IHG Hotels Reviews: What You Should Know Before Booking?

Booking a hotel is no longer just about finding a place to sleep. Travellers want comfort, location, fair pricing, and a smooth experience from check-in to check-out. That is why many people look at IHG Hotels when planning a trip. This detailed IHG Hotels reviews explains what you should know before booking, so you can decide if IHG is the right fit for your travel style, budget, and expectations.

IHG Hotels & Resorts is one of the largest hotel groups in the world. With thousands of properties across more than 100 countries, the brand appeals to business travellers, families, solo explorers, and luxury seekers. Still, size alone does not guarantee satisfaction. This guide breaks down real strengths, possible drawbacks, brand differences, pricing, loyalty rewards, and who benefits most from staying at IHG Hotels.

By the end, you will have a clear picture of what booking an IHG hotel really feels like.

What Are IHG Hotels?

IHG Hotels & Resorts stands for InterContinental Hotels Group. It is a global hospitality company that owns and manages multiple hotel brands across different price ranges.

IHG Hotels focus on consistency, wide availability, and flexible stay options. You will find IHG properties in major cities, airport areas, beach destinations, and business hubs. This makes IHG a convenient choice for travellers who value familiarity and predictable standards.

Unlike single-brand hotel chains, IHG Hotels operate as a portfolio. Each brand targets a different type of traveller, from luxury guests to budget-conscious families.

Popular IHG Hotel Brands Explained

Understanding IHG Hotels starts with knowing its brands. Each one serves a different purpose.

1. InterContinental Hotels

This is IHG’s luxury brand. InterContinental Hotels are usually located in prime city centres or landmark locations. Expect elegant rooms, premium dining, strong concierge services, and refined design.

2. Crowne Plaza

Crowne Plaza hotels focus on business and upscale leisure travellers. These properties balance comfort with productivity. Many locations include meeting spaces, work-friendly rooms, and calm environments.

3. Holiday Inn

Holiday Inn is one of the most recognisable names in hospitality. These hotels offer reliable comfort, family-friendly amenities, and practical locations. They suit road trips, vacations, and short stays.

4. Holiday Inn Express

Holiday Inn Express focuses on value and simplicity. Rooms are clean and functional. Breakfast is often included. This brand works well for quick trips and overnight stays.

5. Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo hotels are boutique-style properties with local design themes. Each location reflects its neighbourhood through décor, food, and atmosphere.

6. Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites

These brands are designed for extended stays. Rooms include kitchens, larger living spaces, and laundry facilities.

7. Six Senses

Six Senses sits at the luxury wellness end of the portfolio. These properties focus on sustainability, privacy, and premium experiences.

What Guests Like About IHG Hotels

Based on widespread traveller feedback and reviews, several strengths appear consistently.

Reliable Standards

One of the biggest reasons people choose IHG Hotels is reliability. You know what level of comfort to expect, especially with brands like Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza.

Wide Global Coverage

IHG Hotels are easy to find almost anywhere. Whether you travel domestically or internationally, chances are high that an IHG property is nearby.

Strong Loyalty Programme

IHG One Rewards is one of the most flexible hotel loyalty programmes. Members earn points on stays and can redeem them for free nights, upgrades, and perks.

Variety of Price Options

From affordable Holiday Inn Express stays to luxury InterContinental hotels, IHG offers options across budgets.

Business-Friendly Features

Many IHG Hotels cater well to business travellers. Wi-Fi, work desks, meeting rooms, and quiet environments are common features.

Common Complaints in IHG Hotels Reviews

No hotel group is perfect, and IHG Hotels are no exception. Knowing the downsides helps set realistic expectations.

Inconsistent Experience by Location

Because many IHG Hotels are franchised, quality can vary by property. Two hotels under the same brand may feel different depending on management.

Older Properties

Some IHG Hotels, especially older Holiday Inn locations, may feel dated compared to newer competitors unless recently renovated.

Extra Fees

Parking, resort fees, or early check-in charges can apply at some locations. These are property-specific rather than brand-wide.

Limited Luxury Touches at Mid-Range Brands

Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express focus on practicality. Travellers expecting luxury finishes may feel underwhelmed.

IHG One Rewards Programme Explained

IHG One Rewards plays a major role in customer loyalty. Understanding how it works can improve your booking decision.

Earning Points

Members earn points for every eligible stay booked directly through IHG channels. Bonus points apply during promotions.

Membership Tiers

The programme includes several tiers:

• Club
• Silver Elite
• Gold Elite
• Platinum Elite
• Diamond Elite

Higher tiers unlock room upgrades, late checkout, and bonus points.

Redeeming Points

Points can be redeemed for free nights, reward nights with flexible pricing, and partner offers. IHG often runs promotions that stretch point value.

Is It Worth Joining?

For frequent travellers, yes. For occasional guests, free membership still offers member-only rates and promotions.

How IHG Hotels Compare to Other Hotel Chains

Travellers often compare IHG Hotels with Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt when deciding where to stay. Each hotel group has its own strengths, and the right choice depends on travel style, budget, and destination.

IHG vs Hilton

IHG Hotels are known for wider global coverage, especially in the mid-range category. Brands like Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express are available in major cities, airports, and smaller towns, which makes IHG convenient for frequent travellers. Hilton often stands out for consistency and modern design.

Many Hilton properties feel newer and follow a similar layout, which appeals to guests who value predictability and contemporary style. Travellers who focus on availability and price flexibility often prefer IHG Hotels, while those who want a polished and uniform experience may lean toward Hilton.

IHG vs Marriott

Marriott is well recognised for its strong luxury portfolio. High-end brands such as Ritz-Carlton and St Regis attract travellers seeking premium service and upscale environments. IHG Hotels perform better in the mid-range segment, where value, location, and comfort are key.

Brands like Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn usually offer competitive pricing without sacrificing essential amenities. Travellers who want dependable comfort at a reasonable cost often find IHG Hotels a better fit than Marriott’s higher-priced options.

IHG vs Hyatt

Hyatt operates fewer hotels worldwide, but it is known for higher consistency and service quality. Hyatt properties often feel more refined and personalised. IHG Hotels, however, win on availability and flexibility.

With thousands of locations globally, IHG makes it easier to find a suitable hotel almost anywhere. This makes IHG a practical choice for travellers who prioritise convenience and broad destination coverage.

Are IHG Hotels Good for Families?

Yes, many IHG Hotels cater well to families.

Holiday Inn properties often include family rooms, kids-eat-free programmes, and pools. Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites are ideal for longer family stays due to kitchen facilities.

Parents appreciate predictable comfort and practical amenities.

Are IHG Hotels Good for Business Travellers?

IHG Hotels are a strong choice for business travel.

Crowne Plaza and InterContinental hotels focus on productivity, comfort, and meeting facilities. Many locations are near business districts or convention centres.

Fast Wi-Fi, workspaces, and quiet rooms support business needs.

Are IHG Hotels Worth the Price?

Value depends on brand and location.

Holiday Inn Express generally offers strong value for money. InterContinental hotels charge premium rates, but location and service justify the cost for many travellers.

Booking directly often provides the best rates and loyalty perks.

Tips Before Booking an IHG Hotel

Knowing a few smart tips can improve your stay.

• Always check recent reviews for the specific property
• Join IHG One Rewards before booking
• Look for seasonal promotions
• Compare room types carefully
• Confirm parking and resort fees in advance

Who Should Book IHG Hotels?

IHG Hotels suit travellers who value:

• Predictable comfort
• Wide location choice
• Flexible price ranges
• Loyalty rewards
• Business-friendly amenities

They may not suit travellers seeking ultra-boutique experiences at every stay.

Final Verdict:

IHG Hotels deliver dependable comfort across a wide range of destinations and budgets. The brand works best for travellers who prioritise convenience, loyalty rewards, and global reach.

While some properties feel dated and quality can vary, many IHG Hotels offer solid value and reliable service. Knowing the specific brand and reading recent property reviews makes a big difference.

If you travel often or want flexible options worldwide, IHG Hotels are a practical and trustworthy choice.

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