiate an upgrade prior to booking. I say I'll stay there if they can work the upgrade in somehow.
I notice that some RCs on a few day allow a government rate. Is that combinable with STARS booking or is it ineligible?
Technically, this is exactly correct. You will not get the continental breakfast amenity if booked on a government rate. Informally, you may receive a customized welcome amenity, upgrade, and late check-out if a STARS agent books your government rate and connects with his/her "Guardian Angel" at the property.
Does anybody know what are Stars Benefits for Ritz Carlton Orlando? Do they have any specials for the end of December through New Years?
No exclusive STARS offers for Orlando at the moment. The standard STARS benefits are still the same as what techguru posted back in March. Alternatively, other program's amenities include: AmEx FHR Room upgrade, if available Daily continental breakfast for two 4:00 pm late checkout A complimentary round of golf for up to two people per room, including greens fee and cart rental, once during your stay. Signature Room upgrade, if available Daily full American buffet breakfast for two Lunch for two in The Vineyard Grill Restaurant, Once During Stay Virtuoso Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (on specified categories) Full American Breakfast for up to two in-room guests, in restaurant Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability Lunch for two once during stay (maximum of $50), excluding beverages and gratuity OR a complimentary round of golf for up to two people per room, including greens fee and cart rental, once during stay
