As someone else upthread said, YMMV, but I have also been an Amb for a similar time and all I can say is at InterCon hotels, they have always, bar 1 stay, given me a ‘proper’ upgrade and recognised my status. I get the sense Ambassador is trained for at IC hotels. Nothing in life is guaranteed (the test of that is what happens if you don’t get it, rather than the label ‘guaranteed’) but ICs do recognise you. As others have said, the minimum is a one category room upgrade. Keep in mind it’s a $200 status and manage your expectations and I think it is good value. The late 4pm checkout is in itself a very nice benefit.