Everyone has their favorite place to use their hard-earned Hyatt CAT 1-4 free night certificates (review). It is not always possible to use them to get the most value, but I have stayed 3 times in the last two years using them at the Hyatt Regency JFK Airport at Resorts World New York.
Getting from JFK to Hyatt Regency
Hyatt Regency does not have a free airport shuttle and Uber or Lyft charge $20-30 each way from JFK airport (Lyft is cheaper than Uber).
Hyatt Regency JFK is conveniently located near NYC’s casino, Resorts World New York City, which has three on-site dining outlets, including the world-renowned cafe and confectionery shop Sugar Factory (I recommend trying the Cajun chicken pasta there).
Hyatt Regency JFK Airport at Resorts World
Chances of getting a suite upgrade for Globalists
I got a suite upgrade two out of the three times I stayed at Hyatt Regency JFK. Even the standard room is beautifully designed containing a spacious bedroom with a built-in seating area and a computer desk. There is a good amount of closet space and separate doors for shower and toilet rooms.
The suite adds a separate living room and a much bigger bathroom along with a tub.
Hyatt Regency JFK Club House
Globalists can enjoy the club house all day with free breakfast in the morning. I liked the pork sausages at breakfast, but the scrambled eggs looked very runny for my taste. There is no omelet station and the cappuccino machine was broken during this visit.
Hyatt Regency JFK Fitness Center
The fitness center is located on the 2nd floor and wonderfully designed with all the necessary equipment for a good workout. There is a fridge with plenty of bottled water along with towels, headphones and yoga mats. There is hardly anyone ever there and I always enjoy my workouts at this gym.
Conclusion
JFK is the hub of award travel with the most available award-space to travel anywhere in the world with miles and points. I generally dislike waiting for the airport shuttles to go to the JFK airport hotels like IHG and Hilton. I don’t mind spending $40-50 on a ride to get to the beautiful Hyatt Regency and enjoy a 4pm checkout when my overseas flights are leaving in the late evening. I never had a problem getting a ride to JFK even at 5am in the morning for an early flight.