MarkSF

I checked into the Westin Harbour Castle yesterday. I had called ahead to inquire about an upgrade, and was told I would get one. When I checked in, I was told they could not upgrade me. I got to my room, checked on spg.com, and several Junior Suites were available. I called down to the Front Desk, and they said they would upgrade me tomorrow (today). I just moved into a "Junior Suite" and it is smaller than my last room, but has a balcony.

Did I get duped, or are the Junior Suites here nothing more than a balcony?

Thanks!

Snow Goose

Not sure, since as a Platinium I have never gotten (in 10+ stays) any type of suite at this property. I believe they have a very small number of suites to go around, although I have never pressed them on it. Generally speaking I ask for (and usually receive) a "corner" lakeview room, which is quite nice.

This hotel in general is not great with respect to platinum recognition. If you want to be treated like royalty, go to the Le Meridian King Edward instead - fantastic lounge (free alcohol, decent appetizers, and great breakfst offering), huge suites (you will be automatically upgraded 9 times out of 10), great beds etc. Plus, with Royal Club access you can reserve boardroom time and have access to local Limo shuttle service if required.

Of course, this information doesn't help if you are at the Harbour Castle for a conference.

SG

KENNECTED

Problems? Are you sure this is a problem?

1. Calling ahead does not, according to the published rules, should not help as upgrades are space available upon check in.
2. Anything could have happen between the time of your call and the time you checked in. Possibly another Plat checked in ahead of you.
3. You checked the website are you a) sure the the inventory shown on SPG is 100% accurate and actually matches the hotels current inventory at that moment and b) what category are the Junior Suites listed as? Are they select standard suites?? What is considered a select standard suite at this property?
4. You got what you asked for! How can you argue with that?

MarkSF

Snow Goose - Thanks for your feedback. I will definitely stay at the Le Meridian next time.

Cheap Elite - You're right - it's not a problem, but a disappointment. I have had terrible luck getting upgraded since becoming a Plat, and it has left me feeling a bit disgruntled. :-)

KENNECTED

Well stick around FT and you'll learn quite a lot.

I'm going to suggest you read several thread in this sticky thread:The SPG Forum FAQ & Hotel Master Thread List That thread contains reviews of many starwood properties along with FAQs and important information you should know about the SPG program or Starwood.

I would suggest going to this thread first and researching any property you are considering staying at prior to booking.

Lets this stay be a lesson learned, if you knew about FT and researched the hotel before staying you would have known of upgrade issues and the suggestion to stay at the Le Meridien.

I hope this experience doesn't sour you on starwood or FT. Looking forward to more post from you. Read thru the above thread and I'm sure your next stay will be much better.

CDNtravler

The last time I was "upgraded" there, I was told it was a junior suite. Just a corner room with lakeview (but no balcony ). There was no real separate seating area and the room was probably 25% bigger than the last one I had.

I too recommend the King Eddie. Best plat treatment in the GTA imho.