Nor1 eStandby Upgrade is a popular service provided by Oracle to help hotels sell upgrades. If you’ve been in the game long enough, you shouldn’t be a stranger to the name – Hilton is their most proactive taker, and you can see the options with virtually every stay on their website or in the app.
IHG has also been an eStandby customer for a while, but in a stealthier way. I don’t think you can ever see it in the app, so if you are interested head to the IHG website to view the stay details.
The rate you have booked doesn’t seem relevant, as you could potentially see eStandby whether you are on a prepaid, flexible or redemption rate. However, it’s not available on all stays, and I’m not sure if it’s up to the individual hotel or whatnot.
There are anecdotal reports where logging out of the account on the reservation page makes eStandby appear.
Click Show My Custom Upgrade and you’ll see the familiar request page:
Possible upgrade requests include room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out and discounted food credit. Hilton has it better integrated so that some room upgrade options are shown as free for elite members, but I don’t think it’s the case with IHG.
For room upgrade, eStandby is usually cheaper than the price difference, and possibly what the reservation team or front desk can offer too. Note that however, eStandby is subject to availability on your check-in day: requesting it doesn’t guarantee your upgrade at all, and you won’t pay unless the upgrade is confirmed.
One thing that bothers me is how it works with elite upgrade perks – since my status (for example, IHG Diamond) already comes with similar privileges, shall I still request a paid upgrade? There’s no definite answer, but for premium suites, club lounge access or discounted food credit, I believe eStandby does represent great value.
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