How to get a Hotel Upgrade
Rule 1: Never hesitate to ask. I’ve always believed in ‘if you dont ask, you dont get’ just as ‘if you dont dream, you dont achieve.’ BUT not in a greedy-in-your-face-vulgar way please! Even if you are refused, you should still smile and thank the person because they may just find a room for you afterwards. When we went to Paris for our trip, I asked the hotel manager and as soon as she found out that I was Tibetan, she upgraded our room to one with a view of the Eiffel Tower!
Rule 2: Before booking, check if you can find a voucher online or if you have a credit card that gives you extra options. E.g. I think Amex has some special offers – I cant remember the hotel deals but I think for renting a car, they offer free insurance. Some hotels have loyalty schemes so even if you use them once, you should sign up anyways.
Rule 3: Decide what you want and be realistic. Dont just ask for the presidential suite when you paid for the cheapest room. Ask for an extra bed OR a room with a view not AND. The hotel manager is more likely to see you as a reasonable guest.
Rule 4: At the time of booking, some hotel bookings allow you to write a note in their special requirements/requests page. I once put in ‘This is a hotel to celebrate our engagement anniversary’ for a hotel in Malta and we got a major upgrade and a bottle of wine. My friend who worked in the hotel industry said that you must be careful not to use this reason again in the same chain of hotels because hotels have a record of their guests. If your booking did not allow this option, then when you check in, ask the receptionist immediately. Its harder after you’ve checked in and worn the hotel bathrobe and opened up all the toiletries (just as my husband would do).
Rule 5: Most importantly, remember to always be polite. Nobody likes rude annoying people and then they are more unlikely to help you. If an employer gives you an upgrade, then drop an email or letter. That encourages them to help out other people in the future.
Related posts:
(No Ratings Yet)
Loading ...
