I'm staying at a Hyatt this weekend (in a popular summer resort town, quiet in winter). Is it a common thing to ask for a free upgrade? I've never stayed at a hotel this nice and I don't know if this sort of thing is "done".
If you have points at another hotel chain ie Hilton, Starwood, etc. call ahead of time and ask for a trial year at the same level. For example my DH travels for work and is diamond level at Hilton, when we stayed at the Swan last year they matched that level and we were upgraded. If you have no points at least go to the web site and sign up (there is no charge). It never hurts to ask for a certian view, you might get lucky. Just be prepared to be happy with what you book cause upgrades are not always available. Have a wonderful vacation.