IHG Hotels: Ever checked into a Holiday Inn Express, admired the view from an InterContinental, and browsed a Kimpton hotel’s lobby — all in the same year? You’ve stayed with IHG, whether you realised it or not.
IHG Hotels & Resorts is one of the world’s largest hotel companies. As of 30 June 2026, it operated 7,109 hotels (over 1 million rooms) across more than 100 countries, with another 2,385 hotels in its development pipeline. In the first half of 2026 alone, it opened a record 197 hotels — roughly one a day.
But numbers only tell part of the story. Here’s what actually matters when you’re picking a hotel.
What Makes IHG Different?
Unlike hotel chains that focus on one price level, IHG covers the full range. Its 21 brands are grouped into collections, so the same loyalty account and booking app work whether you’re splurging in the Maldives or grabbing a budget stopover near an airport.
Most IHG hotels are independently owned and operated under the company’s brands — which is why quality can vary between hotels, even within the same brand. Reading recent reviews of your specific property is always worth ten minutes.
The IHG Brand Map at a Glance
|
Collection |
Best for |
Known brands |
| Luxury & Lifestyle | Special occasions, design lovers | Six Senses, Regent, InterContinental, Kimpton, Hotel Indigo, Vignette |
| Premium | Business and upscale leisure | Crowne Plaza, voco, EVEN, HUALUXE, Ruby, Noted Collection |
| Essentials | Value and reliable basics | Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, avid, Garner |
| Suites & Resorts | Families, longer stays | Staybridge Suites, Atwell Suites, Candlewood Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Iberostar Beachfront Resorts |
Source: IHG’s current brand portfolio, IHG Development
A quick translation: Holiday Inn Express throws in breakfast and suits road-trippers. Staybridge Suites and Candlewood offer kitchenettes for week-long trips. Kimpton and Hotel Indigo deliver personality and local flavour. Six Senses sits at the very top — think wellness retreats and eye-watering rates.
IHG One Rewards: Is the Loyalty Programme Worth It?
IHG One Rewards is free to join and lets you earn and spend points at nearly all IHG hotels, including Six Senses (with some restrictions).
Practical perks include:
- Points on every stay, redeemable for free nights
- Elite status with better perks as you stay more
- Member rates on bookings made directly with IHG
The honest caveat: IHG points are generally valued lower per point than some rival programmes, so don’t expect luxury redemptions on a handful of nights. But for regular stays at mid-range brands like Holiday Inn Express, the free nights add up quickly.
How to Choose the Right IHG Hotel
- Match the brand to the trip. Quick overnight? Holiday Inn Express. Family holiday? Holiday Inn resorts or Staybridge Suites. Anniversary? InterContinental or Six Senses.
- Check who owns the hotel. Since most properties are franchised, the same brand can feel very different in two cities. Recent reviews beat brand reputation.
- Book direct if you’re a member. Member pricing and points only apply on direct bookings.
- Watch for conversion hotels. IHG has been converting existing properties to its brands — newly converted hotels can be excellent value while they build their reputation.
The Bottom Line
IHG’s strength is choice: 21 brands spanning everything from airport pit-stops to barefoot luxury, all connected by one loyalty programme. Match the brand to your trip, read the property reviews, and let the points stack up. Click here.
