In 2023, I began working at InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf, bringing with me some familiarity with employee discount programs from my time at Hilton. However, IHG’s Employee Room Benefit Program quickly impressed me with its ease of use and generous discounts.
My first experiences with the program were nothing short of fantastic. Staying at the InterContinental Times Square in New York and later visiting Las Vegas, I enjoyed high-quality hospitality at a fraction of the cost. The program also allowed my friends and family to experience similar perks through their own bookings, thanks to the IHG Friends & Family Rate.
Let me share how both programs work, along with tips to make the most of these benefits.
The IHG Employee Room Benefit Program
This program provides IHG employees and eligible franchise staff with discounted room rates at IHG properties worldwide. Whether you prefer luxury brands like InterContinental or more casual options like Holiday Inn, the program offers significant savings.
Key Benefits
1. Generous Discounts: Save 40% to 75% off standard room rates, depending on the property and rate type.
2. Flexible Rate Options:
- Standard Employee Rate: Offers the highest discount, but the hotel assigns the room type.
- Flex Employee Rate: Allows you to select your room type, with discounts varying based on demand.
3. Annual Room Nights: Employees can book up to 7 nights per property per year, with a maximum of 2 rooms per booking.
4. Personal Use Only: The program is exclusively for leisure travel and cannot be used for work-related stays.
How to Access the Employee Rate
1. Join IHG Rewards Club: Sign up at IHG Rewards if you’re not already a member.
2. Link Your Merlin ID: Use IHG Merlin to connect your IHG Rewards account to your employee profile. If you don’t have a Merlin ID, ask your manager to activate your benefits via Loyalty Connect.
3. Book Online or via the Mobile App: Reservations must be made through the IHG Booking Site or the mobile app. Bookings cannot be made via call centers or directly at the hotel.
The IHG Friends & Family Rate
The Friends & Family Rate is another excellent feature of the program, allowing IHG employees to extend discounted stays to their loved ones—even when they’re not traveling together.
How It Works
1. Generate a Booking Link: Employees log in to IHG Merlin and create a Friends & Family booking link. This unique link is shared with the employee’s family and friends.
2. Independent Booking: Using the shared link, friends and family can book their own stays at IHG properties, enjoying discounts of 30–40% off standard rates.
3. No Employee Presence Required: Unlike the Employee Room Benefit, the Friends & Family Rate does not require the employee to check in or be present during the stay.
4. Limitations: A maximum of 7 nights per stay and up to 5 rooms per booking.
Rules and Guidelines to Remember
1. Identification: Employees must present valid ID when using the Employee Room Benefit. Friends and family do not require employee verification when booking with the shared link.
2. Conduct and Misuse: Employees are responsible for ensuring the program is used appropriately. Misuse or abuse of the benefits may result in the suspension of privileges.
3. Booking Limits: Employee rates are capped at 7 nights per property per year and cannot be booked more than 90 days in advance.
Tips for Maximizing IHG Employee and Friends & Family Rates
1. Plan Ahead: Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability within the 90-day booking window.
2. Mix Rate Types: Use Standard Employee Rates for the best discounts, but consider Flex Rates when room selection is a priority.
3. Share the Link: Create and share the Friends & Family link with loved ones to let them book discounted stays independently.
4. Explore the Portfolio: Don’t just focus on luxury options. IHG’s wide range of brands includes boutique hotels like Kimpton and essentials like Holiday Inn Express.
Final Thoughts
The IHG Employee Room Benefit Program and Friends & Family Rate are excellent perks that bring affordable luxury and convenience to employees and their loved ones. From my personal experiences at iconic properties to seeing friends enjoy similar benefits, these programs offer something truly special.
If you’re part of the IHG family, take full advantage of these opportunities to explore the world, save money, and create lasting memories. Start by logging into Merlin or IHG Rewards today—your next getaway is just a few clicks away.
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