I would like William to respond. Obviously, hotels handle this differently. Interestingly, one of the legitimate benefits of gold status ,as stated by STARWOOD, is upgrade to a nicer room (e.g. with view, larger room), if available. Not necessarily a suite. As a gold member, my understanding is that hotels are obligated to upgrade to previously mentioned types, if available. If they do not, then this is being misrepresented and is unethical on Starwood's part, and obviously Gold status isn't worth ANYTHING! I encourage ALL Gold members to challenge Starwood on this benefit. Starwood should deliver on its promise or withdraw this benefit. Remember, it costs a hotel little or nothing to upgrade , if rooms are available. Most of the room costs are fixed.

[This message has been edited by aceflyer2 (edited 10-17-2002).]