We stayed 2 weeks in DRI's Cabo Azul resort earlier this month, and for those who intend to visit there in the future, and are willing to subject themselves to a sales weasel "presentation", here are just some of the recent tactics to watch out for: (This is my response to DRI when they sought my feedback)
Comments on the 05 December 2018 Cabo Azul “Presentation”
1. It was falsely stated that the additional 7,500 points I purchased in August 2018 were only valid for ten (10) years! There was reportedly a small "T" on the contract (!) This "error" was supposedly cleared up by your Cabo Azul Rep. "making a Corporate phone call. (!) FIB!
2. It was falsely stated that DRI was instituting a new separate division called the "Luxury Collection", which would absorb resorts like Cabo Azul and others, and in which my U.S. Collection points would not be accepted. I was pressured to "Convert" my 47,500 by buying new points at a much more expensive price per point, in this "New" Collection.
3.It was falsely stated that Wyndham was "making noises" like they would no longer work with DRI on the "Club Combo", so pressure to buy additional points was exerted. Wyndham does not care what I do with my points, so this effort was again, a FIB!
What could be done to improve the Diamond Experience?
Better align the points values for cruises to reflect their value per maintenance fees paid on them, e.g., 11,000 points for a Caribbean 5-night, non-balcony, lower deck, 2-port cruise with no on-board credits is extremely expensive!
Those who endure a "presentation", beware!