It'll be interesting to see whether Hyatt can re-position itself as a luxury brand, leaving behind the kinds of generous promos we've received in the past. The problem is that Hyatts are generally 4-star at best: better than the average Hilton, but not in the same class as the true luxury chains. There can be bad service even at the flagship Park Hyatt brand - take the recent criticism of Beaver Creek. And there are quite a few tired atrium hotels that are 30-year throwbacks.

Speaking for myself, I'm not interested in such extras as $100-plus spa treatments that Hyatt is pushing, or massage cushions in the room. If I really wanted an occasional spa experience, I'd stay at a one-of-a-kind resort with historic character, not a business hotel chain. It seems like a lot of guests agree with me, to judge from the deserted spa at Lake Tahoe a couple of weeks ago.

I do want value for money, and that means promos to offset the high average room rates at Hyatt. Plus a lot more partner tie-ins to offset the very limited number of properties - starting with the ability to earn stay credits at Hyatt's very own limited-service brands of Hawthorn and AmeriSuites.