> but isn't that straight-up corruption? My understanding is that check-in agents are given pretty wide liberties and that doing this sort of thing isn't reall

> but isn't that straight-up corruption? My understanding is that check-in agents are given pretty wide liberties and that doing this sort of thing isn't really against the rules - I even do this with clerks whose nametags say "Manager". Employees are encouraged to give above-average service to customers who will bring long-term value to the business, and a customer who treats the employees well with token-but-meaningful tips is a good customer. I tend to strongly prefer return-visits to companies whose employees have done such things for me. The trick doesn't always work - if no rooms are available or if they suspect they'll probably be able to sell the room at full-rate they don't oblige. This said, every agent has graciously apologized and returned the "tip" (=bribe) or given well above the $ worth of other kickbacks (restaurant vouchers, free wifi upgrades, etc.). For the company it makes sense : it doesn't cost much more for a guest to stay in a suite versus a regular room, and the extra wear on a "luxury" car doesn't cost that much more than the wear on an "economy" car. May as well give it to a customer who's showing appreciation and will likely be extremely happy with their service and probably come back.