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The 25 Best Ways To Redeem Choice Privileges Points [2023]

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Stephen Au
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Stephen Au

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Stephen is an established voice in the credit card space, with over 70 to his name. His work has been in publications like The Washington Post, and his Au Points and Awards Consulting Services is used...
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Chris Dong

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Choice Hotels is a hotel brand that operates nearly 7,500 properties across nearly 50 countries and territories worldwide. It’s not as popular or prominent as Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, or Wyndham, but it’s still a worthwhile chain to get to know, particularly for budget travelers. If using one of the other major hotel programs isn’t an option, consider trying your hand with Choice Hotels.

In this guide, we’ll focus on the best redemption properties to use your Choice Privileges points at. Let’s dive in.

How To Earn Choice Privileges Points

There are several ways to earn Choice Privileges points. We’ve outlined the basic ways to earn and discuss each of them in more detail:

Generally speaking, transferring Amex points or Capital One miles to Choice Privileges is not suggested unless you need to top off your balance or see excellent redemption value.

Remember to account for transfer times if booking a popular hotel and transferring points to Choice Privileges.

Choice Hotel Brands and Categories

There are 22 varied hotel brands available in the Choice portfolio:

SCROLL FOR MORE
Brand NameTier
Ascend Hotel CollectionUpscale
Cambria HotelsUpscale
ClarionMidscale
Clarion PointeMidscale
ComfortMidscale
Country Inn & Suites by RadissonMidscale
Econo LodgeEconomy
Everhome SuitesEconomy
MainStay SuitesEconomy
Park Inn by RadissonMidscale
Park Plaza by RadissonUpscale
Quality InnMidscale
RadissonUpscale
Radisson BluUpscale
Radisson CollectionUpscale
Radisson IndividualsUpscale
Radisson Inn & SuitesMidscale
Radisson RedMidscale
Rodeway InnEconomy
Sleep InnMidscale
Suburban StudiosEconomy
WoodSpring SuitesEconomy

Choice Privileges points can also be redeemed at Strawberry Hotels (formerly Nordic Choice Hotels), an independent hotel group affiliated with Choice Hotels, but you cannot earn points for stays at these properties.

As you’ll discover, the best way to redeem your Choice Privileges points is not actually at Choice properties but rather at Preferred Hotels partners, which are affiliated with the loyalty program. While Choice redemptions can be booked through ChoiceHotels.com, Preferred Hotels reservations can only be booked by calling 888-770-6800.

Hot Tip:

An alliance with Penn National Gaming, Inc. offers reciprocal earning and redemption benefits for Choice Privileges members and Penn’s mychoice loyalty program members.

The 25 Best Choice Privileges Points Redemptions

Let’s begin by saying that most of our best hotel redemptions with Choice Privileges are with Preferred Hotels. Preferred Hotels charge a consistent point price for each property, but Choice Hotels does not.

Instead, Choice Hotels has seasonal pricing somewhat tied to the revenue price. This variable pricing means that the exact points price of the property will depend on the dates booked, popularity, etc.

1. Comfort Hotel Grand Central (Oslo, Norway) — From 16,000 Points

Comfort Hotel Grand Central Oslo
Comfort Hotel Grand Central Oslo. Image Credit: Strawberry Hotels

Norway is an expensive destination, and using points to book your accommodation goes a long way in softening travel costs. The Comfort Hotel Grand Central in Oslo is near nature, shopping, and dining. It also offers complimentary breakfast and 24-hour hot drinks.

With average rates of $150 per night and up to $400 per night, you can book nights starting from 16,000 points per night, a redemption value of 2.7 cents per point (almost 5 times the generally accepted redemption value of Choice Privileges points of 0.6 cents per point).

2. Comfort Hotel Square (Stavanger, Norway) — From 16,000 Points

Comfort Hotel Square Stavanger
Comfort Hotel Square Stavanger. Image Credit: Strawberry Hotels

Most visitors to Norway also stop in Stavanger, home to a historic cathedral and plenty of other sights. Another solid choice for using your Choice Privileges points is at the Comfort Hotel Square Stavanger. You’ll be pleased to learn that the amenities at this hotel don’t stop at the Nespresso coffee makers, free Wi-Fi, and spacious rooms — you’ll also enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet and 24-hour tea/coffee facilities.

Cash prices run ~$100 to $200 per night, which can get you a value of 1.3 cents per point.

3. Quality Hotel Saga (Tromso, Norway) — From 16,000 Points

Quality Hotel Saga Tromso
Quality Hotel Saga Tromso. Image Credit: Booking.com

Sold on seeing the northern lights? Another excellent Norwegian property is the centrally-located Quality Hotel Saga Tromso. The property has vaulted ceilings, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast.

Free nights start at 16,000 points, and cash prices range from ~$100 to $150 per night.

4. Clarion Hotel Stockholm (Sweden) — From 10,000 Points

Clarion Hotel Stockholm
Clarion Hotel Stockholm. Image Credit: Strawberry Hotels

The Clarion Hotel Stockholm is a conveniently located hotel with excellent amenities. The hotel looks like a giant glass building and is extremely close to public transportation (a whole minute’s walk!). Wi-Fi and breakfast are free, and it’s an excellent launchpad for other attractions in Sweden.

Starting at 10,000 points per night, you’ll save ~$150 to $250 in cash per night booked here.

Hot Tip:

Interested in staying at the Clarion Hotel? Learn how to fly to Sweden on points and miles so you can enjoy a vacation on points. 

5. Clarion Hotel Helsinki (Finland) — From 20,000 Points

Clarion Hotel Helsinki
Clarion Hotel Helsinki. Image Credit: Strawberry Hotels

If visiting Finland is high on your priority list, you’ll be pleased to find a solid option in the nation’s capital. The Clarion Hotel Helsinki claims to be the city’s trendiest hotel and offers easy access to the city’s attractions. Guests receive a complimentary breakfast buffet and can enjoy a heated rooftop pool, gym, and excellent sweeping city views.

Prices can fluctuate anywhere between ~$175 to $400 per night. Considering nightly costs at this hotel start at 20,000 points, travelers should seriously consider this fully loaded property.

6. Hotel Brosundet (Alesund, Norway) — From 16,000 Points

Hotel Brosundet Alesund
Hotel Brosundet Alesund. Image Credit: Hotel Brosundet

The cozy 4-star Hotel Brosundet is located by the quayside, and the former warehouse emphasizes a rustic feel. Upon entering your room, you’ll see fully flat-screen televisions, tea and coffee facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Also, breakfast is complimentary, so you won’t be breaking the bank in this Norwegian city.

Cash prices range from ~$150 to $350 per night depending on when you book, so paying as few as 16,000 Choice Privileges points per night can be a bargain.

7. Clarion Collection Hotel Gabelshus (Oslo, Norway) — From 16,000 Points

Clarion Collection Hotel Gabelshus
Clarion Collection Hotel Gabelshus. Image Credit: Strawberry Hotels

Located in an upscale borough of Oslo, the Clarion Collection Hotel Gabelshus exudes prestige and serenity. This hotel is minutes from huge attractions such as the nineteenth-century Royal Palace. Breakfast, afternoon snacks, and dinner are complimentary inside the hotel. You can also utilize the library, lounge, sauna, and fitness center in this fantastic hotel.

If you’re willing to shell out a minimum of 16,000 points, you’ll save ~$150 to $300 per night in cash!

8. Selma Spa+ (Sunne, Sweden) — From 16,000 Points

Selma Spa+ Sunne
Selma Spa+ Sunne. Image Credit: Selma Spa

The wellness-focused Selma Spa+ hotel in Sunne, Sweden, is surrounded by nature and overlooks Lake Fryken. Guests enjoy free parking, flat-screen televisions, 4 heated pools, saunas, a spa, a fitness center, and more. Rooms also come with free Wi-Fi and buffet-style breakfast.

You can expect to pay a minimum of 16,000 points for lodging at this hotel, which retails ~$180 to $300 per night.

9. Hotel At Six (Stockholm, Sweden) — From 45,000 Points

Hotel At Six Stockholm
Hotel At Six Stockholm. Image Credit: Hotel At Six

The sleek Hotel At Six (a Preferred Hotel) is strategically located in Sweden’s capital, Stockholm. The contemporary hotel contains free Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, minibars, sitting areas, and tea/coffee facilities. There’s also a 24-hour gym and a shopping mall beside the hotel. The rate does not include breakfast, but the property is still a solid choice for luxury living.

With cash prices going up to ~$500 per night, it’s no wonder this is a popular choice for points travelers. Expect to pay 45,000 Choice Privileges points per night.

10. The Thief (Oslo, Norway) — From 55,000 Points

The Thief Oslo
The Thief Oslo. Image Credit: The Thief

The Thief in Oslo is one of the most prestigious boutique hotels in all of Norway. Located in downtown Oslo, this stylish hotel has flat-screen televisions, balconies, entertainment systems, free Wi-Fi, Nespresso machines, and 24/7 room service. A complimentary breakfast buffet is provided to all guests, and you can also choose between a spa, fitness room, sauna, and lounge.

Your investment starting at 55,000 points per night will go a long way because cash prices at this hotel start at $400 and go up to $600 per night.

11. The Leela Palace New Delhi (India) — From 35,000 Points

The Leela Palace New Delhi
The Leela Palace New Delhi. Image Credit: The Leela

The Leela Palace New Delhi, a full-service 5-star hotel, is located in India’s capital. It’s challenging to pass up this hotel with opulent rooms featuring marble bathrooms, tea/coffee facilities, free Wi-Fi, and more. You can choose between 4 restaurants, a bar, and a cafe/lounge featuring live music. You can also relax in the rooftop infinity pool, spa, gym, or sauna.

This consistently 5-star reviewed hotel costs ~$150 to $300 per night, so paying 35,000 points per night can go a long way if you can find that price.

12. The Prince Park Tower Tokyo (Japan) — From 35,000 Points

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo
The Prince Park Tower Tokyo. Image Credit: Booking.com

The Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel is located inside the Park Tower in the wealthy Minato area. It’s an 8-minute walk from Tokyo Tower and the nearest subway station. These beautiful rooms have free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and whirlpool tubs.

The train station shuttle is complimentary, and you can pick between 7 restaurants during your stay or head up to the top-floor bar with views of Tokyo Tower. This hotel has a natural hot spring water bathhouse, gym, indoor lap pool, and bowling alley!

The luxurious hotel runs at 35,000 Choice Privileges points per night, but you can save from $250 to $600 per night by using points here!

13. Grand Hotel Santa Lucia (Naples, Italy) — From 35,000 Points

Grand Hotel Santa Lucia
Grand Hotel Santa Lucia. Image Credit: Audley Travel

Stay in luxury while touring Naples, one of the biggest tourist attractions in Italy. The Grand Hotel Saint Lucia was built in 1900 and consistently gets top reviews. The rooms have free Wi-Fi, minibars, and flat-screen televisions. Guests also enjoy complimentary breakfast, a gym, and a business center.

Points prices are 35,000 Choice Privileges points per night, and cash prices range from ~$250 to $900 per night, a vast range.

14. Hotel Angleterre and Residence (Lausanne-Ouchy, Switzerland) — From 45,000 Points

Hotel Angleterre and Residence
Hotel Angleterre and Residence. Image Credit: Booking.com

Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries to visit, and your Choice Privileges points make it accessible through the Preferred Hotel property Hotel Angleterre and Residence in Lausanne. This architectural masterpiece consists of 6 different buildings. You’ll instantly detect elegance with foot floors and arched ceilings. Enjoy the business center, outdoor pool, exercise room, and lakefront terrace.

Cash prices are approximately ~$270 per night but can go as high as $500 per night and as low as ~$130 per night. If you book with Choice Privileges, expect to pay 45,000 points per night.

15. The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills (California, U.S.) — From 45,000 Points

The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills
The Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills. Image Credit: Preferred Hotels & Resorts

Located centrally near Rodeo Drive, the 49-room Mosaic Hotel Beverly Hills epitomizes a boutique property. Enjoy comfortable beds, Bose stereo systems, rainfall showerheads, and an exercise room. Parking and breakfast are not free, though this hotel offers plentiful options.

Rates start at ~$250 to $300 per night; your cost will be 45,000 Choice Privileges points per night.

16. The Michelangelo New York — Starhotels Collezione (New York, U.S.) — From 55,000 Points

The Michelangelo New York - Starhotels Collezione
The Michelangelo New York. Image Credit: The Michelangelo

For a boutique experience in Times Square, look no further than The Michelangelo. There are 179 rooms at this property, and reviews are consistently fantastic. This luxurious hotel features Bose radios, flat-screen televisions, free Wi-Fi, marble-clad bathrooms, and minifridges. You’ll also have access to a 24-hour gym, a nearby pool, and complimentary morning car service to Wall Street.

As with nearly all hotels in Manhattan, lodging is costly. Luckily, you can spend 55,000 Choice Privileges points to save ~$300 to $500 in nightly costs.

17. Cavallo Point (California, U.S.) — From 55,000 Points

Cavallo Point
Cavallo Point. Image Credit: Preferred Hotels & Resorts

Cavallo Point offers a unique experience compared to most hotels. It’s known to be more of a lodge than a hotel, which implies additional intimacy. Located in Sausalito and overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, this historic property is set across a collection of former military officers’ residences. Enjoy polished rooms with free Wi-Fi, iPod docks, minifridges, coffee/tea facilities, and fireplaces (in most rooms). Parking and a shuttle to San Francisco and the Sausalito Ferry Terminal are free. You can choose from a gym, spa, and yoga classes for even more amenities.

Cash prices are eye-poppingly high at ~$500 to $700 per night. However, booking reward nights at this lodge only costs 55,000 Choice Privileges points.

18. Radisson Resort Miami Beach (Florida, U.S.) — From 30,000 Points

Radisson Resort Miami Beach
Radisson Resort Miami Beach. Image Credit: Choice

Choice acquired Radisson Hotels Americas in 2023 and, with it, an impressive portfolio of high-end hotels. Now that the merger is complete, you can stay at Radisson-branded hotels in the Americas and earn and redeem Choice Privileges points.

For instance, the family-friendly Radisson Resort Miami Beach has direct beach access, an outdoor heated pool, several dining options, and a gift shop.

While cash rates are reasonable (as low as $250 per night — a steal for Miami), award nights are also priced competitively. A 1-bedroom suite with ocean views starts at just 30,000 Choice Privileges points per night.

19. Hotel Caribe By Faranda Grand, A Member Of Radisson Individuals (Cartagena, Colombia) — From 16,000 Points

Hotel Caribe By Faranda Grand
Image Credit: Hotel Caribe By Faranda Grand

This is another excellent option for travelers using Choice Privileges points at Radisson-branded hotels. Hotel Caribe, located in Cartagena’s walled city center, is a Radisson Individuals hotel.

The hotel is a short distance from everything in Cartagena’s Old City and features a spa, a hair salon, and mini golf.

At just 16,000 points per night or ~$170, Hotel Caribe is a steal for Cartagena.

20. Radisson Fort George Hotel And Marina (Belize City, Belize) — From 20,000 Points

Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina
Image Credit: Radisson Fort George Hotel And Marina

The Radisson Fort George Hotel And Marina in Belize City, Belize, is chock-full of amenities, from a full-service marina and spa to even an on-site babysitter (for $15).

At just 20,000 points a night or ~$140, this hotel is a sweet spot if you find yourself in the Belizean capital.

21. The Emblem Prague (Prague, Czech Republic) — From 45,000 Points

the emblem prague suite library
The Emblem Prague. Image Credit: The Emblem Prague

This boutique hotel is located in one of the city’s well-known neighborhoods, Old Prague. The 59-room hotel includes 4 junior suites and 3 luxury suites — has everything you could want in a big-city hotel. You’ll find a spa, rooftop terrace, and on-site restaurant and bar.

Rates at The Emblem Prague, a Preferred Hotels property, start at 45,000 points or ~$195 per night.

22. The Guest House at Graceland (Memphis, U.S.) — From 25,000 Points

The Guest House at Graceland
The Guest House at Graceland. Image Credit: Preferred Hotels

Fans of the American singer Elvis Presley who want to be close to his famed mansion during a trip to Memphis should look no further than The Guest House at Graceland. This Preferred Hotels property is just steps from Graceland Mansion and has 450 rooms and suites.

You’ll receive complimentary peanut butter and banana sandwiches every night, watch Elvis movies in a 464-seat house auditorium, and dine in an on-site restaurant serving Southern cuisine and Tennessee whiskey. Rates start at 25,000 points or ~$160 per night.

23. Mystery Hotel Budapest (Hungary) — From 35,000 Points

Mystery Hotel Budapest
Mystery Hotel Budapest. Image Credit: Mystery Hotel Budapest

The Mystery Hotel in Budapest is, indeed, a puzzle. You could spend a whole day exploring optical illusions, puzzles, and more throughout the hotel. After challenging your mind, you can unwind with a day at the Secret Garden Spa or sweat out in the fitness center or steam room.

Rates at this 82-room hotel start at 35,000 points or ~$150 per night.

24. Gayana Marine Resort (Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia) — From 55,000 Points

Gayana Marine Resort Ocean View Guestroom
Gayana Marine Resort Ocean View Guestroom. Image Credit: Gayana Marine Resort

The Gayana Marine Resort, an eco-luxury resort, is situated in the South China Sea on an island off the coast of Borneo.

With just 52 villas, you could spend a day learning to dive on the nearby reef, hike in the jungle, get close to bamboo sharks and seahorses, or relax during a spa treatment using indigenous plants local to the region. Rates start at 55,000 points or ~$250 per night.

25. Noku Maldives — From 55,000 Points

noku maldives
Noku Maldives. Image Credit: Noku Maldives

Last but certainly not least on our list is Noku Maldives. The Maldives has no shortage of ultra-luxury hotels, and this hotel is one of them.

All rooms at the Noku are either beach villas or overwater bungalows with excellent views of the Indian Ocean. You can relax in 1 of the 6 treatment rooms, dine at 4 on-site restaurants and bars, or take advantage of the many water activities available.

While the Maldives is known to be expensive in cash or points, this hotel is moderately priced at 55,000 points or ~$380 per night.

Points + Cash Bookings

If you’re low on Choice Privileges points, you can split your reservation and compensate for your balance using Points + Cash bookings. You’ll need at least 6,000 points in your account to search.

Once you have 6,000 points, you can pay $7.50 per 1,000 points to complete your points + cash booking. For example, if you see a property that costs 20,000 points for a 1-night stay, you can pay 6,000 points and “purchase” the remaining 14,000 points at a rate of $7.50 per 1,000 points for a total of $105.

You can book a 20,000-point reservation for 6,000 points and $105 in cash. While we don’t think purchasing points for 0.75 cents per point is the best value, it is an option.

Final Thoughts

There are many ways to use Choice Privileges points to book hotel nights worldwide.

We’ve only scratched the surface of the many ways to use Choice Privileges points for excellent value. Although we mainly focused on partner chain Preferred Hotels, there’s still a lot of value to be had within Choice Hotels’ portfolio. You can always transfer your Choice Privileges points to airline partners when all else fails.

You’re now equipped with the best ways to redeem Choice Privileges Rewards points for maximum value!

The information regarding the Choice Privileges® Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The information regarding the Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Choice Privileges points expire?

You must have at least 1 qualifying activity every 18 months to maintain active status and retain your points. Your points will be forfeited with no qualifying activity during the previous 18 consecutive calendar months.

A qualifying activity is:

  • Qualifying point-eligible stay (earning points, miles, or Amtrak Guest Rewards points)
  • Redeeming Choice Privileges points (free nights, gift cards, etc.)
  • Earning points with the Choice Privileges card (U.S. members only)
  • Purchasing points
  • Referring a Friend*

*The Refer-a-Friend option awards points to your account when a friend enrolls in the Choice Privileges Rewards Program and completes a point-eligible stay. The point forfeiture date will be based on the date the points post to your account, not on the date of the referral.

What hotels does Choice Hotels own?

Here are the brands that Choice Hotels International currently owns: Ascend Hotel Collection, Cambria Hotels, Clarion, Clarion Pointe, Comfort, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Econo Lodge, Everhome Suites, MainStay Suites, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza by Radisson, Quality Inn, Radisson, Radisson Blu, Radisson Collection, Radisson Individuals, Radisson Inn & Suites, Radisson Red, Rodeway Inn, Sleep Inn, Suburban Studios, and WoodSpring Suites. Radisson brands are Americas locations only.

Can you book upgraded rooms or suites with Choice Privileges points?

No, you can only book the standard room type with points.

How many Choice Privileges points do you need for an award stay?

Depending on the specific property, you can spend as few as 6,000 points or as much as 75,000 points per reward night.

Can Choice Privileges points be transferred?

No, you can’t transfer your Choice Privileges points. You also cannot combine your points with anyone else.

What credit cards earn Choice Rewards points?

The Choice Privileges card and Choice Privileges Select card earn Choice Privileges points. You can also transfer from Citi ThankYou Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, and Capital One Miles.

How can I use my Choice Privileges points for a redemption at a Preferred Hotel?

Preferred Hotels and Resorts reservations can only be booked by calling 888-770-6800.

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About Stephen Au

Stephen is an established voice in the credit card space, with over 70 to his name. His work has been in publications like The Washington Post, and his Au Points and Awards Consulting Services is used by hundreds of clients.

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