Online Travel Booking and Bidding Agencies - $20 Tip at Hotel Check-in!

I have had great success giving the hotel check-in agent a $20 tip for a better room/amenities for PL/Hotwire stays of longer than 3 days. Would really like to know how other travels have fared using this advance tipping technique or anything like it. I find it to be a win-win situation. Thanks!

Is this a tip? Or something else?

I have paid $100 for "upsells" to suites on Priceline stays, but that is not the same as a gratuity.

Please, call it what you will. I find it works quite nicely for us. Oh, what is an Upsell? Tks!

Which hotels (or at least what cities)? The tip/bribe has been known to work in Vegas. I understand someone tried that in a Disney hotel and was asked if they wanted the $20 added to their room account. LOL.

I have successfully used this technique in Thailand, England, New York, Tampa, Orlando, Atlanta, Charlotte, etc. When the check-in agent kept the money, we got nice results for our longer stays. There have been times the agent could not do anything for us at checkin, but later during our stay moved us!
We are presently in a junior suite in Orlando that we paid $36/nite. It includes FREE hi-speed wireless access, free local calls, b'fast, manager's reception and great customer service.

bturner
Welcome to Ft and thanks for the "hint".

bturner, would you please let us know the details of this approach? Is it a 20 in hand with a "if I pay $20 more, might we be able to get a view/jr. suite?"

Different strokes for different folks! Almost each situation is different and I play it by ear. I think outside the box, sometimes!
I started this topic to see if other folks are using this advance tipping technique and I hope I get responses about ideas. I tip the cleaning folks in-advance and get great service. There are numerous other places I use this advance tipping technique and it works wonders!




[This message has been edited by bturner13 (edited 07-17-2003).]

Somebody has either written a book or has done a long article about it, but the thrust is that a twenty dollar bill can work magic. A ten isn't enough and fifties are too much. He went everywhere with a fistfull of twenties and got whatever he wanted ... everywhere!

When I'm paying $24 for a hotel room at a chain, the bill would be wasted on the desk clerk, but in upscale places (especially in the larger towns) I'm sure the twenty-dollar magic will work!

Oh, Did it again! Got the executive floor for our 6 day stay here in Lovely Asheville NC by using the $20 Tip enticement! Everyone wins!

Is there ever any concern that the manager or another employee will see the tip and get everyone in a little hot water over it? Or have you even tipped managers who happen to be checking you in?

I'm just curious. thanks for the tip (pun intended!)

Thanks for asking. The Front Desk manager was standing near and everything was done out in the open. There isn't anything underhanded happening.
This morning we had coupons for Continental Breakfast ONLY (Club not open today)and handed the waiter a $5 at the same time. He immediately said, Enjoy the FULL hot bar too! Ir is another Win-Win and everyone is happy!
I find Tipping in advance does make a differnce! So many folks in the service industry live off of tips!

Just MHO,but some of this borders on the unethical. Being upgraded to an empty room is different that a server charging you less for a meal.

Oh, We did it again! Got the Executive floor with all the amenities for our 6 day stay here in Busy Charlotte NC--University Area by using the $20 Tip enticement for EXCELLENT SERVICE at check-in! Everyone wins!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by bturner13:
Oh, We did it again! Got the Executive floor with all the amenities for our 6 day stay here in Busy Charlotte NC--University Area by using the $20 Tip enticement for EXCELLENT SERVICE at check-in! Everyone wins!</font>

Any chance you're a spokesperson for the overworked, underpaid service industry employees of the US? http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/wink.gif

I am tempted to give it a go, last time i tried doing something smug was on Thai Airways at the gate when I 'accidentally' slipped a $100 note in with my passport and boarding pass asking whether there were any op upgrades to business today.

It didn't go down very well when the guy decided to make a point of it and brought 6 colleagues over and said no, i'm sorry 'but u can keep the $100 note!'.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by kawoh:
Any chance you're a spokesperson for the overworked, underpaid service industry employees of the US? http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/wink.gif</font>

My sentiments exactly. I was just wary of getting flamed for pointing it out.

Nice try, Mr Hotel Desk Clerk !

I know how to put cash in a passport. I can imagine handing over a bill with a meal coupon, in advance. Exactly how would you hand over a $20 bill at hotel check-in? Usually I have a credit card, sometimes a hotel card to submit. Do you add a bill to the card in your fingers? Out flat, extended? Folded in half?

Sylvia

This practice has been discussed on other FlyerTalk threads.

The ethical problem with this kind of bribe (an advance "tip" is actually a bribe) is that normally the hotel should receive the extra revenue for the room upgrade, and the extra revenue in many cases should exceed $20.

Not saying you shouldn't do it (your behavior is your call, not mine), but there could be negative consequences for the employee accepting the bribe in some cases.


Kathy

One time I was a cashier at a convenience store. Some guy had this great idea that I could "forget" to ring up some items of his, and he would get some free stuff, and I would get a "tip". I told him to forget it.

I wish desk clerks would do the same instead of stealing from the hotel, if these "Oh, Did it again!" stories are true.

The difference is that hotel clerks are frequently allowed to upgrade customers to available rooms; 7-11 clerks, AFAIK, aren't allowed to give out free stuff.
I read in another forum a person who tips hotel clerks in Vegas tipped a Disney hotel clerk $20. The clerk asked if the guest wanted the $20 applied to the room account.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by JS:
I wish desk clerks would do the same instead of stealing from the hotel, if these "Oh, Did it again!" stories are true.</font>

An upgrade (one that's worth something) for only $20? That seems awfully cheap. I'm still suspicious.

How do we give the clerk the 20?? I really want to know this!!

Discussed at length on a thread in the Vegas forum. It really does work, better in places like Vegas, NYC, not as well in Orlando. But you never know...

http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/Forum5/HTML/000071.html

It worked nicely again last week!

how do you slip the 20??

One of many ways---With the credit card for incidentals and I ask are there any COMPLIMENTARY upgrades available.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Jamoldo:
how do you slip the 20??</font>

Did you read this thread: http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/Forum5/HTML/000071.html http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/confused.gif

Yes,sometime ago. why?

It contains the answer Jamoldo seeks on how to "slip the $20".



[This message has been edited by skofarrell (edited 08-14-2003).]

While I can see it working in Vegas,I just can't see it in Ft. Wayne.

But do you really want/need the big suite at the Marriott in Ft Wayne?

I really don't want to even be in Ft. Wayne.

It recently worked for me in Las Vegas at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino. We were checking in for 5 nights. I had reserved just a standard room. As the agent was typing something in the computer I requested an upgrade to a suite and handed her a $50.00 dollar bill. She took the 50 and gave us a beautiful suite facing the lake. I've done this many times. It always works. Don't be shy, just do it.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by mfe216:
It recently worked for me in Las Vegas at the Bellagio Hotel & Casino. We were checking in for 5 nights. I had reserved just a standard room. As the agent was typing something in the computer I requested an upgrade to a suite and handed her a $50.00 dollar bill. She took the 50 and gave us a beautiful suite facing the lake. I've done this many times. It always works. Don't be shy, just do it.</font>

Hotel front staff is often so underpaid that 50 bucks can be there half-day's net income.

I got a room at a 4 star hotel in Midtown NYC for $100 a night and now they're charging $50 a night for a second bed. It's just 2 adults as Priceline states the rooms are for but I'm kind of ticked that they're charging a 50% surcharge for a second bed when the price for a queen or doubles is the same on their website. I guess I should be happy to have a nice room for $150 (if there is availability). The person responding to the emails on their website has been almost rude so I'm not going to bother trying to get the 2 beds with a tip.

Which hotel is this, Terri?

The Shoreham Hotel

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by jabez:
I really don't want to even be in Ft. Wayne.</font>

http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/biggrin.gif

(Can't imagine why not - http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/wink.gif )

I got the biggest room in the house at the Hilton Garden Inn - Ft. Wayne, last week. $72/night and didn't have to offer the desk clerk anything more than a smile http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/wink.gif.

Craig
I also was in Ft. Wayne last week,but stayed at the Hampton Inn and suites.No tip,but upgraded to a suite at $89.

Terri,

Take from this thread:
http://www.betterbidding.com/index.php?act=ST&f=122&t=1241&

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">In the case of the Shoreham, they have 2 classes of rooms (no, not Priceline/non-Priceline).... their standard room can only accomodate a Queen size bed, to fit a larger bed (or 2 beds) requires their next class of rooms, which i agree with the hotel that Priceine/Hotwire guests are not entitled to (these are not special "priceline rooms", but literally a different class of room which is more expensive if booked direct). I don't have a problem with this, but can understand how it can be a complaint of an unknowing Priceline guest, and result in an argument and/or misinformation of "i was treated differently as a Priceline guest."</font>

Hope this sheds some light on your situation.

Thank you for the information. I've had enough problems with Priceline that I'm just going to pay the fee for the bigger room and enjoy my trip at a - hopefully - nice hotel.

P.S. Big thanks for the informative site. It sure shed light on a lot of things.

[This message has been edited by Terri77 (edited 08-27-2003).]

My follow-up on Shoreham. I call the toll free number this morning to give my credit card number to reserve the double beds. So I give my name and it's "Oh, from Priceline." Granted I've had some correspondance with them previously but still. Anyway, they refuse my card and say that I have to wait until my friend and I arrive in NYC and gamble that there may be a double room left and that they may be nice enough to allow us to stay in it basically. I'm told that their other customers pay more for the same room and that since it's a busy season they're going to hold those rooms for the people that pay full price. Of course all of this conflicts with what I was previously told. Wonderful.

I checked out those online bidding sources and most of the customers feel that the hotel should be classifed as 3* and apparently Priceline has received a lot of criticism for classifying it as 4*. Oh well, live and learn, unfortunately a little too late for me.

[This message has been edited by Terri77 (edited 08-28-2003).]

Don't write-off this property just yet... my cousin stayed here on her first Priceline stay. She's pretty fussy about hotels and where she sleeps and she absolutely loved it!

If you have the ability to check-in early, do so, as it will increase your chances of getting the room you desire (if at first you get the 'none available', then offer that you're willing to wait for a room to be cleaned that satisfies your needs)

Good luck and let us know how you make out.

If you arrive between noon and four,be willing to wait for a better room. Many times I've asked for a better room and they said "none avalable".I then ask if there will be any available after the cleaning is finished. I once got a suite because I waited for an hour.

Thanks for the advice. I won't arrive until late in the evening but I'll make sure to keep an eye on availability as my stay approaches.

Arriving late may make it tough to get upgraded rooms. While many (especially nicer ones) "hold" some special (suites,etc.)for possibly late regulars,celebs,and those that don't mind spending a lot,they generally will only give them out to others if they are staying for that night only.

Yes, I'm afraid of that, which is why I'm annoyed that they're just all of a sudden came up with this new change after being told otherwise several times.

I realize this thread is rather dated, but I'm wondering if this method of advance-tipping might still be useful in a city like Chicago? (North Michigan Avenue/River North area to be specific, where we are talking about rather classy hotels)

Not specific to a city, although Vegas seems to have it down. It all depends on how hungy your desk clerk is. I've tried it in Chicago a few times, some clerks get it, some don't. $20 in a 3 star property (Hyatt-Failed), $40 in a 4 star (Westin NMA-sucess), $100 in a 5 star (Park Hyatt-Success).

Sweet talking also works.

It does not hurt to give it a try...

Sweet talking also works.

It does not hurt to give it a try...

i've done this, along with a hint of a good review, and got what i wanted.
smarts sans sarcasm helps, too. ^

How exactly should this advance tip be given to the clerk?

I thought that a tip was paid after receipt of a service as a gesture of appreciation. An "advance tip" seems very similar to a bribe for me - i.e. "Something, such as money or a favor, offered or given to a person in a position of trust to influence that person's views or conduct." Source: Dictionary.com :confused:

It's not a tip, it's a bribe.

tip, bribe, call it what you will. if it works for you, great. if you don't like the idea of it, don't do it.

the "in advance" line of thinking only makes sense if you visit each place one. do you think that servers forget their good tippers? so your last tip can be considered a "bribe" for today's meal.

easiest most rewarding thing you can do (especially on long stays), walk into the hotel (PICK A FRIENDLY LOOKING SORT), check in with a smile, hand the clerk a 20 and ask for an upgrade (please!).
just like everything in life there are no sure things. you will not be upgraded everytime. oh, one sure thing-if you walk into the Bellagio wearing a wife-beater, cutoffs, and flip-flops yell out your priceline res. # throw some 20's at the clerk and expect to get a 2-bedroom facing the fountain.....sorry you'll come up short everytime. ^

I think it depends on the location. We tried this "bribe" in Atlantic City and got a crappy smelly room. We had to complain to the manager of the hotel to say that "because so-and-so promised us a nicer room, we gave her a $20 tip" but then she gave us this crappy room instead. We are quite upset." Same thing happened at an Atlantic City show. We asked for some nicer seats and handed the host a $20 bill. When we got to the seats, the guy asked for another $20 or he wouldn't seat us! That's Atlantic City for ya!

I thought that a tip was paid after receipt of a service as a gesture of appreciation. An "advance tip" seems very similar to a bribe for me - i.e. "Something, such as money or a favor, offered or given to a person in a position of trust to influence that person's views or conduct." Source: Dictionary.com :confused:

I thought a TIP has historically been given in advance To Insure Promptitude when ordering drinks in a bar. Granted, it should be ensure and not insure, but that error can easily be explained given the location and time period when this likely began.

What happened to all of the links on the older posts? I am a relative newcomer

How do we give the clerk the 20?? I really want to know this!!

I try this trick all the time in Vegas, and 99% of the time it works, when they are describing the type of room and location to me, I take the $20 and slide it up to them and say "any chance of an up-grade to a junior suite with a view of the strip?" They usually take the $20 and say "let me check that for you" or they have actually called someone on the phone and asked them for permission to up-grade. Hey, it's worth a try! The worst that they can do is say sorry......

What happened to all of the links on the older posts? I am a relative newcomer

The board software was upgraded a year or so ago..

I thought a TIP has historically been given in advance To Insure Promptitude when ordering drinks in a bar. Granted, it should be ensure and not insure, but that error can easily be explained given the location and time period when this likely began.

In Vegas, its To Insure Pimped_upgraded_room :D

It's not a tip, it's a bribe.

But it seems to fit nicely into the definition of a bribe I quoted earlier.

If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck and quacks like like a duck, it is almost certainly a duck. :p

delete

Bummer...

I was looking forward to a treatise on the mechanics of doing this.

Any way of resurrecting the threads?

The board software was upgraded a year or so ago..

Oops..left out the original quote

Bummer...

I was looking forward to a treatise on the mechanics of doing this.

Any way of resurrecting the threads?

What happens if you "tip" and then don't get the upgrade? Do you get the cash back? Awkward?

What happens if you "tip" and then don't get the upgrade? Do you get the cash back? Awkward?

You don't hand the cash over until the upgrade is secured.

Walk up to the counter. Hand over your card and id (if required). Look the clerk in the eye while leaving the $20/50/100 in plain sight on the counter. "I was wondering if I could possibly get an upgrade into a mega luxury fantastico suite?". The clerk will do one of three things:

1. Eye the bill, and get you your upgrade (if this happens, you press the bill into your hand, shake the clerks hand while passing the bill. Mission accomplished.

2. Look in the computer and say, I can upgrade you for $X per night. You the realize that you've lost the bribe game and scored a clerk that does not know how to supplement their income. You than have to decide if the up charge is worth it.

3. Sorry no upgrades tonight, we're full up. You may be in a pickle here. They may really be full, or you may not have offered enough. Move form a $20 to a $50 or $100 if you really want the suite and ask "are you sure"? If they say their sure, see number 2 above. If the $50 or $100 shakes a suite loose, you should be a bit embarrassed for not offering enough the first time, but are back in the game.

:)

You don't hand the cash over until the upgrade is secured.


:)

Terrific... thanks... I will try it!

Several years ago when I was a front desk agent at an Orlando Holiday Inn, I would be slipped money for a priceline/hotwire upgrade quite frequently. On the rare night, I made more in tips than the bell staff...

A friend tipped at the Venetian on a p/l stay. I think he gave 20 bucks and got a Venezia room with a strip view. I think it is worth the risk. Treat it as your first gamble in Vegas!

OK. I am actually writing this from a beautiful, 2-room hotel suite. I would rather not disclose the hotel, so that I run no risk of getting the desk crew in trouble. But, I checked in... put a $20 bill on the counter, said I was in town for a night and needed a great suite for a business meeting. ABSOLUTELY NO PROBLEMS. Clerk happliy put me in an awesome, 2 room suite on a top floor of this hotel, and it cost me a $20 tip. I am hooked. This works, and seemingly completely was at the discretion of the front desk staff. I truely DID have a business meeting here, and the guy who came to meet with me was blown away by the room.

Anyone have experience with this in Montreal - specifically at the Hyatt???
Cheers

I also tried this once in Las Vegas, and won an upgrade. I can't remember if it was a $20 or $40 tip, but I do remember the suite was quite an upgrade.

Anyone with experience trying this in other countries?

A friend of mine, a true "old school" globe trotter, always tipped everybody as he checked in, the doorman, the front desk, the concierge etc. in a very conspicuous way.

He used to think it was more important to tip in advance so that you got everyone's attention, and he was always very well taken care of.

Quite often he would get the best available suite without even asking for an upgrade, as front desk people saw him coming handing out bills.

I don't remember how much, but I do recall he always tipped in US$, wherever he was.

This is singally the best tip I have ever read on the internet. I have now used this strategy at hotels across the country, with success. An example? Riviera in Las Vegas. $20 tip got me one of the best rooms they had, with a private balcony. Crazy, but it works. Even tried it in Fayetteville, AR and was upgraded to a suite. Heading back to Vegas at the end of the month... and rather than leaving money at the tables, I will be upgrading to the executive floor. Thanks for the EXCELLENT information. These upgrades are completely within the discretion of the front desk staff at EVERY hotel.

If the $$ has done what you wanted it to do, then it has done the job. Who cares whether you call it a bribe, tip or whatever. Especially in Vegas, which thrives on tips. A nice tip, like most money, does more than just talk, it gets excellent rooms and service, and that's the bottom line.

Has anyone used this technique successfully in Manhattan?

Has anyone used this technique successfully in Manhattan?

It works everywhere. Keep in mind that you need to base the amount on the swankiness of the hotel and what you're asking for.

A $20 isn't going to carry any weight at a place like the Ritz Carlton or the Mandarin Oriental, but I imagine it'll do wonders at the HoJo in Jersey...

Have anyone tried the $20 tip at Morgan's Hotel in NYC?

Have anyone tried the $20 tip at Morgan's Hotel in NYC?

you need to try it and let us know...

tip, bribe, call it what you will. if it works for you, great. if you don't like the idea of it, don't do it.

the "in advance" line of thinking only makes sense if you visit each place one. do you think that servers forget their good tippers? so your last tip can be considered a "bribe" for today's meal.

My ethics professor always said the difference between a tip and a bribe is simple; you can get a receipt for a tip.

I highly doubt that you're going to get a receipt on a hotel folio for $20 that goes into the desk clerk's pocket.

Personally, I can't imagine ever doing this - I think it's unethical, dirty, and I'd be embarrassed if anybody I knew (significant other, boss, co-worker etc.) witnessed me doing it. If that's how you conduct business with a hotel (whether it's a business or leisure stay), I'm going to believe you're going to be equally morally "flexible" when it comes to paying off somebody to be awarded a contract or bump up the size of an order to meet a sales target.

Also, when I check into my hotel at 9 or 10pm with elite status at the chain, then see a desk agent give away my suite upgrade to somebody in front of me in line on a Priceline reservation for a 20-spot, you can be sure the hotel manager and corporate customer service are going to hear about it.

I'm going to believe you're going to be equally morally "flexible" when it comes to paying off somebody to be awarded a contract or bump up the size of an order to meet a sales target.

:rolleyes:

Also, when I check into my hotel at 9 or 10pm with elite status at the chain, then see a desk agent give away my suite upgrade to somebody in front of me in line on a Priceline reservation for a 20-spot, you can be sure the hotel manager and corporate customer service are going to hear about it.

I'll be discreet enough that you won't notice. :p

I can deal with the guilt of depriving you of your suite while I sip wine on my private balcony or in my en-suite jacuzzi :D

When the pizza guy gets to my house in record time, I give him a big fat tip. No receipt. No documentation. I don't feel bad for Dominoes.

When my wife gets her nails done, and the girl does an extra special job and puts the polish on perfectly, including the extra clear coat that nobody else does, she leaves a tip. A good one. With no IRS writeoff.

When a hotel clerk, within the discretion that is awarded to him by the management, gives me a great room.... why would I not reward that awesome service with cash?

There's no ethical issue involved. If he upgraded me and I gave him NO TIP would you feel better about it? Why would it bother you that I appreciated his service with a tip?

If the room were not available, there would be no upgrade. Surely you would not suggest that it would be better for the room to go empty so that the non-elite peasants stayed in their proper place?

You're telling me that a free, elite upgrade should be worth more priority than someone who appreciates the hotel staff and tips them? I bet YOU don't tip them when they give you your complimentary elite warm cookies.

Maybe you should consider looking at YOU first, before you throw stones. My guess is the hotel staff would rather have ME there than you.

Good luck with your elite status. I'll be sleeping in your heavenly bed.

Hence his name (vigilante) :D

Opinions are great, but let's not have this turn into something "ugly". Thanks

you need to try it and let us know...

I've noticed checking in with a really attractive charming woman and let her ask about possible upgrade to the male check-in clerk also increases the odds... though those are harder to have available than $20 usually :D

I've noticed checking in with a really attractive charming woman and let her ask about possible upgrade to the male check-in clerk also increases the odds... though those are harder to have available than $20 usually :D

while I have never tested your scenario, since I am in charge of all upgrades (bride or no bribe) --- but, I have experienced a greater amount of shall we say "flexibility" from male check-in clerks.

From prior experience I can tell you that checking in with your friend Andy Jackson works quite nicely in obtaining room upgrades at several places in Maui and Kauai. ;)

I've noticed checking in with a really attractive charming woman and let her ask about possible upgrade to the male check-in clerk also increases the odds... though those are harder to have available than $20 usually :D

Hmmm. You must have not stayed too much at better hotels. More than half of the male employees seem to be gay.

When the pizza guy gets to my house in record time, I give him a big fat tip. No receipt. No documentation. I don't feel bad for Dominoes.

When my wife gets her nails done, and the girl does an extra special job and puts the polish on perfectly, including the extra clear coat that nobody else does, she leaves a tip. A good one. With no IRS writeoff.

When a hotel clerk, within the discretion that is awarded to him by the management, gives me a great room.... why would I not reward that awesome service with cash?

Pizza guy can get pizza to everyone in record time if he tries hard enough; the girl can do "extra special job" (?...) for every of her clients. That IS service, as they are doing something to increase the value of the product.

There is a fixed count of suites in a hotel. No matter how hard front desk person tries, he can't make a "quality room" into "suite", he is just giving away one which could be sold for more (or given to frequent guest, thus ensuring more business from him/her) and pocketing the difference. That IS NOT a good service, he is just conning his employer by shuffling the rooms around. I'm sure you are OK with that, just wanted to make the difference clear.

On the other hand, if you met a front desk fairy who got to your shabby room and turned it into presidential suite with her magic touch, I sincerely apologise. 20$ were well deserved in this case. AFTER she did it.

I am one of those people who NEVER gets a free upgrade. Maybe i'm a misanthrope, maybe I'm not very pleasent to be around, maybe my deoderant isn't good after 3pm, who knows - but kindness of strangers has never been thrust upob me during a check-in situation.

I never tried a bribe though. It makes me giggle a little because my other half, when working as a desk clerk, used to come home talking about getting tips. The place was all Suites and the rooms were all identicle. Just can't imagine how many people thought they got an upgrade when that IS the standard room.

To note, please don't try this with Disney resorts. It been mentioned before that it's likely not to work - and there's a good reason. Disney employees are trained to NEVER accept bribes/tips unless their job is specificly related to them (waiters, bellmen). They must refuse 3 times, and then for courtesy, accept on the 4th, and then turn in the money to management to have it donated to a charity. This even goes for rock-stars giving their tour guide a guitar. It's assesed for value and the value is given to charity.

Anyone ignoring the policy will be termianted - so PLEASE don't try to bribe Disney cast members. They're poor, they want the money, but they can't take it.

Question: Would you tip more depending on your length of stay?
I did read that your tip should depend on the star the hotel is but would if also depend on how long you would be in the room for?

Also just to be clear - If you do NOT get your upgrade, your $20, $50 etc. comes back off the desk with YOU?

THANKS! ;)

There's a fine line of distinction here that I think about half are seeing, and half are missing...

I do, and encourage, tipping for excellent service. When a pizza delivery guy arrives quickly, I'll tip him extra. When a hairdresser does a great job, I'll tip extra.

My ethical issue is, where I call a pizza place, and tell the guy "listen, I want 4 pizzas, but only ring me up for 2 and I'll give you an extra $10 cash when your driver gets here."

It's also defines the difference between lobbying and bribing in politics; it's illegal (let alone unethical) when it's quid-pro-quo.

So, if you're friendly to the desk clerk and he comps you a nicer room out of the warmness of his heart, I have absolutely no issue with you slipping him $20 as you check out with a thanks for excellent service. Bribing him to do something he otherwise wouldn't, in my opinion, is unethical.

I guess everyone has a different level of comfort for this kind of thing; personally I'd be very embarrassed to try it.

Anyone ever try this at a Marriott Vacation Club resort (e.g., in the Orlando area) while there on one of their $199 4-night sales promo deals?

I just want to make a point here. Three years ago I was in a flight from Sao Paulo to Miami with United. I bought in advance a bottle of wine, and gave it to the crew as a present from my country (Uruguay). Guess what, the guy in charge of the crew upgraded me to bussiness!
I did the same couple of month later in a flight from Montevideo to Dulles, but the flight was full so they gave me first class food instead of coach. I talked during the flight with one of the flight attendants and he felt sorry about not being able to upgrade me. Now, listen this?!
Like a year later, I got in another flight (Montevideo-Dulles) with the same flight attendant who regonize me! The flight was completely full again. So before getting to DC he gave me a bottle of Don perignion in return of my old gift!

My point is just be nice, and try to build your own flying network. If you are a frequent traveler and you manage to meet some guys on flights and hotels, complimentary upgrades become an extra without having to ask for them.

My point is just be nice, and try to build your own flying network. If you are a frequent traveler and you manage to meet some guys on flights and hotels, complimentary upgrades become an extra without having to ask for them.

Amen.

There's a fine line of distinction here that I think about half are seeing, and half are missing... I do, and encourage, tipping for excellent service. When a pizza delivery guy arrives quickly, I'll tip him extra. When a hairdresser does a great job, I'll tip extra. My ethical issue is, where I call a pizza place, and tell the guy "listen, I want 4 pizzas, but only ring me up for 2 and I'll give you an extra $10 cash when your driver gets here." It's also defines the difference between lobbying and bribing in politics; it's illegal (let alone unethical) when it's quid-pro-quo.

So, if you're friendly to the desk clerk and he comps you a nicer room out of the warmness of his heart, I have absolutely no issue with you slipping him $20 as you check out with a thanks for excellent service. Bribing him to do something he otherwise wouldn't, in my opinion, is unethical. I guess everyone has a different level of comfort for this kind of thing; personally I'd be very embarrassed to try it.

You state the argument fairly and completely. I have never tipped a hotel clerk and I never will. I agree with you 100%.

MisterNice

I don't why some people get so stirred over the thought of an advance tip. I'm going to try a few things the OP suggested and see what happens. I've usually handled things a little different post-check -in during stays of 4+ days. Last summer in Beijing I handed out a few rmb100 ($12.50) bills for bags, tip in the executive lounge and head bartender in the lobby. For the next 5 days my wife and I were treated like royalty at the Hilton. I think we were given 4 or 5 free meals during the stay, and my wife was given a free spa treatment.

During my next hotel stay, I plan on handing a $20 or $50 bill over with my credit card. Has this been tried at check-in for a flight? Handing a United counter agent a $50 along with your UA card and asking "any operational upgrades available today?" :)

Wow, got thru the whole thread and never once saw some suggest if a 38 works as good as a 20! (HA-HA)

I'd hate to think of the possible perceived security implications if airline check-in agents start treating people differently because of gratuities (whether you call these tips or bribes).

I'd hate to think of the possible perceived security implications if airline check-in agents start treating people differently because of gratuities (whether you call these tips or bribes). ^

I booked the cheapo regular deluxe room on line for $139 per night. When I checked in I slipped a $50 under my credit card and asked for an upgrade. The girl at the front desk took my card with the cash and upgraded me to an Executive Suite (high floor - corner suite) with an amazing view of the strip. It was a double high...getting the upgrade and enjoying the wonderful room. There is something about Vegas that makes this just seem like acceptable behavior.

There is something about Vegas that makes this just seem like acceptable behavior.

I tried leaving a $50 bill on the counter at the Four Queens, downtown. I had booked the cheapo $39 room. She said that the hotel was full and all of the suites were taken, which I think was true. Good thing that I did not slip her the $50 bill with my credit card. Would she have given it back?

Off topic, but if you have tickets in the cheap seats, and strike up a conversation with a friendly usher, $10 per seat will sometimes get you a little (really a lot) closer to the action.

Has anyone tried the $20 tip in London? I assume $20 translates to 20GBP, yes?. I'm at the Hilton London Olympia for a few nights and would love an upgrade.

$20 translates to less than 11GBP at current rates.

Has anyone tried this with car rentals? I got a car on priceline and was thinking of trying...

Alays ask before offering the $. At the Venetian last week, flashed $50 and asked for a Prima/Piazza suite. Jewelery convention in town and they were totally sold out.

My point is just be nice, and try to build your own flying network. If you are a frequent traveler and you manage to meet some guys on flights and hotels, complimentary upgrades become an extra without having to ask for them.

Several years ago I walked into Budget with a bag full of fresh croissants from an amazing patrisserie in Montreal. My roommate and I offered some croissants to the agent and his colleagues not expecting anything in return - it would have almost been cruel not to share the croissants....

A couple of minutes later we were surprised to be driving off in a purple convertible! Not sure if this would work in the States where people seem to be a little more cautious about excepting food from strangers.

jnaviation makes an important point. Charm and generosity does wonders even if it's just for its own sake. And there are much more interesting gifts than cash...

If we are checking into a hotel in Ottawa, would US currency be an issue or should I stop by an atm beforehand?
Ive used US currency there before in restaurants and bars for tips.

I gave a small box of chocolates to the purser on my SJU-MCO flight yesterday. I ended up with 2 bottles of wine, and all the free liquor I could drink while on the flight. Thank god I wasn't driving afterwards :D

If we are checking into a hotel in Ottawa, would US currency be an issue or should I stop by an atm beforehand?

OMG

Nevermind :D

Definitely one of the more interesting (ongoing) topics of the board. Can anyone provide examples of what kind of flexibility the front desk staff have in the upgrades and what parameters they must follow (having never worked in the hotel industry myself). This is more from a "what kind of subjective system hotels have going behind the scenes" versus a "what can I get perspective".

In the UK we 'can' be pretty stuffy and if we get an American slipping a £20 there is a chance we could take it as an insult rather than a perk. We would view it as a little crass although politely decline (not sure if I would be the same but just coming from a Londoncentric perspective).

Now where can I slip a $20 in SF? :)

The only place I have had success is in the Las Vegas Hotels on the strip. Upgraded every time -- one time to an empty villa (40$ tip). The trick is to know what their inventory situation looks like...

If a hotel clerk is caught upgrading someone on a cheap rate to a top-of-the-line suite, could the clerk get in trouble and potentially lose his or her job?

The desk staff are given a lot of leaway in assigning rooms. I have never heard of a situation where anyone got in trouble folr this. The hospitality industry exists around the concept of tips.

BTW--it doesn't work at Motel 6.

Alays ask before offering the $. At the Venetian last week, flashed $50 and asked for a Prima/Piazza suite. Jewelery convention in town and they were totally sold out.
What shall I ask for at the Bellagio in a couple weeks? (staying on cheap FHR rate)

Oh, Did it again! Got the executive floor for our 6 day stay here in Lovely Asheville NC by using the $20 Tip enticement! Everyone wins!

Not everyone. The people who don't tip lose if this reduces their chance of getting an upgrade.

Not everyone. The people who don't tip lose if this reduces their chance of getting an upgrade.
On a $50/nt priceline rate for which the hotel is receiving $30 for, you're lucky to get the room you want, much less an upgrade. The $20 is a good investment

I'd say that this is worked into determining the wages that these employees receive. A hotel has to figure that X-amount of tipping is going on, and if the suites are going to be empty, it's best to let your employees take tips and fill them. You don't have to pay them as much that way.

Likewise, I still run into people who don't know that servers are generally only paid $2.13 per hour and depend on tips.

What shall I ask for at the Bellagio in a couple weeks? (staying on cheap FHR rate)

Check the website to see if they are selling suites during your stay. If they are, then that's a good indication that suites are available and that the "trick" will work.

Go with $100. Try to get a guy clerk if possible (I've had better success with male clerks). Ask for a 1BR penthouse, settle for a "normal" 1BR. Have a $20 handy also, if he offers you a fountain or corner room, make the $100 disappear and give a $20 instead.

Good luck!

Go with $100. Try to get a guy clerk if possible (I've had better success with male clerks).

Good luck!


I recently tried for a similar upgrade in Manhattan (with a female clerk) and was politely offered an upgrade for the rack rate! With $100 clearly in view, I couldn't tell if she just chose to look the other way or didn't catch on...I'll see what happens with a male clerk next time.

Likewise, I still run into people who don't know that servers are generally only paid $2.13 per hour and depend on tips.

Not in the People's Socialist Republic of California. I guess it depends where you are.

Ken in Phx

Writing this from my REGULAR room at the Radisson in Chatsworth, CA. Used priceline to book the room, and my new "check-in proceedure" did not work. Here was the mistake this time... check-in clerk available was the "junior" guy. Even noticing the tip, he had to consult with the manager who denied any upgrade based on Priceline booking.

In large hotels, such as Vegas, I think the hussle and bussle of the lobby helps. In smaller hotels like this one, I think that
A. You are better off with the MANAGER and
B. You are better off if there is only one person at the desk

We'll try again Wednesday when I visit Fayetteville Arkansas. I have been batting 1000 on this until this Radisson.

Post your successes and failures here please. This is an interesting travel diversion, with usually GREAT results.

Got a suite with this at the starwood property in mykonos, best 20 euros ever spent.

If they say NO..the $20 goes in their hand or yours? :D

If they say NO..the $20 goes in their hand or yours? :D

Simple: Don't part with the bill 'til you get what you want.

A tip is not a bribe. If you ask for a better room and they give it to you then you can give the person who does it a gift for their fine service. But if you offer a price that is less than the company requires, then you are undercutting the owner of the property through theft. Would you offer a waiter $5 to give you vintage Dom Perignon when you are being billed for Gallo red? Or a taxi driver $10 to turn off the meter and drive you for $20 worth? Or a clerk $20 to allow you to shoplift? I have often received upgraded rooms and never offered a bribe. I have tipped on check-out to people who have done a very fine and helpful job.

If you like slipping bribes to clerks, when you rent from Avis, reserve a subcompact. When you arrive at your destination and they tell you they have none left of the subcompacts that you reserved, slip the agent a $20 and whisper that you'd like an upgrade. ;)

A tip is not a bribe. If you ask for a better room and they give it to you then you can give the person who does it a gift for their fine service. But if you offer a price that is less than the company requires, then you are undercutting the owner of the property through theft. Would you offer a waiter $5 to give you vintage Dom Perignon when you are being billed for Gallo red? Or a taxi driver $10 to turn off the meter and drive you for $20 worth? Or a clerk $20 to allow you to shoplift? I have often received upgraded rooms and never offered a bribe. I have tipped on check-out to people who have done a very fine and helpful job.

If you like slipping bribes to clerks, when you rent from Avis, reserve a subcompact. When you arrive at your destination and they tell you they have none left of the subcompacts that you reserved, slip the agent a $20 and whisper that you'd like an upgrade. ;)

In Las Vegas, the tip trick is not a secretive thing, but widely done and accepted. I have no doubt that management at the hotels are aware of it and aren't bothered by it. The tourist magazine in my room at the Paris last time I was there even listed the suggested tip for check-in clerks to be $20-50. It was listed there along with all the other suggested amounts for bellmen, valets, concierges, dealers, etc.

I have no doubt that management at the hotels are aware of it and aren't bothered by it. The tourist magazine in my room at the Paris last time I was there even listed the suggested tip for check-in clerks to be $20-50. It was listed there along with all the other suggested amounts for bellmen, valets, concierges, dealers, etc.
If the hotel is properly managed they would be very bothered. The clerk is clipping their revenue and giving you what you didn't pay for at the hotel's loss. What hotel would want that to happen? If that's the way they do business then the front desk clerk should receive no salary. That Paris magazine is world-famous, it is published by the national association of hotel clerks and also mentions tipping the person who sells Metro tickets who will then get you a better seat. :D

If the hotel is properly managed they would be very bothered. The clerk is clipping their revenue and giving you what you didn't pay for at the hotel's loss. What hotel would want that to happen? If that's the way they do business then the front desk clerk should receive no salary. That Paris magazine is world-famous, it is published by the national association of hotel clerks and also mentions tipping the person who sells Metro tickets who will then get you a better seat. :D


I have been upgraded several times--without a tip, but only because I usually have gotten to know some of the front-desk clerks and managers. What they have told me is that when they are over-booked, they are going to have to upgrade someone anyways and are told that at the beginning of their shift. So, many times they have upgraded me. I have given tips/presents after the fact many times.

However, if they are over-booked, if a front-desk clerk wishes to upgrade someone at no charge, they are given the ability to do so.

They have also told me that even if they are not over-booked, they still have the ability to upgrade somoene if they know the upgraded rooms are not sold. Thus, tipping them to do so is not costing the hotel revenue because it is allowed by the hotel.

I have been told by some of the managers that they consider it good marketing for upgrading guests because that may instill some loyalty in that customer for future visits.

If the hotel is properly managed they would be very bothered. The clerk is clipping their revenue and giving you what you didn't pay for at the hotel's loss. What hotel would want that to happen? If that's the way they do business then the front desk clerk should receive no salary. That Paris magazine is world-famous, it is published by the national association of hotel clerks and also mentions tipping the person who sells Metro tickets who will then get you a better seat. :D

Actually, this is more than likely not true. By the time one is checking in, the chances of selling any available rooms for that evening are very slim. Thus, in 99.9% of such occurrences, I can only guess that the hotel is filling a room that would otherwise go empty.

I'm guessing a one-night stay is more likely to be upgraded this way vs multi-night? Anyone have a feel for that?

Actually, this is more than likely not true. By the time one is checking in, the chances of selling any available rooms for that evening are very slim. Thus, in 99.9% of such occurrences, I can only guess that the hotel is filling a room that would otherwise go empty.
Also, by upgrading you to a suite that would otherwise be sitting empty, the possibility exists for the hotel to then sell the standard room to a walk-in customer - it's far more likely they would go for a standard room rather than a suite.

Also, by upgrading you to a suite that would otherwise be sitting empty, the possibility exists for the hotel to then sell the standard room to a walk-in customer - it's far more likely they would go for a standard room rather than a suite.

I'm not sure that I understand this point, from the hotel's point of view. If you're upgraded, there's no chance that a later customer will pay for a suite. If you're not upgraded, there's a slight chance that a walk-in customer will pay for a suite. Otherwise, the hotel could still sell the room at standard rate to a walk-in customer and upgrade that customer to the suite. No?

More cost to the hotel for cleaning, eventual replacement of (and more volume of ) fixtures and furniture (and likely more costly stuff). Greater cost of utilities for the suite. Sorry, I beleive this hurts the hotel for generic customers! If they believe there is a value to upgrade, they will (frequent customers, etc). How anyone could rationalize that the hotel is not out (renting for Priceline prices!) for giving a suite for a ROH room, dah!

Now, if you say, forget the hotel, what do I get? That is different!

Some, on this board, also say that a room for $3, or a flight for $10 dollars is also their right because of a typo! Great you got it. I beleive it is cheating and immoral, but so what? If you view it as your right, then that is your opinion. I do not think the moral argument can be solved here, although many have tired. It is a matter of the writers morality. That is it. So think about your position, your preception of your morality and then go for what you are comfortable with.

I'll admit to "smoozing". It is just a form of cheap, subtle request to get something you would likely not get otherwise. I am comfortable with that.

Giving an employee money to cheat their employer, will that does not work for my morality. Seem illegal to me, but not sure. Certainly could get the employee fired in some places, I suspect.

The fact that this works in Vegas is no surprise. Then not many think of Vegas as the morality capital of the world!

If the hotel is properly managed they would be very bothered. The clerk is clipping their revenue and giving you what you didn't pay for at the hotel's loss. What hotel would want that to happen? If that's the way they do business then the front desk clerk should receive no salary. That Paris magazine is world-famous, it is published by the national association of hotel clerks and also mentions tipping the person who sells Metro tickets who will then get you a better seat. :D

False. Clerks don't have the power to give away rooms held for high rollers (in Vegas), revenue stays, or rooms held for other reason (VIP's/Elite members).

This is what the $20 does not work 100% of the time.

I'm not sure that I understand this point, from the hotel's point of view. If you're upgraded, there's no chance that a later customer will pay for a suite. If you're not upgraded, there's a slight chance that a walk-in customer will pay for a suite. Otherwise, the hotel could still sell the room at standard rate to a walk-in customer and upgrade that customer to the suite. No?
Good point, I'd not thought of it like that! I feel a bit daft now..... :rolleyes:

I feel a bit daft now..... :rolleyes:

Don't. I'd place the walkup suite business at 1 out of every 100,000 customers. In other words: non existent.

Its not like walkup air tickets. On other words, put it this way: Everyone can remember needing to buy an air ticket at the last min, everyone can remember looking for a room at the last min. When was the last time you heard of anyone reserving a suite at the last min?

Don't. I'd place the walkup suite business at 1 out of every 100,000 customers. In other words: non existent.

Its not like walkup air tickets. On other words, put it this way: Everyone can remember needing to buy an air ticket at the last min, everyone can remember looking for a room at the last min. When was the last time you heard of anyone reserving a suite at the last min?

I've done that myself. I had to make a next-to-last-minute booking for a funeral in Honolulu in summer and spent hours trying to find *any* rooms at all. I finally had to book two corner suites for our extended famiily. The hotel wouldn't budge on the rate either -- no bereavement rates in the lodging industry, apparently.

Of course, this wasn't exactly last-minute -- more like a couple of days notice.

I've done that myself. I had to make a next-to-last-minute booking for a funeral in Honolulu in summer and spent hours trying to find *any* rooms at all. I finally had to book two corner suites for our extended famiily. The hotel wouldn't budge on the rate either -- no bereavement rates in the lodging industry, apparently.

Of course, this wasn't exactly last-minute -- more like a couple of days notice.

Exactly my point. If there are no rooms available in town, no hotel is going to allow their front desk clerk to give away a suite for $20. If there are tons of rooms available in town, no one is going to walk up and pay rack for a suite. You wouldn't have, would you?

Bottom line, if suites are available and occupancy is low, the $20 bribe will work. If there aren't suites available or if occupancy is high it won't.

False. Clerks don't have the power to give away rooms held for high rollers (in Vegas), revenue stays, or rooms held for other reason (VIP's/Elite members).

This is what the $20 does not work 100% of the time.
Most hotels I've encountered in MCO, which is where I've been working for the past several years, give the agent the power to decide. Obviously a bribe is not the intention of that power, but it's better than bothering a manager or supervisor on a busy night for compensatory reasons. And it's less paperwork and explanation on the agents part than an adjustment would be.

Different hotels, different markets, different rules.

I know I give my clerks the power to do what they see fit to satisfy one of my guests. But I have also reprimanded them for misusing their power. I am not going to be bothered if an elite member on a non-qualifying wholesale rate is upgraded (even if a bribe is involved.... what desk agent in their right mind will confess to that?). Ultimately, I'd rather have the room sold, if even at minimally above cost, than have it sit empty, not generating any revenue.

As long as one of my suites sells for more than $59, I'm ok with it. Just have a valid reason and be prepared to explain yourself should I think something is up.

Exactly my point. If there are no rooms available in town, no hotel is going to allow their front desk clerk to give away a suite for $20. If there are tons of rooms available in town, no one is going to walk up and pay rack for a suite. You wouldn't have, would you?

Bottom line, if suites are available and occupancy is low, the $20 bribe will work. If there aren't suites available or if occupancy is high it won't.
and pray tell, what agent would fess up to taking a $20 incentive for an upgrade? The rationale the agent will use is "that was the only room available on the night, and it wasn't sold at the time. It was this or walk them).

The agent shouldn't get any grief from that.

Exactly my point. If there are no rooms available in town, no hotel is going to allow their front desk clerk to give away a suite for $20. If there are tons of rooms available in town, no one is going to walk up and pay rack for a suite. You wouldn't have, would you?

Bottom line, if suites are available and occupancy is low, the $20 bribe will work. If there aren't suites available or if occupancy is high it won't.

I wouldn't pay rack rate for a suite in normal circumstances, but I would pay more than $20 over the cost of a standard room. I prefer putting the family up in a single junior or one-bedroom suite where possible, which works better for us than two standard rooms. I usually do book in advance, though.

I don't think anyone is arguing that the $20 bribe doesn't work. I just didn't understand the economic argument justifying that practice from the hotel's point of view.

Most hotels I've encountered in MCO, which is where I've been working for the past several years, give the agent the power to decide. Obviously a bribe is not the intention of that power, but it's better than bothering a manager or supervisor on a busy night for compensatory reasons. And it's less paperwork and explanation on the agents part than an adjustment would be.

Different hotels, different markets, different rules.

I know I give my clerks the power to do what they see fit to satisfy one of my guests. But I have also reprimanded them for misusing their power. I am not going to be bothered if an elite member on a non-qualifying wholesale rate is upgraded (even if a bribe is involved.... what desk agent in their right mind will confess to that?). Ultimately, I'd rather have the room sold, if even at minimally above cost, than have it sit empty, not generating any revenue.

As long as one of my suites sells for more than $59, I'm ok with it. Just have a valid reason and be prepared to explain yourself should I think something is up.

They have the power to decide for unblocked, otherwise empty rooms. The front desk clerk cannot give away a room that is reserved or otherwise blocked for Mr High roller or Ms Vip.

If you've tried the $20 trick, you'll notice that the clerk either picks up the phone or disappears into the back to work your upgrade. He/She never just does it while working the computer.

and pray tell, what agent would fess up to taking a $20 incentive for an upgrade? The rationale the agent will use is "that was the only room available on the night, and it wasn't sold at the time. It was this or walk them).

The agent shouldn't get any grief from that.

Everyone acts like this is some sort of secret. The manager clearing these upgrades (when the clerk is on the phone or in the back) used to be the front desk clerk. He/She is taking a cut.

Again, These clerks do not have the power to give away a reserved/blocked room.

I don't think anyone is arguing that the $20 bribe doesn't work. I just didn't understand the economic argument justifying that practice from the hotel's point of view.

The front office employees are largely underpaid. They rationalize that they are supplementing their income.

Putting someone in an otherwise empty room does not cost the hotel, regardless of the "wear and tear" of furniture and linens argument above. :)

Everyone acts like this is some sort of secret. The manager clearing these upgrades (when the clerk is on the phone or in the back) used to be the front desk clerk. He/She is taking a cut.

Again, These clerks do not have the power to give away a reserved/blocked room.
yes and no... shuffling blocks can be done if it's early enough in the day, and there was no specific reason listed in the reservation as to why a room was blocked. Different hotels have different rules. Some hotels do NOT require manager approval for these upgrades, and those are the ones in which you are likely going to have a higher chance of getting an upgrade.

yes and no... shuffling blocks can be done if it's early enough in the day, and there was no specific reason listed in the reservation as to why a room was blocked. Different hotels have different rules. Some hotels do NOT require manager approval for these upgrades, and those are the ones in which you are likely going to have a higher chance of getting an upgrade.

I'm not talking about elite upgrades, I'm talking about $20 "bribe" upgrades. There's different rules for both.

Bottom line: no desk clerk is going to give you a "bribe" upgrade without the night manager/auditor's approval and that entails getting his/her cut.

I've tried the $20 trick for years and I've been shut just about as many times as its worked. There's reasons for that. Clerks that don't want to play is one reason, lack of inventory (due to suites being reserved/blocked or otherwise saved) is another.

Again, I'm not talking about gettng a "preferred view" or a corner room. I'm always shooting for suites.

Bottom line: no desk clerk is going to give you a "bribe" upgrade without the night manager/auditor's approval and that entails getting his/her cut.

A dishonest desk clerk will :rolleyes:

I've been in the industry long enough to know that a dishonest clerk will cover their tracks, and can BS a manager most of the time. They only get caught when reported by another coworker, or if witnessed taking the bribe.

A dishonest desk clerk will :rolleyes:

I've been in the industry long enough to know that a dishonest clerk will cover their tracks, and can BS a manager most of the time. They only get caught when reported by another coworker, or if witnessed taking the bribe.

Of course, but I imagine that after giving away a blocked suite one too many times, he or she won't be a desk clerk anymore.

I have a couple of rooms booked throughout Asia and might give it a try...

I have a 6 night stay at the Meridien in Kuala Lumpur (very large hotel with many suites)... Is there a chance to get an upgraded room for 6 nights? I have booked via the hotel website, is that a plus? I will be checking-in on my birthday, can that be considered????

What about Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore...

Any hint would be appreciated!

Has anyone ever tried this approach as a way to get your rental car upgraded? I'll be in Maui for a couple of weeks and would not mind a $20 upgrade over my mid-size!

Has anyone ever tried this approach as a way to get your rental car upgraded? I'll be in Maui for a couple of weeks and would not mind a $20 upgrade over my mid-size!

Buying up for a small extra fee at the time of pickup is pretty routine with cars, although usually it's a certain dollar amount per day. I dunno about bribing the rental clerk. Heck, find out what you've been assigned first. Sometimes you get an upgrade just because that's all that's left. If it's a Priceline rental, I don't know if you'll be able to buy up, but you still might get assigned something above the class you specified. (I've only done a Priceline car rental once, several years ago. I think I specified economy, out of LGA on a busy weekend. Got a good deal vs the regular rates, and the car I picked up was a Mustang sitting right outside in the Hertz PC area. Guess maybe someone didn't show up for that the night before.)

I find this bribery extremely unethical!!
Gosh this is the way it works in corrupt countries like the former Soviet Union where you have to give bribes to people to get things going, I can't believe people in a civilised Western country like the US are doing these things. :td:

I have a couple of rooms booked throughout Asia and might give it a try...

I have a 6 night stay at the Meridien in Kuala Lumpur (very large hotel with many suites)... Is there a chance to get an upgraded room for 6 nights? I have booked via the hotel website, is that a plus? I will be checking-in on my birthday, can that be considered????

What about Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore...

Any hint would be appreciated!
I would strongly suggest not doing it.
You're not staying in hotels in North America this time, instead you are visiting a completely different part of the world with a completely different culture.
People in different countries regard money differently, I would not be surprised if some people would get very offended by your "tip".
In Singapore tipping it not customary at all, so never tip at any time, not even for exceptional service (and not to the bellboy, taxi driver etc).
It is not part of the culture and should consequently not be done by visitors either.
At Singapore Changi airport there are even signs saying tipping is strictly forbidden.

I wouldn't try this in Europe either.
In many European countries you could get some very negative reactions if you try it.
Some staff may even give you less service as they look at you as someone with a complete lack of ethics thinking he/she can get better service and perks than everybody else by handing out money to each and every person.

has anyone found that a $50 works better. I'm staying at a fairmont on a very discounted rate for 5 nights, to upgrade to anything would be close to 200/night or 1000 dollars us, so I'm wondering about trying this with a $50.

by the way to all that are offended, this is how the us is going, I don't know about overseas but the us is moving more and move to tips, ie why did I give my starbucks person a tip. They made me a very expensive cup of coffee, do I really need to tip them.

Also apparently I need to tip the sandwich guy at subway as well.

Heck, find out what you've been assigned first. Sometimes you get an upgrade just because that's all that's left.

That's a good point. This is for a 2 week rental in Maui. I'd like to get upgraded from a mid-size to a van or SUV (well, ok, I would take the Sebring convertible too). I have been upgraded there for free in the past because they did not have my car class available. This is at Avis--I used the code from the AA 25 year promotion--that was a hecka good code--none of my others in my Avis code hoard could beat it.

So yeah, I'll see what they give me, then if needed, slip in a $20 or so. The difference in price for the amount of time is in the hundreds so it will be money well spent (if it works).

has anyone found that a $50 works better. I'm staying at a fairmont on a very discounted rate for 5 nights, to upgrade to anything would be close to 200/night or 1000 dollars us, so I'm wondering about trying this with a $50.

Depends on the hotel, your financial situation, and how bad you want the bigger room.

Swanky hotel, you may need to go with a $100. If you can afford it and really want it, a $50 will always work.

That's a good point. This is for a 2 week rental in Maui. I'd like to get upgraded from a mid-size to a van or SUV (well, ok, I would take the Sebring convertible too). I have been upgraded there for free in the past because they did not have my car class available. This is at Avis--I used the code from the AA 25 year promotion--that was a hecka good code--none of my others in my Avis code hoard could beat it.

So yeah, I'll see what they give me, then if needed, slip in a $20 or so. The difference in price for the amount of time is in the hundreds so it will be money well spent (if it works).
when I went to Maui Hawaii for my honeymoon, I made sure to tell the rental car agency guy that it was my honeymoon. just by mentioning that they went ahead and gave me a convertible for two weeks for the same price that I had gotten a compact car for.the only problem was gasoline was incredibly expensive and the convertible got terrible gas mileage. But it was very worth it almost every single day we would put the top down whenever we would be going anywhere. We also did the road to hanaand it was great with the convertible. There were a lot of people with compact cars or other cars along the way and they were having to stop all the time to do that you get out and look around whereas if you put the top down, you could see everything.

I would highly recommend trying to get the upgrade and my success has been on car-rental agencies that you can almost always upgrade at the counter for not very much money to a much nicer car, usually $5-$10 a day can move you up two or three classes.

the problem I've heard about these days is that people are right at the airport and want to get the compact car and they can not get it, the reason why they want to get the compact car is because of the gas mileage especially if you're on a business trip. I have never found that when I'm on a business trip that I really care that much about what my gasoline cost is.

Depends on the hotel, your financial situation, and how bad you want the bigger room.

Swanky hotel, you may need to go with a $100. If you can afford it and really want it, a $50 will always work.

well I'm going to give it a try and if it works great if it doesn't work, well we are actually expecting it not to work.

I find this bribery extremely unethical!!
Gosh this is the way it works in corrupt countries like the former Soviet Union where you have to give bribes to people to get things going, I can't believe people in a civilised Western country like the US are doing these things. :td:


I would strongly suggest not doing it.
You're not staying in hotels in North America this time, instead you are visiting a completely different part of the world with a completely different culture.
People in different countries regard money differently, I would not be surprised if some people would get very offended by your "tip".
In Singapore tipping it not customary at all, so never tip at any time, not even for exceptional service (and not to the bellboy, taxi driver etc).
It is not part of the culture and should consequently not be done by visitors either.
At Singapore Changi airport there are even signs saying tipping is strictly forbidden.

I wouldn't try this in Europe either.
In many European countries you could get some very negative reactions if you try it.
Some staff may even give you less service as they look at you as someone with a complete lack of ethics thinking he/she can get better service and perks than everybody else by handing out money to each and every person.


Are you for real.... How many front desk people have you me. Here is a little look at their lives. They work in a hotel that even at their discounted rates they can not afford to stay in. The get paid $7-$10 an hour and every year get a 50 cent raise. They have either low or no benifits. I can tell you for a fact that in LV for $50 you get upgraded to a JR. Players Ste. In Atlanta at the Westin you will get a JR Ste for $20. Good luck in NY. In Spain you get moved to an ocean view for a 50 and have a nice dinner spot every night.


This works all over the world. Remember the people making all the money at hotels are not the ones checking you in.

I find this bribery extremely unethical!!
Gosh this is the way it works in corrupt countries like the former Soviet Union where you have to give bribes to people to get things going, I can't believe people in a civilised Western country like the US are doing these things. :td:


I would strongly suggest not doing it.
You're not staying in hotels in North America this time, instead you are visiting a completely different part of the world with a completely different culture.
People in different countries regard money differently, I would not be surprised if some people would get very offended by your "tip".
In Singapore tipping it not customary at all, so never tip at any time, not even for exceptional service (and not to the bellboy, taxi driver etc).
It is not part of the culture and should consequently not be done by visitors either.
At Singapore Changi airport there are even signs saying tipping is strictly forbidden.

I wouldn't try this in Europe either.
In many European countries you could get some very negative reactions if you try it.
Some staff may even give you less service as they look at you as someone with a complete lack of ethics thinking he/she can get better service and perks than everybody else by handing out money to each and every person.

If only if it were so and you were right.

Maybe ten years ago...

These days, if I don't throw a tip on somebody I get the stinkeye. Even checking in at the Bellagio this weekend, the guy was clearly angling for a tip. He sat there punching keys for ten minutes. Nothing avail. 50$ later, suddenly all the suite inventory opened up...

go figure.

I have a couple of rooms booked throughout Asia and might give it a try...

I have a 6 night stay at the Meridien in Kuala Lumpur (very large hotel with many suites)... Is there a chance to get an upgraded room for 6 nights? I have booked via the hotel website, is that a plus? I will be checking-in on my birthday, can that be considered????

What about Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore...

Any hint would be appreciated!


Asia is different depending on where you are. Indonesia and Malaysia are VERY corrupt and it will work like a charm (also for upgrades on Malaysian).
Thailand, very different society. You would have find the right person.. ie not just the clerk because they don't overstep their authority. HKG, (I live in HKG), and it would be a tough call, again, if you could get the right person maybe, but the clerks will seldom operate outside the SOP..

So I had good luck with the $20 tip at Caesars Palace. I had one of those Southwest Airlines vacation packages with the cheapest room available and they upgraded me to one of the deluxe palace tower rooms plus gave me a $25 food comp which wasn't included in my package, so I actually made money off of the tip. Just fold up the 20 behind the AMEX and they will know you mean business.

seems like the vast majority of these are in vegas for upgrading...

I can tell you for a fact that in LV for $50 you get upgraded to a JR. Players Ste.

What is a JR. Players Ste. :D :D

Las Vegas works great because many properties have a large number of suites --- but, so much is dependent on the day or week, and the overall occupancy. Though, don't expect to be upgraded to a high-roller suite; it is very unlikely; and those swanky 2 br suites are not even close to the level of some of the "true" high-roller suites.

My personal problem is that I always wind up getting the "best" upgrades when I least need them (i.e. when I am ALL ALONE....) ---

Any chance you're a spokesperson for the overworked, underpaid service industry employees of the US? http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/wink.gif



I was thinking the same thing. Problem I have is, from what I have read here - it works for him EVERY TIME. To me that is unusual.

It really churns my stomach to read what some of you guys will do to squeez a little something out of a business. Are you going to be there for the clerk when he gets fired for taking bribes? Would you like him working for YOU?!?!?!

I dare a single one of you to come up to me with a $20 and ask me for a complimentary upgrade to F. I'd make an announcement over the PA as you walked back to where you belong, telling every single passenger what you did.

You should all be ashamed of yourselves.

It really churns my stomach to read what some of you guys will do to squeez a little something out of a business. Are you going to be there for the clerk when he gets fired for taking bribes? Would you like him working for YOU?!?!?!

I dare a single one of you to come up to me with a $20 and ask me for a complimentary upgrade to F. I'd make an announcement over the PA as you walked back to where you belong, telling every single passenger what you did.

You should all be ashamed of yourselves.

In Vegas at least it seems to be an accepted practice. Perhaps it's tacitly allowed so that visitor feels good about things and spends more in the casino. You never know how these businesses work.

As to elsewhere, you roll with the punches.

It really churns my stomach to read what some of you guys will do to squeez a little something out of a business. Are you going to be there for the clerk when he gets fired for taking bribes? Would you like him working for YOU?!?!?!

I dare a single one of you to come up to me with a $20 and ask me for a complimentary upgrade to F. I'd make an announcement over the PA as you walked back to where you belong, telling every single passenger what you did.

You should all be ashamed of yourselves.

Don't agree with it? Don't do it. Otherwise, please keep the judgements to yourself. Thanks!

It really churns my stomach to read what some of you guys will do to squeez a little something out of a business. Are you going to be there for the clerk when he gets fired for taking bribes? Would you like him working for YOU?!?!?!

I dare a single one of you to come up to me with a $20 and ask me for a complimentary upgrade to F. I'd make an announcement over the PA as you walked back to where you belong, telling every single passenger what you did.

You should all be ashamed of yourselves. That is just too funny! You must be one of the cranky ones.

Don't agree with it? Don't do it. Otherwise, please keep the judgements to yourself. Thanks!

What kind of attitude is that?!

If I see someone stealing from you, should I join them? Should I tell you? Or should I, as you say, just stay out of it?

That is just too funny! You must be one of the cranky ones.

No, not cranky... Just honest. I don't believe in stealing from my employer. Perhaps you do. I don't...

No, not cranky... Just honest. I don't believe in stealing from my employer. Perhaps you do. I don't...

Some hotels let desk clerks accept tips and some don't. It's not stealing if the desk clerk is allowed to upgrade guests and it's not wrong if hotel allows the employee to accept tips.

What's OK in Vegas may not be OK in other cities. A poster in a Disney board observed his aunt, a regular Vegas guest, try the tip/bribe. The CM asked if she wanted the $20 applied to her room account for incidentals.

What kind of attitude is that?!

If I see someone stealing from you, should I join them? Should I tell you? Or should I, as you say, just stay out of it?

"Stealing" :rolleyes:

No, not cranky... Just honest. I don't believe in stealing from my employer. Perhaps you do. I don't...

No one is asking you to steal from your employer, or anyone. Bribes are a common practice in most parts of the world.

Again, its very simple. If you don't like it or don't agree with it, don't do it.

What kind of attitude is that?!

If I see someone stealing from you, should I join them? Should I tell you? Or should I, as you say, just stay out of it?


Bribes are the way of the world. How do you think politicians are elected. There is even a political name "patronage".

No one is stealing anything. How old is the phrase "you scratch my back, I scratch yours."

Bribes are the way of the world. How do you think politicians are elected. There is even a political name "patronage".

No one is stealing anything. How old is the phrase "you scratch my back, I scratch yours."

Sorry... "He did it first..." Sorry, that still doesn't make it right in my book.

No, not cranky... Just honest. I don't believe in stealing from my employer. Perhaps you do. I don't... OK let's examine this a bit. I'll assume you tip at restaurants. What are you paying for? Better service? What is "better service"? A smile? More time spent on you? Getting the waiter to take back something that you didn't like? The last two things potentially cost the restaurant money. Is that stealing?

When a waiter brings you an extra, like a free coffee, do you always ask if the owner of the restaurant OK'd it? Has a waiter ever dropped something from your bill because you complained about something, and then you gave them a bigger tip?

And then there are non-monetary rewards. I take it you are sometimes a GA. Have you ever upgraded someone because they were nice to you? Is it stealing to take something from your employer to give to the customer so that you could be repaid in kindness or gratitude in order to feel better about yourself?

OK let's examine this a bit. I'll assume you tip at restaurants. What are you paying for? Better service? What is "better service"? A smile? More time spent on you? Getting the waiter to take back something that you didn't like? The last two things potentially cost the restaurant money. Is that stealing?

When a waiter brings you an extra, like a free coffee, do you always ask if the owner of the restaurant OK'd it? Has a waiter ever dropped something from your bill because you complained about something, and then you gave them a bigger tip?

And then there are non-monetary rewards. I take it you are sometimes a GA. Have you ever upgraded someone because they were nice to you? Is it stealing to take something from your employer to give to the customer so that you could be repaid in kindness or gratitude in order to feel better about yourself?


speaking of tips. for example I went to a very nice steak place in town this weekend. An average bill without any drinks is probably around $150, with drinks it would be substantially more but my wife and I weren't drinking that nice. We had perhaps the worst service I have ever received. We were in a group of 12, but we had called about 3 weeks prior made a reservation and explained that we do this monthly and each couple pays there own way. How are 12 people who know each other a little bit supposed to split on bill that's around $2000 dollars. Others were drinking. So we had them split the bill. Dinner took them, not us, around 4 hours, I arrived at 615 and got home at 1100pm. Many many service items were missed. At the end of this I am forced to tip 18% because of the size of our table. I ordered a coke, It ran out before my appetizer. I never got it refilled but I did ask 3 times. My wife never got a straw, she did ask 3 times. I considered walking back to the kitchen but I couldn't tell where it was. The food was coke etc. These are all waitor, not kitchen items. So now I tipped apparently 18 percent on this for service. Typically i'm a 20 percent tipper so I don't usually mind, but this time I did.

Not regarding this thread I think if they are allowed to take tips at certain places, that may even be considered part of their income. My ex girlfriend worked front desk, and was considering moving up into management but it was well known that you lost the tips that went along with front desk. Remember these guys are giving away something that wouldn't have been filled. They are not giving away something they could have gotten money for. I think they should get tips for that as a employers. And as a person who is going to do the tipping I like that too.

And looking at some of the websites for the rack rate for suites. Is the fairmont getting 950 for the cottage by the sea. or 1650 a night for a room there. I make a pretty good living and I don't think i would pay 10000 for a weeks' hotel room.

:td: If only if it were so and you were right.

Maybe ten years ago...

. Even checking in at the Bellagio this weekend, the guy was clearly angling for a tip. He sat there punching keys for ten minutes. Nothing avail. 50$ later, suddenly all the suite inventory opened up...

go figure.

Go Figure?????????? :rolleyes:

Did you book a room or a suite?

you booked a room and ask for a suite, you complain that he was typing for 10 minutes?

instead of being happy to get a compliant, ( greedy) clerk, you wine that your room should turn into a suite because....... :confused:

Next time pay upwards of one thousand dollars additional on a multi night stay and you can save yourself the indignation of having to stand in front of a clerk typing for ---- what I doubt was not fully ten minutes----and $50 cash.

Geesh. some FT'ers don't take good luck in stride :(

During my next hotel stay, I plan on handing a $20 or $50 bill over with my credit card.
During a few hotel stays I had last week there, I forgot once, and during the other I had a trainee being helped by a manager so I didn't offer. Yesterday I folded a $20 along with my credit card (Priceline stay at 4-Star hotel) and said "the hotel seems pretty empty today, do you think there's a suite I can have?" BAM - giant, corner suite with two walls of windows, big living room, huge bedroom, etc.

Thanks for the tip! :D

OK let's examine this a bit. I'll assume you tip at restaurants. What are you paying for? Better service? What is "better service"? A smile? More time spent on you? Getting the waiter to take back something that you didn't like? The last two things potentially cost the restaurant money. Is that stealing?

Personally, I agree with Delta Purser. I think you are trying to self-justify what is, inherently, unethical behavior. Tipping people who are not customarily tipped in order to secure extra benefits for yourself -- when such employees must violate their employer's stated practices in order to accept such tips -- is ethically wrong.

That said, I am not a particularly judgmental person. For instance, you could argue this is a "victimless crime." In the micro-sense, nobody loses. You get the room you want. The modestly paid front desk gets useful spending money. And, hopefully, the hotel simply takes an otherwise unoccupied room out of their inventory.

Of course, as such practices "catch on," you contribute to the corruption of society and the coarseness of our culture. I don't think any of us want to live in a corrupt society (like say, Nigeria), where you have to constantly bribe everybody to get anything done.

I guess each one of us has to weigh for himself whether the personal gain to be achieved by such a bribe is worth the ethical objection -- which obviously bothers some people more than it bothers others.

But don't go around trying to convince us that this practice is "a good thing." It's not -- it's clearly ethically wrong. In other words, nothing to be particularly proud of.

All that said, I would add that in a town like Vegas -- where the norms of society are a bit different -- bribing the front desk clerk is a lot less morally-challenging than doing it in Omaha.

easiest most rewarding thing you can do (especially on long stays), walk into the hotel (PICK A FRIENDLY LOOKING SORT), check in with a smile, hand the clerk a 20 and ask for an upgrade (please!).
just like everything in life there are no sure things. you will not be upgraded everytime.

It can also happen that the check-in clerk put your $20 "tip" in the pocket, then tell you there is no rooms available for upgrades. :D

It can also happen that the check-in clerk put your $20 "tip" in the pocket, then tell you there is no rooms available for upgrades. :D


OK, this should satisfy EVERYBODY! I say (to the front desk check in clerk when I arrive), "Hello. This is Mr. kaukau checking in. Does the management offer any complimentary upgrades? If they do, and you can upgrade me, I would like to present you with a $20 token of my appreciation." I pass over my DL and cc, both always required, and put a $20 right down on MY side, for the clerk to see, but not hold just yet, as they start typing away looking. Most times yes, sometimes no, NOT stealing, NOT sneaky, NOT embarrasing, NOT BRIBERY!!! That is what a TIP is. It is NOT A BRIBE!!! Hope this helps! :) In addition: I would propose that "I know a hotel front desk clerk, who, for a $20 bribe, will give you a room for the night, and book it as 'Maintenance/Repairs'", is an example of stealing.

It can also happen that the check-in clerk put your $20 "tip" in the pocket, then tell you there is no rooms available for upgrades. :D

No, because the proper method is to not hand over the cash until you've secured the upgrade.

No, because the proper method is to not hand over the cash until you've secured the upgrade.


Correct! ^

No one is asking you to steal from your employer, or anyone. Bribes are a common practice in most parts of the world.

Again, its very simple. If you don't like it or don't agree with it, don't do it.

Without debating the morality/merits of said technique, I think it should be stated that this method does constitute a technical criminal offence in many jurisdictions. In Canada, for instance, one could be charged under s. 426, "secret commissions", for having participated in this scheme, however unlikely that outcome would be. I've certainly never seen this crop up in my time as a Prosecutor, but you never know, and it's certainly best to be cautious when encouraging people to participate in potentially criminal acts. @:-)

Now, on with the debate! :)

I think we know which of us are going to be staying in the little rooms.

Without debating the morality/merits of said technique, I think it should be stated that this method does constitute a technical criminal offence in many jurisdictions. In Canada, for instance, one could be charged under s. 426, "secret commissions", for having participated in this scheme, however unlikely that outcome would be. I've certainly never seen this crop up in my time as a Prosecutor, but you never know, and it's certainly best to be cautious when encouraging people to participate in potentially criminal acts. @:-)

Now, on with the debate! :)

I would never do this in Canada. ;)

I would never do this in Canada. ;)


LOL!

Now if I can get you to agree not to falsely pull fire alarms, deface coins, advertise for the return of stolen goods "no questions asked", and abstain from pretending to practise witchcraft, you'll be covered from some of the more amusing sections of theCriminal Code.

And while I'd never use the $20 perk trick myself, of course ( ;) ), I am going to Lisbon in October with a friend, who has no such scruples. Hmm...does this work with a denomination of 20 Euros, as well? :p

As a former desk clerk, on up to hotel owner for 25+ years, I'll comment that $20 should get you quite a bit at just about any hotel. (Any "quality" hotel with staff that doesn't appear to be deer in headlights.) You really hit the nail on the head, and I had forgotten what a difference A HEALTHY TIP can make.

Listen, even $5 and $10 can make a difference, depending on the setting, etc. BUT MORE GUESTS THAN NOT, WHO TREAT STAFF RESPECTFULLY, GET BETTER TREATMENT, ETC. Whenever possible, the polite guest, with an interesting line of talk, will get the better room, HANDS DOWN. And, I've actually refused tips from guests because I simply couldn't do any better (and I liked them).

I'm going to guess that, relative to your travel experience, you are pleasant and interesting to talk to, AND respectful to hotel staff wherever you go--no wonder that $20 goes a long way for you!!!

With other agents/clerks/managers looking on when tips are handed-out, all they are thinking is "damn, I wish I had gotten to that customer first!" (One hotel I worked in had a guest who used to routinely peel off $100 bills left and right from the second he stepped out of his limo until the second he left.)

When I see people rant about travel experiences on these blogs and web sites, it just doesn't surprise me that they are not getting what they think they should--NO STAFF WANTS TO TALK TO THEM LET ALONE HELP THEM.

Thank you for being worldly, respectful and intelligent!

well i really wanted a suite at the fairmont, but $100 wouldn't do it. But I did try.

of course I guess I could have paid the extra 1500 dollars for the 5 days, but I guess I will just buy a few more drinks to soften the blow.

Am I the only one who noticed that mr."oh we did it again" posted twice within a couple days? He first stated he was enjoying 6 days in Asheville. Then a couple days later posted that he just done it again in Charlotte. Now, unless the calendar stamped time/dates were off when he/she/they posted, how is that possible? I know this goes on and who among us hasnt done it or at least tried it, though I dont believe his postings for a second.

I just thought I would follow up on my note from before. I recently went on vacation to the Fairmont in Cancun. We had booked a standard room for $199 per night. Our flight was delayed so we arrived at approximately 11 o'clock at night. There were two people working the desk.

I chose to go to the male check-in person. When I was there I wrapped my critic card with $100 bill and asked if there might be any upgrades available. The man responded with that none seem to be available and he took my credit card out of the $100 wrapper and left the hundred dollars on the counter.

Subsequently I discovered that there were approximately 350 empty rooms at the hotel. I even considered going back and asking for upgrade again after a couple of days but my wife didn't want to repack and move to another room.

I understand that typically honey gets me more than money does but I find that sometimes at midnight maybe money works better than honey.

Anyway the hotel was great and we had a great time but it would've been nice to have a couch so that when I get up first thing in the morning and have my coffee and check the e-mail I wouldn't have had to disturb my wife every single morning of our vacation.

As a former desk clerk, on up to hotel owner for 25+ years, I'll comment that $20 should get you quite a bit at just about any hotel. (Any "quality" hotel with staff that doesn't appear to be deer in headlights.) You really hit the nail on the head, and I had forgotten what a difference A HEALTHY TIP can make.Welcome to FT, CaseyJPS!

I'd be interested in your thoughts on the proper, respectful way to present larger tips in exchange for extra service? Is it better to leave something unsaid, or not?

I tried it a few months ago at the Luxor and didn't get anywhere with the desk clerk. It was July 4th weekend, and she said they're completely sold out. I'm going back to LAS this weekend and am going to try it at the Rio. Anyone had success or failure there?

Welcome to FT, CaseyJPS!

I'd be interested in your thoughts on the proper, respectful way to present larger tips in exchange for extra service? Is it better to leave something unsaid, or not?

I'll call Housekeeping and say things like "I need extra pillows: $10 if you're here in 5 minutes, $5 if youre here in 10." Stuff like that. "Roomservice? I'm famished! $20 tip if you're here in under 15 minutes!" That's how I deal with my own special requests. I make my needs and payment plan real clear, and the staff responds in kind: "No can do". or "Right up!" To the OP: I stayed at two hotels in Vegas last week. It worked at one, and not the other. I do it all the time, every time. Have so for years. 50% success. I have no problem tipping the staff for good, better, or best service. ^

I just thought I would follow up on my note from before. I recently went on vacation to the Fairmont in Cancun. We had booked a standard room for $199 per night. Our flight was delayed so we arrived at approximately 11 o'clock at night. There were two people working the desk.

I chose to go to the male check-in person. When I was there I wrapped my critic card with $100 bill and asked if there might be any upgrades available. The man responded with that none seem to be available and he took my credit card out of the $100 wrapper and left the hundred dollars on the counter.

Subsequently I discovered that there were approximately 350 empty rooms at the hotel. I even considered going back and asking for upgrade again after a couple of days but my wife didn't want to repack and move to another room.

I understand that typically honey gets me more than money does but I find that sometimes at midnight maybe money works better than honey.

Anyway the hotel was great and we had a great time but it would've been nice to have a couch so that when I get up first thing in the morning and have my coffee and check the e-mail I wouldn't have had to disturb my wife every single morning of our vacation.

At least he gave you your $100 back. :) What if they keep the huge tip and do nothing for you?

At least he gave you your $100 back. :) What if they keep the huge tip and do nothing for you?

One can't be that naive. Not "may not" be that naive. One "cannot" be that naive when conducting business. One would show the $100, hold the $100, and certainly not tender it until the transaction is completed to both parties mutual satisfaction.

yeah, the 100 was on the counter, if he took it I would be looking real quick for that upgrade.

of course 100 seems like not a lot of money when breakfast is 60 bucks at this hotel.

speaking of service, I have seen written, but I have never done it where you leave say 20 on the table and tell the waitor this is your tip to lose. I hope we get good service. or a 50 or whatever would be a great tip at the restaurant.

I never have tried but have always wanted to.

For me at the Hilton in both Reno and Las Vegas I don't tip till after I get my upgrade. Instead, I just hand over my HHonors DiamondVIP card chit chat with the person checking me in and never mention upgrade once, but instead talk about other stuff. They gave me my room tell me it was a suite with a few 50% off cupons ontop of the regular cupons and I'm like cool... so far worked 100% of the time (even on "sold out" nights) and I always give them $20 after I get my room key for their service and often time they refuse it. Funny thing is one of my friend, who is also a Diamond VIP with Hilton that sometimes get upgraded into a "upgraded" room and sometime he'll check in before me for the same nights and stuff like that... but he is a bit more snobby about it and sometimes I think he had a nicer room assigned and got downgraded.

For me at the Hilton in both Reno and Las Vegas I don't tip till after I get my upgrade. Instead, I just hand over my HHonors DiamondVIP card chit chat with the person checking me in and never mention upgrade once, but instead talk about other stuff. They gave me my room tell me it was a suite with a few 50% off cupons ontop of the regular cupons and I'm like cool... so far worked 100% of the time (even on "sold out" nights) and I always give them $20 after I get my room key for their service and often time they refuse it. Funny thing is one of my friend, who is also a Diamond VIP with Hilton that sometimes get upgraded into a "upgraded" room and sometime he'll check in before me for the same nights and stuff like that... but he is a bit more snobby about it and sometimes I think he had a nicer room assigned and got downgraded.


I think you're getting upgrades because of your status though. You probably gamble and they probably recognize that so they're a greeting you based on that. I think a $20 is a nice gesture but you're probably destined to get upgrades especially there because of your gambling

Some of us though have no status and are hopeful that the dollars will buy us a little bit of status like you have

One can't be that naive. Not "may not" be that naive. One "cannot" be that naive when conducting business. One would show the $100, hold the $100, and certainly not tender it until the transaction is completed to both parties mutual satisfaction.

Well, that certainly wouldn't be very discreet at most hotels. Maybe we can all get lessons in "flash and fold," making sure the clerk gets a good look at the bill. :cool:

BTW, this advice differs from the initial poster's comment that he wrapped the $100 around his credit card, and the clerk graciously left the bill on the counter while he checked. I guess the OP was willing to be more "naive" than you.

Well, that certainly wouldn't be very discreet at most hotels. Maybe we can all get lessons in "flash and fold," making sure the clerk gets a good look at the bill. :cool:

BTW, this advice differs from the initial poster's comment that he wrapped the $100 around his credit card, and the clerk graciously left the bill on the counter while he checked. I guess the OP was willing to be more "naive" than you.

No need to be discreet. I'm not cheating on my wife. Why the quotes around naive?

you leave say 20 on the table and tell the waitor this is your tip to lose. I hope we get good service.
MMmm, yeah, I can see the point perhaps, but it's just a bit too Alpha Male for my personal taste, imvho.

Tangentially related: one thing I learned from my (sort of) father-in-law for wedding receptions/corporate evenings/other things where you're not paying, but you're going to receive service all evening: when you first sit down, ask the waiter/waitress if they're the person who's going to be serving you that evening. If yes, then just give them 10/20/30/whatever* right at the beginning of the night, and they'll always keep you in drinks/food/whatever quickly because you've already made it worth their while.

*depends on how long you're going to be there, how many you're paying for, what kind of place, where it is, etc etc.

you contribute to the corruption of society and the coarseness of our
All that said, I would add that in a town like Vegas -- where the norms of society are a bit different -- bribing the front desk clerk is a lot less morally-challenging than doing it in Omaha.[/QUOTE]


i worked in vegas for 4 years. there is no city in the world more driven by the word tip. also casinos notoriously under pay their employees assuming that those customers driven to tip will make up the difference

$20 in vegas should go a long way

I just recently stayed at the Monte Carlo Resort in Las Vegas and tried this using a hundred dollar bill and all it got me was a room with a diffrent view. I was told by the casino host that is the most that can be done by the people at check-in. I should have saved my money for the slots!

This has been incredibly informative, thanks everyone. I cannot wait to test these posts out!

MMmm, yeah, I can see the point perhaps, but it's just a bit too Alpha Male for my personal taste, imvho.

Tangentially related: one thing I learned from my (sort of) father-in-law for wedding receptions/corporate evenings/other things where you're not paying, but you're going to receive service all evening: when you first sit down, ask the waiter/waitress if they're the person who's going to be serving you that evening. If yes, then just give them 10/20/30/whatever* right at the beginning of the night, and they'll always keep you in drinks/food/whatever quickly because you've already made it worth their while.

*depends on how long you're going to be there, how many you're paying for, what kind of place, where it is, etc etc.

When I was a kid I remember by dad would discretely tip the doorman and others upon arrival when we went places. We always got treated like royalty, extra perks, called by name, etc. My dad had tipping to an art and knew just how to work it. Ironically its one of the few good things I have to say about the man!

Who cares of you loose the $20?

Are you people serious?

Who cares of you loose the $20?

Are you people serious?
Spinner: if you're not bothered by spending $20 on nothing, can you pop a couple in an envelope and send them over to me? Thanks in advance. :D

to the guy talking about his dad and tipping, i think that tipping the past was a bigger deal, now everyone expects it,

"hey thanks for pouring my coffee into a cup, sure I think that's deserves a dollar tip on my very overpriced but very tasty coffee"

hey thanks for opening my bottle of wine that is $80 bucks more than when I bought it at the store here's 5 bucks.

in the past if you gave a tip it was abig deal and people paid attention, but now I tip and it's not even recognized.

I just recently stayed at the Monte Carlo Resort in Las Vegas and tried this using a hundred dollar bill and all it got me was a room with a diffrent view. I was told by the casino host that is the most that can be done by the people at check-in. I should have saved my money for the slots!

Yes, you should have. The MC is a $20 hotel at most. $100s should be saved for the 5* hotels (Bellagio, Venetian, Wynn). Did you ask for a specific room?

I got on an Amtrak sleeper car with my family once. I tipped the porter $20 and said "thanks for taking care of my family" when we got on. The next morning there was a knock at the door. It was the porter. A larger unit had opened up at the last stop (we were in a tiny cramped sleeper). He moved us all into the larger one, then brought us all breakfast--gratis.

That was cool.

for wedding receptions/corporate evenings/other things where you're not paying, but you're going to receive service all evening: when you first sit down, ask the waiter/waitress if they're the person who's going to be serving you that evening. If yes, then just give them 10/20/30/whatever* right at the beginning of the night, and they'll always keep you in drinks/food/whatever quickly because you've already made it worth their while.

Definitely -- works with bartenders at an open bar, too -- unlike for everyone else, your drinks won't be watered down.

Definitely -- works with bartenders at an open bar, too -- unlike for everyone else, your drinks won't be watered down.

Amen to that. . .I always frontload tips when I'm out, and I never have to wait for drinks, no matter how crowded the bar.

I'd never thought of doing this at hotels - this thread has been incredibly informative, and being someone who has never stayed in a suite or upgraded room at a hotel, I look forward to testing some of this stuff out next time I travel.

Sun., midnight, check-in desk Vegas Club (downtown) for 3 nights comp room invitation. I put a $20 AND a $10 right on the counter and say "$20 for you for a suite, $10 to pick me out a nice clean king n/s." "No suites available, sir". "Okeedoke." I take the $20 back, he takes the $10, and checks me into #927, the nicest, cleanest, newest king n/s room I've stayed in at the Vegas Club yet.

Sun., midnight, check-in desk Vegas Club (downtown) for 3 nights comp room invitation. I put a $20 AND a $10 right on the counter and say "$20 for you for a suite, $10 to pick me out a nice clean king n/s." "No suites available, sir". "Okeedoke." I take the $20 back, he takes the $10, and checks me into #927, the nicest, cleanest, newest king n/s room I've stayed in at the Vegas Club yet.

You know you're at a crappy hotel when you need to tip $10 for a clean room. :D

You know you're at a crappy hotel when you need to tip $10 for a clean room. :D

You know you're at a crappy casino when they give 6-5 on Blackjack!

How exactly do you broach the conversation? Do you give the front desk agent $20 up front as a gratuity?

How exactly do you broach the conversation? Do you give the front desk agent $20 up front as a gratuity?

Put it on the desk along with the credit card and/or ID and say "this is for you" or something like that?

Post#223 in this thread is one of several in this very thread that show how people handle it. ;)

Put it on the desk along with the credit card and/or ID and say "this is for you" or something like that?



... IF you can upgrade me into accomidations my great-grandchildren will be talking about in 100 years.

There's also a nice compilation of this stuff on frontdesktip.com (http://www.frontdesktip.com)

Statistics
----
Success Rates
86.84% (33/38) Aladdin Resort & Casino
77.78% (7/9) Bally's Las Vegas Hotel and Casino
100.00% (10/10) Bellagio
86.67% (13/15) Caesars Palace
75.00% (3/4) Excalibur
80.00% (8/10) Flamingo
0.00% (0/1) Four Queens
100.00% (2/2) Harrah's Las Vegas
0.00% (0/1) Hooters Las Vegas
100.00% (6/6) Imperial Palace
80.00% (8/10) Las Vegas Hilton
71.43% (10/14) Luxor Las Vegas
75.00% (3/4) Mandalay Bay
60.61% (20/33) MGM Grand
100.00% (1/1) MGM Grand (The Signature)
80.00% (4/5) Mirage
0.00% (0/6) Monte Carlo
66.67% (2/3) New York New York
100.00% (4/4) Palms Resort Casino
57.14% (4/7) Paris
100.00% (1/1) Renaissance Las Vegas
50.00% (1/2) Rio Suite
100.00% (3/3) Sahara
66.67% (4/6) Stratosphere
50.00% (1/2) TheHotel at Mandalay Bay
100.00% (5/5) Treasure Island
25.00% (1/4) Tropicana Resort and Casino
58.33% (7/12) Venetian
60.00% (3/5) Wynn

How exactly do you broach the conversation? Do you give the front desk agent $20 up front as a gratuity?

There is no secret sign or password. You basically tip the front desk and ask for a complimentary upgrade.

1. When you go to the front desk to check into a hotel, they will ask for a credit card or driver's license.
2. Put a $20 bill between or under your driver's license and credit card.
3. Ask the clerk if there are any complimentary upgrades.
4. Most clerks will know to give you back the money if they cannot offer you the upgrade.

Who cares of you loose the $20?

Are you people serious?

Yea.. seriously. Have a little fun and bet the $20 =) The odds are for you :) I think chances are like 73%

Interesting reading... do you think we could try our luck next month in Mexico???

There's also a nice compilation of this stuff on frontdesktip.com (http://www.frontdesktip.com)

I love that there's a website on this! You truly can find ANYTHING on the web. :)

Now they need to go nationwide. I want to compare the success ratio in, say, Salt Lake City, with Vegas!

I LOVE this thread. I haven't read through the whole thing, but something strikes me immediately. Those tipping up front are actually using tipping as it is supposed to be used. I have always heard (who knows) that TIPS stands for "To Insure Prompt Service." This is way more upfront that the usual tipping after the fact because your "supposed to." or "they don't make much money," or all the other reasons the sanctimonious tend to throw out (including my mother-in-law, but that's another topic entirely). Its upfront, its honest, its refreshing. There is absolutely nothing dishonest or immoral about it. No one is getting anything that the tip-ee isn't able to give. It's hard to argue (although some will) that is immoral because the non-tipping guy didn't get the same thing. BS!

Don't even get me started on the "expected" tip or as I refer to it, the "entitlement" tip. Like the 18% added on to a group. I don't tip a penny more if a tip is added eventhough I normally tip 20%. What's to motivate anyone who is getting a tip whether the service is good, bad, or indifferent?

I LOVE this thread. I haven't read through the whole thing, but something strikes me immediately. Those tipping up front are actually using tipping as it is supposed to be used. I have always heard (who knows) that TIPS stands for "To Insure Prompt Service."'Tip' is an old word, and it has nothing to do with either acronyms or the act of attempting to influence quality of service.
http://www.snopes.com/language/acronyms/tip.htm

yeah, wouldn't it actually be "to ensure prompt service"?

yeah, wouldn't it actually be "to ensure prompt service"?Yes, but creating backronyms is hard enough without worrying about little things like grammar. ;)

I worked at the front desk of a major hotel in San Francisco's Union Square for a year. During that time, I would frequently upgrade guests who tipped me $20 at check-in. I'd estimate it happened 1.5% of the time. About one in thirty guest tipped any amount.

I'd also try to upgrade, or at least give nice rooms (we could decide what floor, what view) to people who were simply nice and friendly. I'd estimate exceptionally cool, nice characters made up about 20% of those checking in.

Our managers loathed Priceline/Travelocity/Hotels.com guests and that bias was very intentionally passed down to the front desk. We were told to make sure third party online bookings were given the worst rooms available - to save the best for guests who booked through our website or through the reservations department, and invariably paid more. Even without the managerial admonitions, there was a clear feeling that giving those who paid more better rooms was the fair thing to do. However, it's amazing how quickly our minds would change with a tip.

I worked at the front desk of a major hotel in San Francisco's Union Square for a year. During that time, I would frequently upgrade guests who tipped me $20 at check-in. I'd estimate it happened 1.5% of the time. About one in thirty guest tipped any amount.

I'd also try to upgrade, or at least give nice rooms (we could decide what floor, what view) to people who were simply nice and friendly. I'd estimate exceptionally cool, nice characters made up about 20% of those checking in.

Our managers loathed Priceline/Travelocity/Hotels.com guests and that bias was very intentionally passed down to the front desk. We were told to make sure third party online bookings were given the worst rooms available - to save the best for guests who booked through our website or through the reservations department, and invariably paid more. Even without the managerial admonitions, there was a clear feeling that giving those who paid more better rooms was the fair thing to do. However, it's amazing how quickly our minds would change with a tip.

Very interesting .. I think I know that hotel;) Excellent hotel, but I got the worst room I ever had (tiny, noisy A/C, a dump) ... I am "Gold", but booked through Priceline

I have never tried the $20 thing, but will try it next time. I have only one problem: Some front desk people seem not to know, what is a bad, good, better, best room!?! It looks like some of them have NEVER seen a room, and if it's a nice renovated one.... Or can they see it on the reservation screen?

Very interesting .. I think I know that hotel;) Excellent hotel, but I got the worst room I ever had (tiny, noisy A/C, a dump) ... I am "Gold", but booked through Priceline

I have never tried the $20 thing, but will try it next time. I have only one problem: Some front desk people seem not to know, what is a bad, good, better, best room!?! It looks like some of them have NEVER seen a room, and if it's a nice renovated one.... Or can they see it on the reservation screen?

At a hotel like my old one, with fewer than 500 rooms and four sides, most of us had a good idea of how good a room was. We did set aside problem rooms, like rooms with water damage or other flaws, for when we were sold out, but other than that, there was no indicator in our system telling us what rooms had been renovated. However, rooms were usually fixed up in groups, like floor 20-24 would have new beds in a given week or something like that - and that sort of info most of us were aware of.

It took me a good 6 months to really get a feel for what rooms and views were the best though. As part of our orientation, we did get to visit a few rooms, but it wasn't extensive. Over time, we would eventually see more.

Somebody pm'd me asking how to present the $20 tip. Simply handing it over with your credit card or id is the best way. We know what you mean.

Tried this in a different thread but no response so I'll try here. I'm going to the Luxor on Feb 27 for 3 nights with my mother who is beginning Alzheimer's. I'd like to make this a special trip for her. We are booked in a std pyramid room and I'd like to upgrade to a pyramid spa suite. Any idea how much I should "tip" the front desk. Is $20 too little? $50 too much?? What do I say? I've only to been to Vegas once before and we stayed at the Amerisuites so I'm not too savvy. Thanks for any help!

Tried this in a different thread but no response so I'll try here. I'm going to the Luxor on Feb 27 for 3 nights with my mother who is beginning Alzheimer's. I'd like to make this a special trip for her. We are booked in a std pyramid room and I'd like to upgrade to a pyramid spa suite. Any idea how much I should "tip" the front desk. Is $20 too little? $50 too much?? What do I say? I've only to been to Vegas once before and we stayed at the Amerisuites so I'm not too savvy. Thanks for any help!

According to frontdesktip.com, you've got a 76.47% chance with a $20 tip...

This is fascinating to me as well. As much time as I spend in hotels........ We have an annual meeting at the old DFW Hyatt. We are all so bored with that hotel. Food is very good in the banquet dept however, so my company keeps booking that hotel.

I'm going to try tipping at check-in. About half the time I get a room that I just don't like. After so many years at this same hotel, I'll risk a tip to improve my situation.

The 'standard' rooms at that hotel vary a great deal. It didn't start out as a Hyatt hotel.

I wish they'd extend that tipping website beyond Las Vegas.

I agree; it works. I went to Agra, India and the hotel we had reservations did not have rooms to the quality we were expecting. So I asked the Front desk clerk by tipping cash in advance. He called another hotel and asked if they had room available for guests from USA. He got us much better room for the same price including full breakfast, plus he provided their hotel shuttle for free.

I agree; it works. I went to Agra, India and the hotel we had reservations did not have rooms to the quality we were expecting. So I asked the Front desk clerk by tipping cash in advance. He called another hotel and asked if they had room available for guests from USA. He got us much better room for the same price including full breakfast, plus he provided their hotel shuttle for free.

How much did you tip? $20US goes a loooooong way in India.

Just like it would also go a long way in Egypt !!!!

Sorry to make this my first post, but some seem to be acting like this is the same type of thing as a taxpayer dollar paid government employee or elected official taking bribes from businesses.

If is an employee of a private company, and that company allows employees to take tip, who gives a rats behind if a $20 or $50 gets you better treatment than some old stuffy baffoon that barks demands right and left.

Have any of you seen "My Blue Heaven" with Steve Martin? His line was that he "always believes in overtipping".

Sorry to make this my first post, but some seem to be acting like this is the same type of thing as a taxpayer dollar paid government employee or elected official taking bribes from businesses.

If is an employee of a private company, and that company allows employees to take tip, who gives a rats behind if a $20 or $50 gets you better treatment than some old stuffy baffoon that barks demands right and left.

Have any of you seen "My Blue Heaven" with Steve Martin? His line was that he "always believes in overtipping".

Tipping will always be a gray area open to interpretation. In some cases, I'm sure it does cost the hotel money in lost revenue from unsold upgrades, and yes, something doesn't seem quite fair about that. But most of the time it really is a win-win situation.

Sorry to make this my first post, but some seem to be acting like this is the same type of thing as a taxpayer dollar paid government employee or elected official taking bribes from businesses.

If is an employee of a private company, and that company allows employees to take tip, who gives a rats behind if a $20 or $50 gets you better treatment than some old stuffy baffoon that barks demands right and left.

Have any of you seen "My Blue Heaven" with Steve Martin? His line was that he "always believes in overtipping".

This is exactly the kind of first post that leaves me wanting more!! Especially the "rat's behind" and "stuffy old buffoon" references. I'm with you on this one! Those who disagree are merely envious!!!

kaukau