Checked in for a points stay in a Courtyard today. I inquired about an upgrade since as usual none was proactively offered. The rep said 'no upgrades are available for points stays until 2009' and I then inquired about a paid upgrade. Sorry, I was told, not possible for a points stay.

I went to my crappy little room and called the Platinum line. They put me on hold and 10 minutes later I was in a suite.

It's too bad we have to beg and push... and this hotel is at 40-50% occupancy if that... no one in the hallways or elevators. Empty.

I wonder how Hilton and Hyatt treat their top tier...