Last week Friday I reported on the confirmed sale of the St. Regis Princeville. However, a reader left a comment with additional information. And thanks to this info, we now know that the St Regis Princeville is leaving Marriott. I also have an update on the Marriott Hawaii strike.
St Regis Princeville is Leaving Marriott
As you’ll recall, last week I reported that Starwood Capital had been confirmed as the purchaser of the St. Regis Princeville. And, as the time, I had no idea what would happen next. As it turns out, though, reader Bill S. received an e-mail from SPG/Marriott going over precisely that.
Beginning November 16, 2018, the St. Regis Princeville will cease to be a Marriott brand and will become the Princeville Resort. However, existing reservations are going to be honored as-is. So if you made a cash reservation, points reservation, or cash + points reservations, you’re good; no change is required. Unfortunately, those stays, unsurprisingly, won’t earn points for qualifying purchases, nor will you receive Elite member amenities or benefits.
Marriott Hawaii Strike Update 3
The Marriott Strike in Hawaii is now entering its fourth week. And, despite returning to the table last Friday, Union and hotel officials could not come to an agreement. This doesn’t surprise me one bit. Like I said in my last post, there likely wouldn’t be an agreement this soon, as both sides have vastly different demands. So, the strike will continue to go on indefinitely.
As KITV Island News reports, talks will resume again on Monday and continue on into Tuesday. But guess what? Those talks are not taking place in Hawaii. Instead, they’re taking place in Hawaii’s favorite getaway destination, Las Vegas. ? I wonder who’s idea that was?
Regardless who chose the negotiation venue, the situation at hand continues to reek more and more of greed. Like I said before, problems faced by hotel workers, such as automation and inability to afford one’s own home in Hawaii, isn’t unique to them. And, if they get what they want, their hotels may become too expensive for guests to stay at and they may end up losing their jobs anyway. Further, remember, the more the employees get paid, so to do the Union and its officials. Heck, they’re enjoying “negotiations” in Las Vegas as a work perk too, while members continue to picket without pay, all while doing harm to our overall visitor industry.
St Regis Princeville is Leaving Marriott, Final Thoughts
Again, it’s sad that the St. Regis Princeville is leaving the Marriott family of brands. Though in need of much attention, the property does have a unique allure all its own. And one that I’ll likely never experience. After all, the Princeville Resort will most likely become a 1 Hotels one day. In the meantime, though, it’s great that they’re honoring all existing reservations, including award ones. And, it’s even better that they’re keeping the property open so they don’t have to lay everyone off.
As far as the Marriott Hawaii strikes go, I wouldn’t hold your breath for a resolution anytime soon. There appears to be no willingness to compromise and the demands are quite ridiculous if you ask me. Plus, you know, they can’t even bring themselves to meet here in Hawaii. But, oh well. We’ll just have to sit back and wait to see what happens. If you’re scheduled to stay at an impacted hotel anytime soon, though, remember to have a backup plan ready to go.