As posted on Onemileatatatime blog, Hyatt program has just announced its latest category adjustments for 2025. You can see all the details via this link You have to book by March 25th to lock in the old pricing.
This was fully expected, as Hyatt makes these changes every year around February or March. There were rumors that the program would finally implement dynamic awards, which would mostly destroy value during high season, especially for high-end properties. I honestly didn’t believe it would happen and the main reason is Hilton program in its current form.
I think as long as the latter allows to redeem free night certificates towards most properties including SLH, Hyatt will need to stay competitive. Since Hyatt lacks the footprint of the bigger chains, a move to revenue-based award pricing would be extremely risky.
It may still happen, but I think the danger is overblown for now. On to the award chart changes. They don’t look terrible to me, but that’s mostly because the previous years were downright brutal. Hyatt simply can’t keep devaluing the program at this rate. Again, you can thank Hilton for that.
I’m sad that one of our favorite properties Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa will become a Category 6 (see my review). But to be honest, I’m surprised it took that long. This is an incredible value for families and if you’ve been on the fence, I recommend booking it sooner rather than later. Btw, the private island was just reopened, though the next hurricane may damage it yet again. Andaz Costa Rica (see my review) will become a Cat. 8, which seems way too high to me. I liked it a lot, but I’m not sure it justifies this rate.
I’m happy to see that Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress will remain a Category 4 (see my review). Another positive: there will now be a beach property in Miami bookable via credit card certificates, although the reviews are mixed. But hey, a beach is a beach. Overall, I consider the latest changes to be a non-event. I don’t really hoard Hyatt currency and currently have a small balance of 40k points. I’m debating whether to burn it on Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa as a last hoorah.
How about you?
Author: Leana
Leana is the founder of Miles For Family. She enjoys beach vacations and visiting her family in Europe. Originally from Belarus, Leana resides in central Florida with her husband and two children.
@Tania Glad you took advantage of the old pricing! I’ve heard good things about Baha Mar resort, but never got a chance to visit. Oh well. We are very lucky, all things considered. Andaz Costa Rica is a stellar property, but not at this new price.
I am glad I had the opportunity to visit the Hyatt Baha Mar with cat 4 certificate and not a lot of points. And I am happy Grand Cypress is still cat 4. We love the pool and the hotel grounds.