Hi everyone! We are looking to book a five-night award trip (to maximize the fifth night free) at one of the future Marriott Category 8 hotels--probably either the St. Regis Princeville or the St. Regis Punta Mita. This will be our first big redemption since we took up the points and miles hobby about a year ago. The only trouble is, we are pretty confused about how and when to book our stay. I am sure everyone in this group will find it shocking that an award redemption in the new combined SPG/Marriott program could be unclear, but alas…

We are looking to travel in sometime between April and June 2019. It is our understanding that properties that are slated to become Category 8 will be available to book at the Category 7 standard rate, beginning August 18, and lasting until “sometime” (not yet announced) in 2019. But does that also apply to stays? In other words, if we want to travel in April-June 2019, would we still be able to get the Category 8 hotel for the current Category 7 rate? When would we need to book the reservation?

Alternatively, if it is not possible to book at the current Category 7 rates for a stay at a future Category 8 hotel in April-June 2019, would we be able to book now for a stay in January 2019? How/when would we need to book?

Thank you in advance for your help!