Nov 23, 2015, 10:34 pm
Last edit by: solewalker
On Thursday, November 19 at 12:43 PM EST, @HyattConcierge sent the following tweet via the Twitter social media platform:
"Looking for a new loyalty program? DM us and let’s talk."
12:43 PM EST - https://twitter.com/HyattConcierge/status/667397894987767808
2:55 PM EST - https://twitter.com/HyattConcierge/status/667431140815450112
Q: What was offered by Hyatt Gold Passport?
A: Hyatt Gold Passport offered a status match for qualifying elite status in qualifying hotel loyalty programs to Hyatt Gold Passport Diamond. This status level remains valid through the end of February 2017.
Q: Which hotel loyalty programs? Which elite status level?
A: As of Friday, November 20 at 12:00 PM EST, it appears that requests with proof of elite status with almost any hotel loyalty program were matched to Hyatt Gold Passport Diamond. It has been reported that Marriott Rewards Gold, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) Gold, Hilton HHonors Gold, and others were matched to Hyatt Diamond.
After Friday, November 20 at 12:00 PM EST, it appears that only some top-tier elite status level in some hotel loyalty programs were being matched, for example Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) Platinum. There is no supporting evidence that any sort of cut-off date/time was implemented in actual denials. However, this is most likely due to the fact that requests made after the cut-off date/time have not yet been processed (refer to the "How long will it take" question below).
There are a number of reports that indicate being told by Hyatt representatives that there was a cut-off date/time and that the current status match is for SPG Platinum members only.
It seems there have been varied reports around what elite status and hotel loyalty program qualified, which ones didn't qualify, which level of Hyatt Gold Password was matched to, etc. More information should be available on November 24 when it is expected that the cut-off date/time is processed and the wiki will be updated as we have some additional reports roll in.
As always, YMMV.
Q: How does this differ from the previous Diamond Status Challenge or Diamond Fast Track offers?
A: The requirements for the current status match were: 1) proof of elite status with a qualifying hotel loyalty program and 2) proof of ONE stay during this calendar year. This is an outright status match not a status challenge.
Q: How long will it take for the status match to be applied?
A: As of November 24 at 1:30 AM EST, it appears that they have reviewed requests made up to around November 20 at 11:30 AM EST. The initial response was "within 48 hours," but that has since been extended to "within 14 days." Based on reports, it appears that requests are being processed on the weekends and late into the evenings (author note: my status match was processed at 1:30 AM EST).
Q: If I am matched to Hyatt Gold Passport Diamond level, will I receive the Diamond Suite Upgrade awards?
A: Yes. As with any Diamond member, you will receive four DSU awards within one to two business days. These will expire at the end of February 2016. You can attach these to future reservations - past February 2016 - as long as they are used prior to their expiration - changes to the reservation may result in the loss of the expired DSU though. You will receive an additional four DSU awards next year for use by early March 2016 which will expire February 28, 2017. This is no different than any other Diamond member.
Q: If I currently have Diamond status, will Hyatt extend my status an additional year?
A: No. Hyatt is not offering extensions on existing Diamond status. Once again, this is based on reports from the community, so YMMV. Anything is possible if you ask; nothing is possible if you do not ask.
Q: If I previously attained Diamond level status through a Diamond Status Challenge or Diamond Fast Track offer, am I eligible for the current status match offer?
A: As long as you are not currently a Diamond member and meet the other qualifications, it appears you will be eligible for this offer. Previous status challenges should not affect this offer.
Q: Why would Hyatt make this kind of offer?
A: While the reasons can only be discussed as hypothetical situations, the recently announced acquisition of Starwood Hotels by Marriott Hotels and the subsequent disgruntled reaction from many SPG elite members most likely played a role. However, this is unconfirmed and merely speculation.
Q: I missed this promotion before. Is this promotion still active? If so, how do I request a status match?
A: At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the promotion has ended. To request the status match, email [email protected] with a screenshot of 1) proof of your current elite status level with a competing hotel loyalty program AND 2) proof of at least one stay during the current calendar year AND 3) your Hyatt GP membership number.
NOTE: It appears that only new requests from SPG Platinum members will receive the Diamond status match. This does not mean you should not try if you have some other type of status, but you should expect the request to be declined. Again, "YMMV" applies.
"Looking for a new loyalty program? DM us and let’s talk."
12:43 PM EST - https://twitter.com/HyattConcierge/status/667397894987767808
2:55 PM EST - https://twitter.com/HyattConcierge/status/667431140815450112
Q: What was offered by Hyatt Gold Passport?
A: Hyatt Gold Passport offered a status match for qualifying elite status in qualifying hotel loyalty programs to Hyatt Gold Passport Diamond. This status level remains valid through the end of February 2017.
Q: Which hotel loyalty programs? Which elite status level?
A: As of Friday, November 20 at 12:00 PM EST, it appears that requests with proof of elite status with almost any hotel loyalty program were matched to Hyatt Gold Passport Diamond. It has been reported that Marriott Rewards Gold, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) Gold, Hilton HHonors Gold, and others were matched to Hyatt Diamond.
After Friday, November 20 at 12:00 PM EST, it appears that only some top-tier elite status level in some hotel loyalty programs were being matched, for example Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) Platinum. There is no supporting evidence that any sort of cut-off date/time was implemented in actual denials. However, this is most likely due to the fact that requests made after the cut-off date/time have not yet been processed (refer to the "How long will it take" question below).
There are a number of reports that indicate being told by Hyatt representatives that there was a cut-off date/time and that the current status match is for SPG Platinum members only.
It seems there have been varied reports around what elite status and hotel loyalty program qualified, which ones didn't qualify, which level of Hyatt Gold Password was matched to, etc. More information should be available on November 24 when it is expected that the cut-off date/time is processed and the wiki will be updated as we have some additional reports roll in.
As always, YMMV.
Q: How does this differ from the previous Diamond Status Challenge or Diamond Fast Track offers?
A: The requirements for the current status match were: 1) proof of elite status with a qualifying hotel loyalty program and 2) proof of ONE stay during this calendar year. This is an outright status match not a status challenge.
Q: How long will it take for the status match to be applied?
A: As of November 24 at 1:30 AM EST, it appears that they have reviewed requests made up to around November 20 at 11:30 AM EST. The initial response was "within 48 hours," but that has since been extended to "within 14 days." Based on reports, it appears that requests are being processed on the weekends and late into the evenings (author note: my status match was processed at 1:30 AM EST).
Q: If I am matched to Hyatt Gold Passport Diamond level, will I receive the Diamond Suite Upgrade awards?
A: Yes. As with any Diamond member, you will receive four DSU awards within one to two business days. These will expire at the end of February 2016. You can attach these to future reservations - past February 2016 - as long as they are used prior to their expiration - changes to the reservation may result in the loss of the expired DSU though. You will receive an additional four DSU awards next year for use by early March 2016 which will expire February 28, 2017. This is no different than any other Diamond member.
Q: If I currently have Diamond status, will Hyatt extend my status an additional year?
A: No. Hyatt is not offering extensions on existing Diamond status. Once again, this is based on reports from the community, so YMMV. Anything is possible if you ask; nothing is possible if you do not ask.
Q: If I previously attained Diamond level status through a Diamond Status Challenge or Diamond Fast Track offer, am I eligible for the current status match offer?
A: As long as you are not currently a Diamond member and meet the other qualifications, it appears you will be eligible for this offer. Previous status challenges should not affect this offer.
Q: Why would Hyatt make this kind of offer?
A: While the reasons can only be discussed as hypothetical situations, the recently announced acquisition of Starwood Hotels by Marriott Hotels and the subsequent disgruntled reaction from many SPG elite members most likely played a role. However, this is unconfirmed and merely speculation.
Q: I missed this promotion before. Is this promotion still active? If so, how do I request a status match?
A: At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the promotion has ended. To request the status match, email [email protected] with a screenshot of 1) proof of your current elite status level with a competing hotel loyalty program AND 2) proof of at least one stay during the current calendar year AND 3) your Hyatt GP membership number.
NOTE: It appears that only new requests from SPG Platinum members will receive the Diamond status match. This does not mean you should not try if you have some other type of status, but you should expect the request to be declined. Again, "YMMV" applies.
Hyatt Doing Status Matches on Twitter! (11/19/15)
Mar 31, 2016, 7:38 am
#1156
Join Date: Oct 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist No More..., Hyatt Explorist, Hilton Diamond, SPG Platinum, Marriott Platinum
Posts: 4,375
I matched late last year after the Hyatt fail, and understood DM was valid till 2017. But I got this email - your tier status is about to change:
Thanks for continuing to travel with us - we're always happy to have you! Your 2015 travel has earned you Gold status, which goes into effect April 1, 2016.
Anyone else got this?
Thanks for continuing to travel with us - we're always happy to have you! Your 2015 travel has earned you Gold status, which goes into effect April 1, 2016.
Anyone else got this?
Mar 31, 2016, 7:46 am
#1157
FlyerTalk Evangelist, Ambassador: World of Hyatt
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: NJ
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, Fairmont Lifetime Plat, UA Silver, dirt elsewhere
Posts: 46,919
Hyatt does have gold. It's the general member designation. The next level is plat.
My husband is a gold.
My husband is a gold.
Mar 31, 2016, 7:47 am
#1158
FlyerTalk Evangelist, Ambassador: World of Hyatt
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: NJ
Programs: Hyatt Globalist, Fairmont Lifetime Plat, UA Silver, dirt elsewhere
Posts: 46,919
I matched late last year after the Hyatt fail, and understood DM was valid till 2017. But I got this email - your tier status is about to change:
Thanks for continuing to travel with us - we're always happy to have you! Your 2015 travel has earned you Gold status, which goes into effect April 1, 2016.
Anyone else got this?
Thanks for continuing to travel with us - we're always happy to have you! Your 2015 travel has earned you Gold status, which goes into effect April 1, 2016.
Anyone else got this?
It is possible they housecleaned the statuses that were given in error.
Mar 31, 2016, 8:23 am
#1159
Join Date: Oct 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist No More..., Hyatt Explorist, Hilton Diamond, SPG Platinum, Marriott Platinum
Posts: 4,375
Apr 6, 2016, 2:50 pm
#1162
Join Date: Oct 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist No More..., Hyatt Explorist, Hilton Diamond, SPG Platinum, Marriott Platinum
Posts: 4,375
Aug 18, 2016, 11:46 am
#1163
Join Date: Aug 2012
Posts: 544
So, we're about 9 months out on the Thanksgiving 2015 match story, and I'd say that at least in my case, Hyatt made a good choice.
I'm a middling credit card gamer -- viewed as intense and expert among my friends, but in the minor leagues compared to the hardcore FTers. I'd done all the major airline miles cards for the big sign up bonuses, but hadn't really gotten into hotels, both because I don't travel much for work and because when we travel for vacation I always did fine finding well-priced, interesting, boutique-y places. B&Bs, well-reviewed local non-chains, occasional AirB&B or apartments. I shied away somewhat from the "dull" experience of big chains.
After going through most of the airline cards, I opened an IHG card for big sign up bonus, low fee and free annual night anywhere. So, I had Platinum IHG status (Spire in fact, due to some screw up in my favor), when the SPG/Marriott news was announced and Hyatt started the match. I happened to see the news in time, and got my Diamond status. Did the same with Hilton. So, I'm exactly the type of "fake" Diamond every one was worried about.
Fast forward to this year. I haven't travelled enough to keep Diamond past 2/'17, but I've used a few of my DSUs and have a couple more booked. I've enjoyed the Hyatts we've been to, and the lounges, and the upgrades (both DSU and otherwise). I've focused on Hyatt over Hilton because I feel like there's just more "there" there, but Hilton experiences have been good too, though more limited. Going forward, I've decided I like being a hotel status person, or more to the point maybe, playing the whole hotel status process. For people who like maximizing credit card rewards, airline FF redemption value, etc, hotels is just one more game to play and enjoy. I still probably will be overpaying in terms of dollar-to-experience ratio by staying at Hyatts rather than going completely ad hoc, but I've found I like the management and noodling/day-dreaming about how best to acquire/preserve/use my status.
In other words, Hyatt's match turned a non-Hyatt (non-chain hotel period) person into someone who is likely to chase 25 or 50 in 2107 and maybe beyond. At least from me, they've earned significant revenue they would not have earned otherwise, at very little cost to them or degradation to the experience of other Diamond guests. Probably most of the fake Diamonds will wash out after this year, but some of us may now want to become real Diamonds.
I'm a middling credit card gamer -- viewed as intense and expert among my friends, but in the minor leagues compared to the hardcore FTers. I'd done all the major airline miles cards for the big sign up bonuses, but hadn't really gotten into hotels, both because I don't travel much for work and because when we travel for vacation I always did fine finding well-priced, interesting, boutique-y places. B&Bs, well-reviewed local non-chains, occasional AirB&B or apartments. I shied away somewhat from the "dull" experience of big chains.
After going through most of the airline cards, I opened an IHG card for big sign up bonus, low fee and free annual night anywhere. So, I had Platinum IHG status (Spire in fact, due to some screw up in my favor), when the SPG/Marriott news was announced and Hyatt started the match. I happened to see the news in time, and got my Diamond status. Did the same with Hilton. So, I'm exactly the type of "fake" Diamond every one was worried about.
Fast forward to this year. I haven't travelled enough to keep Diamond past 2/'17, but I've used a few of my DSUs and have a couple more booked. I've enjoyed the Hyatts we've been to, and the lounges, and the upgrades (both DSU and otherwise). I've focused on Hyatt over Hilton because I feel like there's just more "there" there, but Hilton experiences have been good too, though more limited. Going forward, I've decided I like being a hotel status person, or more to the point maybe, playing the whole hotel status process. For people who like maximizing credit card rewards, airline FF redemption value, etc, hotels is just one more game to play and enjoy. I still probably will be overpaying in terms of dollar-to-experience ratio by staying at Hyatts rather than going completely ad hoc, but I've found I like the management and noodling/day-dreaming about how best to acquire/preserve/use my status.
In other words, Hyatt's match turned a non-Hyatt (non-chain hotel period) person into someone who is likely to chase 25 or 50 in 2107 and maybe beyond. At least from me, they've earned significant revenue they would not have earned otherwise, at very little cost to them or degradation to the experience of other Diamond guests. Probably most of the fake Diamonds will wash out after this year, but some of us may now want to become real Diamonds.
Aug 18, 2016, 12:13 pm
#1164
Join Date: Oct 2013
Programs: Hyatt Globalist No More..., Hyatt Explorist, Hilton Diamond, SPG Platinum, Marriott Platinum
Posts: 4,375
I second your feelings rbw5t. I never carried about hotel loyalty. I'd rather find the best priceline or hotwire secret deal that I could. Then when Hyatt did the Diamond challenge last year, I jumped on board and haven't regretted it once. Hyatt has turned me onto this loyalty thing and I find myself choosing Hyatt over any other hotel when given the choice. This includes paying more than I would have elsewhere. The perks outweigh the extra cost. I am actually in the midst of trying to requalify this year on stays so Hyatt made the right decision in my opinion. Like you said though, by next March, most of these "other Diamonds" will have washed away and it will be back to normal.
Aug 18, 2016, 1:07 pm
#1165
Join Date: Feb 2000
Location: NJ
Programs: UA LTG, AA LTG, Bonvoy LTP, IHG Plat, LHW Sterling
Posts: 2,405
... In other words, Hyatt's match turned a non-Hyatt (non-chain hotel period) person into someone who is likely to chase 25 or 50 in 2107 and maybe beyond. At least from me, they've earned significant revenue they would not have earned otherwise, at very little cost to them or degradation to the experience of other Diamond guests. Probably most of the fake Diamonds will wash out after this year, but some of us may now want to become real Diamonds.
Aug 18, 2016, 1:25 pm
#1166
Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: SIN
Posts: 1,098
Aug 18, 2016, 1:30 pm
#1167
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Melbourne
Programs: ►QFWP/LTG►VA WP►HyattExpl.►HiltonGold►ALL Silver
Posts: 21,995
I have 35-40 stays/room nights per year to spread around and had been HHonors Gold/Diamond since 2005 (Diamond for the last 5 years).
Unlikely to retain HHonors status beyond silver next year, but will re-qualify Hyatt Diamond.
I understand what 'just more "there" there' means ...
Aug 18, 2016, 3:45 pm
#1168
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: Homeless
Programs: Hyatt Glob; Hilton Dia; Marriott AMB; Accor Dia; IHG Dia Amb; GHA Tit
Posts: 4,846
Same here. In 2015 I had a bit over 200 nights which I spread about evenly between Starwood and Hilton. Since the coverage of these two combined is pretty good and I was generally happy with the product offered, I had zero reason to start from scratch with Hyatt.
Then the Hyatt status match came, and in 2016 I am on pace for about 60 nights at Hyatt so I will retain Diamond. I am happy with Hyatt so far and will continue in 2017. While I do not choose Hyatt hotels just to chase status (because Starwood and Hilton are decent in many cities), Hyatt got revenue from me that it would have never had without the status match.
The opposite is happening with airlines. I have status with two airlines in *A and two more in OW. I tried to get a status match from a ST airline to spread the wealth, and got turned down. Result: almost none of my business is going to ST.
Then the Hyatt status match came, and in 2016 I am on pace for about 60 nights at Hyatt so I will retain Diamond. I am happy with Hyatt so far and will continue in 2017. While I do not choose Hyatt hotels just to chase status (because Starwood and Hilton are decent in many cities), Hyatt got revenue from me that it would have never had without the status match.
The opposite is happening with airlines. I have status with two airlines in *A and two more in OW. I tried to get a status match from a ST airline to spread the wealth, and got turned down. Result: almost none of my business is going to ST.
Aug 18, 2016, 6:07 pm
#1169
Join Date: Jan 2005
Programs: UA GOLD MM,WN CP A+list, HH Gold,MR LT Titanium
Posts: 2,184
While it appears that Hyatt has gained some new loyalists, they have also lost many with this status match that got out of control.
As for me,I was within a few nights of requalifying for Diamond and Hyatt refused to grant an exception.
Their decision has me using Hyatt only when it is necessary and other chains have gained my extra nights.
As for me,I was within a few nights of requalifying for Diamond and Hyatt refused to grant an exception.
Their decision has me using Hyatt only when it is necessary and other chains have gained my extra nights.