HotelChatter's annual report on the state of free WiFi in hotels is out and there are surprisingly few changes from last year.
Luxury brands still charge, for the most part. Budget brands don't. And yes, their reference to folks using budget hotels just for the free WiFi must strike a nerve with some luxe GMs.
But the question is, will it be enough to snap folks to attention and start giving guests what they want: a flat price for a room that includes the very basics. It's 2011 folks. WiFi is a basic now.
Which city is the best for free WiFi? Not surprisingly, Boston. Some innkeepers may be surprised to find that San Francisco remains on the list for worst, as so many of the luxe hotels still charge.
Will I pay for WiFi as a guest? Not on your life. Will I go somewhere else if the hotel of choice is charging? Oh yes.
Am I a typical traveler? In more ways than the big guys know how to count.
Are the luxe hotels being especially clever to nickle and dime high paying guests for basic services? Well, no, clever is not the word I'd choose.
