Why IHG Hotels & Resorts Is the Smart Traveler's Choice for Every Journey

Years later, I've stayed in hundreds of hotels. Some felt like warehouses. Others like homes. The best ones? They felt like they were waiting for me.

That's the difference IHG Hotels & Resorts has mastered.

It's not just about having 21 brands or 7,000 locations across 100 countries. It's about understanding that travel isn't a one-size-fits-all experience. Whether you're chasing sunrise at a Six Senses resort in Grenada or grabbing a quick coffee at a Holiday Inn Express in Chicago, IHG knows what you actually need before you even ask.

Why Travelers Are Booking Direct Again

A subtle change is underway in the travel sector.

For years, people used third-party websites to find trips because they said they would help simplify the process. Travelers began to notice however that they were paying too much (more than they should) for the same property or service, but with fewer amenities and limited ability to change their plans once booked.

Direct bookings online are expected to exceed Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) by 2015, generating $400+ million in total gross booking revenue to hotels. This growth isn’t simply from pricing being more favorable, it's from the ability to own your reservation when you book directly with IHG.

When you book directly with IHG or any other IHG-brand hotel, you're not just a number; you’re an IHG One Rewards member.

The IHG One Rewards Program has reached 145MM members worldwide and continues to grow each day (and not by accident). By being an IHG member, you are able to claim access to exclusive rates (up to 10% off of the standard rate), free Wi-Fi at participating properties across the globe, rewards points that never expire, and redeemable reward nights for as little as 10,000 points – with no blackout dates!

By using the digital room key feature on the IHG app, you can also check into your hotel without having to wait at the front desk when staying at select locations.

The IHG mobile application itself has won several awards and is available free of charge on both iOS and Android. You can search thousands of hotels, book your rooms, check availability, manage & modify reservations, access mobile-only rates, and see how many reward points you currently have in your account – all in real time using the IHG app!

One Brand for Every Kind of Traveler

Most hotel chains force you to choose between budget and luxury. IHG gives you both, plus everything in between.

When You Need Luxury That Feels Human

Six Senses is more than just a spa. It is an architectural representation of the environment. Picture outdoor pavilions in Grenada or swimming pools on the roofs of buildings in Telluride or beachfront villas that disappear into the sand dunes.

The hotel brand became part of IHG in 2019 and operates currently 27 hotels around the world, with an additional 43 under development. At a Six Senses property, you are not trying to escape; you are working on reconnecting with the world.

Regent hotels provide beautiful yet peaceful accommodations to those looking for quality service with a less ostentatious style.

InterContinental hotels provide local knowledge with international standards, making them ideal for tourists who wish to have a sense of connection in each destination.

When You Want Premium Without the Premium Price

The focus of EVEN is on the combination of work and life, providing facilities to relax, as well as top-notch fitness facilities, and guest suites specifically designed for working from home. The Crowne Plaza follows this same model and provides spaces adaptable to you based on when you’re there.

Hotel Indigo, IHG’s second largest brand within Luxury & Lifestyle, has 162 locations in over 25 countries, all located in diverse neighborhoods where each property shares a unique story from that location. This brand is a boutique without being perceived as pretentious.

When You Just Need a Good Night's Sleep

Holiday Inn Express is the clean, comfortable choice with free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast.

It's not trying to be fancy. It's trying to be reliable. And in a world where reliability is rare, that matters.

Avid hotels focus on purpose-built essentials. You get what you need: a quiet room, a good shower, and Wi-Fi that doesn't fail. No noise, no filler.

When You're Staying Longer

Staybridge Suites makes you feel at home with community spaces, full kitchens, and the kind of comfort that only comes after three nights in a row.

Candlewood Suites offers casual longer stays with exactly what you need.

Atwell Suites adds thoughtfully designed spaces and a bar for when you want to unwind without leaving the property.

The Real Difference: Booking Direct

I've booked through third-party sites. I've also booked directly with IHG.

The difference isn't subtle.

When I booked through an OTA, I paid extra for the same room. When I tried to modify my reservation, I had to call three different customer service lines. When I wanted to use my loyalty points, the system didn't recognize my account.

When I book directly with IHG, I receive the Best Available Rate Guarantee, access to exclusive IHG member rates and have the capability to manage my entire trip from one site.

In addition to being able to upgrade my accommodation, I can request an early check-in, and easily cancel at my leisure. If any aspect of my trip doesn't go as planned, IHG's 24/7 support contact information is right in the booking app and/or website.

The industry is adapting to changes in the marketplace. According to a recent report (2025), guests are looking for convenience, flexibility, and value more so now than ever, while hotels/brands are constantly seeking out new options for maximizing income and increasing guest loyalty.

The "Book Direct" initiative is a major success because the guests and the hotels/brands win.

IHG in Your City

No matter if you are visiting Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Miami, New York City, or Orlando, IHG has a brand that is perfect for your travels.In international hubs like Bangkok, Dubai, London, Paris, or Tokyo, you'll find the same consistency with local flavor.

In India, there are 51 IHG hotels as of February 2025, with 6 locations in Delhi alone. That accessibility matters when you're traveling for work, family, or vacation.

How to Start Using IHG the Right Way

Join IHG One Rewards.

• Whenever you sign-up, it is complimentary by default.
• You can access member rates immediately after you sign-up.
• To make use of those exclusive perks you need to reserve through ihg.com directly or use their mobile app.
• With any qualifying length of stay at an IHG property you will earn points that you can use for nights, upgrades or gift cards.
• As long as you continue to have an account with IHG, your points will not expire.
• The points purchase program allows people to buy, gift or transfer points.

There are additional ways to earn (with credit cards - where available, by renting cars, shopping & dining) that allow you to accumulate more points for free nights. Reward nights start at 10,000 points, and there are no blackout dates or hidden fees.

The Hotel That Adapts to You

Travel isn't about ticking boxes. It's about feeling like you belong, even when you're somewhere new.

Some hotels try to impress you. IHG tries to understand you.

Whether you're a business traveler needing a quiet workspace, a family looking for spacious suites, or a wellness enthusiast seeking a Six Senses retreat, IHG has the right brand for your journey.

It's not about having the most rooms. It's about having the right room for you.

The next time you plan a trip, skip the third-party site. Book direct. Join the program. And travel like you actually matter.

Visit IHG.com to explore 7,000+ destinations and unlock exclusive member rates up to 10% off.

Your next reward night could start with just one stay.