Originally Posted by
PHXphrequentPHLYER
Maybe because its a program designed to reward loyalty? Or because many properties choose to recognize customer loyalty by upgrading to available executive room? Actually I don't care about the room, but lounge access is big for me.
If Hilton's response is the same as some of some responses in the thread -- if you want an Executive Room then pay for one -- that means I will not be loyal and choose a hotel based upon price and amenities and not the loyalty Hilton and other chains so heavily promote. That means Hilton may lose some of my business as they lost the business of the OP.
If Hilton wants to leave better rooms/amenities unused rather than allow a loyal customer enjoy them then it does not give me an incentive to choose Hilton.
What has happened in the past may no longer hold true in the future. Some properties may continue to offer ER upgrade to Golds but this should NOT be an expectation. As a Diamond, I'm no longer given ER upgrade in places where I had them before and yes, I saw on the website ERs were available As Gold, the expectation should NOT be ER esp if the higher elites do NOT get the ER (and should be upgraded before Gold). You will frequently be disappointed if you are expecting a much higher upgrade than you are entitled to. I have NO problem with Hilton making a differential between the Diamond and Gold levels, given they have stripped the Diamonds of so many of our other benefits. Remember as Gold, you still get breakfast, not true for nearly all the other programs.
Hilton is no different from other hotel programs. SPG also specifies a one level upgrade though some hotels chose to give a better upgrade. Upgrades are based on availability and the best upgrades are reserved for the better, higher elite level customers. Hilton Gold is only a middle level and EXTREMELY easy to attain. So with any mid-level elite, if you WANT a much better room than the lowest level, you should book it.
EL access is NOT guaranteed for Golds. If you REALLY want it, book an ER. It's no differnt than other hotels -if you want it, book it. Hilton's T&C specify that the Gold upgrade is one level up from the booked room. Sorry but your expectations of hotels going above and beyond T&C for Golds are misplaced. The hotel may be generous but that generosity should NEVER be expected.
The elite game is not just about loyalty; it's about money. Many ppl attain their Gold and Diamond levels via CC; now Gold can be bought for $95. None of these indicate a special loyalty to Hilton. The numbers of Diamonds have increased with the addition of CC Diamonds. Now the ranks of Gold will explode with the $95 annual fee. A Gold is no longer anything special.
If you go the way of the cheapest room, do NOT expect to have any benefits. I do that occ esp since the savings greatly outstrips any benefit I may get as a mid-level.