Ever wondered what the secret was to getting a hotel upgrade? Our travel editors scour the globe for the best hotels in the world, and more often than not, return with tales of lavish suites and ocean-view villas. Here is their advice on how to secure the best hotel room on your vacation.
If you are celebrating a special occasion, feel free to mention this in an email. A personable and enthusiastic call to confirm your reservation also can help.
You’re more likely to be upgraded from a mid-range room than the cheapest room in the hotel.
Large city hotels tend to be busier during the workweek. For a smaller hideaway in the country, try for a midweek booking if you have some flexibility.
Checking in between 3 and 5 p.m. is optimal. The front desk clerk will have a better sense of the day’s bookings and cancellations.
Dress appropriately. A nice jacket can make a world of difference. If you’re traveling with tired children, it probably won’t hurt to have someone mind them in the lobby while you’re at the front desk.
Ask nicely. Mention that you’d be happy to reference the counter clerk’s name in customer evaluations.
For example, “Would it be possible to be upgraded to an ocean view?” If you have a preferred room that you’ve stayed in before, feel free to mention it.
If your company does a lot of business with the hotel, feel free to say so. If you use a travel service or a credit card that has a “special relationship” with the hotel, by all means, pipe up.
Laundry gone missing? Noisy neighbors? Kindly let management know that an upgrade will wipe the slate clean.
A nice tip for the doorman. Smiles for the concierge. A note of approval to the manager. Every little bit helps, especially for the next time around.
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
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