We had booked a multi-day points stay at the Hilton Waikiki Beach and noticed today the price has dropped significantly. Given the various point bonuses, we figured it was now cost-effective to shell out cash.

We hit the change button on the reservation and noted we got a new reservation with a different number. We then realized the former reservation was still in effect.

Mrs. Fredd called Hilton. The rep looked and then explained there's a three-day cancellation policy at that property for stays - we're checking in tomorrow. Fine, replied Mrs. Fredd, but we're simply changing the method of payment and not trying to cancel the room we reserved.

Besides, she added, the Hilton website allowed her to change the reservation. There was no notice that changes were not allowed. The rep said she would have to check with the hotel for approval, and confirmed soon thereafter that they okayed it - no harm, no foul and we appreciate the rep following through to allow us to pay a thousand bucks, earn some points, and return the points to our account.

Like many others, we've changed payment methods from time to time, but this was a new wrinkle for us and certainly something we'll keep an eye on in future. Have others experienced this?