Hyatt loyalists, mark your calendars. The moment you’ve been anticipating – and perhaps dreading – has a firm date: May 20th at 9 a.m. EDT. This is when a significant shift in the World of Hyatt award system takes effect, altering how you redeem points for stays worldwide.
The core of the change lies in a dramatic expansion of the award chart’s pricing structure. While hotels will still fall into categories 1 through 8, each category will now boast five distinct pricing tiers, a leap from the previous three. Early indications suggest this will translate to higher point costs for many coveted properties.
On that May 20th date, 136 Hyatt hotels and resorts will experience a category adjustment. A substantial 112 will move *up* in category, requiring more points for a future stay. However, 24 properties will see a decrease, offering a potential opportunity for savvy travelers.
Despite these changes, a reassuring note: the vast majority – over 90% – of Hyatt properties will remain in their current category. Hyatt anticipates this trend of minimal category adjustments will continue as the new system settles in.
Crucially, any free night or Points + Cash bookings made *before* May 20th at 9 a.m. EDT will be honored at the current award rates, regardless of how far into the future your stay may be. This provides a window of opportunity to lock in rates before the changes hit.
Furthermore, if you already have a booking at a property that’s moving to a lower category, you’re in luck. Hyatt will issue a one-time refund of the point difference, credited to your account starting on May 20th. It’s a rare instance of a positive outcome from a system overhaul.
The full impact of the five-tiered pricing structure remains to be seen. While the category shifts offer a clear picture, the nuanced changes within each category will require careful examination. Understanding these new tiers is key to maximizing your point value.
The advice is clear: if you have upcoming stays in mind, particularly at properties slated to move up a category, secure your bookings before the May 20th deadline. However, be aware that any modifications made to reservations *after* that date will be subject to the new award chart.
This isn’t simply a category shuffle; it’s a fundamental restructuring of the World of Hyatt award system. Understanding these changes is paramount for anyone hoping to continue enjoying rewarding travel experiences with Hyatt.
