Originally Posted by stut
Quite often, it's because, despite requesting a smoking room and having it confirmed at check-in, a smoker will find themselves in a non-smoking room. Then, when they call reception to ask why they're in a non-smoking room, they will be sent up an ashtray (or even told to look in the desk drawer to find one).
This has happened to me more than once. I always call the desk, just to avoid stinking up an otherwise pristine room.
Some times they'll re-book me right away, and other times they just say go ahead and smoke. It sounds funny, but I'm not all that happy with that attitude. If you don't have a smoking room, fine. I'll adjust my activities accordingly.