Sorry, another pseudo upgrade/room availability thread. Prior to checking into the W Times Square this evening, I logged onto SPG to check to see if I my RSVP has already been upgraded, and if there are upgraded rooms to be had. Unfortunately, I was not pre-upgraded, but that seems to be par for the course this year (almost 30 nights in NYC this year, and none of them were upgraded, spanning 4 SPG hotels). Well, web site said that there were plenty of Fantastic/Spectacular/ and Fantastic Suites available. I booked a Wonderful room, which I assume is the lowest class of rooms.

When I checked in, I asked for an upgrade. Nope, we're sold out was the answer. Next, I asked for a King bed room. Nope, none available, we're sold out. I did not argue and proceeded to my room. Logged on the SPG site, and same availability showed up as before, plenty of King bedded rooms, and all of the higher category rooms available. Since I'm only staying 1 night, there should not be a duration of stay issue with upgrade. So I called the manager and asked for a king sized room, and upgrade. Again, was told that we're sold out. I pointed out the web site to him, and he placed me on hold.... finally, he offered me a king room, but no upgrade. I didn't want to argue, so I took the room.

As I have a lot of stays planned for this hotel during the next 2 months, I was wondering what options I should pursue to enhance my upcoming stays:

1. Ask Lurker for help, or complain to corporate about lack of upgrades?
2. Speak with the GM?
3. Chase down the upgrade each and every time (I really don't like this option)
4. Move my business elsewhere.... though I'm not sold on any of the other NYC SPG hotels.
5. Look elsewhere outside of SPG?

Just another hurdle in the game which is getting more difficult to play every year.

Thanks all for your help.