Originally posted by themepark
I really do think that whether or not you are offered upgrades or even the Loews Welcome Benefits depends on who you talk to.
We recently made ressies for PBH (standard room) for July using the APH rate. We are Loews Gold. When making the ressie, I asked about upgrades and was given a free upgrade to a deluxe room. Yippeee!! After hanging up, I called back a few hours later to make a spur of the moment reservation for March at RPR. I got the APH rate once again, but when I asked about upgrades, I was told that I was not entitled when booking a discounted rate. I called back awhile later and spoke with someone different who said I was certainly entitled to an upgrade but none were available because only standard rooms were available, everything else was booked.
I have already returned from my March trip. When I checked in, I asked about upgrades and Pia checked but said the hotel was booked. She got us a room with a good view of IOA though. She was awesome! I also got my fruit and water. The kids didn't want the cookies and milk. Strange children. Ha!!
The point to all my rambling here is that if you aren't satisfied with what one person tells you, call back. It works for us. Obviously, they can't upgrade you if there is nothing to upgrade to, but it just depends on who you talk to on whether or not they offer you upgrades and Loews benefits when booking a discounted rate. I have always booked either the APH or ENT rate and I have my Loews Gold card and have always received the welcome gift.