The Art of Complaining
It's easy to forget, but hotels and airlines need you as much as you need them--especially in difficult economic times. If you're not happy, complain. "I'm much more aggressive than I used to be," says weekly traveler Kaye Salikof, a training consultant for Cleveland-based Management Recruiters International. "If I'm not absolutely delighted with my room, I insist on an upgrade--and I get it."
One tip: if, say, your room isn't made up when you return at the end of the day, don't call housekeeping--go straight to the general manager. A good one will apologize; a great one will make it up to you.
Bernie Yee, vice president of publishing for Hong Kong-based video-game company En-Tranz Entertainment, feels he's owed more than ever. On a recent United flight from Los Angeles to New York, Yee asked if he could buy an upgrade certificate. Although he was initially told there was space, the offer was later rescinded because he supposedly didn't have the proper certificate. He was ordered to return to his seat in coach. "When I got to JFK, I spoke with the customer service manager and was immediately given a free upgrade on a future flight," says Yee.
On another recent occasion, he demanded compensation from the Hyatt West Hollywood for giving him bad directions from the airport, and received an $80 valet parking voucher. "I'm definitely more demanding. Being on the road all the time is hard work. I deserve to be treated right."
