Pay more -> Get better service?
 

While Airlines are notorious for treating customers differently based on their fare class [J v. Y], I'm curious as to how hotel chains treat you. If you find one of those extremely low-priced rates (non-priceline), do you get a lower level of service?

In my experiences [as a basic member]

Fairmont - treats me fantastic (upgraded to a suite using a 'one level' upgrade)

Starwood - usually very good (regardless of room price)

Hilton - treats me good (ultra-low rate, and upgraded to the Waldorf Towers)

Radisson - nothing special

Best Western - Hey, what can they give you?

Your experiences?

Hilton, Hyatt, and Starwood all honor elite status even on Priceline stays without batting an eye.

QL

Most Fairmonts treat me very well when I'm on a promotional rate. The exception is the one in New York - at the front desk, they got kind of nasty when I wanted to upgrade my corporate rate, which was lower than any other published rate. I spoke to the manager, asked him if he still wanted our business, and he grudgingly gave me an upgrade to a room that was barely passable by Fairmont standards (which leads me to believe that the "regular" rooms in this hotel must be pretty small). I now avoid that Fairmont, but not the others.

Hiltons and Starwoods both provide small upgrades, breakfasts, etc. even when on prepaid (i.e., Priceline, Expedia), promotional, or corporate rates. I'm Gold in both programs and have never gotten a true two-room suite upgrade off of ANY rate, but I usually get a larger minisuite-type room or something on the executive level (if there is one). They do not seem to distinguish based on how close my rate is to the "rack" rate.

I've never stayed at a Marriott using anything other than a Marriott.com booking, so I don't know how they handle other rates. I typically don't find that my corp rates are lower at that chain, and I haven't gotten a PCLN/Expedia Marriott room before.

Recently stayed at Omni hotels in Jacksonville FL and Montreal. Booked discounted rates at both; both hotels also honored upgrade requests. Was treated royally at both places. I have also booked deepy discounted rate at US and international Holiday Inns, and was offered upgrades on numerous occasions, and was always treated well. At budget hotels I've stayed at - where I did not expect a lot of services or amenities, I've also enjoyed good treatment and sometimes extra perks. I've found that most hotels are interested in cultivating a good relationship with their guests.