m1mwkerr

Don't know if anyone can help but...

Thinking of joining the ambassador programme.

I understand it gives u complimentary upgrade of 1 room cat at check-in but I assume the hotel would not upgrade to a suite (if that was the next cat available)?

Thanks

patchan8984

I don't see why they won't upgrade to suite if a suite were available. If they DO NOT upgrade, they refund you something I believe. Just had this happen at the IC SF Howard St. where I booked a 1 bed suite and was not upgraded further.

m1mwkerr

Thanks. Staying at IC Asiana SGN in feb and will think I will book 1 cat below a suite!

htb

If you need a certain room it's always a good idea to contact the hotel ask about their Ambassador upgrade policy, and what room you should book if you want to stay in a certain category.

HTB.

ben23

The definitely do upgrade to a suite. But as others have mentioned it is worth emailing first to get the categories of what you will be upgraded to.

This is especially relevant at a hotel with a complex room structure of different rooms, different suites and different views - like the IC Hong Kong - as they won't upgrade you to anything with a Harbour View if you haven't already paid for a Harbour View room/suite.

However, at hotels with a more simple structure you can pretty much work it out based on the rates online. I recently booked the IC The Strings, Tokyo with my Ambassador free weekend night voucher. I booked the highest 'room' rate of a Premier King Room. They only showed one type of suite above this. Subsequently I emailed and they confirmed I would be upgraded to an Executive King Suite.

patchan8984

+1 about emailing the hotel in advance.

Specialty suites that you see bookable online may not be "available" for upgrades. Better to know in advance.

bearvest

I've noticed that the IC Toronto Centre now has "featured rooms" based on the floor level or view.

I was usually upgraded to a junior suite (a room with the bedroom and sitting area divided by a partition).

I'll report back on my stay this weekend as to what an Ambassador (not an RA) should expect.

m1mwkerr

Thanks! Will email the hotel!

rgdave

I agree. IC's are pretty good about giving you the straight answer on upgrades in you inquire, "I'm Platinum Ambassador (not RA), and if I want to end up with this category via an upgrade what category do I need to book?"

Also, if you're staying over a weekend, the BOGO certificate you get with Ambassador membership pays for itself. You get 2 night for 1 in any category you book, and the hotel will generally upgrade you one category from that.

htb

Don't forget to factor in that the BOGO rates are more expensive than what you would usually pay if you book in advance.

HTB.