Best use of 35k cert in the US
 

I'm based in NYC and looking to use two 35k certs domestically. I'm hoping to be able to use them at a full service hotel on a weekend trip this autumn. Normally I'd use them in Asia where hotels in this category can be quite nice. What are some good uses for them domestically?

My top pick (YMMV), not just the face value but the most convenient location in Kailua-Kona.

Big Island Hotel In Kailua-Kona HI | Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel (marriott.com)

The closer it gets to the date it may go beyond 35K threshold, sometimes I just book with points if the rate is reasonable like 30K.

Good options in Chicago, but Marriott seems to be having them at peak pricing every weekend so a no-go

I know the OP wants to stay at a full service hotel but I used two 35k certs last weekend to stay at the Residence Inn Ocean MD. Cash room rates were over $400 per night.

Another similar option is the SHS in Panama City Beach. I stayed there a few weeks ago at 35K/night. Rooms were selling while we were there in the $700 to $800 range. It was actually pretty nice for a SHS with a very nice pool and its beachfront.

DC-region beach towns in the summer are always a good place to get disproportionate value for certificates...not in-chain for MR but I have redeemed many a $95 Hyatt credit card certificate in Dewey Beach when the place was pushing $500/night. People around here have too much money and nothing to do with it.

That Hyatt Place is probably one of the worst bang for your buck properties I've ever seen (stayed here on a cert too). I'm astounded people think its fine to spend $500 a night on it.

In terms of outsize value; probably a regular Courtyard in a college football town is another good use if you get in early.

Or in AZ or FL during spring training.

Well, at the end of the day pricing (of any good / service) is a function of the alternatives. And in that market, there aren't too many - the choices are either run-down motels or weeklong rentals for many thousands of dollars. I'd definitely never pay the asking rate, but I've always found it a great use of the certificate.


Yep, I had a very prudent redemption at the Courtyard State College on a game day once.

And in general, university towns are good cert / points redemptions during big weekends if you can snag them - move-in, homecoming, game days, parents' weekend, etc. Have had plenty of good redemptions at hotels in Charlottesville, Ithaca, etc.

I think the Sheraton Princess Kailuani is a good use of them. It isn't a luxurious property by any means, and there are no suites to get upgraded to, but the location is great and you have a ton of things to do within walking distance of the hotel.

It seems to me that the best use for two 35K certificates depends on where you want to go. You're not going to get a renowned luxury property -- one where the property is the destination -- for 35,000 points per night. So what really matters is where it's located. You also probably don't want to fly from NYC to Hawaii just to use two certificates.

What kind of destination do you enjoy? Historic sites? Natural beauty? Beaches? Theme parks? Museums? Picturesque towns? Food destinations?

The vast majority of Marriott properties in the United States have nights that are 35,000 points or less. 35,000 points won't go far in America's most expensive cities, but you have all sorts of options elsewhere.

If you want a full-service property because of Platinum Elite lounge access or Platinum Elite breakfast in the restaurant, make sure those features are available at the properties that interest you. Too many full-service properties have not yet restored their Elite benefits. The worst ones have reopened their restaurant, at least for breakfast, but are only giving Platinum Elite members 750 points (worth about $5) — but will sell breakfast to those same members for $20 or $30 per guest.