Starwood Preferred Guest takes good care of its top tier Platinum members. One of the greatest differentiators of the Starwood Preferred Guest Program is that  “Upgrades to best available room at check-in, including Standard Suites.” is a stated benefit as a Platinum member including award stays.  While you may have to argue with a stubborn front desk associate on occasion, you always have the benefit stated in print to make your case.

I don’t care about upgrades when I am traveling for business, but scoring that spectacular room upgrade on an award stay to share with friends and family can really add a nice touch to your trip.  I have been fortunate enough to enjoy some pretty special rooms on recent award stays, so I would like to share with you the first half of my top 10 SPG Complimentary Upgrades on Award Stays.

10. The St Regis Princeville – Prince Junior Suite

The Prince Junior Suite at the St Regis Princeville is the only Junior Suite to make the list. What this upgrade lacks in a separate bedroom it more than makes up with views of Hanalei Bay from the living area and the bathroom.   This suite goes for around ~$800.00 per night at this category 6 property. I cashed in 13 nights here in November.  Read the full trip report here.

9. The St. Regis Deer Valley – Luxury Suite

The Luxury Suite at the The St. Regis Deer Valley has a residence feel.  It comes complete with a full service kitchen, spacious balcony and standout technology.  I loved the robust music library provided at no charge through the TV and high quality speakers.  In summer, this suite goes for around ~$600.00 per night at this category 6 property. Expect at least double that over peak ski season.  I spent a weekend last summer here and we had the whole resort to ourselves.  Never overlook a fancy ski resort in the summer!

8. W Fort Lauderdale – Fabulous Flat

The Flats at the W Fort Lauderdale were originally created as condo units but have yet to be sold. The hotel has converted these 2 bedroom units into hotel rooms and includes them in the upgrade pool. The extra space and amenities make for an incredible residence style stay.  Read my a full description from my Super Bowl weekend stay here.  In summer, this suite goes for around ~$800.00 per night at this category 6 property.

7. Westin Cape Town – Executive Suite

The Westin Cape Town is the lowest category hotel on my list.  It is currently a Category 4 though in February I received this spectacular suite at a Category 3 redemption.  This 700 square foot one bedroom was simple yet stylish with a memorable heated floor bathroom. The views of the ‘table cloth’ over Table Mountain were a wonderful way to wake every morning.  This suite goes for around ~$1000.00 per night at this category 4 property.

6. W Vieques – Marvelous Retreat

I visited Vieques island last August with a few of my buddies and was upgraded to a Retreat.  The W Vieques Retreats are separate from the main hotel and offer additional privacy.  I took a nap one afternoon and awoke to a Feral horse poking its nose inside the bedroom. This 1000 foot one bedroom is by far the most stylish hotel on my list, with bright and modern décor throughout.  During the Summer, this suite goes for around ~$1000.00 per night at this category 6 property.

Want more detailed photos from this list?

#10 – The St Regis Princeville Prince Junior Suite

#9 – The St Regis Deer Valley Luxury Suite

#8 – W Fort Lauderdale Fabulous Flat

#7 – Westin Cape Town Executive Suite

#6 – W Vieques – Marvelous Retreat

In the next installment, I will detail my personal top 5 SPG Complimentary Hotel Room Upgrades on Award Stays.  Any guesses at #1?? (Hint: it is in the US)