This program was reviewed and rated by our editors in August 2007. Changes in the program past this date are possible, especially program partner information. We recommend you subscribe to the #1 source of frequent flyer information, Inside Flyer Magazine, to get the most current information possible.

Named after a Himalayan mythical paradise, luxury hotel group Shangri-La opened its first property in 1971 in Singapore. The Hong-Kong based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts currently manages 50 hotels under the five-star Shangri-La and four-star Traders brands. The Shangri-La Resort and Spa, Seychelles will occupy its own 23-acre private island off the coast of Mahe in Northeast Seychelles when it opens next year. The group has over 45 projects under development in Austria, Canada, mainland China, France, India, Japan, Macau, Maldives, Philippines, Qatar, Seychelles, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States.

Golden Circle does not offer points and can be compared to guest recognition loyalty programs such as Omni and Fairmont. Members of the program can earn frequent flyer miles for stays at the industry standard 500 miles per stay in most airline programs and Golden Circle elite members receive mileage bonuses, a benefit you don't often see in hotel elite programs.

While Golden Circle doesn't offer award stays, all members receive a number of rewarding benefits. Classic members receive priority check-in, 50 percent discount on a buffet breakfast for member and partner and space available upgrades at check-in starting at $39. Members also receive priority waitlist, complimentary local newspaper and a fresh fruit welcome upon arrival. Partner and children under the age of 12 stay free when sharing a room so there is no additional cost for double occupancy.

Golden Circle offers exclusive promotions to members that include dining discounts, special rates and free nights, such as the summer promotion that awarded members with a free night for every four nights spent at any Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts.

Twenty-nine airlines partner with Golden Circle and the members of the following frequent flyer programs earn miles, kilometers of points for hotel stays: Air China Companion, Air Canada Aeroplan, Air France/KLM Flying Blue, American AAdvantage, ANA Mileage Club, British Airways Executive Club, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, China Eastern Airlines Eastern Miles, China Southern Airlines Sky Pearl Club, Continental Airlines OnePass, Emirates/SriLankan Skywards, Etihad Airways Etihad Guest, Finnair Plus, Gulf Air Frequent flyer, Hainan Airlines Fortune Wings Club, Jet Airways Jet Privilege, Korean Air SKYPASS, Lufthansa Miles & More, Malaysia Airlines Enrich, Northwest WorldPerks, Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, Qantas Airways Frequent Flyer, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, Saudi Arabian Airlines Alfursan, SAS EuroBonus, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus, United Airlines Mileage Plus and Virgin Atlantic Airway Flying Club.

Golden Circle also partners with Hertz and members receive 10 percent off car rentals and free upgrades at participating locations in Asia.

The elite level program is two tiered: Executive and Elite. Members who stay 20 qualifying room nights at two or more locations will be upgraded to Executive elite status. In addition to Classic benefits given to all members, Executives receive a 25 percent frequent flyer mileage bonus, exclusive check-in counter, complimentary breakfast for member and guest, guaranteed room availability with 72 hour advance notice, 11am early check-in and 4pm late check out, complimentary international newspaper, a choice of three welcome amenities, including items such as chocolate, cup of noodles, beer and soda.

Members staying 60 nights at three or more Shangri-La hotels and resorts qualify for Elite status. Elite members receive exclusive access to the Horizon Club lounge, complimentary breakfast in the Lounge or in their room, upgrade to an Executive Suite if available at check-in, concierge services even when not staying at a hotel, guaranteed room with 48 hours advance notice, 8am early check-in and 6pm late check out, free in-room broadband Internet access, and complimentary red or white wine. Elite members staying the most number of nights receive invitations to exclusive members' events in addition to other surprise gifts. Elite membership is valid for one year.

Members must be 18 years or older and stay at a Shangri-La Hotel or Resort once per year to maintain an active membership. Members may reactivate their membership by staying once at a Shangri-La hotel or resort, but will not receive member benefits during their first stay after reactivation of membership. Membership is only available by invitation. Guests staying at qualifying rates will be invited to join Golden Circle at check-in and new members will receive membership benefits during their stay.

The service center can be contacted by fax, e-mail and phone. Members give the Golden Circle service excellent reviews and we haven't heard any complaints. When we e-mailed the service center, we received an answer within 24 hours.

Membership in Golden Circle is by invitation only so you cannot enroll online; however, you can create an account and make reservations. After you have stayed at a Shangri-La property and become a member, you can register and manage your account online. Members can sign up for the the "Inner Circle" e-newsletter to stay on top of exclusive member offers.

The Golden Circle program revolves around special treatment and member recognition. Even basic members receive generous benefits like the ability to purchase upgrades, breakfast discounts and their partner staying free. Members rave about the suite upgrades, amenities and great service.

Membership is available only when checking in at qualifying rates and the program does not offer award stays. The 60 nights required to reach second-tier Elite status is one of the highest requirements around, 10 more nights than the standard 50. Membership goes inactive after one year without staying at a Shangri-La property.

(852) 2197 5600
golden.circle@shangri-la.com

Golden Circle Center
c/o Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel 1370
64 Mody Road Kangseo Ku
Tsim Sha Tsui East
Kowloon, Hong Kong