Park Hyatt New York. It was my best because it was my first- first award stay from my first foray into the world of points-earning credit cards.

I was so nervous. I thought the doorman would take one look at me and shoo me away.

The hallways felt like a museum. After a dip in the pool, the dressing room had a little dryer to spin your swimsuit in. For my choice of welcome “gift” (points, signature drink in the bar, and something else), I took two cards for drinks. I still have the other card 5 years later.

I also like how un-flashy the entrance was. Weeks later, I emailed the hotel to ask for make and model of their hair dryer- which performed really well. I thought they would send me one with their compliments, nyaha. They didn’t, but I got a very prompt, very courteous reply with requested information.

There’s been other Hyatt stays acquired on points since then, but nothing has bested the first.