American Express has just announced the ability to make Platinum Card FHR reservations online. While this is certainly a significant convenience factor if you simply must make that reservation at 3 a.m., this new "feature" actually means even less client service for FHR clients. At least that's my quite biased opinion!
Want advice about your hotel choices? It helps to have a conversation with a travel consultant who has actually been there — and who can consult with colleagues who have traveled all over the globe. A picture on a website can be highly misleading, and booking engines aren't much use if you want advice.
Have any special requests? Want a view of the Eiffel Tower from a suite at the Four Seasons George V? Can't get the concierge to respond to your emails? Really hoping for an upgrade? Celebrating a special anniversary or have other unique requests you'd like to be taken care of? It's not what you know — it's who you know — and I make personal contact every time I make a hotel booking.
Want to save $450? American Express advertises "$450 in complimentary benefits with every stay" (based on double occupancy and depending on length of stay). Interesting ... as this is also the annual fee for an American Express Platinum Card. My clients receive comparable benefits - and don't have to pay $450 annually for a Platinum Card.
Want better amenities? While FHR offers a complimentary continental breakfast for two daily at its member properties, I can often do even better for you. For instance, stay at any Four Seasons hotel or resort in the world at a Preferred Partner rate (including Third Night Free rates, etc). As my Four Seasons client, you will receive a Full American Breakfast for two daily (by room service if you wish), including any breakfast buffet options (the buffet at the Four Seasons Florence is pictured above).
50% more choices. FHR has over 600 participating properties. I have relationships with nearly 900 luxury hotels and resorts around the world, with complimentary daily breakfasts, room upgrades if available upon check-in (and sometimes at time of booking), and extra perks at each one.
No online booking engine can possibly provide the service of a luxury travel consultant.
luxury travel consultant (search here on Google)
copyright (c) 2010 by David Ourisman LLC. All rights reserved. If you have comments on this column, or questions about booking travel, email me or visit my website.
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