Did you know that there are more properties with amenities in the Starwood Luxury Privileges program than there are through the Virtuoso program?  Booking is easy – you can book through all of Starwood’s eligible channels including spg.com, Starwood Luxury Privileges dedicated site, other Starwood websites, customer contact centers, by calling the hotel direct or via the GDS.  More information for this program can be found on www.ytc.com. 

GDS Users:  Rather than booking Starwood properties through ABC, AAA or the Best Available Rate, be sure to use the LXV rate.  Using the LXV rate code, you will still have best available rate (with the possible exception of pre-paid nonrefundable rates).   

For non GDS Users:   Make your bookings on their user-friendly website.  All Starwood bookings can be associated with the agent’s own SPG number allowing the agents get credit for the booking, earning points that the agent can use for future self-bookings. 

We feel using this program is important for another reason.  It will help ensure its continued viability through the Marriott/Starwood merger.  

One last suggestion, become a SPG pro.  There is only one training module and doing so qualifies you for great rates for your own travels.