Why people drive into Manhattan has always been one of life's great mysteries to me. Actually, I drove into Manhattan once, when I was 16. Paid $44/day for parking, and got a big dripping-acid stain on my pristine car. Never again, never again.

Ride the Acela or the Metro North from most anywhere in Connecticut for a much more pleasant (and economical) experience.

As for the upgrade, I'd fax the General Manager, including in the fax all the details you had in your post.