Each week, we will be taking a look at a hotel or airline elite status level and the benefits that come with it and how to leverage earning the status.
So far we have looked at Hilton Gold, and Hilton Diamond status, so for this week we are switching to Starwood Gold. Starwood Gold normally requires either 10 stays or 25 nights.
How to Earn:
(1) 10 stays in a calendar year
(2) 25 nights in a calendar year
Lifetime SPG Gold Status is earned after 250 eligible nights and any 5 years of elite SPG status.
Benefits:
- Three Starpoints for every eligible U.S. dollar spent – a 50% bonus over base-level membership.
- 4 p.m. late checkout so you can sleep in, relax by the pool or see more of the local area you’re visiting.
- An enhanced room at check-in, when available.
- Special elite customer service telephone line (available in most countries).
- Choice of Welcome Amenity. Choose from bonus Starpoints, complimentary in-room Internet access or a complimentary beverage.
SPG also offers Crossover Rewards with Delta. As an SPG Gold member, earn 1 Starpoint for every dollar spent on eligible Delta flights.
Other Ways To Earn Starwood Gold
For those who don’t wish to stay 25 nights to get this status, you can earn Starwood Gold status through spending with the Starwood American Express. If you spend $30,000 or more in eligible purchases in a calendar year, you’ll be granted complimentary SPG Gold Status.
Bottom Line
Starwood Gold status does provide some nice benefits like the 50% earning bonus, 4pm check-out and welcome amenity which can include bonus points or free internet access.
What’s your favorite Starwood Gold benefit?
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I like the bonus Starpoints upon checkin
I think SPG Gold is SOOOOOOO overrated!. Hilton,Marriot, and Hyatt all provide breakfast.
I have dropped out of SPG elite in 2014 for the first time since 2002. Nice hotels, but promotions have been weak for the past couple of years.
“If you spend $40,000 or more in eligible purchases in a calendar year, you’ll be granted complimentary SPG Gold Status.” Isn’t it only $30,000??
I agree with MSPDeltaDude, the other programs provide breakfast. I received SPG Gold via AmEx Platinum and haven’t found good value on the perks side.
@Eddy- Yes, just updated. Thanks!
Does AmEx Platinum corporate still provide SPG Gold status? I dont see that perk any more…
Regarding the 4pm checkout it is not guaranteed. I really prefer the Ambassador late checkout. It is guaranteed, no questions asked. I find with the late checkout “benefits” offered by Starwood, Marriott, etc.. it’s always based on availability.
@MSPDeltaDude – only Hilton provides breakfast at a similar attainable level (free with the credit card). Hyatt requires Diamond for breakfast, and Marriott requires Gold (a 50-night status).
I have SPG Gold and I’ve had better experience with it than Hilton Gold, both attained for free