Originally Posted by
moretimeoffguy
Wow, it worked! I've got a reservation. Thanks so much! :-) The next hurdle to jump--trying to get my reservation converted from the rate I'm booked at to the conference rate. Strangely, the Conference web page for Host Hotels doesn't list any codes. Although rooms have certainly been released. You just call and say you're attending the Conference is my understanding, based on the advice of a friend who both regularly attends the Conference and stays at this particular property each time.
Any advice on how to get the Conference rate if nothing's currently available at that rate? Would I call Hyatt Gold Passport Customer Service? Or the Property directly? What's the best tactic here?
Thanks again so much. You've been hugely helpful.
The elite room guarantee is a good news/bad news benefit. Indeed you can get a room at a sold out property, but the prices are usually quite high. You won't be able to convert the current reservation to a lower rate. Properties know this benefit could cost them dearly, since - by accepting your reservation at a fully booked property - they know they may have to 'walk' another guest to another property.
IME, people book well in advance for conventions & properties block lots of rooms to accommodate the convention, then close to the actual event, people cancel, etc... so I would keep the current, pricey room and continue to monitor availability, etc.. to see if prices drop/regular rooms open up. If they don't, then you can choose to pay the guaranteed rate, or cancel the room the stay further afield.