I got op-upped on the DXB-COK leg a few days ago. I saw the gate area was full and since I didn't see the need jam myself in there, I waited outisde until boarding was about to be called. Lo and behold, they upgraded me because the flight was full. I think I will try this strategy again (esp if I don't mind being bumped from the flight).

On a related note, that was my first non-economy flight and even though it was an old 777-200, oh my god, it was so nice. I have seen the promised land and am dreading the trip back to the US in economy even more than usual. Ignorance definitely is bliss.