Even with Diamond benefits the balance has changed. The points rate seems to be loosely pegged at 2x the BAR, yielding a 0.5c per point. Taking the Hilton los Cabos where I stayed recently is now 70k (vs 40k before) points a night with a BAR of $350. But it can be had on Priceline for $150-$250. This was one of my faveorite points redemptions and cash rate properties but they have decreased the value of participating in Hilton Honors at the redemption rate IMO. I will probably Priceline my next stay and come out significantly ahead.