Originally Posted by
swiss_global
I booked the cheapest room with king-size bed available on the internet. And this is what I got:
Hilton
As a Diamond VIP I got a free upgrade to the Bow Suite - which was slightly impaired by the renovation work. But nothing major, just bathroom windows were covered by a permanent blind. Still, the Bow Suite and especially its balcony are fantastic. I also got a free continental breakfast buffet in White's, but would have had to pay an additional NZD 10 for the full buffet. I didn't get any other amenities, such as a fruit platter to the room. Bottom line: I got exactly what I'm entitled to as a Diamond VIP, but nothing more.
Um, I don't see how an upgrade to the best room in the hotel, a massive suite, is "nothing more" than what you're entitled to! There is never an entitlement to a suite with HHonors. IME, Hilton Auckland generally gives rooms on the view side as the upgrade. Getting the Bow Suite is a rare treat, especially for free.
Plus you got upgraded to the full breakfast (even if not by the front desk). Again, rather rare IME.