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How to Get a Hotel Room Upgrade
How to Make Your Own White Board (Dry Erase Board)
How to Help Your Team Perform

Posted: 08 Jul 2019 01:00 AM PDT

If hotels have extra rooms that are empty overnight, they may be willing to upgrade your stay to make it more comfortable for you. When you pick your hotel, somewhere that was recently opened or somewhere you've stayed before are the best places to try getting a better room. During check-in, be courteous and use your manners to simply ask for the upgrade. While getting a room upgrade isn't a guarantee, you can increase your chances of having a nice and relaxing trip!

EditSteps

EditBooking Your Reservation

Try a recently opened hotel since they're more likely to upgrade you. Hotels that have just opened look for new customers and positive reviews to help boost their business against nearby competition, so they may offer room upgrades at no additional charge. If you haven't traveled to the area you're staying before, check if there are any new hotels nearby. Visit their website or call them directly to ask about their nightly rates.^[1]
- You can check travel sites, like TripAdvisor, to find hotels that recently opened in the area you're staying.
Pick a hotel you've been to before to show you're a loyal customer. If you're traveling to a city you've been to before, look at the availability in hotels where you've already stayed. If you've been to the hotel multiple times, employees may recognize you and upgrade your room since you've been a loyal customer.^[2]
- If you haven't stayed in the city before, choose a branch of a hotel chain you've stayed at in the past since your name could be in their computer system.
Stay at the hotel during the week instead of on weekends. Peak times for many hotels are during holidays and weekends, and many rooms might already be booked. If you can, choose to stay at hotels during weeknights since they'll have more rooms available for you. Check the prices of rooms on different nights of the week to find out when they're the busiest. Rooms will usually be more expensive when the hotel is busy and cheaper when there aren't as many guests.^[3]
- If a hotel is more business-oriented, they may be less busy and cheaper during the weekend instead of during the week.
- You're more likely to get a room upgrade if you only stay at the hotel for 1-2 nights.
Book directly through the hotel's website instead of a third-party travel site. While it may be slightly more expensive, going directly to the hotel's website can show you're loyal to a brand and could boost your chances at receiving a room upgrade. Visit the hotel's website and choose when you're staying so you can book your reservation with them.^[4]
- Try using an incognito web browser when you book your hotel since prices may be cheaper than if you use your regular browser.
Join the hotel's loyalty program if they offer one. Many larger chains of hotels have loyalty cards that you can sign up for to earn points toward rewards, such as amenities and room upgrades. When you book your hotel, look for an online sign-up for a rewards programs and fill out the information completely. The more you stay at that hotel chain, the more likely you are to get a room upgrade at little or no cost.^[5]
Choose a deluxe room rather than a standard one. Look for mid-level rooms at the hotel you chose rather than the cheapest room you can find. Hotel managers and employees will see that you care about your stay to pay for a nicer room, so they may be more willing to upgrade you when you arrive.^[6]
- Avoid making any room requests in advance, such as wanting a fridge or high-speed internet, since they could assign you a room before your stay and make it more difficult to switch later on.

EditUpgrading during Check-In

Dress well to show you're responsible. Wear business casual or business formal clothes when you check in, such as a dress shirt with pants or a nice blouse with a skirt. Hotel employees will see your outfit and think that you're professional and responsible, so they may be more likely to upgrade your room. Avoid wearing any dirty or baggy clothes since the employees may think you won't take good care of the room.^[7]
Arrive between 3-5 PM for the best chances at an upgrade. Even if you're able to check in earlier in the day, wait until the late afternoon since receptionists will know which rooms are more likely to be vacant overnight. Try to get to the hotel between 3-5 PM since the employees may bump you into a better room.^[8]
- Don't arrive much later than 6 PM since employees that have the power to give you an upgrade may have left for the day.
Let the check-in counter know if you are celebrating a special occasion. If you are staying at the hotel because of a birthday, anniversary, or another important event, let the receptionist or concierge know in conversation. Bring it up casually in conversation when you're checking in since the employees may be able to upgrade your room to help you celebrate.^[9]
- Avoid lying about special events just to get a hotel room upgrade. You might stay at the same hotel again in the future, and keeping up with the lie could become too complicated.
Ask politely if there's an opportunity for a room upgrade. While you're checking in, ask the receptionist if there's any way they can upgrade your room. Smile and be genuine with the staff so you're more likable and stand out from other guests. Let them know specific things you'd like in your room, such as a different view or more space. If you're polite, they may be willing to meet your requests so you have the best stay.^[10]
- For example, you may ask directly by saying, "Are there any rooms available to upgrade to?" or you can ask indirectly by saying something like, "Do you have something on a higher floor?"
- Try asking how much it would be to upgrade your room. If you show that you're willing to pay extra, the hotel may upgrade you at no charge if it's a simple fix.
Complain about your room if you're genuinely not satisfied with it. If you get to your room and there's a problem, like the shower isn't working or the blinds don't close properly, talk to the receptionist or concierge to let them know about the problem. Tell them why the room doesn't meet your expectations as politely as you can so the staff is more likely to fix the problem. Many times, the hotel wants you to feel comfortable during your stay and will switch your room.^[11]
- Avoid making up complaints about your room just to get an upgrade. You could end up getting an employee at the hotel in trouble.

EditWarnings

Don't be rude during your stay, or else you won't be considered for a room upgrade.
Avoid making up complaints or special occasions just to get an upgraded room.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditReferences

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How to Make Your Own White Board (Dry Erase Board)

Posted: 07 Jul 2019 05:00 PM PDT

Large whiteboards, or dry erase boards, are one of the best tools for displaying and organizing information. Instead of buying them from the store, save yourself some money by making your own! Plastic and foam are inexpensive options for making a big board you can frame and hang on the wall. If you need something magnetic, try painting a steel sheet. You could also use paper and plastic to make small boards that are easy to carry around. Create a whiteboard to make notes, write down things you need to remember, and otherwise make life a little easier.

EditSteps

EditBuilding a Plastic or Foam Board

Size the board according to the amount of space available. The size of your makeshift board is completely up to you. However, measure out your available wall space ahead of time so you know what size of material to order. Use a tape measure to plan out where you intend on hanging your new board. Write the dimensions down and take them with you to the store.^[1]
- Most whiteboard materials come in sheets, although there are other sizes available. If you can't find the size you need, you can usually order it at a home improvement store.
Purchase a melamine sheet for a classic white-colored board. Melamine is a fiberboard sheet that has a hard coating on one side. Most store-bought whiteboards are made with melamine, so you know what to expect when you use it in your project. Some sheets are textured to look like tile, which can be useful if you need to organize information into squares, but usually a smooth sheet is a better choice. Smoother sheets are easier to erase and look better when written on.^[2]
- Porcelain is a similar option. It actually is more durable than melamine, but that means it is also more expensive.
Get a plastic sheet if you're planning on making a clear board. Try plexiglass or Lexan to make something unique. Acrylic and polycarbonate sheets are transparent, allowing you to see the wall behind them. When you write on the board, it is like writing on the wall. Of these materials, Lexan is preferable since it's about half as thick as plexiglass, weighs less, and doesn't shatter if you need to drill it to hang it on the wall.^[3]
- Plastic boards don't stand out as much in most rooms and go well on white walls. You can also get a big sheet of plastic to make a massive board to write all over. The board is very easy to clean and last longer than melamine.
Purchase wood trim to build a frame for the board. Pick lengths of molding that are longer than the board so you can cut them to create a picture frame. A pair of pieces is perfect for a board, for instance. The frame hides the unfinished edges of the board, gives it a pleasing border, and often makes it easier to hang. Use wood molding or furring strips for an easy way to fashion a frame.^[4]
- Store-bought molding is a little costly compared to the rest of the material you use. If you're looking to save money, try repurposing some wood scraps you have lying around.
Measure and cut the wood trim using a miter box. Use a tape measure to determine the length and height of your whiteboard. Measure and mark these distances in pencil on the wood you plan on using for the frame. Then, fit the wood into the miter box, lining up the marks with the grooves for the saw. Slide a basic hand saw into the grooves to cut the wood at a 45-degree angle.^[5]
- To check the fit, push the wood pieces together. When they are cut correctly, they fit together like any picture frame. Redo the cuts if you notice any gaps or overlap in the frame.
- If you have a circular saw, you could use that instead to cut through the wood more quickly.
Sand the wood with 120 and 220-grit sandpaper if you are staining it. Sanding the wood helps the stain adhere to the frame pieces. Start with the 120-grit sandpaper and use light but firm pressure to it along the wood's grain. Then, shift to the 220-grit sandpaper and go over the frame again to smooth it out.^[6]
- The grain is the visible fibers in the wood. Follow the lines to avoid leaving some unpleasant scratches on the wood.
Spread a staining product onto the wood to give it more color. Choose your stainer, then use a foam brush to spread it along the wood's grain. Go all the way across the wood with single, continuous strokes. When you're done, let the stain set for up to 15 minutes before adding another coating. Additional coats darken the wood, making it look much more appealing after you hang it on a wall.^[7]
- Wear gloves when applying a stainer. If you add too much of it, mop up the excess with a rag before it sets into the wood.
Glue the wood to the board using a clear epoxy. Make sure the frame fits well over the edges of the board before gluing them in place. When you're ready to add them, spread the glue across the backs of the framing boards. Set the frames down on top of the edges of the whiteboard, clamping them down if needed to hold them in place. Also, add glue to the edges of the frame boards where they connect to help stick them together.^[8]
- Epoxy glue often comes in 2 parts. You have to mix an equal amount of the resin and hardener to create the glue.
- Some other glues to try include an acrylic polymer and super glue. A polyurethane construction adhesive is great for sticking foam boards to wood since the foam resists most other types of glue.
Hang the board by screwing it onto the wall. Measure every along the frame. Using a cordless screwdriver, install drywall screws directly through the wood and into the wall. Have someone hold the frame in place the entire time. The screws need to be positioned on the wood supports, or studs, in the wall so your whiteboard doesn't end up crashing to the ground.^[9]
- To locate the support beams in the wall, use a wall stud finder. When you drag it along the wall, it lights up as it detects the beams. Mark these spots so you know where to position the board for maximum security.

EditCreating a Magnetic Metal Board

Buy a sheet of metal the size you want the board to be. When you're making a whiteboard, go with something thin and durable. Metal is perfect for this task. Get a galvanized steel sheet if you're looking for something magnetic. With steel, you can pin magnets to it in addition to drawing on it.^[10]
- Note that while aluminum might seem like a good choice because it's lighter than steel, it isn't magnetic.
Use a wood sheet to back and strengthen the board. Many whiteboards aren't a single piece of uniform material. Add a back to your metal board in order to make it easier to move around and hang up. Cork is a great choice since it is soft and lightweight, but you could use plywood or something similar. ^[11]
- Try to get backing the same size as the board you wish to make. If you can match it to the size of the metal, then you don't have to do any additional trimming.
- If the backing is too big, you can cut it with a basic hand saw. However, most home improvement stores will cut the board to size if you ask them to do it when you make your purchase.
Use tin snips to trim the metal to size if needed. It all depends on how big you want the board to be and how much space you have for it. If you aren't able to leave the metal sheet as is, get a pair of straight-cutting tin snips. Cut carefully around the metal to reduce its size so it fits over the backing you chose.^[12]
- Cut metal is sharp. Be careful to avoid touching it, and consider wearing leather gloves for protection.
- There are different types of tin snips, so pick ones with yellow handles. This kind is best for cutting straight lines, which is all you really need to do to make your board.
Spray a primer on the metal if you plan on painting it. While there are no rules saying that you have to make your board white, they are traditionally painted this way to make all colors of ink visible. To begin painting your board, get a rust-resistant latex primer. Spray back and forth along the metal sheet in a single, controlled motion. Keep the spray can about above the metal at all times.^[13]
- Before priming, wipe off any dirt you notice on the metal. Use a soft cloth dampened in water. Using white vinegar or mineral spirits also helps ensure your board is clean and ready for painting.
- To get a nice, even coating, make a second pass after allowing the initial layer to dry for about 15 minutes.
- Dry erase markers work very well on bare metal, so you don't have to paint your board at all if you don't want to. If you like the look of shiny metal more than the traditional white of store-bought boards, leave it as is. Keep in mind that darker markers will be a little harder to spot, though.
Color the metal white using whiteboard paint. Be sure to note the mixing instructions on the paint can. Mix the actual paint with a liquid activator included with it, then let it settle for about 1 hour. Afterward, spread the paint across the metal using a foam roller. Try to make the surface as smooth and even as possible so you don't leave any rough spots that are difficult to write on.^[14]
- A whiteboard is all about smoothness and consistency. Dry erase markers don't show up well on rough surfaces, so take all the time you need to get the paint right.
Wait 10 to 15 minutes before adding additional layers of paint. The whiteboard surface probably won't look the way you want after the first coating. Roll an extra layer of paint over it to ensure that your board is thick enough to draw on. Since metal is dark, consider applying 3 or 4 total layers. Wait a little bit between each layer to allow the paint to dry.^[15]
- Give the metal an even coating of paint. Keep rolling additional coats onto it until you're happy with the way it looks.
Glue the painted metal to the backing using epoxy. Epoxy is pretty harsh, so put on a pair of rubber gloves before using it. Mix the epoxy using something disposable, such as a wooden paint stick. When you're ready to use it, spread it immediately over the backing in a thick, consistent layer like you're frosting a cake. Then, set the metal on top of it, painted side up.^[16]
- You could also use a polyurethane-based super glue or a silicone construction adhesive to hold your board together.
Wait 72 hours for the paint and glue to cure. Your board won't even be useable yet, so you might as well give it plenty of time to dry. Once the glue settles, you can hang your board without worrying about a big sheet of metal crashing to the floor.
- Don't write on the board until it has had a chance to dry.
Hang the board using sticky picture-hanging strips. Peel the paper backing off the strips, then set 1 on each corner of the back of the whiteboard. The other side of the strips are also sticky, so push the whiteboard firmly against the wall. Press firmly on the whiteboard for about 30 seconds to hold the strips in place. Test out your new whiteboard when you're done.^[17]
- Picture-hanging strips are the only way to hang the whiteboard without drilling holes through it or the wall.
- If you're planning on hanging the board on your refrigerator, use some glue to stick magnets in the corners. Use epoxy, super glue, or another strong, durable adhesive.
- Another option is to screw the board to the wall. You could also buy a metal picture hanger that attaches to drywall to hang the board.

EditMaking Small Paper Boards

Purchase plastic covers or wraps to use as a whiteboard. When you're looking for something to write on over and over again, nothing is better than plastic. Report covers (plastic sheets that sheathe important papers) are an inexpensive option. The average cover is about in size, making it perfect for small, individual whiteboards. You might be able to find some different sizes, depending on where you look.^[18]
- Report covers look almost like plastic folders or binders. You could get individual plastic sheets, but most covers come in pairs held together by plastic bars that slide off.
- You can get report covers at most general stores and office supply stores, along with any other supplies you need, if you don't have them already.
Trim a piece of white card stock to the same size as the cover. Card stock is great for creating a solid base to write on, but you could also use paper. Since report covers are meant to contain paper, you usually do not need to trim it. Card stock is a little different, so cut it to fit in order to get a stronger whiteboard.^[19]
- Paper whiteboards are not as strong as card stock ones, but you can always swap out the paper. It's really useful for students, for instance. You could put in a math worksheet, then swap it out later for something else.
Measure and mark any borders you plan on adding to the sheets. Add a tape border to hold the plastic sheets together and make them more pleasant to look at. Choose a colorful roll of duct tape, then measure its width and divide the number by 2. Trace that measurement around the edges of the plastic using a washable marker.^[20]
- The tape needs to wrap around the edges of the plastic. Half of it will be on the front plastic cover and the other half will be on the back. Outline your border accordingly.
Place the tape on the cover to hold the plastic together. Wrap the tape over the edges of the plastic to hold the covers together. Smooth it out to get your completed whiteboard. Plan on leaving at least 1 side of the plastic open if you intend on swapping out the paper between it.^[21]
- For a permanent whiteboard where you won't remove the card stock, tape up all 4 sides. Remember to put the card stock in before you close up the last side.
- Another way to do this is to wrap plastic around card stock. You could get a sticky plastic film or glue plastic with a transparent decoupage glue.
- You could also get a piece of card stock laminated to create a strong whiteboard with a clear cover. If you don't have a laminating machine available, check your local library.

EditVideo

EditTips

If you wish to divide your whiteboard up into different sections, you could use automotive pinstriping from an auto parts store. All you have to do is stick it over the board.
Use magnetic paint to turn a regular whiteboard into a magnetic one. Simply cover the layer of magnetic paint with whiteboard paint when you're done.
You can make your walls into whiteboards using whiteboard paint. If you want to do this, make sure you have permission to paint and write on the walls.
Melamine boards tend to stain with repeated use, so wash them off with a little bit of isopropyl alcohol diluted in an equal amount of water. Adding a layer of car wax to the board also makes marks much easier to erase.^[22]

EditWarnings

Cutting material yourself is dangerous if you aren't careful. Handle saws responsibly and wear protective gear like a dust mask and goggles.