I tried it at the SAHARA Hotel last March. Here's what I did..........

Before you arrive, research the types of room you would like to be upgraded to. (room with a view, jacuzzi, suite, etc...) Find out where you are located and what you have already! Keep in mind that a room upgrade can be dissapointing as well.

Here's how it went. Upon arrival I knew I was in the Tangiers Tower at the Sahara. That is the newer tower and where I wanted to be.
When you check in keep the $20 where you can easily pull it out. Ask the clerk where your room is located. (for me it was on the 13th floor overlooking the parking garage). If you are unsatisfied (as I was) with your room, CASUALLY place the $20 on the counter. Try to be inconspicuous and ask the clerk if they could help with any upgrades or was there something better available. Ask specifically what you are looking for! For me, it was a room with a view of the Las Vegas Strip. She CASUALLY pocketed the money and then proceeded to tell me that she could move me to the 23rd floor with an unobstructed view of the strip. PERFECT!...... and we stayed 4 nights, so it works out to $5 dollars a night.

One hint........... don't ask for the world when you do the trick. Don't expect that for $20 they will automatically bump you from a simple room to the Presidential Suite. Keep in mind that they may also offer you a fantastic discount on a great room. Do some research and know exactly what your upgrade is. Hope this helps.......

Armeee