Did anyone see the article today in the New York Times about a family that was bumped on Thanksgiving from their rooms at the Waldorf Astoria because Saudi royalty decided to stay longer?

It seems that King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia needed surgery at the New York Presbyterian Hospital on November 24th. More than 100 guests were turned away because of the king’s contingent -seven princes and other public officials-who unexpectedly took a large number of the rooms.

The Waldorf is owned by Hilton Worldwide and the  Morgans were transferred to the Hilton Hotel and given a free night’s stay. The Morgans were still disappointed. The big complaint-“there were people on the elevators at the Hilton carrying pizza boxes”. Sorry to spoil the image, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan. The hotel shouldn’t have done that to you, but I’ve been to the Waldorf Astoria on a few occasions because of special promotions or events held there, and I’ve seen plenty of pizza boxes travel up those elevators too.

Being bumped from any hotel isn’t right. The Morgans had planned to go to the Waldorf, they had a confirmed reservation, and they were stiffed. What should we do if this happens to one of us? The article quotes travel experts who give advice such as calling to confirm during a busy season and to speak with a desk clerk or manager.

Click here for the whole story.