I have always booked the 1st night as a paid stay, then used my reward points for the following nights. That way they don't just see it all as a points stay, although I am told that we still get our Platinum "gifts" and upgrades whether 1 night is paid or not. I'll be staying on points (thanks to the Platinum 50 percent off points deal) in 2 weeks and I'm really hoping I get upgraded to a suite. I always get suite upgrades at Mexican resorts, so we'll see if Puerto Vallarta's Westin is as nice as Cancun's Starwoods and of course, the lovely Los Cabos Westin!

Good Luck!