Reminds me of the early days of points redemption at Hilton Rangali.
Basically no awards available, randomly 2 rooms bookable via DiamondDesk/Diamond Force.
Availability became widely open, after negotiating a special contract about reimbursement on award stays.
Independent from occupancy level, they get high percentage of the announced rates. Even the service charge is covered by Hilton.
Thatīs the Rangali business model, releasing all Beach and meanwhile Water Villas, even at festive season. Guests willing to pay high upgrade charges, spending a lot for special dinners ....
Would be interesting to know, how the Waldorf will be reimbursed on awards.
Management probably realized, that they got more award bookings than paid bookings. Maybe soon we will see introduction of new room categories. 2 King/Queen Beach Villa as standard room, all the others upraded to Deluxe/Superior as premium reward
