Originally Posted by
EuropeanPete
I've seen no suggestion that there might be this obligation.
Best available room including *standard* suites only.
I can't help observing that if you're having these frequent battles with check-in staff about upgrades, doing so without actually knowing what the program benefits are creates a risk that you could be unreasonably demanding and awkward at times.
I don't stay at SPG properties more than a half-dozen times a year, so I don't know SPG but I do know Marriott. Here are the Marriott terms:
Here is the actual language from the terms and conditions:
Complimentary Room Upgrade: Upgrades are based on room availability at check-in and limited to a member's personal guestroom. Upgrades may include rooms with desirable views, rooms on high floors, corner rooms, rooms with special amenities and rooms on Executive Floors.
Suites are included for Platinum members only. Rooms with direct Club Lounge access are excluded. All upgrades are granted on a space-available basis, as determined at the time of check-in. Upgrades are subject to availability and identified by each hotel.
https://www.marriott.com/rewards/terms/elite.mi
So, basically, if you're a platinum then upgrades include suites but it could be any suite, including a presidential suite.