Hotels always seem to account for the lion’s share of one’s travel fund. Especially for those looking to travel on a budget, room rates are often the deal-makers or breakers. So how does one seal the best deal? Your first go-to should be a metasearch engine.

It’s the most efficient way to compare prices and find affordable accommodation. Review websites too are a good place to start. Not only do you get an understanding of what’s on offer, you’re also able to compare prices and experiences, and all in one place.

Now that you’ve managed to book that budget room and since it is in the nature of man to want more than he can get, and afford, here are some tips on how to snag that illusory upgrade.

b Smile and be nice: Deceptively simple, you think? Don’t take our word alone, Jai Kishan, General Manager of Novotel Kolkata Hotel and Residences, backs us on this. “Employees at the front desk or reception work very long hours and often overnight. These are the people who can actually check you into better rooms, or ones with finer views, or as per travellers’ convenience. So being nice to them counts more than it seems,” he says.

b On a holiday and it happens to fall on birthday or an anniversary? By all means announce it, you have nothing to lose. But there is a lot to gain: Apart from an upgrade, this tip, on a good day, can also score you some complimentary champagne or a spa day.

b As unconventional as it may sound, the possibility of getting an upgrade is higher during the afternoon or evening, says Kishan. “The front desk will have a better sense about the day’s occupancy for that night or the next few days during this time.”

b Book mid-range rooms or so, suggests Kishan. “Often booking a mid-range room like a Premiere Room at Novotel Kolkata – this is one category higher than the basic room – results in the front desk’s managers being more open to further upgrades,” he elaborates.

b Joining a hotel with a global presence’s loyalty programme is a better idea than most make it out to be. Apart from the usual perks on offer, you’re also eligible for upgrades, depending on their availability.

b If you’re willing to take a risk, booking at a new property is well worth it. “New properties, looking to grow a dedicated fan base and hoping for repeat business, may be more willing to offer upgrades to get people talking about their property,” says Kishan.

b Do not ask for upgrades when the desk is busy, says Kishan. “Front desk employees will not want to start a chain reaction, so play it smart (or very quiet) when inquiring about upgrades.”

b If all else fails, find the hotel’s general manager and ask him in your most polite voice. Don’t believe us? “This works the fastest globally!” says Kishan. There, you have it from the horse’s mouth.

Run along, book that holiday, you deserve it. But be sure to thank us en route to your next holiday!

Vitamin C is a weekly dose of consumer empowerment.

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