I've used $20 trick many times!
I've used $20 trick many times!
$50 if you're staying a week or at swanky place.
Jack is right, you should politely ask first and try to get upgrade free.
If that doesn't work, then give 'em the $20 and plead if they could "look furthur". All of this very tough on a big holiday weekend.
but trying $20 after asking first for free one I find bit awkward (my buddies think I'm crazy!) and I just give 'em the bill right off the bat---give them ID and credit card first, then move $20 over, with most of my hand covering it. Works most times, esp at fancy strip casino/hotels. Some local casinos, like Orleans, it's much harder to pull off.
If you are there for special event, like wedding anniversary, birthday or such---you mention this and get upgrade free most times, no trick needed.
be very polite and sunny. Smile when you see clerk and say how you love being in town and at hotel.
It works best with old guy clerks, least with young gals.
be specific as you can for upgrade you want (strip view, jacuzzi, suite with bar, etc). You can look up what rooms available at hotel website. But reasonable--don't try for upgrade to presidential jacuzzi suite if booked for $59 room!
Clerks love efficiency and helps to have ID, credit card and $20 bill, and specific request ready to go before you get to window.
style counts for a lot, don't be overbearing or bring any attention to the folded $20 sticking out between your cc and ID (way most folks do it) or under your hand....reminds me of "la mordida" (the bite, or bribe) in Mexico. A buddy of mine once tried to get his documents back from traffic cop and go on his way with a bribe (very standard thing there), but in his ham-fisted attempt--waving the bill and asking if it's enuf---ensured that he would go to jail for his minor accident! tho the quantities of tequila consumed meant we didn't exactly have all our wits about us... :142smilie
