Yes, I’ve also gotten some vouchers for crappy hotels a distance from the airport. Why I now book my own hotel. And with receipt AA has typically reimbursed for food up to value of voucher otherwise due.

For travel when not covered by business travel policy or insurance, then hotel points can be of good value. Especially those category capped certs that aren’t good for much beyond airport locations. And also book inflight rather than waiting until you land and find everything sold out.