James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in...
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Hard Rock Hotels has officially purchased The Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The sale of the property means that it has the MGM Resorts portfolio and its MGM Rewards (formerly known as M life Rewards) loyalty program and into Hard Rock’s Unity program, as reported by Miles to Memories.
And now, the Unity program is offering a status match for MGM members in a bid to increase business in the coming years.
Here’s what you need to know about this new opportunity!
Why Is Hard Rock Offering a Free Status Match?
If you’ve ever been to Las Vegas, you’re likely familiar with hotel groups offering status matches.
They’re practically given out like candy, but there’s a reason for that. With several different hotel and casino groups along the Strip and elsewhere, there’s fierce competition to get gamblers in the door. While these resorts do make money off of hotel rooms, entertainment, and food, the real money is in the gambling, and the more loyal customers you have, the more profitable you’ll become.
The Mirage used to participate in the MGM Rewards program, and Hard Rock is hoping many of those customers who enjoyed that hotel and casino will transition over to the Unity program now that the hotel has changed hands.
Status Match — The Details
MGM Gold and Platinum members — the mid-level tiers in the MGM Rewards program — will be matched to Hard Rock’s highest public tier, ICON.
ICON benefits include:
- Priority access at various venues including taxi lines, restaurants, and entertainment
- The “best seat in the house” and priority seating at Hard Rock Cafes
- Member-only rates
There’s also a higher tier, X, that gets you upgrades, complimentary valet, lounges access, and more, but this tier is invite-only, so you’ll need to be a top gambler to even get a chance at accessing these benefits.
To match your status, simply visit any guest services desk on the property and show proof of your MGM Rewards status. You’ll be matched on the spot and will receive your new member number and card.
Miles to Memories has also pointed out that you’ll get bonus credit as a new member:
- $50 for Pearl members
- $100 for Gold members
- $300 for Platinum members
Hot Tip: It’s worth noting that it’s possible to match your World of Hyatt status to MGM Rewards, and then match that status to Hard Rock’s Unity program
Final Thoughts
If you’re a frequent visitor to Las Vegas — or someone who just enjoys dining out at the Hard Rock Cafe — consider matching your MGM Rewards status to Hard Rock’s Unity program to get some extra perks on your next visit.
Even if you’re not someone who enjoys Las Vegas, many of the benefits are valid at restaurants worldwide which could prove useful during your travels.
Featured Image Credit: American Express
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About James Larounis
James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in dozens of travel publications.
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