Best Western has announced that it is designating two upscale tiers under its brand. In addition to Best Western, travelers now will be able to reserve rooms in Best Western Plus and Best Western Premier.

“This is a major change,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. With more than 2,200 North American properties in diverse locations — from seaside resorts to highway roadsides — and ranging in price from $59 to $500 a night, Best Western found that its customers did not know what level of lodging to expect, Ms. Dowling said.

All hotels will continue to offer the brand’s standard perks: free high-speed Internet, free local calls and, in most, free breakfast and parking. The next level up, Best Western Plus properties, will also provide things like upgraded bath amenities and furnishings. The Best Western Premier will be defined by deluxe bath products, premium linens and towels, and features like on-site dining, larger business centers, bigger fitness rooms and turn-down service.

Bjorn Hanson, divisional dean of the Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management at New York University said that because of the wide variety in quality, amenities and service levels among Best Western hotels, the effort will “create clarity.”

Source: NY Times

Karen