Quite the contrary, Starwood's policy is very clear. Per the SPG website, Starwood Gold PG's "will automatically be given a Preferred Room at check-in, when available." If a perferred room is available, there is absolutely no question here that a gold should be upgraded if the hotel is following Starwood policy. There should be no confusion as to what "preferred" means as that is also spelled out by Starwood. I encourage Starwood management to follow-up with their properties to ascertain that golds and plats
are receiving their benefits as spelled out in the SPG program. I believe most properties ARE properly following company policy. Starwood is a top-notch organization and I fully believe they will do everything possible to maintain a good relationship with their frequent guests.