Yes, the letter is valid. Others (Gold and Platinum only) have received the letter. I haven't tried using it. Diamond is a very poorly managed company. I read some of the online employment web sites and many current and former Diamond employees complain about the poor management, poor communication, and non-existent training. So I'm not surprised that a new policy has been introduced and announced, but the staff has no idea about it. All I can suggest is keep trying to find somebody that can help. Maybe an email to the CEO (ceo@diamondresorts.com). He will not address the problem himself, but he will forward it to someone he thinks can address it.
Here is the letter others have received.
And allow me to ask: Why is this company "pleased to announce" a reduction of benefits (100% reimbursement reduced to only 30%)? Are they hoping no one notices? It's too Orwellian from me.
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We want to thank you for your Gold membership and loyalty, and are pleased to announce a few changes to your benefits.
Effective immediately, your benefits include:
~ The ability to redeem points for Travel Services all year long.
~ A maximum redemption rate of 30% of the total cost of eligible hotel, cruise, and air purchases. [note this is a reduction from 100%--nuwermj]
~ An instant rebate of your 30% cap at the time of booking, so you no longer have to wait for a reimbursement check.
~ An extended redemption window for 2018! You can now redeem points at a 30% maximum rate through December 31, 2018.