I have been a gold member for over 5 years, and receive an upgrade at full service properties over 90% of the times without asking. I usually book the least expensive room, and receive an upgrade to the executive floor. Sometimes on vacation, or in a hotel with no executive lounge, I receive a suite or Jr. suite.

At the lower end properties, I have only received an upgrade once without asking, and that was at a HGI in Florida--Panama City, I think it was (it was many years ago). At Hampton or HS, I occasionally receive one when I ask, although not very often.