Could Be Worse: Hyatt Changes for 2020

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Today, World of Hyatt announced category changes for some of its properties. This announcement comes on the heels of the recent Marriott category changes.

In total, 217 properties are changing categories. 117 are increasing by one category, and 100 are decreasing by a category. You can see the entire list here. These changes go info effect March 22, 2020.

a group of kids looking out a window — Rooftop view of Manhattan at Hyatt Place Flushing/LaGuardia

Notable Category Changes that Affect Family Travel

The Hyatt Place across from Universal Orlando Resort is decreasing from a Category 3 to a Category 2. Paying 8000 points for a hotel across from Universal is a great deal.

Hyatt Place San Antonio Riverwalk is also decreasing from a Category 3 to a Category 2. That’s a great value for families visiting my favorite city in Texas. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa remains unchanged, so renewal certs can still be used at this property.

Grand Hyatt Seattle is moving from a Category 5 to a Category 4, making is available for renewal certs.

On the flip side, Hyatt Place Flushing/LaGuardia Airport is increasing from a Category 3 to a Category 4. My family stayed there a few years ago for our New York City trip. Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is also increasing from a Category 3 to a Category 4. This hurts families who use it as an overnight before or after a Disney World or Disney Cruise vacation.

Andaz Papagayo is increasing AGAIN this year after an increase next year. It will now cost 25,000 points a night. It’s probably worth that much based on photos and reviews.

a river running through a city — San Antonio Riverwalk. Photo by vincent law on Unsplash

Other Changes Coming to Hyatt

Peak and off-peak award pricing will also start on March 22, 2020. This was previously announced back in December.
Hyatt added another 48 hotels to the SLH partnership that are now redeemable on points
Points + Cash rates are changing to be a range of 30%-50% of the cash rate plus points. This is a good thing, as the Points + Cash rates have not been a good value since the change last year.

What do you think of these changes? Are there any hotel category changes that make you especially excited or disappointed?

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