It's that time of year again! Starwood has announced the majority of their 2008 category changes that will take effect on March 4, 2008.

I've update my Google Earth mapping files as follows:
In the main files grouped by Category or by Nation, the placemarks are all still numbered as the current category. If the category is changing on March 4, 2008, the name of the property is in UPPERCASE and the new, upcoming category number is found before and after this name in parenthesis. For example, here is a Cat4 property that will change:
(5)THE WESTIN RESORT & SPA, WHISTLER(5)

I've also added a new mapping file that contains ONLY the properties that will change categories. Again, the placemarks themselves are the CURRENT categories.

For each property that is changing, it is also noted in the property description along with a link to the official SPG list of upcoming changes. (see below)

Remember that you can book awards under the OLD category until the changes take place -- even if your stay begins AFTER March 4. But if you later wish to make changes to your reservation after the new categories take effect, your changes will be priced under the NEW category. (For example, changing the date of arrival or length of stay. This probably also includes changes to the room category if you later choose to change to a special award type for a confirmed upgrade.)

For more information, please also see the new Sticky thread, 2008 SPG Category Adjustments, and the official list of changes from SPG.

Tip:
If using more than one of my files, turn off the others while you use one. To turn all or parts of a file off, uncheck it in the "Places" section of Google Earth (usually found on the left side).