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STARWOOD AWARD CATEGORY CHANGES

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What You Need to Know About the March 1, 2016, SPG Award Category Changes to Maximize Your Starpoints!

Expiration Date – March 1, 2016

On March 1, 2016, Starwood is implementing their annual SPG award category adjustments. 167 properties will require more points for an award night and 112 will require less. And of course, we've got a few great tips to help you maximize your Starpoints!

Take these three steps to maximize the value of your Starpoints in light of this change:

  1. Review Starwood’s list of hotels with category changes.

  2. If you desire an award stay at any of the 167 hotels that will require more Starpoints, book those stays before March 1, 2016 (pay special attention to San Francisco, New York City, London, Paris, Hong Kong and other attractive cities across the world).

  3. If you desire an award stay at any of the 112 hotels that will require less Starpoints, wait to book those hotels until after March 1.

And keep in mind that the award category changes will also apply to Starwood's Cash & Points option, which is typically one of the most lucrative ways to use your Starpoints!

The Wrap-Up:

Many of Starwood's most popular properties in attractive cities will require more points after March 1. So take a few minutes to think about your 2016 travel plans and prior to March 1, secure your award stays at those Starwood hotels that will require more Starpoints and wait to book those hotels that will require less after March 1. You’ll have the opportunity to cancel and adjust most SPG award reservations without risk if your plans change, so a little pre-planning can really pay off!

And if you haven’t already, sign up for complimentary alerts so you never miss an important trvlvip Perk or Tip about Starwood!

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