For some reason I have not had good upgrade experiences at the "Grand" Stamford, but I only book this obviously-inferior hotel when the real IC is full-up or rates are up to rack rate levels. So I imagine the Stamford also has high occupancy rates. But for some reason, the hotel thinks "harbor view" is some sort of upgrade. What am I, a first-time tourist gawking at the (admittedly nice) skyline? What is this about "views?" Give me a living room, more space, better amenities, Club access; those are upgrades. A view? GMAFB. That's no "upgrade."

While my treatment at the flagship is stellar, including one night in their pres. suite, my treatment as an RA has been less than memorable. I think the hotel should be de-rated to a CP hotel, which it would serve nicely.