Analyzing new year Hotel Promotions

Gary Leff at view from the wing gives the run-down on new hotel promotions for the new year (mostly here, and some here).  In summary:

• Marriott: 2.5k bonus points per stay from 2/1 to 4/30 up to 25k
• Hilton: double base points from 1/6 to 4/6
• Starwood: 500 bonus points per night plus 5k bonus every 10th night from 1/7 to 4/30
• Priority Club: 3k bonus points every 3rd night up to 30k from 1/12  to 4/30
• Hyatt: escalating up to 20k bonus points for 8 nights from 1/9 to 4/30

Using our estimated values, we can put these bonuses in better perspective (the dollar values represent the value of the bonus amount):

• Marriott: $33 per stay up to a max of $325 (for 11 stays)
• Hilton: 7.5 cents per $ spent. assuming $100-$200 rooms, $7.5 – $15 per night. Would have to stay 30 nights at $150 to earn more than Marriott’s max of $325
• Starwood: $11.50 – $23 per night. 19 nights would get you over Marriott’s max of $325 and the 20th night would bring total bonus value to $460
• Priority Club: $23 every third night to a max of $225.
• Hyatt: $14 – $35 per night up to $280.

Seems to me that SPG comes out on top here in most scenarios, but it all depends on your staying habits. If you’re staying exactly 8 or 9 nights, I’d say Hyatt wins. If you’re staying at a very expensive hotel, Hilton could be your best bet. Short but frequent stays and Marriott looks good.

Remember, you must register for these promotions to take advantage. The links above will send you in the right direction. Happy Hoteling in the new year!