I sure hope you were able to obtain a couple free DOLPHIN pens and note paper. I asked the HK for some extra note paper, and she gave me a TON! I also took a stack from the phone area, as there is always AMPLE there (I asked the desk...and they said "Help yourself")

! I have it here in my office, and it's GREAT note paper!
Troyfus...sorry about the robes, and the pins too. I have pins, magnets and pens from the Dolphin. I love the Robes, and had no problem getting these complimentary when I called housekeeping" to inquire. She merely said, "by all means, feel free to take one for each of you. I'll send up two more to use during your stay." This is her reply to my inquiry about our anniversary...and how much we love the robes, etc. I never asked at the Front desk. I never even asked her the cost of them, just expressed how much I like them...and would enjoy these at home as a reminder of our stay at the Dolphin. This was a couple of years back. I have robes from the Peabody, Portofino Bay Hotel, Westin St. Francis, Cottage Inn, the NY Plaza, the Ritz and the MGM Grand, etc. All of them were "complimentary" after asking/calling the housekeeper on duty if I could take them home. I was never charged for any of them.

In each instance, I expected nothing, and was always thrilled/surprised when they approved my wish. Guess I have been fortunate, and have enough robes to cover us for eons.
jgates...you did pretty good asking for the upgrade. Even though you're entitled...they usually never offer unless you ask. At other resort properties...make sure to always ask for a FREE UPGRADE to Club level (where available). Most resorts will make a note in your reservation and "waitlist" you based upon availability the day you arrive. Be very clear about this, and always specify your exact needs/desires. I come right out and "ask" for something. I never feel uncomfortable, as these are things others are also asking for as well. It's not deceitful, or dishonest, in fact...quite the contrary. The worst thing they can say is "no", and then you are right back where you were before you asked! Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
While at Vero a couple summers ago, I noticed the "mouse pads" they were using at the terminals during check-in. They are absolutely adorable, with Mickey and Minnie in lounge chairs on the beach, the resort in the background, ocean and sea turtle in the foreground. I asked if they sell these in the gift shop. She told me they do not, and they are only for the resort use, etc. Well, another associate heard me as well, and smiled...agreeing they were adorable.
Later, when I returned to my villa...there was a MOUSEPAD in plastic, sipper cups, hats and some note cards all with the same logo, placed upon the kitchen island. There was a note from the gentleman whom overheard my interest/desire for the mousepad. It simply said, "The best things in Life are FREE. Enjoy!" What a SURPRISE! I wrote him a little note, and placed a gift certificate from the Vero Beach Mall inside. I always recognize a good deed with a gift. He sent me some candies, and another card "thanking" me for the card and gift! We could around and around with this, I wrote on my last card! LOL!!! So...random queries are often rewarded with the objects of desire. I expected NOTHING in this case, and was immensely SURPRISED! As Bueller said, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop to look around once in a while--you may just miss it." So, take time to smell the roses, and ask for the ones seemingly out of reach. you'll be surprised at the bouquets you receive just by "asking". After all..."ASK, AND YE SHALL RECEIVE" (In most cases).
