Major Hilton tier changes coming - new Diamond Reserve tier, others downgraded

[justinbrett]

Had a read through the FT thread. Some butt hurt Lifetime Diamonds over there. I am probably that far away from LD that it doesn't affect me, but I don't get the negativity. Maybe down the track if they remove something, but gee, they seem upset

No doubt Hilton has been a great program, but the trajectory hasn’t been promising - particularly in the US. So many hotels have removed their executive lounges - others have removed alcohol. The F&B won’t cover breakfast, even continental (unless you have an imaginary friend travelling with you). At many hotels, the Diamond upgrade gets you an executive level room, which is just the normal room with lounge access.

However I have also had many good experiences with Hilton, even some in the US with amazing suite upgrades. It just seems inevitable these will be reduced both within the US and globally. You only have to look at airlines that introduced a top tier status (eg QF P1) and watch perks that used to be for Diamonds migrate to being for Diamond Reserve. I think you’re kidding yourself if you think nothing will be taken away.

That said I’ve requalified Diamond through 2027 and I have earnt the Diamond extension which I’ll use through to 2028. By then we should have a good idea whether Hilton is worth sticking with going forward.