I have stayed at many 4+ star hotels through 3rd party websites. I have an upcoming reservation for the 4th - 6th of October.
After the 3rd party booking I call the hotel directly to pay separately for suites / upgrades / acommodations etc, and with each prior hotel have been greeted kindly and have been met with the ability to upgrade or make requests.
With Elara, this is the first time I have been treated as though I dont belong at the hotel due to the 3rd party booking and also the first time that I was informed that they have no alternate options for 3rd party bookings. While the lack of options is not preferred it is the rude customer service that was most shocking.
I will update my review either during or after my stay.
The hiltons have a good reputation, so far I havent seen it and have lost a lot of excitement for this trip.