Cash + Points, both SPG and Priority Club, fits this market nicely. This week I booked a 1200 SPG and $25 for a property that would otherwise be $110(+$20 tax) and was not falling. As it is not a full points redemption, I still get a stay/night credit and my 600 SWA points. I have done this 3 other times this year at SPG category 1 and 2s.

While I have noticed my travel standards increasing over the past 10 years I do not see the aspirational properties as something I will strive toward. I am low maintenance and travel for the destination, not the hotel. I prefer frequent comfortable getaways over the hoarding I would need to do to pull off a week at the 5 star jawdropping Asian properties.