Originally Posted by
tcook052
The rates I was seeing are the same or higher well into the New Year so they aren't ultra expensive last minute rack rates. I also feel using past sale rates as a barometer of future pricing is equally as unfair a measure as past pricing does not necessarily indicate future savings though that's only MHO.
You are absolutely right.
But the rates I see between August and December are $348/nt - Marriott Rewards Member Exclusive Offer, includes 500 Bonus Points per night. I am guessing everyone in this forum qualifies for that rate. Even dates with shorter lead times like July have rates for MR rates of $365. Dates even closer have standard rates of $299 in June; specifically June 8-13 if anyone cares to check.
As far as getting the best bang for ones points and the best rate, I plan my travel way in advance booking hotels 50 weeks out which in and of itself quite often lands really good rates. I then check future reservations a few times a week. Having gone to Hawaii at least once a year for the past 10+ years, Hawaii is notorious for offering specials. But they will show up one day and be gone the next. I usually end up changing Hawaii reservations 3 or 4 times. Unlike Hong Kong properties which rarely change their rates (Hong Kong JW in particular). Europe fluctuates a lot and some great rates can be found from time to time in London, and OK rates can sometimes be found in Rome. Haven't seen great rates in Paris though.