Friday 19 / April / 2024
You arrive at your hotel and pull out your smartphone. After an incredibly long sign-in process, you connect to the Internet. It works fine in the hallway but not in your room, so you go to the business centre to check e-mail and print tickets to tonight’s show. The centre is packed, so you head back to your room to wait. Meanwhile, your kids are trying to stream a movie and the Internet connection is slow.
Both business and leisure travellers rely on technology to stay connected and streamline to-do’s. However, poor Wi-Fi and minimal tech-focused amenities leave many travellers disappointed. That’s why before booking a hotel, you should always ask questions to ensure you get as much out of your technology while travelling as you do while at home.
Ask these eight questions to make sure your technology needs are met while staying at any hotel, no matter how many devices you plan to use.
Is the room suited for technology?
Whether new or remodelled, modern hotels should feature room designs that support technology. For example, ask about easy access to outlets and charging stations while you’re in the room to ensure you can plug in your phone, charge your tablet and use your computer all at the same time.
How reliable is the Internet?
Fast, reliable Internet is critical for anyone travelling for business or pleasure.
What is the login process?
Lengthy login processes are a hassle, especially if you’re connecting multiple devices. Some hotels offer streamlined methods which is a big time-saver.
How secure is the Wi-Fi network?
Most hotels today offer Wi-Fi to guests, but it might not be a secure network. To ensure private information stays private, only stay at hotels with a private and secure Internet connection for guests.
Is there an extra cost for Wi-Fi?
Some hotels charge extra for fast Internet access. Ask about costs and look into membership perks that waive these fees.
What is available at the business centre?
A good hotel will have a business centre available to all guests. Inquire as to what is included at the centre to ensure your needs are met. Printers, fax machines, computers, and a variety of outlets should be available.
What are the hours of the business centre?
Ask about the hours of the business centre so you know you’re covered, whether you need to book a last-minute reservation to the city’s hottest attraction or print out that big report for tomorrow’s presentation.
Are meeting spaces available?
For business travellers, impromptu meeting spaces are great for quick meet-ups or when you want to get out of your room for a change of scenery. For more formal gatherings, ask the hotel about the availability of meeting planners who can assist in organising the technology needs of large groups of people and corporate events.
Keep your technology moving as fast as you do by asking these questions now. That way your hotel stay will be that much more enjoyable, comfortable, and productive.
