Originally Posted by
BlueZebra
No. Have stayed there 10 or 12 times over the last 15 years. A deposit has been taken each and every time, with award stays, cash and points stays, and with standard bookings. As to other hotels, that varies by hotel, and really isn't a relevant comparison, as GW can do it if they so choose. I find it happens occasionally, but far from commonly, and have stayed in lots of resorts and hotels of all levels..
I have an upcoming reward stay this March that I booked last May. No deposit was taken.