How Four Seasons Preferred Partner Rates Compare to Direct Booking
How Four Seasons Preferred Partner Rates Compare to Direct Booking
When booking a stay at Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, you’ll notice the rates on the official website often look straightforward: flexible rates, advance purchase offers, or promotional packages. But what many travelers don’t realize is that you can book the same rates—with valuable perks added for free—through the Four Seasons Preferred Partner program.
Here’s a breakdown of how Preferred Partner rates compare to booking directly with Four Seasons.
What Is Four Seasons Preferred Partner?
The Four Seasons Preferred Partner program is an invitation-only travel advisor network that gives guests exclusive VIP perks at no extra cost.
When you book through an authorized Preferred Partner agency, you’ll receive:
Daily breakfast for two (often $100+ per day value)
$100 hotel or resort credit per stay
Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
Early check-in / late check-out (when available)
VIP recognition from the hotel team
The key? The room rate is identical to what you’d see on the Four Seasons website.
👉 Learn more: Four Seasons Preferred Partner program
Direct Booking vs. Preferred Partner Booking
| Feature | Direct Booking (Four Seasons Website) | Preferred Partner Booking (via Stars Desk) |
|---|---|---|
| Room Rates | Flexible and promotional rates | Same as website (flexible + promos apply) |
| Daily Breakfast | Not included (extra charge unless in promo) | Complimentary daily breakfast for two |
| Hotel Credit | Not included | $100 USD hotel/resort credit per stay |
| Room Upgrade | Not guaranteed | Upgrade on arrival (if available) |
| Early Check-In / Late Check-Out | Based on availability, not prioritized | Based on availability, prioritized |
| VIP Recognition | Standard | VIP guest status with hotel team |
Do Preferred Partner Rates Cost More?
No. Preferred Partner rates are the exact same as Four Seasons’ flexible rates. The only difference is that when booking through an authorized travel advisor, you’re entitled to the added perks.
For example:
Direct booking: $950 per night, no extras
Preferred Partner booking: $950 per night, plus breakfast for two, a $100 credit, and potential upgrade
Can You Still Use Promotions?
Yes. Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits are usually combinable with hotel promotions, such as:
“Stay 3 nights, get the 4th free”
“Advance Purchase” savings
Seasonal packages
This means you get the promotional offer plus the Preferred Partner perks, making it the best value option.
Why Doesn’t Everyone Book This Way?
Many travelers simply don’t know the program exists. Four Seasons doesn’t advertise Preferred Partner rates directly on its website—it’s only available through a select network of luxury travel advisors like Stars Desk.
By booking through an authorized channel, you gain the same rates, more perks, and a VIP experience—with zero downsides.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is there a fee to book through Four Seasons Preferred Partner?
No. The rates are identical to Four Seasons’ direct rates, and the perks are complimentary.
❓ Do Preferred Partner bookings count toward loyalty programs?
Four Seasons does not operate a points-based loyalty program. Instead, Preferred Partner serves as the loyalty benefit by delivering consistent VIP perks.
❓ Do the benefits apply to all room types?
Yes. Unlike some programs, Preferred Partner perks apply to every room category, from standard rooms to suites and private residences.
❓ Can I still earn credit card points if I book Preferred Partner?
Yes. You’ll pay directly at the hotel, so you’ll still earn points or miles on your preferred rewards credit card.
Final Thoughts
When comparing Four Seasons Preferred Partner vs. direct booking, the decision is simple: the rates are the same, but the benefits are significantly better through Preferred Partner. From complimentary breakfast to $100 credits and VIP recognition, booking this way ensures you’re making the most of your stay.