Hyatt is saying "No upgrades" with PL ?

[KendraS]

I had read on a previous post that someone booked the Hyatt Orange Co. thru Priceline (PL) than paid an extra $15/$20 in order to get a suite room. I would like to do this. I just paid $30/nite for 4 nights in mid-December on PL. I then called the hotel to ask about an upgrade. They basically (in a nice way) said "NO...we don't do upgrades of any kind for internet bookings."

So, how did other people do this? Any ideas?

 

[year2late]

I have found it to be useless prior to check in. Wait until you get there and ask. I can't say I blame them. My last 2 Hyatt Regency stays were upgrades - one was a freebie and one was a $30 extra charge.

I always use priceline knowing that I do not have much choice and I may get the worst room available (for my $32 )but I have always been pleasantly surprised.

 

[Uncle Buck]

They only offer upgrades at check-in, basically when they know when a premium room will go unoccupied.

"Gold Passport" are the magic words. It's their frequent stayer program and is free to signup. I asked for a "Gold Passport upgrade" at check-in and was offered the "King Suite" then asked for the "Kid Suite" and got it. This was during the baseball playoffs, so you can expect to have some upgrades available even during busy times.

The upgrades represent revenue the hotel wouldn't expect to get otherwise, so they'll try to fulfill your request regardless of how you paid. I wouldn't be surprised if the front desk staff gets spiffed on upgrades. It's a win-win-win.

 

[KendraS]

We do have the gold passport so I will definitely be trying again at check-in. I was just a little shocked to hear the "No" when I was expecting no problems!

Thanks for the help!

 

[year2late]

Thanks Uncle Buck!

I have got upgrades without it, but this gives me an even better chance!

 

[c&m]

I too took Uncle Buck's advice when I stayed at the Hyatt in Sept. I got my room for $42/night and when we arrived, asked for an upgrade to a kidsuite in the new tower. The front desk informed me that it was $30 for the upgrade, and I told them that I had read (from an Uncle Buck post) that it was only $15. They gave it to me!!!

BTW, thanks Uncle Buck!!!!