Hilton Will Build a New 32-Story Hotel in Hawaii…by 2022

October 10, 2018 By Million Mile Secrets

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Wayyy upcoming news for Hilton and Waikiki! Hilton will break ground and add a brand new 32-story tower in Waikiki, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii for surfing.

But, the project will displace dozens of small businesses and force hundreds of people to relocate. So while it’s great to have another way to use points in Hawaii, this one comes at a cost of driving out decades-old small businesses, which is sad.

The new project will have all the newest amenities, like a club lounge, fitness center, and state-of-the art design. But I feel bittersweet about it.

Mockups for Hilton’s Last Project Look Modern and Relaxing. This New Project Should Mean More Ways to Use Hilton Points!

I’ll share more details!

Hilton Breaking Ground and Displacing Residents in Honolulu

The new Hilton project will have 191 rooms and add another tower to the Waikiki skyline, but it’s not without cost. Small businesses, some which have been around since the 1970s, will have to either close up shop or relocate. And 2 apartment complexes have already started sending eviction notices to their tenants.

Hilton will break ground in early 2019 for a new Hilton Grand Vacations resort, which is part of their timeshare business. However, when rooms are empty, you can use Hilton points to stay in them.

But don’t hold your breath. Construction won’t end until 2022. So we’ll have to deal with our current options for booking the best hotels in Hawaii for now.

This Could Be Your View in 2022. Hilton Is Taking Their Time With Their Newest Building Project

I’m always sad to hear about corporate expansion at the cost of local culture, even though I like Hilton as a hotel chain. There will undoubtedly be restaurants and souvenirs for sale at the hotel. But it feels more special to eat at a mom-and-pop restaurant and get handmade crafts direct from the creator. That’s the magic of traveling!

It’s also another testament to how popular Hawaii is as a destination. Southwest will soon fly there, and it’s sometimes hard to find an award hotel. Waikiki is already one of the most expensive areas in Honolulu. So here’s to hoping this building project doesn’t have too much negative impact.

And while it’s too far out to plan an award stay, the points landscape and award options in Hawaii will undoubtedly be more different in 2022 than they are today.

What do you think of this news?

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