Hilton launches online room selection by floorplan
December 20, 2006

Very interesting article.
I think that this a great idea, concept, because it's true that upon the check-in process, you never know what you will be getting unless (but not always) you are a loyal member of the hotel and the staff knows you what your needs, desires are.

When I travel and stay in hotels I like to be able to have control and choices like most people, you pay a certain price so you are looking the quality, the space, the tranquility...

I remember working as a front desk agent, I sometimes overhead discussions or even during morning briefings on how this guest is a "pain" and so therefore they will attribute him/her a smaller, less nicer room.
Sometimes guests check-in late, they are tired, they don't want to smile but you, you still do, it's your job, it is not a reason to allocate to someone a bad room. When occupency was not too high, on low season or whatever, I rather give a good room so I have an happy guest, that will probably wants to come back.

However now, with what Hilton is doing for his VIP's (loyal) guests, they defenitely have more choices, options to consider.

Westin, MSN Offer “5-Minute Vacations”

This article talks about the program called Westin Sights & Sounds that was created by MSN.

I believe this has a very good impact for Westin because consumers who visit MSN's network will see those ads and will take a look at them.
"The idea is to provide an experience that consumers will link to the brand" says Sue Brush, svp-Westin Hotels. As she is saying in the article, maybe people will remember the ads and say "next time I travel, I'll consider Westin".

Westin is trying to convey a feeling rather than talk about rooms and rates, I think that this is a good path to go with. Personnally, when I clicked on the link to get to Westin Sights & Sounds, I found it different, peaceful (white tea, westin's signature scent), interesting, and I got a sense of travel (images, local music, maps, online tours, stores locator...)

Now, let's see if the online "campaign" will help Westin Hotels to get higher online bookings because as Cameron Death is saying in the article : "Consumers stick around six to eight minutes, which makes those consumers 95% more likely to purchase such services".

I'm curious to know...

Forbes Traveler releases list of top 400 hotels, resorts
December 06, 2006

This article talks about Forbes Magazine that had a special issue on the top 400 hotels and resorts in the world.
Properties were selected by a panel of 80 travel experts who are not affiliated with hotels.
Experts were asked to rate the properties on seven criteria such as :
. Service
. Room and bathroom
. Décor
. F&B
. Public area & facilities
. Sports & recreation
. Location

I found that study is always important and interesting.
To actually read the comments of those people who are experiencing those properties from all over the world and grading them is really a plus for us (students) to see what people needs, expectations, desires are when they are travelling.