I use to stay almost exclusively at the Essex House before I discovered the W Times Square. I have always found the Essex level of service to be fairly good. Although I am only Gold, I have never had a problem with upgrades. Granted, their room types differ considerably, and some have no views at all, but I do like the diversity that comes with staying at such a hotel. I have been upgraded to suites and rooms with a view of Central Park. In fact, I do not recall every not being upgraded. I do remember being placed in a room with a view of Central Park that was a little small, but the view made up for the room size. In any case, I did not experience what you did in terms of the singl bed. I've always been in either a king or double/double.