Hotel Loyalty Program Showdown

Takeoff: A Points and Miles Podcast by 10xTravel

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In this lively episode recorded in Salt Lake City, Bryce, Matt, Emily, and Travis offer a Thunderdome-style face-off on major hotel loyalty programs. Each host champions a different program—Bryce for IHG, Matt for Marriott, Emily for Hyatt, and Travis for Hilton. They dive into the global reach and quality of properties, hotel credit card portfolios, and elite benefits. The debate highlights the importance of flexibility in travel rewards, encouraging listeners to hop between brands to up their travel game. The episode is full of insights, strategies, and humor, aiming to help listeners make savvy hotel loyalty decisions.

New to the world of points and miles? Start your journey with our foundational episodes! Our early episodes of Takeoff by 10XTravel are your ultimate guide to mastering the basics of travel rewards. Whether you’re looking to earn more points, redeem them for maximum value, or simply understand the ins and outs of the points game, these episodes are your go-to resource. Don’t miss out – get caught up now!

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction and meet the hosts

(05:43) Global Footprint of IHG Hotels

(08:20) Marriott Credit Card Options and Restrictions

(17:08) Hotel Chain Brand Consistency

(24:51) IHG and Kempton Hotel Comparison

(30:05) Marriott’s Diverse Hotel Brand Variety

(40:13) IHG Status Levels and Benefits

(44:53) Unique Value of Hilton Rewards Program

(53:28) Benefits of Hilton Honors Rewards

(59:08) Closing Thoughts: Brand Loyalty vs. Value Maximization

Links and Resources from this Episode:

Our Monthly Best Cards List

Best Credit Cards for Digital Nomads

Take Our Free Points and Miles Course

Marriott Card Eligibility Rules

My10x: Manage your points and miles in one place

Let us book your award flight for you

Upgrade your next stay with our Luxury Hotel Program

Get free, personalized advice on choosing your next card

10xTravel+: Upgrade your travel by becoming a member today

Join our Community: 10xTravel Insiders

Follow us on Instagram: @10xTravelblog

Watch this and every episode of Takeoff on YouTube: @10xTravel

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