Free Wi-Fi is a must-have for global travellers
Free internet access is the number one priority for guests when booking a hotel, according to a survey conducted by online booking site Hotels.com.
From a poll of 8,600 people across 28 countries, 34% of respondents said that free Wi-Fi is key factor in selecting a hotel, on both business and leisure stays. When it comes to people travelling on business, the need for free internet is even more important with 56% saying it is a vital requirement for choosing a hotel.
Overall, 66% of those questioned indicated that free Wi-Fi is the amenity they most wish would become standard in all hotels.
Free Wi-Fi trumps both free parking and complimentary breakfast when it comes to choosing a hotel for both leisure and business travel, showing that access to the online world is a necessity for modern-day travellers. Only 11% of global travellers said they would be willing to pay for Wi-Fi when staying in a hotel.
Kate Hopcraft of Hotels.com said: "With an increase in airlines and airports offering free Wi-Fi, tech-savvy travellers expect the experience to continue upon arrival at their hotel.
"They are using their tablets, smart phones and laptops to plan activities, stay connected to family and even order a delivery meal straight to their hotel room, so it's no surprise they require free and fast Wi-Fi."
Meanwhile, the survey also revealed that the favourite modern in-room amenity is high-end coffee markers (selected by 23% of respondents), the most appreciated simple amenity is complimentary bottled water (43%), and that free breakfasts are the favourite (31%) non-tech item global travellers want to see as standard in hotels.
When it comes to luxury hotels, the most popular outrageous amenity travellers would like to experience would be the complimentary use of a Rolls Royce Phantom (54%). Bath menus and bath butlers were the choice of 26% of respondents, while 24% opted for a turn-down service. However, tea sommeliers (9%), in-room mixologists (9%) and fragrance butlers (5%) were regarded as less desirable services.
Choice Hotels says free Wi-Fi is most valued amenity for business travellers >>
