Wyndham has debuted a US$95-a-year paid travel subscription service which, it says, “flips the script” on traditional hotel loyalty schemes.
Wyndham Rewards Insider members can unlock perks such as automatic gold level status, concierge services and the ability to double-dip on points with select partners, “all while saving on hotels, flights, car rentals, cruises and more”, the hotel company said.
Wyndham will absorb the costs of the discounts in the expectation that the programme will build loyalty among members.
“Wyndham Rewards Insider puts the power back in the hands of everyday travellers—all for less than the cost of a night out,” said Scott Strickland, chief commercial officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
The programme isn’t entirely new. Accor and IHG have subscription cards, although Wyndham is the first group to include extensive non-hotel travel discounts.
Wyndham has struck a partnership with Ticketmaster which will allow Wyndham Rewards Insiders to earn and redeem with Ticketmaster across 50,000+ concerts and live events.
Also included are ticket savings at theme parks and aquariums—including Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and LEGOLAND California Resort.
Other savings offered by the programme include those from hotels, flights, cruises, tours and activities, and car rentals.
"Bringing Ticketmaster into Wyndham Rewards is a game-changer—turning points into the most unforgettable live experiences across music, sports, theatre and more,” said Mike Shiwdin, GVP, loyalty and guest engagement, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.