Andaz is Hyatt's lifestyle hotel brand for independent travelers
Andaz is a collection of upscale hotels owned and operated by Hyatt Hotels Corporation. The brand targets travelers who want a more casual, design-forward experience than traditional luxury hotels offer. Each Andaz property has its own local character — the design, art, and amenities reflect the neighborhood or city where it sits rather than following a global template.
The name "Andaz" comes from an Urdu word meaning "style" or "manner." Hyatt launched the brand in 2007 and has since opened properties in major cities across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The hotels typically occupy converted historic buildings or newly constructed spaces in urban centers, often in walkable neighborhoods near restaurants, galleries, and cultural attractions.
If you are comparing hotel brands within Hyatt's portfolio, Andaz sits between the company's mid-range properties (like Hyatt House or Hyatt Centric) and its luxury flagships (like Park Hyatt or Grand Hyatt). The positioning means Andaz rooms and suites cost more than a standard Hyatt but often less than a Park Hyatt in the same city.
Key Takeaways
- Andaz properties are individually designed around their local location rather than following a standardized hotel formula.
- The brand is part of Hyatt Hotels Corporation and participates in the World of Hyatt loyalty program with the same points and elite status rules as other Hyatt brands.
- Andaz hotels typically include modern amenities like high-speed internet, fitness centers, and on-site dining, with design and art as a central feature.
- Room rates and availability vary widely by location and season, so comparing prices across Andaz properties in different cities is not meaningful.
How Andaz fits within Hyatt's brand structure
Hyatt operates more than 20 distinct hotel brands, each targeting a different traveler type and price point. Andaz is one of Hyatt's "lifestyle" brands, meaning it emphasizes design, local culture, and a more personalized guest experience than standardized chain hotels.
When you stay at an Andaz, your World of Hyatt loyalty points count the same as they would at any other Hyatt brand. Elite status (Discoverist, Explorist, Globalist, and Diamond) carries across all Hyatt properties. This means frequent Hyatt guests can earn and redeem points at Andaz just as they would at a Hyatt House or Park Hyatt.
The main difference between Andaz and other Hyatt brands is the guest experience and room rate. Andaz targets travelers who prioritize design and neighborhood authenticity over consistency. If you prefer knowing exactly what to expect from a hotel room and amenities, a standard Hyatt or Hyatt Regency may feel more familiar. If you want a hotel that reflects the character of its location, Andaz is designed for that preference.
What to expect in an Andaz room and property
Andaz rooms typically feature contemporary furnishings, high-quality linens, and design elements that reference the local area. Bathrooms usually include rainfall showerheads and premium toiletries. Most Andaz properties offer free high-speed internet, a fitness center, and a business center — standard amenities across Hyatt's portfolio.
Common areas in Andaz hotels often showcase local art, photography, or installations. The lobby may double as a social space with seating areas, a bar, or a café. Many Andaz properties include a restaurant or multiple dining outlets, though the specific offerings vary by location.
Pet policies, room configurations, and specific amenities differ from property to property. Some Andaz hotels welcome pets at no additional charge; others charge a fee. Some have suites with separate living areas; others offer only standard rooms. Before booking, check the specific property's details on Hyatt's website or by calling the hotel directly, because Andaz properties are not standardized the way a budget chain might be.
Andaz locations and how they differ from each other
Andaz properties exist in cities including San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, London, Tokyo, Shanghai, Dubai, and others. Each hotel is designed to reflect its neighborhood — the San Diego Andaz emphasizes California coastal style, while the Tokyo Andaz incorporates Japanese design principles.
Because each property is unique, the room rate, size, and amenities can vary significantly. An Andaz in a smaller market may cost less per night than an Andaz in a major city. The number of rooms, restaurants, and meeting spaces also differs. Some Andaz properties are smaller boutique-style hotels with 100 to 150 rooms; others are larger properties with 300 or more rooms.
If you are planning to stay at multiple Andaz locations, do not assume the second property will be similar to the first. Research each location individually to understand what that specific hotel offers.
How Andaz pricing compares to other hotel brands
Andaz room rates fall into the upscale category. Nightly rates vary by city, season, and how far in advance you book. In major metropolitan areas during peak travel season, an Andaz room might cost $250 to $400 or more per night. In smaller markets or during slower seasons, rates may be lower.
Within a single city, an Andaz typically costs more than a Hyatt or Hyatt Regency but may cost less than or similar to a Park Hyatt, depending on the specific properties and the date. Direct price comparison is difficult because hotel rates change daily based on demand, and the properties themselves are not interchangeable.
If you are a World of Hyatt member, you can often redeem points at Andaz properties instead of paying cash. The number of points required varies by property and date, just as it does at other Hyatt brands. Check the Hyatt website to see the points cost for your specific dates and location.
Booking an Andaz hotel and understanding what you are paying for
You can book an Andaz hotel through Hyatt's website, the Hyatt mobile app, a travel agent, or by calling the property directly. Booking through Hyatt's official channels ensures you earn World of Hyatt points and that your elite status benefits explore.
When comparing Andaz to other hotels in the same city, consider what is included in the rate. Some Andaz properties include breakfast, parking, or fitness center access in the room rate; others charge separately for these amenities. Read the rate details carefully before booking, because what looks like a lower price may not include services that a competing hotel offers.
Cancellation policies, check-in times, and other terms vary by property and booking rate. Most Hyatt properties allow free cancellation up to a certain number of days before arrival, but confirm the specific policy for your dates and the property you are booking.
Andaz versus other Hyatt lifestyle brands
Hyatt's lifestyle brands include Andaz, Hyatt Centric, and Thompson Hotels. All three emphasize design and local character over standardization. The main differences are in price point and target traveler.
Hyatt Centric properties are typically smaller and less expensive than Andaz. They focus on a central location and modern design but with fewer amenities and a more compact footprint. Hyatt Centric targets budget-conscious travelers who still want a contemporary hotel experience.
Thompson Hotels are Hyatt's ultra-luxury lifestyle brand. Thompson properties are more expensive than Andaz and typically offer more extensive amenities, higher-end dining, and a more exclusive experience. Thompson targets luxury travelers willing to pay premium rates for distinctive design and service.
Andaz sits in the middle: more upscale than Hyatt Centric, less expensive and exclusive than Thompson, and designed for independent travelers who value design and authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I earn World of Hyatt points when I stay at Andaz?
Yes. Andaz is part of the World of Hyatt loyalty program. You earn points at the same rate as you would at any other Hyatt brand, and your elite status benefits explore to Andaz stays. Points can be redeemed for future stays at Andaz or any other Hyatt property.
Are all Andaz hotels the same?
No. Each Andaz property is individually designed to reflect its location. Room layouts, amenities, dining options, and even the number of rooms differ from property to property. Always check the specific hotel's details before booking.
Is Andaz more expensive than a regular Hyatt?
Generally yes, but it depends on the specific properties and the date. Andaz is positioned as an upscale brand, so rooms typically cost more than a standard Hyatt or Hyatt Regency in the same city. However, rates vary by location and season, so direct comparison requires checking prices for your specific dates.
Can I use Hyatt points to book an Andaz room?
Yes. You can redeem World of Hyatt points for Andaz rooms just as you would for any other Hyatt brand. The points required depend on the property, date, and room category. Check the Hyatt website to see the points cost for your specific stay.
What makes Andaz different from a luxury hotel like Park Hyatt?
Andaz emphasizes local design and neighborhood character, while Park Hyatt emphasizes luxury amenities and service. Andaz rooms are typically less expensive and the hotels are often smaller. Both are upscale brands, but they target different traveler priorities.