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The recent Citi transfer bonus to Leading Hotels of the World led me to analyze Travel & Leisure’s latest list of the best hotels in the world (100 Best Hotels for 2024). My quest was to identify all of the hotels from that list that are not just bookable with points but, more importantly, where points can potentially offer outsized value. Remarkably, I found 28 hotels that met this criteria!
My goal of finding hotels on the top 100 list that potentially offer outsized value for your points meant that I included hotels that participate in rewards programs from Marriott, Hilton, and IHG, but I didn’t include programs like Accor where rewards are strictly tied to cash rates. I also included Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) because it’s possible to get outsized value from your Citi ThankYou points by transferring to LHW Leaders Club (details here). Additionally, I included Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) bookable with Hilton points and Preferred Hotels bookable with Choice Privileges points. I did not include Mr & Mrs Smith hotels bookable with Hyatt points because those bookings are tied to the cash rate and never result in good value for your Hyatt points (details here).
Marriott Bonvoy
#3 The Ritz-Carlton, Doha (Qatar)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Rising above the Arabian Gulf’s sweeping shades of blue, The Ritz-Carlton, Doha is an invitation to access the extraordinary. From spacious rooms to signature suites commanding impressive sea views and a high-rise Club Lounge with exclusive privileges, every detail sets the scene for a luxury stay in Qatar. A rare city resort, this landmark in Qatar features immersive outdoor and indoor pools, a wide sandy beach and lush landscaped gardens. The award-winning hotel restaurants & lounges are highlights to the Doha dining scene, with experiences ranging from a modern steakhouse to a day-to-night terrace home to high-end Asian fusion cuisine and refined mixology. Here, indulgence is found at The Ritz-Carlton Spa where authenticity and modernity converge whilst the fitness center offers incomparable facilities for the seasoned traveler. With distinct features including Ritz Kids Garden and Farm.
#27 The St. Regis Bali Resort (Bali)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
The St. Regis Bali Resort is nestled on the serene and spectacular Nusa Dua beach with its golden sands stretching on seemingly endlessly. The island home’s profoundly special beauty, creativity and spirituality are proudly celebrated at the luxury beach resort. You’ll feel it from the moment you enter the lobby, where a musician strums a traditional rindik – a staple at Balinese celebrations. Those are evident each evening when a dramatic fire dance performance takes place at sundown by the Grand Staircase. Our Nusa Dua, Bali, hotel’s spacious rooms, suites and villas include outdoor space and provide garden, pool or beachfront views – with Villas and Residences with direct access to the beach. Your exquisite stay is coupled with renowned culinary offerings that include the best breakfast buffet in Bali: such as Lobster Omelet and Wagyu Steak and Eggs alongside your regular favorites. You can be assured your every need is in the care of the signature 24-hour butler service to assist with any request.
#59 The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua (Bali)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Discover The Laguna, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Nusa Dua, Bali, nestled by the pristine white-sand beaches of the area. Our opulent Bali five-star hotel promises to create cherished moments for our guests, encapsulating the very essence of Balinese arts, history, heritage, cuisine, and culture. Immerse yourself in our resort’s recent transformation and take full advantage of our outstanding amenities, including seven lagoon-shaped swimming pools, six resort restaurants and bars, and a rejuvenating spa dedicated to your wellbeing. You can also envision a romantic luxury Bali wedding in our breathtaking event spaces, capable of hosting gatherings and meetings of all sizes. Our knowledgeable hotel staff will gladly guide you to the captivating activities that Bali has to offer, from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to seaside massages. Our aspiration is to situate ourselves as one of the most luxurious places to visit in Indonesia.
#62 (tie) Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco (Peru)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Considered a historic landmark, Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco is housed within a 500-year-old mansion in the heart of Cusco, Peru. Our luxury hotel boasts a unique, captivating design that embraces traditional aspects of Peruvian culture while providing world-class luxury and modern conveniences. Find stone archways, Hispanic art and ornate gilded antiques throughout our Cusco hotel. Savor a delectable meal at Inti Raymi, our on-site restaurant, which serves fine cuisine and a selection of wines curated by our master sommelier. Recharge your body and mind with a massage or other treatment at our hotel’s luxurious Andes Spirit Spa. Each of our unique guest rooms and suites in Cusco, Peru, features colonial decor and a rich color palette that evokes our Peruvian heritage. Our luxury property sits directly across from Qoricancha, which means Temple of the Sun and is just minutes from the shops and museums in the main square. Enrich your visit to Cusco, Peru, at Palacio del Inka.
World of Hyatt
#4 Park Hyatt Siem Reap (Cambodia)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
A luxury hotel in the heart of the city, Park Hyatt Siem Reap has been completely reimagined by award-winning designer Bill Bensley to blend Khmer architecture with art-deco. Once the Hotel De La Paix, an iconic heritage landmark in Siem Reap since 1957, this luxury hotel takes inspiration from Cambodian art and historical significance of the ancient Angkor Wat ruins. Begin your rarified journey into the rituals and traditions of the ancient Khmer civilization in Siem Reap with authentic experiences from exquisite dining and curated culinary tours, wonders of Angkor Wat, to rejuvenating traditional spa therapies and engaging charitable initiatives that care for the local community. The centrally located luxury hotel in Siem Reap is ideal to explore the ancient ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor and modern Khmer culture in nearby Pub Street and the bustling night bazaars.
#40 (tie) Hyatt Regency Koh Samui (Thailand)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Our 5-star oceanfront resort in the vibrant area of North Chaweng is 8 minutes from the Koh Samui International Airport and offers a gallery-inspired setting where nature is the art on display. From the stunning ocean along the rocky coastline to the lush surroundings with over 600 protected Yang Na and coconut trees, Hyatt Regency Koh Samui – the perfect family resort in Koh Samui – offers energizing experiences, relaxing moments and timeless connections. The resort also is SHA Plus certified.
#75 Alila Hinu Bay (Salalah, Oman)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
With its secluded location on the cerulean blue shores of Oman’s southwest coast, Alila Hinu Bay serves as a tranquil retreat. Take in the wonders of its pristine private beach and discover the Dhofar region’s incredible wildlife, culture and architectural ruins.
#81 The Standard, Hua Hin (Thailand) [Not yet bookable via Hyatt]
Note: Hyatt has acquired The Standard hotels (see press release here), but these hotels are not yet bookable with Hyatt points at the time of this writing.
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Our hotel wasn’t just named as one of the best in the world on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2022 Hot List— it was the only hotel in Thailand on the list and was voted the #1 resort in Southeast Asia. In the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2022, we were voted the 7th best resort in Asia and the 35th resort in the world. In 2024, Travel + Leisure readers showed us love again with a ranking of 81st globally, 20th in Asia and 3rd in Southeast Asia. Hua Hin has been a beloved beach getaway for over a hundred years, dating back to the construction of a railroad connecting the bustling metropolis of Bangkok and this dreamy seaside town. By the mid-1920s, it became the chosen holiday retreat for Thai nobility, who were drawn to Hua Hin for it’s pristine coastline. Today, our seaside retreat is nestled in a lush garden dreamscape with native flora and greenery, just steps from the Gulf of Thailand. Our colorful collection of 196 rooms, suites and villas is complemented by an innovative spa program, a lively and vibrant pool scene, and a variety of drinking and dining options to suit every taste. There’s the Lido restaurant and bar for all-day indoor or al fresco dining, elixirs and fresh pressed juices at The Juice Café, and authentic Thai food and craft cocktails in an unparalleled beachfront setting at Praça.
#97 Alila Villas Uluwatu (Indonesia)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Set atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, in a setting that feels as if you’re at the edge of the world, is Alila Villas Uluwatu. Here, you’ll find a profound connection to place and self in ways unknown.
IHG One Rewards
#7 Regent Hong Kong
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Elevated above the noise, a cascading fountain leads to an enticing passageway of shimmering golden LiuLi inspired glass – beckoning you inwards. A feeling of intimate grandeur envelopes you, along with the warmth of heartfelt hospitality. Within an oasis of calm, the awe-inspiring harbour and dazzling skyline unfold before you in cinematic glory. Tranquil blue-grey ripples transform into golden hues, before morphing into an electrifying display of colours. Amidst immersive culinary delights and curated moments that conjure treasured memories and create new ones, find unexpected harmony. From the serene to the sensational, discovery awaits.
#15 Six Senses Fort Barwara (Rajasthan)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
A beautiful 14th-century fort sensitively converted to become a Six Senses sanctuary of well-being. Originally owned by a Rajasthani Royal Family, it faces the Chauth ka Barwara Mandir temple. The significant conservation effort incorporates two palaces and two temples within the walled fort. The design of Six Senses resort in Rajasthan reinterprets the gracious and regal ambiance of a bygone era dating back 700 years.
#40 (tie) Regent Beijing (Beijing)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Strategically located in Wangfujing, steps away from the Forbidden City and adjacent to subway line 5. The central location of Regent Beijing is perfect for leisure or business surrounded by restaurants, bars and shops. Explore the bustling Wangfujing commercial circle and the labyrinthine alleyways of the neighboring hutongs. Experience Regent Beijing’s service with Acts of Thoughtful Kindness and Decadent Moments while savoring our Forbidden City Afternoon Tea in the stunning Lobby Lounge and Bar.
#46 Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach (Bali)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Situated on Bali’s most vibrant beachfront, Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach is your home base to experience bountiful unique island life in a place where centuries of traditions and cultures were blended with an atmosphere of casual sophistication. Presenting 289 rooms, suites, and pool villas, each one is beautifully crafted and inspired by the colorful lives of the locals whilst fitted with Hotel Indigo signature spa-inspired bathrooms, plush bedding, and a balcony or patio with daybeds. With a mere 30-minute drive distance from the Ngurah Rai International Airport, Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach offers six distinctive café and bar experiences including a beachside lounge and bar, SugarSand. Amenities such as complimentary WiFi, a 24-hour Health Club, Sava Spa, and a function room offer convenience for leisure and business travelers. Explore the vibrant colors of Seminyak, where fashionable boutiques, fusion of flavors and buzzing beach vibes are intertwined in the rich culture of Bali. Seminyak is known to have one of the most stylish yet fun nightlife scenes on the island, boasting plenty of clubs and bars that will surely blow your minds!
Hilton Honors
#9 Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi (South Malé Atoll)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Escape to the unforgettable surrounded by the white sands and crystal blue waters of the Indian Ocean. At Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, 11 celebrated dining venues, a world-class lifestyle spa sanctuary, and activities for all generations invite you to tropical paradise. 119 reef, beach, and overwater villas span across three islands with a wealth of luxuries and experiences to discover.
#40 (tie) Flemings Mayfair SLH (London, UK)
This is a Small Luxury Hotel of the World (SLH) property bookable through Hilton Honors.
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
“”Our impeccable offering is unparalleled across the capital with 129 guest rooms and suites as well as the highly-acclaimed One-Michelin-starred restaurant Ormer Mayfair, under the direction of Executive Chef Sofian Msetfi. We will continue to bring the highest standards of service to guests from across the world, offering them a truly luxurious experience in the heart of London.”” – Henrik Muehle, Managing Director at Flemings Mayfair hotel
Leading Hotels of the World, Leaders Club
Leaders Club is the rewards program for Leading Hotels of the World (LHW). Many, but not all, LHW hotels can be booked with Leaders Club points. Two of the LHW hotels in Travel & Leisure’s Top 100 Hotels list (La Casa de la Playa and Capella Ubud) did not appear to be bookable with Leaders Club points and so I left them out of this post.
Those who have the Citi Premier card (or the no-longer-available Prestige or AT&T Access More cards) can transfer points to Leaders Club at rate of 5 to 1 (5 Citi points become 1 Leaders Club point). We have found that Leaders Club points are usually worth about 8 cents each and so this transfer results in around 1.6 cents per point value with your Citi points. That’s pretty good by itself, but when a transfer bonus is available you can do even better.
#18 La Mamounia (Marrakesh)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
From the moment you arrive, you will be captivated by the harmony of the surroundings, the opulence of the materials and the excellence of the craftsmanship revealed in each and every detail. Wherever you look, you will be struck by a majestic beauty. A beauty that you will long to touch, to feel beneath your fingertips: the softness of velvet and leather, the contours of sculpted plaster and zellige tilework, the freshness of cool marble.
#23 Nihi Sumba (Indonesia)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
This is not an escape from everyday life. It is the return to a life well lived. Where rugged luxury meets unregulated freedom. A place to connect with something larger than oneself. A haven for the adventurer, for the wanderer. The endlessly passionate and curious. Arrive with an open heart and leave changed forever. This is a vacation with a purpose. A destination with meaning. This is NIHI Sumba.
#30 Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa (Champagne, France)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Overlooking the vineyards that stripe the hills of the Champagne region, Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa reimagines the wine-country retreat.
#48 Capella Bangkok (Thailand)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
With panoramic views of the majestic Chao Phraya River, Capella Bangkok, among the luxury five star hotels in Bangkok Thailand, is a gateway to the eternal beauty of nature, and the urban oasis of the city. Inspired by the soul of riverfront life, there are 101 suites and villas with views of the river, offering both intimacy and immersion in this privileged position. Imbued with the personality of a boutique pied à terre, this philosophy extends across all the elements, from contemporary dining to the renowned Auriga spa.
#55 Royal Mansour Marrakech (Morocco)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
The Royal Mansour Marrakech can be counted among the few establishments in the world that define hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from Jemaa El Fna square, beats the heart of the Marrakech palace, offering travelers the unique concept of a medina within a medina. Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the most beautiful hotels in the world.
#57 Nayara Tented Camp (Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Our story is about stunning natural beauty, intimate spaces, and connecting with nature. Our mission is to offer you authentic, warm, and extraordinary service and share our “Pura Vida” tradition. We take pride in our natural and cultural richness and on being environmentally and socially responsible in everything we do.
#60 Signiel Seoul (Seoul, South Korea)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
SIGNIEL SEOUL is the only hotel located on the 76th to 101st floors of Lotte World Tower, the tallest building in Korea, where you can enjoy the panoramic skyline and fantastic night view of Seoul from the room (235 rooms) that unravels the beauty of Korea with a modern sense.
#73 Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa (Marbella, Spain)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
We invite you to fall in love with this corner of the world, its gentle micro climate, sea air and mountain views and experience a storied finca named Santa Margarita that has endured time by poignantly blending heritage and innovation whilst retaining its original charm. A luxury hotel in Marbella by the beach rich in traditions that embraces the Andalusian spirit, we call you to move at our pace, one that nurtures the important things in life, family, community, laughter and togetherness. Discover another side of Marbella with us.
#82 J.K. Place Roma (Rome, Italy)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
Discreet, exclusive and intimate boutique hotel in the heart of Rome. Distinctive and luxurious design in an elegant atmosphere, where Guests can feel at home. Personalised service for high-end travel experiences
#88 Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria (Sorrento, Italy)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
5 Star Luxury Hotel Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is one of the Leading Hotels of the World with great charm and a long history, situated in a convenient location on the Amalfi Coast. Offering its guests luxury service with the greatest comforts, seaview accommodation, Michelin-starred dining, Boutique Spa and gym.
Preferred Hotels & Resorts Bookable with Choice Privileges
#36 The Leela Palace Bengaluru (Bangalore, India)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
With a pink sandstone facade, copper domes and ivy-covered walls, this palace hotel is perhaps the most recognisable of Bengaluru’s landmarks. The hotel’s exterior cues the fusion of Indo-Saracenic and Dravidian architecture. Located on Old Airport Road, it’s a quick cab ride from Bengaluru’s biggest attractions – the Central Business District, Cubbon Park, and the swanky restaurants of Indiranagar. Step in and you’ll be astounded at how green and calm the space is. Stroll along the expansive corridors, pausing to admire the gilded ceilings, carved pillars, stunning paintings and sculptures. Immerse yourself in the divine evening ritual of Mangala aarti followed by Carnatic music recitals. Dine on world cuisines at our award-winning restaurants. Enjoy Bengaluru’s balmy weather in our lush, seven-acre gardens or with a drink by the sparkling lagoon; or head straight to your suite where decadent comfort awaits in this luxury hotel in Bengaluru. This 5-star hotel in Bengaluru promises an unforgettable stay.
#62 (tie) The Leela Palace New Delhi (India)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
This palace hotel’s impressive facade pays tribute to the architectural style of Lutyen’s Delhi. The interiors juxtapose influences from ancient Indraprastha to mediaeval Shahjahanabad. Set in the Diplomatic Enclave, this luxury hotel in New Delhi is ideally located to explore the historic monuments, gardens, and markets of the capital. If you’re here for work, the business district and government offices are close at hand. Inside, royal comforts and world-class amenities await. Catch glimpses of Dilli’s cultural richness in the vibrant paintings, carved wooden artefacts and brass figurines by celebrated Indian artists. Begin your day with a buffet breakfast at The Qube, then tackle work in our well-designed workspaces. At dusk, join us in offering aarti to our resident goddess in her courtyard abode. Take a dip in the pool or a few sips in The Library Bar before retiring to your luxurious suite in this 5-star hotel in New Delhi.
#65 The Leela Palace Udaipur (India)
Property description (as found on the hotel’s website):
A landmark in the City of Lakes, this palace hotel recreates the magnificence of the erstwhile era of Maharanas, the rulers of Mewar. Arrive by boat across tranquil Lake Pichola and catch your first glimpse of the hotel’s gleaming facade studded with chattris and dotted with jharokhas. You’ll know why Udaipur is hailed as India’s most romantic city. Get a royal welcome with rose-petal showers at this luxury Hotel in Udaipur. As you walk along the hallways, admire handcrafted silver figurines. Enjoy breakfast overlooking the lake or a picnic in the guava orchard. Take a dip in the temperature-controlled pool flanked by peacock figurines. Spend twilight hours on expansive terraces, relishing the finest Rajasthani fare in the glow of fairy lights. Wind down in lavishly appointed rooms. Every moment spent at The Leela Palace Udaipur, a 5-star hotel in Udaipur, will be a memory you’ll keep forever.
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OMG Greg do you sleep? Fantastic post. Actually the podcast doesn’t do you post justice as you can’t really tell the amount of work that went into this. You mentioned a hotel in Lisbon but it’s not in the post. Can you list it please and how to get the best deal for it?
Thanks
I love this list!! Any idea which (if any) of these properties fit a family of 4 in one room?
Mission Pacific should go under Hyatt
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As with lists like this, the “winners” should always be taken with a grain of salt. The WA Maldives that gets parroted all the time is basically a resort with larger rooms and in some, a view of Male, along with the near $1k in transfer costs. Also, not sure why MMS is excluded (understandable) but Six Senses isn’t as they are equally poor value via IHG.
It’s ridiculous that Hyatt Regency Ko Samui is #40, and Conrad Ko Samui isn’t even on the list. I’ve stayed at both. The HR is newer, has the absolute best lounge happy hour I’ve ever been to, has nice pools, but the beach is not good, rooms are not spectacular, kind of a family resort vibe. The Conrad is amazing, each room is a private villa with its own swimming pool, on a hillside overlooking the sea. Amazing service.
Monogrammed pillows, slippers and towels. Excellent dining as well. No comparison.
Equally ridiculous that Alila Jabal Akhdar isn’t on the list but Alila Hinu Bay is. I’ve also stayed at both and while the former is a mountain resort and the latter a beach resort, Jabal Akhdar is superior in my opinion.
Fun post. Thanks.
Citi adding LHW was a pleasant surprise. Solid reward rates. The transfer bonus sweetens the deal. It leads to reward rates (cents per bank point) that are in line with those which make hobbyists tout Hyatt. Happy hunting.
But Greg how many have you been to? And the FM team? Maybe a good topic for the next podcast or Ask Me Anything? Me…a perfect zero! But now I’ve got a goal to make it to at least 5 someday. I thought Park Hyatt Kyoto would definitely make the list. I’ve been to that one. Haha, now I feel a little like a country bumpkin. How do you judge which lists are better? PH Kyoto did make this one – https://www.theworlds50best.com/hotels/list/1-50.
Deplorable list- but hey you didnt make it. thanks for highlighting whats redeemable in the points space.
Indigo Simanyak is totally overrated. Should not be on this list. Wasting that number of points in a place like Bali is foolish to me.
Amazing post Greg. You created my bucket list for me.
I was fortunate to have stayed at #4 and #9 on the list on the same trip earlier this year…the Park Hyatt Siem Reap was fantastic and an incredible use of a 1-4 FNC, but the Waldorf Maldives (itself an incredible use of an FNC) was maybe the nicest place I’ve ever stayed, and IMO their rankings should be flip-flopped. But if anyone ever has a chance I heartily recommend both of them. We also stayed at “the other” Ritz Carlton in Doha (RC Sharq Village) as opposed to the one at #3 in the rankings and it was pretty spectacular itself. And amazingly, all three hotels were practically “free”!!!
Nice!
Preferred Hotels & Resorts Bookable with Choice Privileges has certain Pendry hotels but not currently #14 – Pendry Newport Beach. You might want to footnote a reminder to check the current offerings.
Good tip. I’ll keep an eye on that
Why not add the two Raffles hotels since they are bookable – indirectly – with Citi points via Accor?
And also the one Sofitel hotel…
I didn’t include Accor because rewards are strictly tied to cash rates and there’s no way to get outsized value.
The transfer rate from Capital One and Citi is 1 bank point to 0.5 ALL points. Combined with the fixed value, a bank point would be redeemed for 1.1cpp (US). Survey says . . . ?
To me, the 10% uplift due to currency conversion isn’t enough to call this “outsized value”. If I was staying at an Accor, I wouldn’t use points at all.
Isn’t the same true for LHW hotels?
It is true that they’re based on cash rates like Accor but you get outsized value for your Citi points due to the transfer ratio (1.6 cents per point when there’s no transfer bonus). Since points transfer to Accor 2 to 1, you only end up getting 1 Euro cent per point value.
Sorry to belabor the point, but Citi has had 50% bonus transferring to Accor and if you’re earning 5x on dining (on the Prestige card) then that doesn’t seem too bad of a transfer if you’re really intent on staying at a Raffles hotel. For completeness, I think you should include the two Raffles and one Sofitel hotels.
Outsized value is subjective to the redeemer. Some people aspire to stay at certain properties, without consideration to $/PP, very much like airline miles tied to cash rates. Why not put all properties available via points on the list, let the reader determine their own value & include a footnote?
My goal here is explicitly to identify opportunities to use points for outsized value at great hotels.
With your suggestion, all 100 hotels would be shown because they can all be booked with points of some kind (Capital One Miles erase travel purchases, Chase points through the Chase portal, etc.)
Fair. Although a travel credit is a bit different than a points redemption. I guess my point is that I (& probably others) would be willing to transfer Citi points to Accor for an amazing or super convenient Movenpick (Movenpick Petra, Sofitel Luxor comes to mind for convenience) or other Accor resort on this list if I’m sitting on a ton of Citi points. There are some situations where I would rather keep my cash & spend the points because I personally see outsized value, usually because I have so many points to burn & am willing to do so for something aspirational and/or convenient.
I agree, particularly when earning Citi pts at 5x and transferring them over to Accor with a 50% bonus. That’s not the same as saying “well I can use my cash back from a 2% cash back card to pay for my stay.”
But why would you do that? You could pay for the stay with your Citi card and earn 3x (or 5x if you go thru a travel agency) and then use only slightly more Citi points to pay yourself back
#7 Regent Hong Kong is bookable through IHG.
Thanks! Added.