As I've mentioned elsewhere, I've had better luck geting upgraded to suites overseas.
Most recent: November-December, upgraded to suite, Munich Mariott Renaissance
January - Upgraded to suite, Marriott Grosvenor Square*
Not all Marriott stays get the upgrade to suite, but at least some do.
*(Since the January trip to London, I've mainly been in Starwood properties, so have no more recent experience.)