Last March, I traveled to the Maldives and stayed at the Conrad Rangali Island. It was simply the best vacation I have ever had. The service was top notch, the weather was perfect, and the food was great but expensive.
The Conrad Rangali Island does not allow for upgrades for elites “due to the very special nature of the accommodations at Conrad Maldives”. This wasn’t a problem at all as their reward room was a Beach Villa which was stunning.
Back in March, as Diamonds we were offered the choice of two benefits: a free cocktail hour each day for two at Vilu bar or free breakfast buffet each day for two at either Vilu or Atoll Market. Gold members were offered free cocktail hour each day for one at Vilu bar or free breakfast buffet each for one at either Vilu or Atoll Market.
This was an incredible benefit as the buffet costs $50 per person per day. We saved at least $800 in breakfast costs alone.
Sadly, the terms and conditions have now changed.
Diamond
Due to the very special nature of the accommodations at Conrad Maldives, we are unable to offer upgraded accommodations. However, as you are a valued Diamond member, we are delighted to offer you the following benefits during your stay:
One bottle of Sparkling wine* upon arrival
Chocolate & Fruit amenities upon arrival
Daily Happy Hour at Vilu restaurant for you and sharing guest in same villa from 17.00 – 18.00 hoursHHonors™ Global Benefits:
Earn points & miles “double-dipping”
Complimentary weekday newspaper (online print)
Late checkout upon request, subject to availability
Two complimentary bottles of water per dayGold
Due to the very special nature of the accommodations at Conrad Maldives, we are unable to offer upgraded accommodations. However, as you are a valued Gold member, we are delighted to offer you the following benefits during your stay:
One bottle of wine* upon arrival
Chocolate & Fruit amenities upon arrival
Daily Happy Hour at Vilu restaurant for you and sharing guest in same villa from 17.00 – 18.00 hoursHHonors™ Global Benefits:
Earn points & miles “double-dipping”
Complimentary weekday newspaper (online print)
Late checkout upon request, subject to availability
Two complimentary bottles of water per day*Service of alcoholic beverages is subject to local laws.
So not only are there no upgrades, but no more breakfast benefit either. This wouldn’t prevent me from returning to this resort, but certainly would mean reconsideration.
It’s worth noting that the Waldorf Astoria Maldives still offers breakfast for you and a guest for Diamond members.
Package 1: (for HHonors Diamond Members)
Daily breakfast for member and one guest
One bottle of wine
Complimentary daily access to the Spa Hydrotherapy Facilities
Fruit basket upon arrival (regular replenishment for subsequent days)
I get the upgrade restrictions but does a Hilton property have the privilege of completely opting out standard, published elite benefits? With no breakfast, what exactly does a Gold or Diamond get on property? Bottles of water? Is there even internet access in rooms?
@ArizonaGuy – when we went there, there was free wifi in the room – but this was standard for everyone – not an elite benefit