TFC Responds. Free breakfast at Hilton hotels in the Maldives, here's what you need to know
In recent days, a reader asked us for clarification regarding the privileges associated with Gold Hilton Honors status at the [...]
Maldives
In recent days, a reader asked us for clarification regarding the privileges associated with Gold Hilton Honors status in the Maldives.
The Gold Hilton Honors Status
In this article:
This is, by detachment, the best status of all hotel loyalty programs. The benefits it gives combined with the ease of obtaining it are the reason why I am not afraid of being proved wrong with this statement of mine.
To be a Gold elite member in the Hilton Honors program. just be be an American Express Platinum holder e Among the countless benefits you get is this status.
The Maldives is one of the most exclusive and expensive destinations in the world and so being able to save money through status is one of the most pampered benefits when it comes to taking such a vacation in the Indian Ocean.
Hilton facilities in the Maldives
Right now Hilton has 4 different facilities in this corner of paradise, in order of importance (and price) they are:
- Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
- Conrad Maldives Rangali Island (read as a ns. reader saved more than $25,000)
- Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa (read my review)
- SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton
The benefits for those with the status
Perks at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island:
- Daily full buffet breakfast or a la carte breakfast
- A bottle of wine on arrival
- Chocolate and fruit basket upon arrival
- Daily Happy Hour at a selected outlet for you and shared guests in the same villa from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The only difference in treatment between Gold and Diamond is in the quality of the bottle of wine offered. Diamonds will receive a bottle of sparkling wine. As you can see there is no provision for anyone to upgrade to a better arrangement.
Benefits of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi:
- Free breakfast
- VIP welcome gift in the villa
- Free late check-out (subject to availability)
- Free drink selection prepared by bartenders and sommeliers from 4 to 5 p.m. at Peacock Alley
- Special offer of 50% on selected refreshments at Peacock Alley from 10-11:30 p.m.
Even at the Conrad, the Diamonds don't get much more than the chance to get a free 30-minute massage in the spa if you book a 60-minute treatment.
Benefits of SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton:
- Free room upgrade to the next category up to Beach Villa (subject to availability)
- A bottle of sparkling wine, dried fruits and Thai rice crackers as a gift upon arrival
- Late check-out upon request (subject to availability)
- Free breakfast throughout your stay
This structure is the one that gives the most benefits, but it should be noted that of the 4 it is the cheapest. Diamond members also have access to Happy Hour from the all-inclusive drink menu at the Miss Olive Oyl poolside bar from 5 to 6 p.m.
Benefits of the Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa:
- Breakfast in our all-day restaurant, Habitat
- VIP welcome bottle of wine in villa and fruit basket
- Free Happy Hour with a fine selection of drinks prepared by our sommelier from 3 to 4 p.m. at SIP
Diamond members also get an additional 30 free minutes at Amingiri Spa with a selected 60-minute massage
Upgrade and late check-out are a mirage
As you can see the most exlusive benefits are not covered by 3 out of 4 facilities. The late check-out issue is a false problem since in 99% of cases you leave in the afternoon at the latest and still have to get back to Malé on time. Rarer, however, are room upgrades, although basic rooms are already off the charts anywhere else in the world.
I hope with this article I have answered the questions and as always if you have any doubts you can consult previous installments of TFCanswers.
