The $20 Trick thread

Is this pretty widely done at most properties and can you get in trouble if you try this with the wrong front desk person? Thanks

 

Yes, it's widely done. Especially in Las Vegas, the city that runs on tips. No, you won't get "in trouble". The hotel is not going to refuse your business; the worst that would happen is that they politely return your tip and say that there aren't any upgrades available or that they're not allowed to accept tips. You stand there red-faced for a minute and you walk away with $20 in your pocket and the same room to which you contractually agreed.

 

Agree with DReynolds here. I have tried it more than two dozen times with varying success but I have never, ever had anyone give me even a sideways look for trying. The worst thing that I have encountered was, "would you like change for this?"

 

Thanks D. I've never tried it, but will for sure on my next visit. Thanks for the 411.

 

i try at Strat two times and $20 trick work for me
the first time i got a deluxe premier and them give me a select room
The second time deluxe room to select vip room

 

Flamingo

We are going next week and staying in a GO Deluxe room at the Flamingo. How has the $20 trick been here??

 

For Flamingo your upgrade would probably be to a strip view - that can be noisy. Just be prepared for that. I had a wonderfully quiet garden view this time and was very happy with that.

 

Stayed at pho last month, took a $20 bill out, didn't sandwich it, but let it be seen. 4 nights in a Hollywood hip comped turned into a junior suite with an amazing view! Tipped the $20 after the upgrade.

 

We have four nights booked at the MGM 12/16-12/20 in a Grand King Premier with View. My FIRST trip to Vegas at 43 and can't wait! What would our chances be that week for an upgrade? And advice/suggestions greatly appreciated!

 

You should have gone sooner!!
After my first trip (28), I realized I should have gone way earlier in life.
Enjoy the trip.

 

Yes I know! But it just never worked out. And I plan to enjoy! Can't wait!

 

Upgrade and resort fees

We are staying at MGM in Feb and I was wondering what the chances are of the resort fees being waived and an upgrade if a good tip is offered ($50 ?) I am not aware of people asking for both things but nae cheek nae chance as they say . Has anyone tried this and if so was it succesful ?

 

DH and I are going to Vegas for our 10th anniversary the week of Christmas (Dec. 24th - Dec. 28th). I am just curious if Christmas week is normally a slower week or not. This may influence what type of "comp. upgraded" room to ask for. Thanks.

 

That time frame is a little tricky; Christmas itself is generally slower, but right after Christmas things start ramping up for NYE, and it gets much, much more crowded.

 

I've never tried the tipping at the front desk. Then again I always stay at Boyd owned properties. I would say 9 /10 times I get a view and I upper level room just for being polite to the person at the desk and asking. I usually get an early check-in for free just by asking. You can't buy that kind of hospitality.

 

I tried at The STRAT when I checked in, got a big fat no- but she could upgrade me at cost on the credit card. No thanks.

 

I have a Go luxury booked for next week

Is it still worth a shot to try the trick and if so whats the next level after Go luxury?

 

i think it's always worth a shot. Next level up would be a GO Mini Suite or you could end up on the executive level and a slightly larger room.

 

Oh, she kept the twenty.

 

I sure would hope she did as it seems like you got a great upgrade