Why I'm Loving Radisson Rewards Right Now: The Unsung Hero of Hotel Loyalty

The Unexpected Hotel Loyalty Champion of 2025

When it comes to hotel loyalty programmes, the conversation typically revolves around Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards. However, one programme has been consistently exceeding my expectations this year, delivering incredible value that deserves more attention: Radisson Rewards.

As someone who holds Marriott Bonvoy Titanium status and Hilton Gold (via Amex Platinum Business), I wasn't expecting to be so thoroughly impressed by Radisson's programme. Yet here I am, writing this newsletter to share how Radisson Rewards VIP status has genuinely changed my hotel experience in 2025, particularly during my recent 10-day stay in Da Nang, Vietnam.

Suite Upgrades Without Even Asking

The most impressive aspect of my Radisson Rewards VIP experience has been the consistency of suite upgrades. Unlike some other programmes where upgrades can feel like a game of chance, my Radisson suite upgrades have been remarkably reliable.

During my recent 10-day stay in Da Nang, I was upgraded to a beautiful suite without having to request it. This wasn't a one-off occurrence either - I've found the suite upgrade benefit to be one of the most consistently delivered perks across several stays. When you're staying somewhere for more than a week, having extra space transforms the experience from simply "staying in a hotel" to genuinely feeling at home.

VIP status officially includes room upgrades "subject to availability" like most programmes, but in practice, I've found Radisson properties to be particularly generous with their upgrade policies compared to competitors.

Lounge Access & Breakfast: Substantial Daily Value

Another standout benefit of Radisson Rewards VIP status is lounge access. This benefit alone can represent significant value, especially for longer stays.

The lounge in Da Nang offered unlimited refreshments throughout the day in their Coffee Lounge. In Dubai’s Deira Creek Raddison Blu, they offered afternoon tea, dinner and drinks throughout. For a longer stay in an expensive city, this convenience translated into both comfort and substantial savings.

Competitive Pricing That Makes Sense

One of the most appealing aspects of my Radisson experience has been the pricing relative to the experience delivered. In many destinations, including Da Nang, I've found Radisson properties to offer excellent value compared to similarly positioned hotels.

This pricing advantage becomes even more pronounced when you factor in Radisson's member-exclusive rates. While you do forgo some points earning with these special rates, the cash savings can be worthwhile, particularly for longer stays where the savings accumulate significantly.

For those who care about maximising value, I'd recommend comparing both the standard rate (with full points earning) and the member rate before booking.

The Limited-Time 15X Rakuten Opportunity

If you're considering a Radisson stay in the near future, there's currently an exceptional promotion that makes the value proposition even better. Rakuten is offering 15X cashback (or Membership Rewards points if you've linked your American Express account - US only sadly) on Radisson bookings.

This is a particularly good opportunity to stack value:

1. Book a stay at competitive Radisson rates

2. Enjoy VIP benefits like suite upgrades and lounge access

3. Earn 15X cashback or American Express Membership Rewards points through Rakuten

To put this in perspective, a £500 hotel stay would earn you £75 back in cashback or 7,500 Membership Rewards points – that's enough for a one-way short-haul flight with many airline partners!

How to Get Radisson Rewards VIP Status

You might be wondering how to get VIP status yourself. There are several pathways:

1. Standard qualification: 30 nights or 20 stays in a calendar year

2. Status match: Radisson periodically offers status matches from competing programmes (Club Avolta)

Core Benefits of Radisson Rewards VIP Status

Here's a clear breakdown of what VIP status officially includes:

• Room upgrades, including suites (subject to availability)

• Early check-in and late checkout (subject to availability)

• 75% bonus points on eligible stays

• Welcome amenity

• Lounge access where available

• Breakfast included

• Member-exclusive rates

While these benefits might look similar to what other programmes offer on paper, my personal experience has been that Radisson delivers these benefits consistently, which makes a significant difference in practice.

Is Radisson Rewards Right for You?

While I've clearly been impressed with Radisson Rewards, it's worth considering whether it's the right programme for your specific travel patterns. Radisson has over 1,100 hotels worldwide, with particularly strong coverage in Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.

However, if you primarily travel in North America, you'll find their footprint more limited compared to Marriott or Hilton. That said, for European and UK travellers especially, Radisson offers excellent coverage with properties in most major cities.

I'd particularly recommend considering Radisson Rewards if:

• You frequently travel to Europe, the Middle East, or Asia

• You value consistent elite recognition and benefits

• You're looking for competitive pricing without sacrificing quality

• You can take advantage of the current 15X Rakuten promotion

If you're curious about maximising hotel elite status benefits in general, you might also want to check out our comprehensive guide to hotel loyalty programmes for beginners.

Final Thoughts: An Underrated Loyalty Programme Worth Considering

As we move through 2025, hotel loyalty programmes continue to evolve, and not always for the better. Many programmes have implemented changes that have reduced the value of elite status or made it harder to achieve meaningful benefits.

Against this backdrop, Radisson Rewards stands out as a programme that's still delivering genuine value to its elite members. The combination of competitive pricing, reliable upgrades, lounge access where available, and quality breakfast makes Radisson VIP status a serious contender for my hotel stays going forward.

If you haven't given Radisson serious consideration lately, it might be worth another look - especially with the current Rakuten promotion offering an exceptional return on your stays.

Have you tried Radisson Rewards recently? I'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments or on our Instagram.

Jack @ Smart With Points