Splashing out a little extra on a room that’s on the coveted Club Level of most international hotel chains is a savvy decision bound to upgrade any trip. Take it from me, who does this any chance I get. For example, I always book Club Level when I travel to Dubai for work. Even in lower-starred hotels such as the Four Point Sheraton or the Towers Rotana, the lounges are a great place to sit and work over a snack. However, upgrading at hotels like Ritz-Carlton truly makes me feel like royalty. From access to included food and drink all day to larger rooms and added amenities, here's why everyone should upgrade to Club Level.
But first things first, what is Club Level?
Club Level (also known as Executive Level, Concierge Floors, or Club Floors) is usually a dedicated floor of a hotel that includes special rooms and a lounge, in some cases even a separate gym. The lounge is not unlike those found in an airport, with food and snacks provided throughout the day in a comfortable space. These floors and lounges are only accessible by those who upgraded to Club Level, have top-tier credit cards, or, in some cases (policies vary by hotel), qualify as members of a hotel’s loyalty program.
What are some major chains that have it?
Most international hotel chains, including Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, InterContinental, W Hotels, Hyatt, Radisson, Crown Plaza, Westin, and Mandarin Oriental have some kind of Club Level.
How much does it cost?
Depending on what’s included, you’re looking at anywhere between $50 to $500 more per night than the regular room rate, or 20% to 40% more per night. Sometimes hotels have special offers, so it’s always a good idea to check out their offers page ahead of time.
What are some of the reasons I should consider upgrading to my hotel’s club level next time I travel?
More flexible check-in and check-out
When you upgrade to Club Level, hotels are far more likely to let you check in and check out whenever suits you. In many cases, lounges even have a separate check-in desk to save you from queuing in the main lobby and allowing for express check-in. And if you do need to get out of your room before the next guests arrive, then at least you can relax in the lounge before heading off.
Access to the Club Lounge
Even if you spend most of your time outside of the hotel sightseeing and exploring your new surroundings, sometimes, there’s nothing like enjoying a little downtime. Lounges vary a lot from hotel to hotel, but more often than not, they’re located higher up in the building and offer great views. Generally, they’re quiet, comfortable reprieves with ample seating, often featuring reading materials ranging from regional and international magazines and daily newspapers to local guidebooks, coffee table books, and novels.
In Asia, where Club Lounges are more popular and tend to be more luxurious, perks can include Champagne happy hour, discounted or even free spa treatments, a dedicated chef, and gifts or goodie bags.
Lounges are especially ideal for solo travelers who don’t want to eat out alone, and since some feature special areas for kids they can also be a godsend for weary parents who don’t want to locate the nearest playground.
Included food and drink
Food-wise, Club Level tends to offer at least three meals per day. These aren’t usually a-la-carte menus you’d find in on-site restaurants but tend to be buffets offering various hot and cold dishes throughout the day. There’s also a seemingly endless supply of coffee and tea, soft drinks, and sparkling water, as well as snacks like small sandwiches, cookies, and chips. Some hotels even feature a full-blown afternoon tea. It’s perfect for travelers suffering from jet lag, whose hunger pangs haven’t yet adjusted to the destination’s time zone.
Dedicated happy hours
Some lounges will offer self-serve wine, and beer throughout the day (and some, such as Ritz-Carlton properties around the world, even offer complimentary Champagne), though most will have a scheduled happy hour. During this time, guests can enjoy cocktails, beer, and house wines, either for free or at a discounted price, depending on the country and hotel you are staying in. If, for example, you are staying in countries where alcohol is banned or limited, such as in some countries in the Middle East, your premium beverages will be either limited or for an extra charge.
Access to a private concierge
In addition to local reading material, there tends to be a Club Lounge concierge, usually somebody local who is brimming with suggestions on how to enhance your stay. These concierges can get you last-minute restaurant reservations or theater tickets, or arrange interesting day trips. Yes, you tend to have concierges in the general hotel lobby as well, but the advantage of using the one in the Club Lounge is that they have more time for each person and will offer you preferential treatment.
Better, more spacious rooms
If you’ve upgraded to Club Level, you’ll either get a special Club Room or get upgraded to the next level of room, depending on availability. Either way, you can expect more spacious digs, and better views if available. Depending on the hotel, you’ll also enjoy higher-end toiletries and better amenities, as well as perks like butlers and gifts.
Meeting rooms, printers, and free Wi-Fi
The Club Lounge is excellent for business travelers, as most offer access to small meeting rooms, printers, scanners, and computers. There’s always free Wi-Fi, and it tends to be a quiet place with desks.