Hotel Suites that Suit
Once upon a time travelers chose a hotel chain and stuck with it. Maybe you were more of a Hilton or a Radisson, while your neighbors frequented the Comfort Inn or the Best Western. Hotels have come a long way since the earlier days of leisure travel, and travelers are now faced with thousands of lodging options. So which works for you?Many travelers find a certain comfort in knowing what they’re getting when they travel – a Westin is a Westin is a Westin and the Holiday Inn holds little surprise whether you’re staying in Portland or Pittsburgh. Others want a true local experience and go out of their way to find the best mom n’ pop joint in town. Regardless of your hotel personality, there is something out there for everyone and researching the right accommodation has become easier than ever.
Building on a Brand
Hotel chains have become so good at building a familiar “home away from home” feeling that travelers know exactly what to expect when they stay, right down to the type of bed (the Westin Heavenly Bed is so popular that you can even purchase one for your room at home). There is a certain comfort in knowing exactly what amenities, services and even décor to expect and brand loyalty can be rewarding – nearly every hotel chain now offers its own loyalty program with benefits ranging from free nights or free airline miles to merchandise so that you, too, can sleep in a Heavenly Bed every night.
Experience the Destination
If you equate traveling with new experiences, right down to where you lay your head, then you’re probably most likely to frequent locally owned, independent hotels that incorporate some of the flavor of the city into their repertoire. You may not know what you’re getting and you’ve seen it all, from ultra modern in Miami to that quirky throwback to the 50s in Palm Beach. Sleeping in a tree house in Oregon sounds like fun, and an igloo in Alaska is a must. Luckily you don’t mind the occasional tiny room, lack of amenities and 11:00 PM curfew.
Comfort and Quality
Maybe you long for something a little different, but don’t want to risk running out of hot water if you take long showers. There are a number of boutique hotels all over the world that promise that perfect blend of culture and comfort. Hotel affinity groups such as Great Small Hotels, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and Boutique Hotels and Resorts take the guesswork out of choosing a guestroom, and many even offer incentive programs similar to the loyalty programs of larger hotel chains. Another option is to go with a chain hotel that sports a boutique spirit, such as the W Hotel brand. These hotels offer all of the amenities and service of a luxury hotel, but with the vibe of a boutique residence. Whatever your hotel type today’s online booking systems offer up-to-date hotel information and photos, traveler reviews and competitive pricing for your next getaway.