Radisson hotels just formed a partnership with Southwest Airlines, where you can opt to earn Rapid Reward points instead of Club Carlson points (the points earned when staying at a Radisson and Radisson Blu hotel). Typically, you’d receive 600 points per stay (NOT per night), but through March 31, they are offering double points, so you’ll receive 1,200 Southwest Rapid Reward points per stay. The only caveat is that this is only valid for stays in the US and you must check in Sunday through Thursday (Friday and Saturday check ins will not qualify). The terms also state that only NEW reservations will count (starting January 18th), but quite honestly, I am not sure if this will be enforced (if you are going for this promo, might be worth cancelling and rebooking if you can just in case).
Due to the fixed rate of Southwest Rapid Reward points, 1,200 points is worth a cut and dry $20 towards a Southwest “Wanna Get Away” fare. This could be great for those cheap one night stays were you wouldn’t earn that many Club Carlson points anyways. With Club Carlson stays, you typically earn 20 points per dollar spent, so figure out the total amount of Club Carlson points you’d earn vs. the 1,200 Southwest points and select the option that works best for you. And remember, through March 15th you’ll earn triple Club Carlson points on qualifying stays, so take that into account. I personally use my Southwest points often, so those are much more valuable to me, but it really depends on the person and how you redeem.
To opt for the Southwest points over Club Carlson points, you can give your Southwest Rapid Reward number at check in and give them your earning preference.
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This is great for those “have to” trips. I am tracking a lot of buzz on Southwest recently.
Between the triple points and Concierge bonus I get 75 points per dollar (7,500 points for $100 room in DC area). Personally I would have to value that at way more than $20. Having Club Carlson xredit card (free last reward night) makes it any more so.
W/O the triple I could see SW value closer. Or if you don’t do Club Carson properties, except when not given a choice, I could see SW choice.
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[…] March 31, stay at a Radisson hotel and earn 1,200 Southwest Rapid per stay – keep in mind though for longer stays the 3x Club Carlson points might be a better […]