any tricks to getting a cheaper hotel room or even upgrading to a better one?

Answer 1

yes, use priceline.com. i got a 200 per night hotel for 70 in anchorage. when i got there, i asked if i could be upgraded and slipped a fifty over the counter. got the presidential suite, normally 900 per night.

also did this in washington dc for last july 4th. slipped a hundred over the counter and was given a suite that faced the mall to see the fire works, even though most guests were being sent to a different hotel due to a housekeeper shortage.

try priceline first, then, take some of the savings and put it in the pocket of the reception desk manager.