My experience in 2018 as Platinum Elite (did a Platinum challenge/mattress run of 3 nights @$100-120 p/n in Sheraton Docklands in may 2017)
Status: Platinum Elite
Property: JW Marriott Hong Kong
When: 23/09/18 - 30/09/18
Booked: Deluxe Room (Base) using 7 night travel package certificate
Upgrade: JW Suite (5 nights). Enquired about Suite upgrade upon check-in, was told no rooms available (matched what I saw on the app) However, they advised and provided upgrade to JW Suite for last 5 nights, had to move bags but happily did so.
Received: 4pm late checkout, lounge access with daily breakfast, hors d'oeuvre, evening coughtail. Definitely one of the best hotel lounges
Status: Platinum Elite
Property: Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris
When: 28/12/18 - 02/01/19
Booked: Art Deco Room (Base) for 60,000 points x 4 nights (5th night free). Was retailing for 700 Euro/ AUD1100+ per night
Upgrade: Mosaic Suite, reflected 2 days before check-in on the mobile app. Was retailing for 1100 Euro/ AUD1750 per night
Received: 4pm late checkout, daily continental breakfast for 2 (bread, cereal and pastries)
This is my first year as Platinum Elite and definitely had a good experience both trips. Won't be able to maintain Platinum after March 2019.
Perhaps next time would be after another Platinum challenge (I think once every 3 years?).