Every year, hotel brands revalue their hotel properties on award charts for award redemptions. During the pandemic, we had a minor reprieve from some major devaluations. But today, Hyatt just announced category changes that will go into effect March 28, 2023. You can see all of the changes here.
In total, 214 properties are increasing in category and will cost more points. 158 properties are decreasing in category and will cost fewer points.
You can book Hyatt award stays up to 13 months out. If you see a property you want to book that is about to go up, book it before March 28, 2023. If you already have a stay booked in a property that is going down, your price will be adjusted down after March 28.
Notable Moves to Higher Categories
I took a look at the list of hotels going up and down. A few stand out for me that are the biggest disappointments:
- Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico: Was 15,000, now 20,000 and unavailable to use credit card free night certificate redemptions. Several readers have used free nights at this property, and it was on my list.
- Chicago Athletic Association: Also going from 15,000 to 20,000 and ineligible for free night certificates
- Andaz Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo and Tabacon Thermal Resort in Costa Rica: Both were 20,000, moving to 25,000
- Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana Dominion Republic: Moving from 25,000 to 40,000!
- Hyatt Ziva Cancun: Also moving from 25,000 to 40,000
Many of the properties moving to higher categories are in California, Hawaii and Mexico/Caribbean. The all-inclusive resorts are becoming much more expensive on points.
While I do see some hotels going down by category, I’m not overly excited about any of them.
Readers, what do you think of these changes? Are you planning to lock in lower rates before March 28?
Author: Nancy
Nancy lives near Dallas, Texas, with her husband and three kids. Her favorite vacations include the beach, cruising and everything Disney.
Super sad day. We love the Hyatt Zilara in Mexico. That’s a steep jump.
@Jennifer Yes, those properties have huge jumps! I was hoping to book Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana someday, but not at that price.
This is a bummer! we are a couple of hours away from Chicago and I’ve been meaning to book the Chicago Athletic Association!
Also, a request: Can you and Leana do a “Best Hyatt properties” post where you each share your favorites and why? Would love to see where you have similarities and differences.
@cheapblackdad You have seriously read my mind! I was just thinking about it, especially in light of these latest changes. Will try to do one on my end maybe next week. The good news is, you have some time to lock in a few redemptions.
@Cheapblackdad It’s been a while since we’ve heard from you! There’s still time for you to book the Chicago Athletic Association. Or, you can do what I’m doing and book the Hyatt Regency Chicago nearby. We can definitely share our favorite Hyatt properties soon.