I had an underwhelming check-in experience the other day. On a paid stay (good rate -- $119/night). The check-in agent (around 3pm, so should have been plenty of rooms available) welcomed me as a Globalist, explained the benefits (breakfast, waters, etc.) and gave me the key. I went upstairs to find a small, dark room with a view of a brick wall (adjacent building a few yards away from my window).

I went back downstairs and explained to the same agent that I'd appreciate a room with a better view than a brick wall. She said, "I gave you the room type you reserved." I replied, "As a Globalist, I would appreciate an upgrade to a room with more light and a decent view." She repeated, "I gave you the room type you reserved." With that, the agent working at the adjacent computer stepped over and said to her, "It's OK to give him an upgrade." The original agent repeated, "I gave you the room type you reserved." I said politely, "Globalists are entitled to the best available room at check-in, and I'd appreciate that courtesy." She huffed and gave me a key to much nicer room. Since this is a HP, it's not a suite, but at least it's a bit bigger, has more windows, and a decent view.

This is the first time in ages I've been given such a bad room and (initially) denied a better room when there were obviously nicer rooms available.

Not related to the above, but for non-status guests, the breakfast is now $11 per person. Any status level gives comp breakfast, up to 2 adults and 2 children per room. The breakfast was OK for an HP. Staff walked around cleaning tables efficiently,