Hotel WiFi: High-Speed Hospitality

Major hotel chains now offer guests high-speed hospitality with free WiFi policies at properties around the globe.

According to a recent report from the American Hotel and Lodging Association, fewer hotels are charging guests for in-room Internet service. Of the approximately 9,600 participants of the association’s 2014 Lodging Survey, only 11 percent of respondents say they charge a fee for Internet.

Hyatt Hotels launches free WiFi access this month in all Hyatt-branded guestrooms and social spaces worldwide. Guests can access the service free of charge on an unlimited number of mobile devices or laptops without the need to be members of Hyatt’s loyalty program. Where available, Hyatt Gold Passport Diamond and Platinum tier members can receive a free upgrade to premium WiFi service.

Also starting this month, Starwood Hotels & Resorts offers free WiFi in guestrooms and public spaces to all Starwood Preferred Guest members, not only those with Gold and Platinum status.

Last month, Marriott International launched complimentary WiFi for Marriott Rewards members in brands where the service was not previously free, including Marriott Hotels, Renaissance and JW Marriott. Gold and Platinum Elite members have access to a free upgrade.

Last year, InterContinental Hotels Group began providing complimentary Internet service to members of its IHG Rewards Club loyalty program. For a fee, guests can access premium Internet at select properties.

Hilton also offers complimentary WiFi to HHonors Gold and Diamond members. Free standard WiFi is provided at several Hilton brands as well as a tiered Internet system with rates for premium Internet as low as $3.95.