How to bag an upgrade for a special night away

When I worked as a hotel receptionist for several years after leaving university, I picked up a skill or two.

- By AMY JONES

Breakfast in bed

From answering calls to knowing every single room layout by memory, I could do it all. I also collected some handy tips during my time in the trade, including how to bag a free room upgrade.It's one of the most common requests from guests. “Can I have my room upgraded?” I get it. You are away for a romantic weekend and want to make it extra special without forking out extra. But asking us two hours after check-in on a Friday night is not going to cut it. I worked at a luxury hotel with 35 rooms, and upgrades were typically kept for those celebrating a special occasion. If a higher category of room was available, we would do our best to offer it to the lucky guest.

It's important to know that upgrades can be arranged the night before. If you are hoping to request one at check-in at 3pm, there's a good chance someone will have beaten you to it.