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Now that you've dug up this ancient relic, I'll respond since I wasn't part of the community back in 2008. I haven't noticed one iota of difference between the treatment we get at Luxury Link hotels and the treatment others receive. We're always treated with courtesy and respect. That's one of the many reasons why we continue to buy Luxury Link packages :).
It seems like when we travel, the properties are not always aware of the package or details of the package. It can be frustrating. I call or email prior to our visit to confirm our stay. I also bring the listing of included details.
[QUOTE=Mountie;51913]We have seen a number of the previous members fad from activity here.Quote:
Originally Posted by imbues
I'm still buying packages and enjoying the results.
I do email or telephone the property within a few days of my intended travel dates just to confirm that everything is in order.
I also print a copy of the confirmation from Luxury Link and present it at the time of arrival. If there is a question, I like to resolve it at the start rather than the end.
I've never sensed being treated in a lesser fashion because I am using one of the Luxury Link packages.
I have done quite a few LL packages since 2006 and only 2x felt that we were treated a little differently (I will not name the hotels or packages). LIke bonniejoy, we always bring the printout showing the LL inclusions since there have been times the hotel was not aware of all that was included. For the most part, we have been very happy with our LL experiences!
Too bad the originator of this thread, imbues, is no longer active in the lounge/community. She might be amazed at the pre-arrival treatment we have been experiencing from Reid's Palace:
http://www.luxurylink.com/fivestar/hotels/funchal-portugal/reids-palace?pdpcontroltest=1
During the past couple of weeks, we have received several emails from different departments at Reid's Palace confirming separate components of the Luxury Link package we purchased.
With approximately one week remaining before departure, the hotel has:
- confirmed our scheduled flight arrival into Funchal for limousine ground transfer
- addressed availability of our room upon arrival (we will be arriving quite early aboard the first flight out of Lisbon)
- offered restaurant suggestions for dining (a dinner is included)
- extended priority seating and choices for the Formal Tea (included in our package)
- provided a calendar of hotel organized activities and schedule of free shuttle services into Funchal during the time we will there
This may be standard procedure for all guests arriving at the hotel (they have been operating for more than 100 years), however it is the most proactive and comprehensive outreach we have experienced with the Luxury Link packages we have purchased over the years.
Orient-Express does have a history of achieving high standards with their guests.
We'll see what happens when we arrive.
I have only been a member for less than a year but in my 3 travels with LL bookings, I have come across the following extra special treatment:
Alchymist Nosticova in Prague
Airport transfer included in package - when they heard it was my golden bday they sent a 1962 Rolls Royce (pictured in my profile) to pick us up! More than 120 Euro difference than the regular cars used. (they outsource)
Villa Le Maschere - Barberino di Mugello, Florence, Italy
Junior Suite included in package - upgraded to a suite in the Prestige Collection that Pope IX had stayed in on one of his visits, a long, long time ago...
La Bonne Etape, Chateau Arnoux, France
Superior guestroom included in package - upgraded to a beautiful, spacious suite.
So my answer would be....NO! I have never received 2nd class treatment when traveling on an LL booking.
https://twimg0-a.akamaihd.net/profil...ogo_normal.png
omegaet, good evening, a Mercedes will await your arrival in Funchal Airport
Enjoy your vacation and have a pastel de nata for me!Quote:
Originally Posted by omegaet
WOW.....you are all so lucky and fortunate. I don't seem to receive this same treatment as the rest of you. Any tips you can send me? I do, politely, email the property prior to my stay. Do you do anything else special. Thanks for any tips.
Bonniejoy,Quote:
Originally Posted by bonniejoy03
Some of the methods I use are:
- I always make sure that I am a member of the hotel's reward program (this seems to make you more eligible for an upgrade)
-I try to look in to details of the property and see if there is a specific room that I would like. During the check in process, I politely ask the receptionist if a complimentary upgrade is available for that room. Most of the time I will hand over a tip for the receptionist during my question. (I know many question this behavior as bribing, I just call it an incentive for the receptionist to check the system for availability and pass along an upgrade). You would be surprised how often this works. In fact, only once was I turned down as the receptionist stated that I already have the best oceanfront room and that she can't take the money.
-In the confirmation e-mail I include a compliment towards the hotel for something that they are known for.....ex. looking forward to enjoying you amazing spa facility; tasting the cuisine by your Michelin stared chef, etc. The fact that you have done your homework will probably put you ahead in the eyes of the reception staff.
-Finally, I make sure to let the receptionist know, in my confirmation request e-mail, that I look forward to staying at and thoroughly reviewing the property. (everyone desires a good review)
Sorry if the above seems lame.... but it has always worked for me!
Safe travels