two years ago i had an award stay at the Royal Hawaiian and this past holiday i used an award stay at the westin sydney.

let's just say that starwood's internal systems are about as good as its web site. both front desk staffs tried to charge me until i produced printed confirmations that points were used.

the royal hawaiian was particularly confounded. even after confirming upon check-in that points were used, they still tried to charge me when i checked out as well.