Do you guys know how they truly rate the Marriott Category Codes/Ranks (1-7) Technically, its the Rewards Category value.

My question is that almost EVERY hotel in NYC / Manhattan is considered at 7 ( or at least a 6).

How is that true?

I had heard that to be a Class 7 ... it had to be a resort, or have a water view, or a spa, or at least "n" restaurants, etc.

So how does a Courtyard or a Residence Inn quality as a Reward 7?

Any thoughts ... i assume this is 100% because the cost of living in NYC manhattan justifies that many points/dollars are necessary. But it sure sounds pretty crappy to get a Courtyard for the same amount of points i could get a JW Marriott in Ko Olina.