Tizzette

....That is nice and you were lucky to get a two room suite, but it is the exception, not the rule. A credit card Platinum like me can't expect a two room suite at an IC if the one and two level upgrades above the cheapest room were all gone.

I agree with you, though, that it is better not to book the cheapest room. Booking a step or two higher puts you in position that a one or two level upgrade gets you a really nice room, maybe a junior suite or a suite. I book a room that I will be satisfied with and if I get a further upgrade, that is a lovely bonus.

VegasGambler

Well, there was a very big difference in this case. It was the difference between a basic room and a large suite. I didn't really care (I wasn't going to be using the room for very long -- I basically went to bed as soon as I checked in and woke up at 5am to check out) but it was still a significant upgrade.

No, of course you can't expect it. My point is only that if they have any rooms available above yours, then you should get an upgrade.

If you have trouble getting upgrades, one thing that you could do is, when checking in, ask if they have any upgrades available (do not mention platinum status or free upgrades). It's common for people to buy upgrades at check-in so this is not a strange thing to ask. If they offer to sell you one, then you know that they have availability, so you can request a free upgrade based on your status.

Yes, since upgrades are not guaranteed, this is definitely a good idea.

elusive1

Pet peeve, having to call (often repeatedly) for my fruit and water