This (!!) succinctly captures why I've finally decided not to bother going out of my way (literally) to make Diamond/Globalist (ugh) for the 10th year in a row.
I kept trying to rationalize giving my continued business and loyalty to a brand/program that has overall been very good to me over the years but recent trips (most recently SE Asia) where Hyatt properties were either non-existent (most common) or priced irrationally higher than equal or better (IMO) properties along with the numerous
downgrades in benefits "enhancements" finally brought me to my senses.
Not gloating or smug at all - I was a genuine fan/huge supporter of GP and the vast majority of the properties (and staff) I visited worldwide. It'll be tough to walk away (and go against instinct to seek out -and often justify- Hyatt properties as first choice) but it simply isn't worth it for me and most of my friends/colleagues anymore. Just took me a while to finally accept it and start to move on. Time to finally "burn" instead of "earn", I guess.
Originally Posted by
Kacee
It is if it's a downgrade from what was previously offered, particularly in the context of what I (and I believe many others) perceive to be a change in tone at many Hyatts. When I first challenged to Diamond three years ago I was blown away with the warm reception we got as Hyatt Diamonds. Now it too often seems that properties grudgingly provide the bare minimum that the rules require (with many actively striving to evade those requirements).
Contrast with my recent Marriott and SPG experiences, where I've been suite upgraded despite the complete absence of any rule requiring the property do that. That's how you build loyalty. But it's a concept not much in evidence during most of my Hyatt stays over the past year or so. (Exceptions: GH HKG, Andaz 5th.)
Note that this discussion is mostly theoretical and I'm hopeful there's been no permanent change at GH HKG, as this property has been a beacon for exemplary service and going above and beyond what the rules require.