UMVA has learned that a recent bonus points promotion from World of Hyatt allowed travelers to earn 3,000 bonus points for every three nights stayed at an eligible hotel, sparking a journey to discover new destinations and experiences.
For some, the allure of luxury travel lies in the opulent hotel upgrades and business-class flights, but for others, like myself, it's about exploring the world and taking advantage of points and miles to make it happen. Growing up in a state with natural splendor, I learned to appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature and the freedom to explore.
Instead of having a destination in mind, I let promotions like Hyatt's guide my travels. I visited Southern California, earning two eligible nights at the Hyatt Regency Orange County, and was surprised with a spacious suite upgrade overlooking the atrium lobby.
Back home, I realized I only needed one more night to receive bonus points and considered Hyatt properties around New York City for a quick staycation. However, I thought about traveling within the state to see nature, and Niagara Falls came to mind.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that a newly renovated Hyatt hotel on the Canadian side of the falls had just opened, transitioning from an out-of-fashion Embassy Suites into an airy and welcoming Hyatt Regency. I immediately made plans, as the end date for the bonus points promo was fast approaching.
Getting to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls was fairly simple – even without a car. I flew via premium economy from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport to Buffalo Niagara International Airport and took a 30- to 40-minute Uber ride directly to the American side of the falls.
The scenic mile to the hotel, situated right next to the biggest and most jaw-dropping portion of the falls, is walkable, but beware of a very large hill on the way. I learned this the hard way, so if trekking with a rolling suitcase isn't your vibe, you can call another Uber or hop on the easy-to-use public bus.
Checking into the Hyatt Regency Niagara Falls Fallsview, I found a hotel that felt decidedly like it belonged in Niagara Falls. The property, standing 42 stories tall and visible for miles, had a certain Las Vegas-esque spectacle to it, dampened only by the dreary offseason.
My room, which I upgraded to a suite on a high floor with a better view of Horseshoe Falls and a Jacuzzi tub, was the most memorable view I've ever woken up next to. The queen-size bed was incredibly comfortable, and the Jacuzzi tub made for a perfectly cozy night in with a bottle of wine.
Though I only needed one qualifying night for my bonus points, I chose to stay two nights so I could properly visit the falls and see more of its surrounding area. All in, my two-night stay cost 632.16 Canadian dollars.
Niagara Falls is a true natural wonder, and getting to see it in person is something I'll never forget. At the end of this bonus points challenge, I added 7,300 points to my Hyatt account, but perhaps the best part of it all was that I gained a ton of memories I'll never forget.
If you're also a newbie to points and miles, bonus challenges are a great way to expedite and maximize your points and miles as you travel. With the right strategy and a bit of luck, you can turn your travels into unforgettable experiences.
