Hyatt Lifetime Globalist: What to Know

The World of Hyatt loyalty program is small but mighty. The portfolio of hotels in the Hyatt family is not as extensive as those of other programs, but the program's benefits are rich. This helps to make up for the smaller footprint of hotels so that when loyal Hyatt guests check in, they feel rewarded.

World of Hyatt has three elite status tiers: Discoverist, Explorist and Globalist. In addition, those most loyal to World of Hyatt have the opportunity to earn Hyatt Lifetime Globalist status, which can deliver some nice perks when you travel.

Here's a look at both Globalist and Lifetime Globalist status, including benefits and how to earn them.

Before getting into the specifics about lifetime status, let's first review Hyatt's top-tier Globalist status. Hyatt Globalist delivers perks like club lounge access, complimentary breakfast (when a club lounge is unavailable), suite upgrades, bonus points and Guest of Honor status, which allows you to share your elite perks with another guest (even when you aren't staying with them).

Other perks include free parking on award stays, waived resort fees and late checkout.

This can make staying at Hyatt properties a more enjoyable experience when you travel.

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There are four ways to earn annual Globalist status, which lasts through February of the second calendar year after you qualify.

Stay 60 nights per calendar year

You earn one award night toward status for each eligible night within a calendar year. An eligible night is a paid rate reserved through a Hyatt channel (Hyatt-branded website, reservations phone line or via the hotel) at a participating property.

Earn 100,000 base points per calendar year

Alternatively, a member can earn 100,000 base points via eligible charges at participating properties, including payments on eligible room rates, dining, spa bookings and even incidental charges. In addition, guests earn 5 base points per eligible dollar spent.

Organize 20 meetings per calendar year

Organized meetings, conferences or events count towards earning elite status when at least 10 guest rooms are reserved for the same night as the event.

Achieve American Airlines Concierge Key elite status

Holding American Airlines Concierge Key status comes with Hyatt Globalist status. Concierge Key is an invitation-only status level for American Airlines' top fliers (those who spend a lot with the carrier, for example). The World of Hyatt and AAdvantage partnership is a great way to earn reciprocal benefits and additional points and miles.

» Learn more: How World of Hyatt partnerships can earn you more hotel points

You'll need to earn 1 million base points during your Hyatt membership to achieve this milestone.

For members that join the program early, frequently travel to Hyatt properties (especially pricey ones) and stay loyal to the brand, this is possible (and entirely worth it).

Unlike annual Globalist status, there is no option to earn Hyatt lifetime status through organizing meetings or by the number of nights you stay. To achieve Lifetime Globalist, a member must spend $200,000 with Hyatt to get the necessary base points.

Don't forget that there are other ways to earn base points beyond a hotel stay. This can include dining or spa services at participating properties (even when not a guest) or experiences booked through FIND experiences.

Sadly, while you can track your year-to-date base points in your online account, you cannot track your progress toward Lifetime Globalist status over time. But you can find out how far along you are by reaching out to Hyatt's customer service or social media teams.

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In addition to the standard benefits that come with Globalist status, Lifetime Globalists also receive four suite upgrades, an annual Category 1-7 free night award and access to a My Hyatt Concierge agent.

These perks are also on top of Milestone Rewards, which members earn for reaching certain thresholds within a calendar year. For example, all members, including Lifetime Globalists, can earn two club lounge awards after staying 20 qualifying nights in a calendar year. Additional Milestone Rewards are earned for every 10 nights you stay (up to 100 nights), including suite upgrades, bonus points and free night awards.

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Earning Hyatt lifetime elite status means you need to stay committed to Hyatt-branded properties, and along the way, the perks will start to accumulate.

Once you hit Globalist status for the first time, you'll be glad you did. And if you keep staying loyal to Hyatt, especially if you travel a lot, you will eventually earn Hyatt Lifetime Globalist benefits that will keep rewarding you yearly.

Photo courtesy of Hyatt.