While it’s no secret that airlines and hotels go above and beyond for their best customers, you may be shocked and surprised by just how far they’ll go to appease their frequent fliers. Sure you’ll get upgrades and special promotions, but the top tier of rewards programs come with amazing perks the average Joe taking just one vacation a year could only dream about. Here’s a peek behind the velvet curtain as to just what you’re missing. There’s a reason it’s called status.
Marriott and Hilton – 48-Hour Guaranteed Room Availability
Marriott Platinum Elite and Hilton Diamond guests have the unique privilege of always having a place to rest their head on as little as two days notice, which means even when a property is sold out. They've even gone as far as kicking other guests out who may have made their reservations months in advance. Feel like staying in Times Square over New Years Eve? Decide to book a last minute trip to Rio for Carnival? No problem. Just stay at Marriott 75 nights or more and they’ll hook you up. When you stay 750 nights, you’ll actually receive Platinum Elite status for life. For Hilton, you need 30 stays or 60 nights a year.
Delta – Showers You in Gifts
For Diamond Medallion members, missing your connection isn’t a problem, as you’ll be shuttled from gate to gate via a shiny new Porsche. At 125,000 miles a year, it’s the highest published mileage-based tier of any U.S. airline. Once you reach the million-mile mark, they’ll even gift you with presents from Hartmann, Tiffany & Co. and Tumi. Delta also supposedly operates a secret higher tiered, invite-only program called Delta 360, which gives you a dedicated service team and private reservation lines.
Southwest – Bring a Buddy
Southwest’s companion pass is one of the most coveted perks of any loyalty program. Once you fly 100 qualifying one-way trips or earn 110,000 points a year, you can designate one person of your choosing to fly with you – for free – for the entire year. Talk about a way to be popular with your friends...
Kimpton Karma – Direct Access to the CEO
One of the most innovative chains in the world, Kimpton actually classifies your loyalty with more than just how many nights a year you’ve stayed at their hotel – they factor in your engagement with the brand on social media and attendance at social events like wine hours and exercise classes. Their top tier, appropriately deemed the “inner circle” offers incredible benefits like complimentary chef’s tastings, spa credits, free stays at new hotels, and exclusive access to the CEO.