If everyone is elite, no one is (according to Delta about a decade ago.) This is the same problem with the American Express Centurion Lounges. American Express limited access to higher spenders for guest admittance ($75,000/year) but it’s the same concept of thinning the herd without refusing entry to cardholders.
The truth is that Hilton Diamond, even if properly delivered, still falls short of other programs. Confirmable suites like Hyatt Globalist, or a late check-out that extends to 4pm as both Hyatt and Marriott allow would be upgrades bringing Hilton not above those programs but to par. Eliminating the “continental” aspect of the breakfast benefit would also bring Hilton to parity. Adding a super elite tier could help with the enforcement of its existing benefits but it will need to add something above these if it wants to have an advantage.
What do you think?
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Live and Let's Fly.
