I was looking to visit NYC after being away since before the pandemic, and upon looking up point redemptions saw an unbelievable deal. The Clarion Park Avenue property near the Empire State Building is only 16,000 points during the September 16th to November 30th booking window, according to the hotel details page. But no matter what date I put in, it always comes up as sold out. It doesn't matter if I revert to a paid rates search, change the length of stay, etc., it always says sold out.

The most recent reviews are from August of last year, which I thought was odd. I mean, if the hotel is closed due to property renovations, COVID staffing issues, etc., why wouldn't there at least be something on the website saying so?

Well I thought I would just call the hotel directly and ask what the deal is, but the number is a (646) area code, which I thought was strange. The fax number is a (212) area code, which is what I thought all Manhattan phone numbers used. So with the wonky direct dial area code, I just decided to pass on making the call. It all seems so strange.

Does anyone here have any insight into what is going on with this property? I mean, there's several other Choice hotels in Manhattan, but that redemption rate for the Clarion, if true, is unbeatable.