I've found that the sheer number of points needed for nicer stays at a good value (for five nights) have been a deterrent for worrying with points at all.

It becomes a vicious circle. Once points seem unworkable, spend on Aspire card goes down. Stays drop and other hotels become more financially attractive.

The cash price at Hampton has increased for me to make other hotels more competitive and desirable knowing that the points rebate earned doesn't go that far.

Am I alone in my assessment or have others cooled on Hilton points as well?