Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Anywhere but home
Programs: AA EXP, UA Gold/MM, DL Plat/2MM, HH Dia, PC Plat, MR Gold, ALL Sil
Posts: 4,679
Note sure if it's temporary or not, but for the first time as Gold or Diamond in 5+ years, check-in was in the lobby; they seem to have discontinued lounge check-in. It could be that they are short-staffed, as there's been a noticeable shortage of staff in the lounge in the evening (and not even a full lounge).
I booked a Deluxe Corner and received Executive Deluxe Corner, the same room just on a higher floor, and what I always received as a gold. This is now the 3rd or 4th time as a Diamond in which I've not received a suite upgrade despite short (2 or 3 day) stays.
Much to my dismay, I saw an older couple with presumably their adult daughter complaining extensively about the lack of vegetarian options both during the afternoon tea and cocktail hour (unfortunately they were seated behind me). Special food was ordered for them, that wasn't satisfactory so they escalated it to a manager who I overhead offered a suite upgrade. That apparently didn't satisfy them and after another 30 minutes of complaining overheard the offer of spa treatments. The GM happened to come around and he spent another 30+ minutes with them, and was still with the group when I left. It had to be a scam or deliberate exploitation, I couldn't believe the managers weren't firm and continued to offer so much.