As you already know by reading some of my previous posts, I didn’t re-qualify for Hyatt Diamond status in 2013. I put in 16 stays; nine short of re-qualification. Most hotel programs give you a couple of months of grace period before stripping you of your perks and with just about a month and a half before I lose mine, I’m wondering what my next move will be. The one thing I know for sure is that I want to make the best use of my Diamond status before it leaves. But when I say that, I’m not necessarily referring to putting in some stays and enjoying the perks.

The other day I was trying to plan out a weekend staycation and stumbled across a Kimpton hotel that I found appealing. After looking at the amenities and the accommodations, I went looking for more info on their loyalty program, InTouch. I found their program pretty intriguing. Just having the membership gives you a $10 credit for the mini-bar and free wi-fi. With programs like Hilton HHonors and Hyatt Gold Passport, free wi-fi is a perk that you have to work for.

Elite status in the InTouch program is called Inner Circle, which requires 15 stays or 45 nights in a calendar year. After doing some digging, I found out that Kimpton offers a status match to Inner Circle, provided you have elite status elsewhere. I haven’t contacted Kimpton yet, but with 16 stays under my belt in 2012 and an expiring elite status, this looks like a good opportunity to eek some additional value out of my status.

Are you losing your status? Would this strategy work for you? Have a look at your travel plans for the year and see if you can make it work. It doesn’t hurt to try. Good luck!