Originally Posted by
JetAway
Stayed at the Andaz a couple of times in the early days and have visited Maui for years. If paying $1K for a hotel room then I'd go with the Four Seasons booked through AmEx FHR. Much better hotel than the Andaz-and it's a true luxury hotel. The Andaz has become an expensive, tired hotel resting on its reputation as the "new glamorous kid on the block." It needs to be re-thought and refreshed. But if using points it's a different matter, of course. Compromises are acceptable for the right redemption "deal."
While I agree that Andaz is not worth a grand per night, $1K won't get you a room at FS. Try $1300 to $1700 (plus taxes) for the base room.
On the broader point, we have been paying up for FS (and similar properties) recently, rather than making big compromises just to stay at a Hyatt or Marriott. It's worth considering using a travel agent when booking these properties, even though you'll lose out on the 5x MR points.