Last month, Citi ThankYou Rewards announced that it would be devaluing its hotel transfer partner, I Prefer Hotel Rewards, starting April 19. Instead of transferring points at a ratio of 1:4* — so for every 1,000 ThankYou Rewards points transferred, you get 4,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points — you’ll get a ratio of 1:2.
Though Preferred Hotels & Resorts does not have as large of a footprint as some other brands, such as Hilton, Marriott or Hyatt, this unique program allows members the chance to book stays at intimate boutique properties, historical hotels and high-end resorts.
With rates at select properties starting as low as 15,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night, you could book stays for as low as 3,750 ThankYou Rewards points with the current transfer rate.
So, from Europe to Asia to the United States, here are nine hotels you can book before the amazing transfer rate of 1:4 officially ends April 19.
*Select Citi cards have a lower transfer rate. Citi ThankYou Rewards points must be transferred in increments of 1,000 points.
Primus Hotel Shanghai Hongqiao
Location: Shanghai
Starting at: 15,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 3,750 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: Conveniently located for travelers exploring Shanghai or simply passing through, Primus Hotel Shanghai Hongqiao offers upscale amenities, including a pool overlooking the city, gourmet restaurants and airport shuttle service.
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Lion in the Sun Boutique Hotel & Spa
Location: Malindi, Kenya
Starting at: 30,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 7,500 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: Looking for a bit of adventure? After going on safari or gazing at the iconic African sunset at Marafa Canyon, relax at this 16-room, intimate resort, which offers guests access to a private beach, saltwater pools and luxe accommodations.
Hotel Lilla Roberts
Location: Helsinki
Starting at: 30,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 7,500 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: Located in a popular Helsinki neighborhood, this art deco-inspired hotel is a great place to stay when exploring the Nordic city.
Kilkea Castle
Location: Castledermot, Ireland
Starting at: 50,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 12,500 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: For those who have ever dreamt of staying in a castle, this medieval fortress can be booked using points. With on-property activities such as fishing, tennis, shooting and archery and an 18-hole golf course, Kilkea Castle is a great option when visiting the Irish countryside.
Trastevere Roma Una Esperienze
Location: Rome
Starting at: 75,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 18,750 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: Sip your morning espresso in the courtyard of this 19th-century hotel in central Rome. This 94-key hotel is great for travelers who want to be near iconic landmarks but also enjoy a more authentic Italian experience.
Don Carlos Marbella
Location: Marbella, Spain
Starting at: 75,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 18,750 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: Overlooking the Spanish coastline, this hotel offers direct beach access, a swimming pool, a spa, restaurants, nearby golf courses and more.
Haven Riviera Cancun
Location: Cancun
Starting at: 100,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 25,000 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: Located in Mexico’s Quintana Roo state, this adults-only, all-inclusive property features a Mayan spa, four pools, tennis and basketball courts, and several dining options, including Mediterranean, Asian fusion and traditional bites.
Edgewood Tahoe Resort
Location: Stateline, Nevada
Starting at: 150,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 37,500 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or enjoy a day on Lake Tahoe, this resort is a prime tourist destination all year-round. Aside from the resort amenities, which include three on-site restaurants, a golf course, spa, heated pool and fitness center, Edgewood Tahoe Resort offers private beach access to the lake and is just 1 mile from the Heavenly Mountain Resort gondola.
Andronis Luxury Suites
Location: Santorini, Greece
Starting at: 150,000 I Prefer Hotel Rewards points per night
Cost using Citi transfer option: 37,500 ThankYou Rewards points per night
Hotel highlights: Situated on the cliffs of Oia, this hotel overlooks the Aegean Sea and features private infinity pools, two-on-site restaurants, a spa and cave pools.
Bottom line
These nine hotels are just a handful of properties around the world that you can book using your Citi ThankYou Rewards points. While point transfers to I Prefer Hotel Rewards are not going away, they will significantly devalue April 19.
Some things to keep in mind: We always recommend confirming award prices and availability before transferring your points, as transfers are irreversible. Additionally, select Citi cards may offer transfer options at a lower rate.
Overall, if you have an upcoming trip to Italy, Greece or even a domestic vacation in mind, you may want to check out the I Prefer website to possibly transfer your points and book a fabulous stay for a fraction of the cost.
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