Dolphin upgrade--URGENT CONCERN-PLEASE HELP

[Fargoman2]

In two weeks we will depart for our 3rd consecutive summer stay using the Teacher's rate. In each of the previous two visits, I upgraded to Club Level using the necessary starpoints to receive breakfast and snack privileges.

Today, my friends at SPG tell me that because I am using a Teacher's rate that I AM NOT ELIGIBLE TO UPGRADE USING POINTS.

Can this be true?! That would be a big blow to our plans--that upgrade saves big$$ on food for us. If I can't convert, I'll be taking a hard look at other options.


I'm eager to hear from anyone who has the scoop on this...THANKS!

 

[Bojangles]

Can you upgrade by calling the hotel directly?

Good luck!

 

[Fargoman2]

Yes, I did try by calling the hotel directly. The reservations person called
Starwood and got the same song and dance. The "official" SPG rep wasn't in, so I'll try her tomorrow, but I'm pessimistic.

 

[Bojangles]

I wonder if that will also apply to the people with AP rates. Keep us updated!

 

[BuzzMe]

I stayed at The Dolphin at the beginning of June using a travel agent discount($99per nt). I had called to upgrade to club using points 5 days before check in and was told I had to wait until arrival. They upgraded me at the desk using points and never questioned my rate (they actually never even asked to see my IATA card). The points still haven't been deducted from my account! I find I often get conflicting information when I call Starwood. You might want to post your question on the Starwood forum on www.flyertalk.com. Good luck.

 

[disfanRN]

I just went in April and did the upgrade using points and the nurse discount rate, 5 days before with SPG over the phone. I too have run into many differing stories with SPG, keep calling back until you get the right answer!!1

 

[jmcross]

disfan & Buzzme ~How many points per night have you been charged per night for the upgrade to club for your recent stays? I will be going soon and I have heard that others have been charged either 1000 or 1500. I only have enough points for 1000 a night!!

Thanks,

Joanne

 

[Fargoman2]

I just spoke directly to the person at the Dolphin who handles Starwood concerns and she tells me I can't do an upgrade until I arrive (unless I want to pay for it.) She also tells me that they are "sold out" for my July 17 arrival, meaning CL wouldn't be available. But she says maybe I'll "get lucky."

It seems to me in the past that even if CL floor was filled, one could still get CL privileges coming from a different floor--as long as your room card is coded as such.

How worried should I continue to be?


P.S. Thanks for all your feedback already.

 

[BuzzMe]

The upgrade to CL was 1250 pts. There were no rooms available on the club floor itself, so I asked for club access (as long as I have my Heavenly Bed I don't care where I am!). I was afraid we wouldn't be able to get CL, but it worked out fine. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!

 

[dreamflight99]

I called SPG this am, just to confirm this matter. ~I spoke with Platinum concierge, and they "ASSURED" me you should have NO PROBLEM upgrading your reservation. You may either wait until 5-days out from the date of your arrival (standard policy), or merely process this request in person, at the time of your check-in. Even if there are no rooms ON club level, you should still be able to enjoy the upgraded CL PRIVS~!

Many times, the SPG personnel have no idea what type of "special" rates the individual properties extend/offer to guests. Each property is unique in this respect, (hence the confusion, etc.).

I assure you, it will not be any problem. You will be able to upgrade to CL as intended using points. How wonderful you are planning a third consecutive stay at the Dolphin! It is an incredible resort, with numerous amenities and conveniences not available at other properties.
I wish you a MAGICAL stay, and urge you to remain "OPTIMISTIC" and confident with regards to this matter.

TTFN...DF99

 

[Fargoman2]

for your reassuring words! As we get closer to our departure day I tend to get nervous about all the details. I don't handle surprises well. My goal this year is to leave my role as a stressed out dad behind for a few days and actually enjoy my children withouth the pressures and distraction of work.

By the way Dreamflight, do you have any tips for getting a room with a view? We've never had one at the Dolphin. Or is it that not possible because of CL location and/or teacher's rate designation?

THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR REASSURANCE!

 

[madge]

Originally posted by BuzzMe
The upgrade to CL was 1250 pts. There were no rooms available on the club floor itself, so I asked for club access (as long as I have my Heavenly Bed I don't care where I am!). I was afraid we wouldn't be able to get CL, but it worked out fine. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!

we have been charged 1000 points, with the government rate. we always upgrade at check-in

 

[CarolA]

It seems to me in the past that even if CL floor was filled, one could still get CL privileges coming from a different floor--as long as your room card is coded as such.

And this is EXACTLY why I recommend NEVER paying for CL. The place is packed since they give access to LOTS of people. I know I could have gone in there without having access and no one would have had a clue. You just sign in and there are hundreds of room numbers on that sheet!