I won’t just parrot what every other blogger has already said here, but suffice it to say that Hilton has announced a pretty major devaluation of the Hilton HHonors program effective March 28, 2013. The highlights:

  • A new award chart
  • 5th night free for elite members
  • Seasonal award pricing
  • And award prices for the highest category as high as 95,000 points per night

There’s been enough analysis of the meaning of this change all over the blogs, and I have nothing of great difference to add. My favorite comment was from New Girl in the Air who said “I’ll be re-evaluating this year’s hotel strategy – including whether or not it even still makes sense to stick with chain hotels for my personal needs.” That speaks to me. I’ve dithered with Marriott again this year after a long hiatus, and frankly, the hotel stays have been great, which is just as I expected. Marriott Rewards is a bit of a snoozer though. Starwood continues to be my favorite of the big hotel loyalty programs, but Kimpton and their InTouch program are starting to call my name. Any outfit that offers an evening hosted wine hour is one I’m likely to get along with.

-MJ, February 19, 2013