For travellers loyal to a particular brand, the choice of programme is really a choice of hotel family. Two of the most respected are Mandarin Oriental's Fan Club and Four Seasons Preferred Partner. Both are invitation-only advisor programmes; both deliver the standard suite of VIP benefits. The differences are in the details.
Four Seasons Preferred Partner
FSPP is prized for its upgrade priority — reportedly the highest of any Four Seasons booking channel — plus daily breakfast for two, priority early check-in and late check-out, and VIP recognition. Notably, its benefits generally apply even on promotional and package rates.
Mandarin Oriental Fan Club
The Fan Club offers daily breakfast for two, a room upgrade on arrival subject to availability, early check-in and late check-out, a personalised welcome amenity — and, distinctively, a dining or spa credit that can reach up to the equivalent of US$200 per stay, depending on the property.
Which wins?
Favour Four Seasons for upgrade priority; favour Mandarin Oriental for the larger on-property credit.
In truth, the better programme is the one attached to the hotel you want. Both book at the same rate as direct and both add real value. We hold both affiliations — see Four Seasons Preferred and Mandarin Oriental Fan Club — and can advise per property.