Wi-Fi charge short-sighted

I have been following closely the correspondence regarding charging for Wi-Fi (Caterer, 5 and 12 October](http://www.caterersearch.com/Articles/2006/10/02/309251/Hotels+ripping+customers+off+with+extortionate+WiFi.htm)).

I believe Golden Tulip UK was one of the first hotel groups to offer free Wi-Fi connectivity when we launched the service in our Golden Tulip and Tulip Inn hotels in spring 2005.

It was one of the best commercial decisions we've made. It's relatively cheap to install and the rewards include increased occupancy levels and delighted customers.

A recent survey showed that 30% of business travellers felt that a high-speed internet connection was the most important aspect of a hotel. With so much business now done on the move, charging for such a necessity seems to be short-sighted.

We've received many favourable comments and shall certainly be continuing the policy in our new hotels.

Andrew Silver Commercial director, Golden Tulip UK, Ripon, North Yorkshire

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