BW Makes Stocking Stuffing Easier this Holiday
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL OPENS CHAIN’S FIRST ATREA HOTEL IN SAN ANTONIO
Developers are committed to build 29 Atrea hotels; six expected to open in 2009
PHOENIX (May 14, 2009) – The first Best Western Atrea hotel, an upper midscale prototype designed to attract business travelers, opened its doors in San Antonio in late April, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® announced today.
The 77-room Best Western Atrea Hotel and Suites, located less than a mile from the Lackland Air Force Base, includes more than 1,000 square feet of meeting space, an indoor pool and spa, business center and fitness center. Guests receive free high-speed internet access and a complimentary hot breakfast buffet.
“The Atrea prototype was designed and built with direct input from frequent travelers and the development community,” said David Kong, President and CEO of Best Western International. “It's gratifying to see years of research and hard work bear fruit. Best Western now has a product that can compete effectively in the upper mid-scale market, while delivering the superior consumer value that is the hallmark of our brand.”
First announced at Best Western’s annual Convention in October 2007, hotel developers have committed to build an additional 28 Atrea properties in both the U.S. and Canada. Best Western expects five Atrea properties to open in 2009 in Conyers, Ga., Plainfield, Ind., North Bergen, NJ, Denton, Tex., and Bryan, Tex. Atrea hotels in Calgary and Sherwood Park, Alberta, are expected to open in 2010.
Atrea hotels can be built at a cost of $85,000 to $90,000 per key, substantially less than other upper midscale hotels that cost more than $100,000 per key to build.
Best Western’s Atrea prototype has several features designed to make business travelers more productive, including multifunction community spaces for meetings or social gatherings – which are often missing from upper midscale hotels – to multimedia features in guest rooms.
“It’s an honor to open the first Atrea property, and offer an inside look into the possibilities of the Best Western brand,“ said Best Western Atrea Hotel and Suites hotelier Ajay Patel. “Our Atrea hotel caters to business executives and military personnel, who are drawn to our open meeting space and amenities that maximize their travel budget. Leisure travelers are finding that we’re centrally located to the best theme parks in Texas and the trendy River Walk area.”
To learn more about Best Western’s Atrea design prototype, visit www.bestwesterndevelopers.com or www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 801 countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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(Bangkok – June 14, 2010) Now is the perfect time to visit Thailand – the Land of Smiles! With the situation returning to normal, this wonderful destination continues to wow travelers with its irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, stunning beaches, inspirational temples, delicious cuisine and of course, the world-renowned hospitality of the Thai people.
Best Western International’s Asia Best Deals! promotion is the perfect opportunity to explore the popular destinations of Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and Krabi with spectacular accommodation deals on offer. Make the most of your trip to Thailand by staying at Best Western and its luxury Best Western Premier hotels and resorts, with special room rates starting at US$39 per night!
Immerse yourself in the exciting hustle and bustle of Bangkok, home to one of Asia’s finest shopping, dining and nightlife experiences. The Thai capital is an exhilarating metropolis with something for everyone, from sightseeing at enchanting temples to fast-paced Tuk-Tuk rides through busy streets.
Or head to the country’s famous beaches and soak up the tropical atmosphere. The long popular seaside resort of Pattaya offers a variety of activities for the whole family, while Phuket and Krabi boast beautiful coastlines dotted with stunning beaches which rank among the finest in Asia.
Asia Best Deals! also lets you explore more of Asia with fantastic hotel deals available in China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia and the Philippines. Best Western Rewards members can earn 10 points for every US$1 spent.
Offers are valid from now until December 31, 2010. Terms and conditions apply. Visit www.bwrewardsasia.com/bestdeals for more information on this offer.
For more great international accommodation specials, visit www.bwrewardsasia.com.
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Buy One Night, Get One Night Free at Best Western Hotels in Asia
Bangkok (July 14, 2009) – Best Western International – Asia announced a special offer for guests: one free room night for one paid room night. The offer is valid at Bets Western’s stylish hotels and resorts in eight prime destination countries, including Bali, China, India, Japan, Macau, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.
To qualify, guests must book between July 20 and August 2, 2009, and travel between July 20 and October 31, 2009. The offer is on a first come, first served basis and is dependent upon availability.
For more information, visit www.bwrewardsasia.com/freenights or call +662 6561260.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate
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BEST WESTERN NAMES TOP 11 FAMILY DESTINATIONS FOR 2011
Hot Spots Nationwide Boast Enticing Attractions and Notable Accommodations for Parents and Kids
PHOENIX (Dec. 20, 2010) – Once the holidays end and the New Year arrives, it’s the ideal time to sit down as a family and make vacation travel plans for 2011, according to Amy Graff, Travel and Kids expert for Best Western International and the senior editor for the award-winning blog, On the Go With Amy.
To arm families with fresh ideas for budget- and family-friendly activities, Amy today released her Top 11 Destinations for Family Travel for 2011, which includes “must do” and “must see” ideas ranging from touring a newly built aquarium to discovering U.S. history.
Many of the vacation spots feature new attractions for 2011 as well as some of Best Western’s highest rated properties. The Top 11 Destinations for Family Travel include (listed in alphabetical order):
1. Brooklyn, N.Y. – Escape the Manhattan bustle and explore this quieter New York borough. In the Park Slope area, you'll find kid-friendly restaurants such as Flipsters burger joint, while Prospect Park is home to the Prospect Park Zoo and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, where children under 12 get in free. Located within minutes of these attractions, BEST WESTERN PLUS Prospect Park Hotel recently opened in November 2010 and offers comfortable luxury the whole family will enjoy.
2. Charleston, S.C. – With new service from Southwest Airlines, this historic Southern town's cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture are more accessible than ever. Kids will enjoy learning history when touring the spooky Provost Dungeon at the Old Exchange or climbing on Civil War-era cannons at White Point Gardens. Also, don't miss Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. The BEST WESTERN King Charles Inn sits in the heart of the city.
3. Dallas, Texas – Traveling to the Lone Star State just got more fun, with the opening of Legoland Discovery Centre in spring 2011 and Sealife Aquarium in summer 2011. If the lure of theme-parks isn’t enough, kids with a need for speed can check out the Texas Motor Speedway Official NASCAR track. The contemporary BEST WESTERN PREMIER Crown Chase Inn & Suites offers a convenient centralized location nearby numerous attractions in the area. BEST WESTERN PREMIER Crown Chase Inn & Suites offers a convenient centralized location nearby numerous attractions in the area.
4. Durango, Colo. – Families seeking an outdoor adventure can climb onboard the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The coal- and steam-powered locomotive chugs along though the wilderness of San Juan National Forest, where you'll also find countless hiking and mountain biking trails. After taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding area, relax at the BEST WESTERN Durango Inn & Suites situated on a hillside.
5. Fort Myers, Fla. – From visiting The Shell Factory, which boasts the world's largest collection of rare seashells and sea life specimens, to exploring the Everglades by airboat on an EcoSafari, families can have fun beyond soaking up the sun. Located on the secluded beaches of Estero Island, BEST WESTERN PLUS Beach Resort is within walking distance of activities for the young and the young at heart.
6. Hannibal, Mo. – Great American author Mark Twain was born in this small port town 120 miles north of St. Louis. Browse the exhibits at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, taste the homemade root beer and onion rings at the Mark Twain Dinette, and take in beautiful views of the Mississippi River from your room at the BEST WESTERN On the River.
7. Lancaster, Pa. – You'll find a dizzying array of attractions in this town 50 miles west of Philadelphia. Kids can create their own candy bar at Hersheypark Chocolate World, go wild at ZOOAmerica, and be thrilled by shows and rides at Dutch Wonderland. BEST WESTERN PREMIER Eden Resort & Suites will pamper parents and please children with its plush accommodations and amenities including shuffleboard, a playground, and a children’s pool.
8. Miami, Fla. – Kids will love the new Adventures of Mr. Potato Head Exhibit at the Miami Children’s Museum. Opening January 2011, the exciting hands-on traveling exhibit allows kids to interact with the classic Mr. Potato Head character. The BEST WESTERN PREMIER Miami International Airport Hotel & Suites will offer families the chance to reconnect in the deluxe new accommodations.
9. Scottsdale, Ariz. – For a homerun getaway, visit the Spring Training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies at the brand new Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, opening on February 26. Families can check out a game before the official baseball season starts. BEST WESTERN Sundial, a brand new contemporary boutique style hotel located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, allows children 16 and under to stay free with an adult.
10. Sonoma, Calif. – While wine tasting isn't typically a family-friendly activity, Francis Ford Coppola Winery offers wine tasting for adults and a pool, games, and activities for children such as smoothie tastings and special holiday events. Family-owned and operated, BEST WESTERN Sonoma Valley Inn provides services and amenities aimed to please all visitors as they experience the wonders of wine country and Northern California.
11. Waikiki, Hawaii – Opening in late spring of 2011, Waikiki Aquarium’s Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Display will feature a living reef ecosystem representative of those found in the world’s most isolated islands. BEST WESTERN Coconut Waikiki Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel located along the Ala Wai Canal, just three blocks from the world-famous Waikiki Beach, another popular family attraction.
“The best family vacations are most often those that blend time together with a sense of adventure and discovery,” said Graff. “With ample research and planning, families can spend time together to create long-lasting memories without breaking the bank. There are attractive free or discounted activities, if you know where to look, and hotels like Best Western offer freebies, like breakfast, wireless internet to share pictures with family back home and a pool to help stretch the budget.”
ABOUT ONTHEGOWITHAMY.COM
OnTheGoWithAmy.com was created to celebrate the joys of travel and everything that goes with it – from flat tires and screaming children in the backseat to an amazing view of the New York skyline at the top the Empire State Building. Seasoned travel expert and journalist Amy Graff takes readers on the road with her husband and two children, her girlfriends and sometimes alone. Amy posts stories, pictures and videos from her family adventures, as well as helpful and unique tips she’s picked up after traveling the world with her family.
ABOUT AMY GRAFF
With more than a dozen years of experience as a travel editor and writer, Amy most recently served as a senior editor at VIA, a travel magazine that reaches more than three million members of the American Automobile Association. Prior, she was a contributor to Bay Area regional lifestyle magazines including Diablo and San Francisco. In addition to serving as a contributing columnist for Best Western, Amy writes for Sunset Custom Publishing and serves as the community manager for the San Francisco Chronicle's new parenting site, Bay Area Moms, for which she writes The Mommy Files blog.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Gives Thanks with $20 Gift Card Bonuses this Cyber Monday
Now Through Nov. 28, Purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card® and
Receive a $20 Gift Card
PHOENIX (Nov. 23, 2011) – This Thanksgiving holiday, Best Western International will give thanks to its nearly 13 million Best Western Rewards® (BWR) members with a special Cyber Monday promotion – purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card online and receive a bonus $20 gift card reward for yourself.
Cyber Monday shoppers who purchase a $100 (USD) or Best Western Travel Card online here can choose a $20 Best Western Travel Card or a $20 gift card from participating retail partners. The Best Western Travel Card can be used like cash to pay for accommodations at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide. BWR members will be able to take advantage of this special now, through Nov. 28 at 11:59 p.m. MST.
“A Best Western Travel Card makes a great gift for friends and family planning getaways in the New Year, and now you can earn bonuses at popular retailers while shopping for your loved ones,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Holiday shoppers are becoming increasingly savvy in looking for deals, and our Cyber Monday promotion will allow Rewards members to get even more bang for their buck while giving the universally loved gift of travel this holiday season.”
To receive the bonus, visit www.travelcard.bestwestern.com/cmus11.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With over 4,000 locations in more than 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline/partner rewards and more.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Corporate America Reaches Out to Haiti Through World Vision
Aid Agency Expresses Thanks to Corporate Donors; Opens Miami Warehouse Asks for Partnership and Perseverance Over Extended Recovery & Rebuilding
SEATTLE, Wash. (January 27, 2010) - International aid agency World Vision today offered thanks and appreciation to each of its corporate donors for their enthusiastic support of World Vision’s relief work in Haiti, and announced the opening of its new Miami warehouse.
Immediately after the initial 7.3 quake struck the Caribbean island nation on January 12, World Vision began receiving cash and product donations from a broad range of corporations, alongside record-breaking cash donations from the public. Total income to World Vision for its Haiti relief response currently stands at $22.6 million, with more than $4 million of that total as gifts-in-kind (GIK). As emergency response and program planning by World Vision continue in Haiti, the agency will communicate more specific product requests to corporations in the coming weeks and months.
To undergird its extensive, long-term Haiti relief response, World Vision has opened a 90,000 square foot facility in Miami through which large quantities of emergency and recovery goods will flow. This operation has been made possible through the generosity of Flagler Development and Yellow Freight.
“It’s been an agonizing two weeks since the initial quake’s strike. As we have all seen so vividly, it is obvious that our support for the Haitian people will need to extend years into the future,” said David Owens, vice president for corporate development at World Vision.
Many companies choose to partner with World Vision over the long-term for disaster response because of the organization’s “first in, last out” philosophy. This means that its programs are designed not only to meet immediate needs, but to help children, families, and communities overcome poverty to become self-sustaining.
“Companies like McKesson Corporation and Cardinal Health are invaluable even during our ‘non-emergency’ times,” added David Owens. “So imagine how critical their medical supplies have become to us in Haiti now. These are the type of products that World Vision had pre-positioned in Haiti so that we were able to respond quickly. With the immensity of this catastrophe, we are deeply grateful for these and other partners who will stand with us over the long haul.”
World Vision’s Corporate Development Team would also like to acknowledge:
Procter & Gamble:
Procter & Gamble, through its Children’s Safe Drinking Water program, donated $280,000 to World Vision that will provide 2.1 million PUR water purification packets. These packets will produce an estimated 21 million liters (5.54 million gallons) of clean drinking water for the children and families in Haiti.
Best Western:
The hotel giant is now enabling its customers to donate their Best Western Rewards points to a special Haiti relief fund for World Vision. Best Western customers have already donated over $85,000 to this fund. The hotel chain is also fundraising with its hotel owners and corporate staff.
Other examples of corporate and employee generosity:
· $50,000 grant by Microsoft
· $50,000 grant by Eli Lilly
· $50,000 grant by Verizon
· Employee giving match by JP Morgan Chase
· Employee giving match from Salesforce.com
"Our U.S. corporate donors have been incredibly generous, and we sincerely thank them,” said Brad Masterson, national director of corporate development at World Vision. "We have a very long road ahead of us, and it’s encouraging and humbling that so many are offering significant and innovative donations that will ultimately lay the foundation for long-term recovery and rebuilding.”
Companies interested in partnering with or donating directly to World Vision are asked to call 1-800-642-1616.
Public donations to World Vision’s Haiti Quake Response can be made by calling 888-56-CHILD, at www.worldvision.org, or by texting the word “GIVE” to 20222.
About World Vision
World Vision is a Christian relief and development organization dedicated to helping children and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty. We serve the world’s poor —regardless of a person’s religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. For more information, please visit www.worldvision.org/press.
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Canadians Vacations Are ‘Must Do’—Will Hit the Road in Greater Numbers this Summer—Say Travel Executives at Annual Travel Summit
Best Western International, CAA and the Hotel Association of Canada Executives Discuss the Impact of an Improved Economy on Summer Travel Plans
TORONTO (June 13, 2011) – Higher gas prices aren’t expected to keep travelers off the roads this summer, but rather than find last minute deals, travelers should book early and expect airlines, hotels and car rental brands to offer bonuses, such as upgrades or rewards points; according to travel executives at Best Western International , CAA and the Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) at the sixth annual Leisure Travel Summit in Toronto hosted in late May.
Given the improved economy and increased consumer optimism, pent-up demand for leisure travel has led to an increase of six to 11 percent in advance reservations to Canadian hotels during the peak summer months.
“Those who have had to forgo a vacation in recent years are now putting travel back on their ‘must-do’ lists for this summer, which we believe will translate to a strong summer for our Member hoteliers,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western.
Despite an increase in gas prices, up 27 cents per litre compared to last year, panelists are not concerned that the increase will dissuade people from traveling. Glen MacDonell, director of AAA Travel Services and representing CAA, indicated that the higher cost, which equates to $30 CAD more for a trip of 1,200 kilometres, will not have a substantial impact on vacation plans.
“Although travelers do want to spend less overall on planned vacations, 60 percent of those we surveyed earlier this year said gas prices ultimately wouldn’t affect their decision to travel,” said MacDonell. “However, some travelers plan to cut spending on activities, such as shopping for souvenirs, bar drinks or pricey tourist attractions.”
Tony Pollard, president of the HAC agrees that Canadians will continue to make vacation plans, saying that, “Canadians consider it their given right to travel.”
Rather than promote last-minute deals during the peak summer season, airlines, rental car brands and hotels are more likely to offer extras or value-added promotions rather than heavily discounted rates or fares as they did last summer. Panelists agreed that for the deal-savvy Canadian traveller, one of the most important things when booking travel is cost transparency.
“Canadians are smart, and when it hits their pockets they know it. Whatever they plan to spend on a trip, they want to know exactly what they’ll be getting,” said Pollard.
Travellers should do their homework to find out what extras are specifically included in their daily rate including Wi-Fi and parking, or if additional fees will be added to their bill at the end of their stay. They will find that more frequently they’re offered things they normally wouldn’t as part of the quoted price, such as bonus miles or rewards points. Offering these types of amenities as part of the quoted price is something that travellers can rely on from Best Western, Dowling claims.
“We position ourselves as a value provider in the market. By providing customers all-inclusive pricing what they were quoted is what they pay, and there’s no sticker shock at check-out. Adding value through promotions and our Best Western Rewards program always means a win for the customer,” said Dowling.
Pollard agreed that hotel reward programs are becoming increasingly valuable to the Canadian consumer, citing results from a recent HAC survey.
“In 2006, 19 percent of Canadians said a hotel rewards program is important for leisure travel,” he said. “Now, 38 percent of Canadians say rewards programs are absolutely critical.”
According to Dowling, Canada represents ten percent of participants in the Best Western Rewards program, which consists of 12 million members globally.
“Canadians have always been sophisticated when it comes to maximizing value,” said Dowling. “Travellers today want to be recognized for their patronage, and we’re continuously enriching our offers, as we are committed to giving back to those who are loyal to Best Western.”
To receive an audio recording of the panel discussion, please email teri@allisonpr.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in over 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT CAA
CAA is a federation of nine clubs providing more than 5.6 million Members with exceptional emergency roadside service, complete automotive and travel services, member savings and comprehensive insurance services. CAA also advocates on issues of concern to its members, including road safety, the environment, mobility, infrastructure and consumer protection. Visit the website at http://www.caa.ca/index_caa.cfm for more information.
ABOUT THE HOTEL ASSOCIATION OF CANADA
The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) is a professional industry association representing the lodging industry in Canada. Its membership encompasses the provincial and territorial hotel associations, the corporate hotel chains, independent hotels, motels and resorts and the many suppliers to the hotel industry. HAC’s objective is to assist both its national and international members as they endeavour to enhance their competitiveness and achieve their bottom line. The HAC accomplishes this through advocacy, the collection and dissemination of information, research, education, and operational support services designed to assist its members. The Hotel Association of Canada represents more than 8,400 hotels, motels and resorts across Canada. To learn more, visit http://www.hotelassociation.ca/.
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MOTORCYCLE RIDERS: SNAP PHOTOS OUTSIDE BEST WESTERN HOTELS
AND BE ENTERED TO WIN BIG REWARDS, FREE NIGHTS
Photo Contest Celebrates Launch of Three Types of Best Western Hotels
PHOENIX (June 6, 2011) – To kick off motorcycle riding season and introduce two-wheeled travelers to Best Western’s three new types of hotels, Best Western International, the World’s Biggest Hotel FamilySM, announced a photo contest for motorcycle enthusiasts who visit any of the chain’s 2,200 BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS or BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels in North America.
Motorcyclists who visit a Best Western hotel and upload a photo of their bike in front of a Best Western sign will be entered to win and each week between now and July 15, three winners will randomly be chosen to receive 5,000 Best Western Rewards points.
One grand prize winner will be chosen at random to receive 65,000 points, good for room nights, gift cards, airline miles and more, in celebration of Best Western’s 65th birthday in 2011. To commemorate the launch of the three new types of Best Western hotels, the first rider to submit a photo in-front of all three different BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER signs will win a $650 travel card – good for use at any of the chain’s 4,000 hotels worldwide.
Participants must upload their digital photos to Best Western’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/BestWestern between now and July 15, 2011 to be eligible to win prizes.
“We want motorcycle riders to know that there’s a Best Western hotel for every type of trip they take with the introduction of BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels, and we welcome them to come and stay with us,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “This photo contest allows new and existing Ride Rewards members to experience the special amenities and services we offer exclusively to riders. What’s more – one lucky rider will win 65,000 rewards points which can be redeemed for up to a week of free nights at participating hotels, gift cards, airline miles and much more.”
Photo contest entrants must sign up or be existing members of Best Western Ride Rewards®, the industry’s only free loyalty program for guests traveling by motorcycle. Best Western Ride Rewards members will automatically earn Gold Elite status when the sign up, allowing them to earn 10 points for every U.S. dollar spent on qualified room rates and 10 percent bonus points with each qualified stay at any Best Western hotel. Motorcycle travelers can register for Best Western Ride Rewards by visiting www.bwrider.com .
As part of its partnership with Harley-Davidson®, Best Western has more than 1,200 Rider-Friendly® hotel locations in North America which provide services such as a special Harley-Davidson rate, a clean wipe-down at check-in and a bike cleaning station. Additional benefits at some properties include reserved parking spaces, bottled water and lip balm. As a complement to Ride Rewards, enthusiasts can also use the Harley-Davidson Ride Planner tool to map and plan rides, and book a Best Western hotel along the route.
Keep up with the photo contest by following Best Western on Twitter@TheBestWestern, hashtag #BWBikerPhoto.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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AMY HULBERT TO LEAD DESIGN EFFORTS FOR BEST WESTERN
PHOENIX (July 28, 2010) – Amy Hulbert has joined Best Western as Director of Design. In this role, she ensures consistent design quality for the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® and its 4,000 hotels. Hulbert also leads refinement and implementation of design standards and requirements for the brand’s new descriptor program, which is bringing Premier® and PlusTM descriptors to hotels in North America.
Prior to joining Best Western, Hulbert spent twelve years with Hilton Hotels Corporation, most recently serving as director of interior design for Latin America and the Caribbean. With Hilton, Hulbert oversaw design for Hilton’s 10 brands in the 43 countries that make up the Latin American region, working on projects such as the Hilton Iguazu Falls in Argentina, the Hilton Bogota, the Panama City Hilton, the Palmer House Hilton renovation, and focused-service properties such as the Hampton Inn in Chiapas, Mexico.
“Amy joins Best Western at a pivotal time as we implement brand descriptors in North America,” said Rich Bennett, Vice President of Design and Supply. “She is a true business partner who understands the balance between outstanding design and return on investment. We are fortunate to have her at Best Western.”
At Best Western, Hulbert will oversee a team of headquarters and field-based design consultants who perform a full range of design services for the brand’s 2,200 North American hotels.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated Best Western, Best Western PlusTM and Best Western Premier® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN FALL HOTEL BONUS MULTIPLIES REWARDS
Stay Twice, Earn Double Rewards; AAA Members Earn Even More
PHOENIX (Sept. 12, 2011) – Starting today, Best Western, THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, is helping its members earn a free hotel night even faster. Between now and Nov. 20, members earn double rewards points (for every second qualified stay when they register at www.bestwestern.com/fall.
Best Western Rewards members can qualify for the bonus offer twice and our Elite members can earn the bonus up to four times
• Best Western is also helping guests maximize Rewards: If two stays are at two different brand descriptor hotels – including any combination of BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® – earn triple rewards on the second stay.
• AAA PreferredSM Best Western Rewards members also earn a one-time bonus of 1,000 points on their second stay.
• Those who pay for their first two qualified stays with a Best Western Rewards MasterCard earn a one-time 1,000 points bonus.
“September means back to school, back to business travel and a great time to use Rewards points for travel deals,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Our fall promotion is a great way for our guests to earn a free night even faster.”
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs. It has the lowest redemption thresholds for awards, and is one of few loyalty programs that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card®, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline/partner rewards and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ELECTS NEW BOARD OFFICERS
Appoints Second Chairwoman in Brand’s History
PHOENIX (Nov. 25, 2008) – Best Western International’s Board of Directors named Bonnie McPeake its chairwoman, effective for a one-year term starting today. McPeake is the second woman in the brand’s history to serve in the role. She replaces David Francis, who remains on the Board after serving as chairman since early 2008.
McPeake has been affiliated with the Best Western brand for nearly 25 years and has served as a Board member since 2005. She and her husband, Sam, own and operate the Best Western Pinehurst Inn in Southern Pines, N.C.
The seven-member Board of Directors elected P.G. West as its vice chairman. Since 1980, he and his wife, Linda, have owned and operated the award-winning Best Western Turquoise Inn and Suites in Cortez, Colo.
Rounding out the new Board leadership is Beth Campbell, secretary/treasurer. Campbell, a hotelier and business leader from Penticton, British Columbia, was elected to a three-year term starting this month. She owns and operates the Best Western Inn at Penticton, a three-diamond resort property in Penticton, B.C.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN EXPANDS MOBILE TRAVEL TOOLS WITH NEW IPAD APPLICATION
Universal “Best Western To Go” App Allows Travelers to Plan Trips, Book Hotels Worldwide, and Share Adventures with Friends and Family
PHOENIX (Jan. 4, 2011) – Planning and managing travel just got easier for the more than 7.5 million iPad users, with the recent introduction of Best Western International’s free application, “Best Western to Go.” Travelers using the iPad application can not only find and book reservations at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide, but may also share travel experiences and pictures with loved ones and friends along the way via email or Facebook.
Additionally, “Best Western to Go” users can create itineraries to help with travel planning by inputting addresses of attractions and restaurants nearby and using the GPS-enabled map to navigate through the area. The app’s trip saver tool allows users to save past or future trips, including favorite locations visited traveling—from a shopping venue to a convenient parking spot.
Other “Best Western to Go” features include:
•Photo and Description Capabilities: Add pictures and additional information to help remember and share details about saved locations
•Organization: Categorize and sort saved locations by city, trip name, location type to easily reference in the future
•Visibility: The increased screen size allows for more location icons to be displayed on the map, allowing for additional ease of navigation and planning
“Ensuring the iPad ‘Best Western to Go’ application consistently meets the needs of travelers on-the-go and is available on the devices they use most is a central part of our efforts to expand brand awareness and grow loyalty,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International.
The “Best Western to Go” application is also now available for Android™ users, with similar, but more limited features than the iPad application. In addition to the application, which first launched for the iPhone in December 2009, the corresponding mobile website,www.BestWestern2Go.com, offers the ability to search and book any Best Western hotel on all web enabled devices. The free “Best Western to Go” application for iPad and iPhone can be downloaded at the iTunes store.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL AWARDED “TRAVEL PARTNER OF THE YEAR” BY AAA
World’s Largest Hotel Chain Also Recognized by AAA for Excellence in Marketing and Sales
PHOENIX (April 12, 2010) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, has been honored with the coveted AAA “Travel Partner of the Year” award in addition to two other honors in the hotel category during the organization’s recent 2009 Preferred Partner Awards Ceremony.
This is the second consecutive year that Best Western has won the Partner of the Year award from AAA, the nation’s largest leisure travel organization. This year, Best Western was also awarded Best in Marketing and Best in Sales awards in the hotels category.
“To be recognized for setting the standard for AAA’s preferred hotel partners is a tremendous honor,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “We value our long-term partnership with AAA, and will continue to reward their members with the outstanding service and value they’ve come to expect from Best Western.”
“We are pleased to present Best Western with the Partner of the Year and Sales and Marketing awards,” said Glen MacDonell, director, AAA Travel Services. “AAA is committed to providing our members with exceptional travel experiences and outstanding customer service. Partners like Best Western enable us to consistently deliver on that promise.”
Winners were chosen based upon a survey of the association’s club travel agency executives, who were asked to rate AAA’s 40 preferred travel partners in five categories: marketing, service, product, sales support and technology.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN PLUS Flowers Hotel opens in Chisinau, Moldova
First Best Western-branded hotel in the nation a 4-star property with full service restaurant
PHOENIX, AZ (June 15, 2011) – The first BEST WESTERN PLUS hotel opened in Moldova’s capital city, offering guests well appointed rooms with modern amenities that are designed to suit the needs of both business and leisure travelers. The iconic hotel chain has opened approximately 765 BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels around the world since launching its three-descriptor strategy in early 2011, 16 of which are in Europe.
Located in the heart of Chisinau only 12km from Chisinau International Airport, the BEST WESTERN PLUS Flowers Hotel has 40 rooms including four suites, with available kitchenettes. It is located close to the financial and historical districts of the city, and to all major cultural attractions. In addition to a full-service restaurant and complimentary full breakfast, it offers a cocktail lounge, mobile phone rental, live entertainment, steam room and pool, a business center, free parking and a host of other services and amenities as listed on www.bestwestern.com/md/PlusFlowersHotel.
“Moldova is an important commercial center and a country steeped in cultural and political history,” said Suzi MacDonald Yoder, vice president of international operations for Best Western. “Our beautiful and comfortable BEST WESTERN PLUS Flowers Hotel is an ideal home-away-from-home for tourists and executives alike.”
Best Western International officially launched its Descriptor Program in February, 2011 giving its member hotels the option to identify their properties as BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® or BEST WESTERN PREMIER®. Approved in April 2010, the program was implemented to help guests find the right Best Western hotel for each trip, to increase guest satisfaction, and to drive superior revenue to the more than 4000 hotels that make up THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in over 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western to Open First Hotel in Maldives in September
Bangkok (June 8, 2009) – Best Western International’s strategic expansion across Asia and the Middle East will reach a new milestone in September 2009: the opening of its first property in the Maldives, the extensively rebranded Best Western Madoogali Resort and Spa.
“The Maldives falls into the elite club of the world’s top ten most desirable destinations and it is a great thrill for Best Western to finally enter this highly attractive market,” said Glenn de Souza, Best Western International’s Vice President Operations – Asia.
Best Western Madoogali Resort and Spa is located on its own island, North Ari Atoll, 48 miles west of the Maldives’ capital of Male. The hotel features 56 palm-thatched chalets, designed to blend in naturally with the surrounding environment. Each luxurious chalet has a veranda facing the sea and is furnished and decorated in a modern tropical style that captures the essence of the island country.
Besides the view, key attractions include a restaurant, a spa, a dive center and numerous water sport activities, including windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, water-skiing, catamarans and pedalòs. Best Western International’s Bhuvana Spa therapies will complement the guest experience.
Previously running on an average occupancy of 78 percent, Best Western is confident of sharply raising this figure, based on the property’s design, international service standards and powerful global marketing network.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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FIRST BEST WESTERN PREMIER HOTEL OPENS IN BRITISH COLUMBIA
The World’s Biggest Hotel Family Offers Travelers 13 BEST WESTERN PREMIER Hotels Across North America
SOOKE, BRITISH COLUMBIA (August 2, 2011) – The first BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel in British Columbia, the second in Canada, opened earlier this month in Sooke, British Columbia, THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM announced today.
BEST WESTERN PREMIER Prestige Oceanfront Resort, situated in the seaside community of Sooke, offers guests 122 rooms and suites, each offering either a garden, harbor or ocean view and outfitted with 42-inch flat screen TVs, free Wi-Fi internet access, premium clock radios with a MP3 connection and upscale bedding.
First introduced in North America by Best Western in early 2011, travelers in the United States and Canada now have 13 BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels to choose from, which offer travelers an upscale travel experience.
“The BEST WESTERN PREMIER Prestige Oceanfront Resort is an upscale addition to our North American portfolio of hotels,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. “Our member hoteliers continue to offer travelers exceptional value while providing all of the amenities and services our hundreds of thousands of nightly guests have come to expect from Best Western.”
The BEST WESTERN PREMIER Prestige Oceanfront Resort offers onsite dining experiences, including The Mix by Rics, with an extensive local and international award-winning wine list; Café Sofia; and Yesaki’s Wine and Raw bar.
Other on-site amenities include:
• the Ocean Palms Spa, featuring seaside treatments
• an ocean view athletic club
• concierge service
• room service
• indoor and outdoor convention, banquet and meeting facilities for up to 350 guests
• full catering services, and
• an indoor pool and hot tub.
As is true for all BEST WESTERN PREMIER properties, the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Prestige Oceanfront Resort offers features and amenities that exceed CAA’s three diamond requirements.
Rates at the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Prestige Oceanfront Resort start at $161.96 CAD. Travelers can contact the property directly for special packages at (250) 642-0805 or book via www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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VALUE, DEALS, POWER AND FREE: TRAVEL INDUSTRY LEADERS CAPTURE SUMMER TRAVEL OUTLOOK IN FOUR WORDS
Best Western International, AAA and Cheapflights.com Address State of the Industry, Forecast New Travel Trends at Annual Best Western Leisure Travel Summit
NEW YORK (May 19, 2009) – Travel executives from Best Western International, AAA (American Automobile Association) and Cheapflights.com convened last week to address the summer travel outlook amid the recession. Four words summed up their summer travel predictions: value, deals, power and free.
VALUE
Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of sales and marketing, said people today are savvier than ever about loyalty points and are always looking for the best hotel for their dollar. Amenities such as free Internet access, breakfast and parking at most North American locations are among the value-added services that make Best Western hotels particularly attractive this summer. Moreover, travelers are guaranteed to find the lowest room rates online at Bestwestern.com.
“Consumers may still be interested in high design, but they are no longer interested in paying for it. They want good service and basic amenities at a great price,” said Dowling. “Our year-over-year bookings in April indicate people are seeking value like never before. With consumer confidence rising, we are likewise confident that travelers won’t be staying home this year.”
DEALS
The combination of last year’s high gas prices and a depressed economy have led to the large number of deals offered today. Betsy Sell, managing director of travel products for AAA, said these deals are the incentives needed to get people traveling this summer.
“We have not seen this many deals since the period shortly after 9-11 and these offers are even better,” said Sell. “Never before in my 42-year career have I seen the bargains that are available today, including destination resorts offering seven-night vacations with free dining, cruises slashing prices in half and hotel room rates dropping 20 to 30 percent. The bottom line is these deals won’t last, so travelers need to take advantage of them while they can.“
POWER
Though a return to normalcy is in the air, Carl Schwartz, chief travel officer for the travel deals search engine Cheapflights.com, believes travelers are in control and should utilize this power to take their family on a trip which might have been out of their financial reach before.
“There has never been more power in travelers’ hands than there is today,” said Schwartz. “In the past, travelers had to maintain not only a flexible schedule, but also stay open about their destination if price was the deciding factor. However, this year, they have the options and the power to choose where and when they want to go for the price they want to pay.”
FREE
Leisure and family travel expert Amy Graff, who also blogs for Best Western, believes “free” is the key word that will pair travelers and travel-related companies this summer. Hotel chains are offering rich summer promotions, such as Best Western summer plans to reward travelers not only with a free hotel night after completing two stays at any North American property, but also by enabling guests to actually earn Best Western Rewards points while they stay. In addition, Alaska Airlines and Air Tahiti are among carriers offering free flights for kids on special routes. Convention and visitors bureaus across America are also promoting dozens of free activities for travelers visiting their areas, such as Washington D.C.’s National Gallery of Art and Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo.
“With gas prices expected to be $1.60 per gallon cheaper than they were last summer, families will be packing up their cars and hitting the road—something they were less able to do last year,” said Graff. “Family vacations don’t have to break the bank. My family will be touring the Great River Road which runs parallel to the Mississippi River this summer, on a budget of $150 a day.”
Other industry trends highlighted during the annual summit included:
•Top domestic budget destinations for the next 12 to 18 months include Hawaii, Las Vegas, Florida, ski resorts in destinations Lake Tahoe, Calif., and Big Sky, Mont., and hot weather destinations like Phoenix and Palm Springs, Calif.
•Top international destinations that are more affordable for travelers this year include Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Great Britain, Canada and Eastern Europe.
•Deals abound online. Travel brands are using Twitter and Facebook to offer exclusive deals and promotions.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT AAA
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.
ABOUT CHEAPFLIGHTS.COM
Cheapflights.com is the best place to find cheap flight deals and up-to-date travel information. As a leading U.S. travel search engine, the site publishes one of the largest selections of airfare deals available online from a huge range of flight providers. Every day, travelers can search more than one million flight deals from both traditional and low-cost airlines, as well as smaller specialty-travel providers, plus handpicked deals and flight offers exclusive to Cheapflights.com. The Flight & Travel Info section and Flight News blog are packed with more than 1,000 destination travel guides, travel tips, and the latest news and information, to help flyers enjoy the best possible travel experience, every time they fly. Sign up for the Cheapflights.com weekly newsletter, which contains deals customized to travelers’ specific preferences, and follow Cheapflights on Twitter at Cheapflightscom.
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Best Western and AAA’s “Retro to Now Road Trip” Compares the Modern Road Trip with Road Trips of the Past
PHOENIX (July 30, 2009) – Best Western International is taking a look at how today’s technologies have changed the road trip experience with a “Retro to Now Road Trip,” co-sponsored by AAA, which transports one family back in time for one leg of the trip, and brings them back to present day for the latter portion. Along the way, the family will answer the question – how have road trips changed over the years and has it been for the better?
As grand prize winners of the Best Western and AAA “Retro to Now Road Trip” sweepstakes, the Monteith family will hit the road and tour some of the Northeast’s most famous cities and landmarks in a way most modern day families don’t – in a standard family van, without access to a CD player, cell phones or other technology. While traveling in the vehicle, provided by Hertz Rental Car, video games and DVDs will be replaced by road games and paperbacks to keep the children – a five-year-old, eight-year-old and nine-year old twins – occupied. The journey will be guided by a TripTik® Travel Planner provided by AAA.
“We are huge fans of road trips and really looking forward to hitting the road with Best Western and AAA,” said mom Vonnette Monteith. “I have been preparing the kids for the road trips that I grew up taking, which will mean car games instead of game consoles or DVDs. They are really excited to experience an old fashioned road trip.”
Midway through the journey, the family will switch to “now,” with all familiar and modern amenities returning. In addition the family will drive a fully-loaded 2009 Volkswagen Routan, the only minivan in America with German engineering. Features include power sliding doors, U-Connect ™ Bluetooth cellular phone wireless connection, DVD navigation with wide touch screen, built-in single-disc AM/FM/CD/DVD/MP3, USB connection, 30GB hard drive, music storage feature, Sirius Satellite Radio and rear view backup camera.
“Best Western is synonymous with the iconic family road trip, having opened our doors to driving families for generations,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “AAA and Best Western online and mobile tools let the fun start with the planning and continue during the ride, while the hotel is where the vacation really comes together. Great service, convenient locations, comfortable rooms, free high-speed Internet, and breakfast make Best Western the perfect partner to a road trip-- then, now and always.”
Travel fans can follow the Monteiths on their “Retro to Now Road Trip” via Best Western’s travel blog www.bestwestern.com/roadtrip and on the hotel’s Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages. AAA also will share updates on the trip via its travel blog, www.aaatravelviews.com.
AAA – Best Western “Retro to Now” Itinerary
•Sat., Aug. 1 – Drive to Gettysburg, Penn. Tour Gettysburg and sightsee. Overnight stay at the Best Western Gettysburg Hotel, established in 1797.
•Sun., Aug. 2 – Drive to Philadelphia. Tour Philadelphia and visit historic sites throughout the city. Overnight stay at the Best Western Independence Park Hotel.
•Mon., Aug. 3 – Drive to New York City. Tour Manhattan, including Central Park, the Statue of Liberty and more. Overnight stay at the Best Western President Hotel.
•Tues., Aug. 4 – Continue touring New York City. Receive Volkswagen Routan. Drive to Boston. Overnight stay at the Best Western Roundhouse Suites in Boston, Mass.
•Wed., Aug. 5 – Sightsee in Boston. Overnight stay at the Best Western Roundhouse Suites.
•Thurs., Aug. 6 – Drive to Buffalo, NY. Overnight stay at the Best Western The Inn of Lackawanna.
•Fri., Aug. 7 – Tour Niagara Falls. Overnight stay at the Best Western The Inn of Lackawanna.
•Sat., Aug. 8 – Depart for home.
About Best Western International
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About AAA
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.
About Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world’s largest producers of passenger cars and Europe’s largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Eos, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg 2 and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2009 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.
About Hertz Corporation
The Hertz Corporation, a subsidiary of Hertz Global Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HTZ), is the world's largest general use car rental brand, operating from approximately 8,000 locations in 145 countries worldwide. Hertz is the number one airport car rental brand in the U.S. and at 42 major airports in Europe, operating both corporate and licensee locations in cities and airports in North America, Europe, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand. In addition, the Company has licensee locations in cities and airports in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Product and service initiatives such as Hertz #1 Club Gold(R), NeverLost(R) customized, onboard navigation systems, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and unique cars and SUVs offered through the Company's Prestige, Fun and Green Collections, set Hertz apart from the competition. In 2008, the Company launched Connect by Hertz, entering the global car sharing market in London, New York City and Paris. Hertz also operates one of the world's largest equipment rental businesses, Hertz Equipment Rental Corporation, offering a diverse line of equipment, including tools and supplies, as well as new and used equipment for sale, to customers ranging from major industrial companies to local contractors and consumers from approximately 350 branches in the United States, Canada, China, France and Spain.
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INDUSTRY EXPERTS ADDRESS BUSINESS TRAVEL TRENDS, FORECASTS AMID TOUGH ECONOMIC TIMES
Best Western Business Travel Summit Cites Value As Primary Business Travel Need
TORONTO (Jan. 28, 2009) – Top travel executives representing Best Western International, WestJet, Aeroplan and the Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) convened in Toronto last week for a panel discussion on the global economy and its impact on the state of business travel in 2009.
Moderator Tanya Racz, president of National Business Travel Association (NBTA) Canada, opened the discussion with results of a recent member survey in which 70 percent of respondents expected business travel to continue to expand, albeit at a slower pace in 2009. Panel participants supported these findings and agreed that business travel will continue, but in different ways.
“People are going to continue to travel,” said Richard Bartrem, vice-president of culture and communications for WestJet. “Our load factor hit record highs in December – the highest in WestJet’s history for the month. However, booking patterns are changing. People are waiting until the last minute to book in hopes that they will see a fire sale.”
Changes are evident in the hotel industry as well, which has seen four years of record growth. Best Western has seen the number of its bookings remain steady year-over-year, but cited a five to 10 percent decline in length of stay.
Panel participants also highlighted how rising travel costs are affecting both the managed and unmanaged business traveller, stressing that value is key to attracting business. Brands that do not “nickel-and-dime” with hidden fees and surprises will continue to fare well.
“More companies are moving their hotel business to the mid-market sector, for perception purposes and because all-inclusive pricing helps their bottom line,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Best Western requires its hoteliers to provide complimentary Internet and local phone calls, and many are choosing to offer free breakfast and parking, too. This positions us very favorably with travel managers who are cutting costs in an aggressive way.”
Tony Pollard, president of the HAC agreed. “People are looking for value and are seeking ways to reduce costs, but business travel must go on,” he said. “When you have a downturn, it’s an opportunity to position your brand to fit the needs of the traveller. People are looking for upgraded rooms, complimentary breakfast and free Internet access. The current economic climate has created a real opportunity for travel companies to better care for their customers.”
LOYALTY PROGRAM USAGE INCREASES
Canadians have some of the highest levels of participation in loyalty programs, which will continue to reward travellers and help offset costs. The 2009 Hotel Association of Canada Travel Survey found that 54 percent of travellers considered rewards programs very important, up from 32 percent just a year ago. In addition, a mere 16 percent said they were not important
Aeroplan, Canada’s premier loyalty program with over 70 world-class partners, is leaning on its learning experiences from the past 25 years to successfully navigate the program during these challenging times.
“These days, business travellers are more likely to book with airlines, car rental companies and hotels that offer loyalty programs with good reward value, greater flexibility and more choices that they can take advantage of for personal travel with friends and family,” said Nathalie Belanger, general manager of rewards management at Aeroplan. “We are also noticing anecdotal evidence of more small business owners redeeming their Aeroplan Miles for travel compared with years past.”
“Loyalty programs are definitely king as road warriors recognize their benefits and learn how to take full advantage of them,” said Dowling. “Best Western is seeing the highest-ever usage levels of Best Western Rewards and we’re responding by offering promotions virtually every day of 2009, to continue rewarding our loyal customers.”
Bartrem echoed this, saying rewards programs are important and that WestJet intends to introduce its own frequent flyer program in mid-2009.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveller, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information, visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT NBTA CANADA
NBTA Canada, the leading organization for corporate travel professionals in Canada, is part of the National Business Travel Association (NBTA), the world’s premier business travel and corporate meetings organization. NBTA and its regional affiliates – NBTA Asia Pacific, the Brazilian Business Travel Association (ABGEV), NBTA Canada, NBTA Mexico and NBTA USA – serve a network of more than 15,000 business travel professionals around the globe with industry-leading events, networking, education & professional development, research, news & information, and advocacy. NBTA members, numbering more than 4,000 in 30 nations, are corporate and government travel and meetings managers, as well as travel service providers. They collectively manage and direct more than US$200 billion of global business travel and meetings expenditures annually on behalf of more than 10 million business travelers within their organizations. For more information, visit www.nbta.org.
ABOUT HAC
The Hotel Association of Canada supports, protects and promotes its members so they can excel in today's challenging business world. For over 95 years, it has helped them to compete by building and maintaining a high profile with governments, developing innovative services including the highly successful Green Key Rating Program, hosting events to celebrate excellence, and providing current industry information and resources. All activities share a singular goal: to help members be more competitive, successful and profitable. For more information, visit http://www.hotelassociation.ca/
ABOUT WESTJET
WestJet is Canada's leading high-value low-cost airline offering scheduled service throughout its 55-city North American and Caribbean network. Named one of Canada's most admired corporate cultures in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom, leather seats and live seatback television provided by Bell TV on its modern fleet of 76 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 45 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 121 by 2013, WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers. For more information, visit www.westjet.com.
ABOUT AEROPLAN
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2009, Aeroplan, Canada’s premier loyalty program, is owned by Groupe Aeroplan Inc., a leading international loyalty management corporation. Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 70 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors. In 2008, over 2 million rewards were issued to members including more than 1.5 million round-trip flights on Air Canada and Star Alliance carriers which offer travel to approximately 912 destinations worldwide. In addition to flights, members also have access to over 600 exciting specialty, merchandise, hotel, car rental and experiential rewards. For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.groupeaeroplan.com or www.aeroplan.com
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BEST WESTERN’S “FAN SWAP” WINNING COUPLE SET TO SWAP JOBS WITH DRIVER MICHAEL WALTRIP, TRAVEL WITH TEAM TO RACES
Best Western’s “Fan Swap” eBay Auction Generates More Than $5,500 to Benefit World Vision
PHOENIX (September 10, 2009) – NASCAR enthusiasts Jami and Jack Prince live only 45 minutes down the road from NASCAR driver Michael Waltrip, yet they may as well live worlds apart. However the Princes will soon get to experience Michael’s world firsthand and Michael theirs, thanks to Best Western’s second annual “Fan Swap” when they will swap jobs with each other for a day.
Jami and Jack Prince of Tega Cay, S.C., outbid dozens on eBay to earn this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work at Michael Waltrip Racing for a day and then travel with the team to the races in Richmond with a top bid of $5,515. Organized by Best Western International, The Official Hotel of NASCAR®, and Michael Waltrip Racing, the “Fan Swap” charity auction benefits World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner dedicated to alleviating the causes of poverty and injustice among children and families around the world.
“We are huge Michael Waltrip fans and cannot wait to see what it takes for him and his team to run Michael Waltrip Racing and race every weekend in a different part of the country,” said Jami Prince. “We are even more excited to have Michael come down to visit us and see how we live and work. I’m certain he will have a fun, yet challenging time taking care of our two kids and running the house while I’m at work – I just hope he knows how to cook!”
As part of their prize, the Princes will spend a day at Raceworld USA, the headquarters of Michael Waltrip Racing in Cornelius, N.C., working as Michael would for the day. The duo will get to experience the inner workings of owning a race team and all the work that goes into preparing for race weekend. At Raceworld, they’ll enjoy an exclusive tour of Waltrip’s private office and pick-up some official Michael Waltrip racing gear. Later that day, Jami and Jack will travel with the whole race team to Richmond, Va., where they will stay at a Best Western hotel for the weekend and get VIP treatment at the September 11th and 12th races.
In return, Waltrip will travel to the Prince’s hometown and “swap” jobs with Jami and Jack Prince and work as both a retired stay-at-home dad and a new home realtor for a day. Part of Michael’s duties will include escorting prospective home buyers around in the Best Western No.99 street car and showing them a model home. The “swap” will also consist of Michael picking up the Prince’s children from school in the street car and helping them with their homework when they get home from school.
“Swapping jobs with fans is a fun experience for me,” said Michael Waltrip. “If there’s one thing that’s been important to me over the course of my career, it’s been the ability to personally interact with fun and loyal fans. The Best Western ‘Fan Swap’ gives me the opportunity each year to get to know my fans a little better, as well as give back to a good cause.”
All proceeds from the “Fan Swap” auction will be used to purchase backpacks and school supplies through World Vision’s SchoolTools program. Best Western's owners and staff will pack the backpacks during their annual convention this fall, and distribute to children in need throughout the United States.
For more information on Best Western Racing or to sign up for the Speed Rewards loyalty program, please visit www.bestwesternracing.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN OFFERING TRIPLE REWARDS THIS FALL
PHOENIX (Sept. 13, 2010) – Best Western is making it even easier and faster to earn a free night with its fall promotion, which offers triple Best Western Rewards points when you register, stay two separate times on a qualifying rate between Sept. 12 and Nov. 21 and book both stays on www.bestwestern.com. Those who book elsewhere earn double points when they register and stay two separate times on a qualifying rate during the promotion. The promotion also includes a 1,000-point bonus for those who pay for each of their qualified stays with the Best Western Rewards MasterCard®.
Members of AAA Preferred Best Western Rewards earn an additional 10 percent bonus points on each stay
(see www.bestwestern.com/fallaaa).
“The fall travel season is here, and we want guests to stay at a Best Western, whether they’re traveling for work or hitting the road for a football game or a family get-together,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Best Western’s loyalty program is one of the most generous around. With this promotion, you can earn a free night after just a couple of stays.”
Best Western Rewards members can earn double or triple points one time during the promotion. Elite members of Best Western Rewards can earn double or triple points twice during the promotion. Learn more and register at www.bestwestern.com/fall
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS™ and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN REWARDS TRAVELERS WITH A FREE NIGHT AFTER TWO STAYS THIS SUMMER
PHOENIX (June 22, 2009) – From national parks to national monuments, there’s a lot to see on the great American roads this summer. From now through August 16, members of Best Western Rewards® loyalty program who stay two separate times at any Best Western hotel in the U.S. and Canada will receive a voucher valid for a free night at many of its hotels globally, and even earn points when staying to qualify for their free stay.
HOW IT WORKS
• A 16,000 point electronic voucher good for a free night at many Best Western properties will be awarded to every Rewards member who completes two separate qualifying stays at any of the 2,200 Best Western hotels in the U.S. and Canada.
• A maximum of two vouchers can be earned during the promotion. Vouchers are combinable and can be used any night of the week, based upon availability.
• Rewards members will earn 250 bonus points when they book at www.bestwestern.com
• To be eligible for the promotion, guests must register at www.bestwesternrewards.com, and reside in North America, South America or Asia.
“There’s never been a more affordable travel environment than what we’re seeing today,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Free nights and free points are just the tip of the travel deals iceberg. Savings can be found around every corner for those looking to get away this summer.”
Best Western is also teaming up with Disney this summer for some good old family fun. Rewards members’ children will receive a free sling bag featuring the Jonas Brothers show – “JONAS!” when they register for the summer promotion. Additionally, Best Western and Disney are hosting a “Rockin’ Vacation” Sweepstakes that rewards one lucky family with a trip to Los Angeles where they will visit the set of the Disney original series “JONAS!” and meet members of the cast. Best Western Rewards members located in the U.S. can enter the Sweepstakes until August, 16, 2009 at www.bestwestern.com.
Before hitting the road, families can use their Rewards points to download their favorite road trip tunes from the Jonas Brothers and other popular artists through www.bestwesternrewards.com. Each 10-song card can be purchased with 3,500 Best Western Rewards points.
Best Western Rewards is one of the hotel industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwesterrewards.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Gives Thanks with $20 Gift Card Bonuses this Cyber Monday
Now Through Nov. 28, Purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card® and
Receive a $20 Gift Card
PHOENIX (Nov. 23, 2011) – This holiday season, Best Western International will thank its nearly 13 million Best Western Rewards® (BWR) members with a special Cyber Monday promotion – purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card online and receive a bonus $20 gift card reward for yourself.
Cyber Monday shoppers who purchase a $100 (CAD) or Best Western Travel Card online here can choose a $20 Best Western Travel Card, or a $20 gift card from participating retail partners. The Best Western Travel Card can be used like cash to pay for accommodations at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide. BWR members will be able to take advantage of this special offer now, through Monday, Nov. 28 at 11:59 p.m MST.
“A Best Western Travel Card makes a great gift for friends and family planning getaways in the New Year, and now you can earn bonuses at popular retailers while shopping for your loved ones,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Holiday shoppers are becoming increasingly savvy in looking for deals, and our Cyber Monday promotion will allow Rewards members to get even more bang for their buck while giving the universally loved gift of travel this holiday season.”
To receive the bonus, visit www.travelcard.bestwestern.com/ cmca11.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With over 4,000 locations in more than 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline/partner rewards and more.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Celebrating 10-year Anniversary in Poland
POLAND (November 20, 2009) – It has been 10 years since Best Western, a worldwide hotel chain representing privately owned hotels, was launched in Poland. Today Poland has six Best Western hotels and seventh is to be opened, no later than Q1/2010, to Katowice.
First Polish Best Western, Best Western Hotel Prima Wroclaw, opened the doors for guests in October 1999. Since then Best Western has had a stable foot hold on the Polish market, first administrated by Best Western Hotels Germany and since 2007 by Best Western Hotels Finland, Baltic States and Poland. Under the new affiliate office, Best Western’s network of hotels has grown from four properties to six properties and seventh is under full renovation, planned to open in first quarter of 2010. Another milestone was when Best Western’s prestigious co-brand, Best Western Premier was introduced to the market along with the launch of Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow in Krakow in autumn 2008.
“The Polish Best Western hotels are extremely well-maintained properties with good locations. Our statics shows that the increase of the hotels has helped the existing members as the average room nights have been growing too. Best Western has potential in Polish market both brand and business wise”, summarizes Saija Kekkonen, CEO of Best Western Hotels Finland, Baltic States and Poland. “We are also extremely proud to continue the co-operation with our Polish market pioneer, Best Western Hotel Prima Wroclaw”.
Best Western Hotel Prima Wroclaw with 79 rooms is located by the neighborhood of the old town square of Wroclaw. The hotel encompasses the Sir William Restaurant, two bars and a fitness club as well as parking facilities – important being so centrally located hotel.
“Looking back I can say that 1999 was a very good time to open a new hotel in Wroclaw, especially one with such a great location, only a few steps from the local main tourist sight, the Market Square. The booming business in Wroclaw and high hotel occupancy rates translated into good results achieved by Best Western Hotel Prima. At this point I must admit that our Best Western affiliation was an important factor that enabled our high occupancy rates to be achieved so fast. I remember situations when loyal Best Western customers saw Hotel Prima in the chain’s directories as a hotel to be soon inaugurated and called us asking about the date because they wanted to make a reservation as soon as possible. Later on many of them felt so at home when staying at Hotel Prima that they have remained our regular guests until today”, says Alina Kopystecka, General Manager, Best Western Hotel Prima Wroclaw.
“In September 2001 the situation on the hospitality market changed. The global crisis and the terrorist attacks resulted in a huge drop in occupancy and a fight for survival began. Looking at the situation from today’s perspective I think that it also was a good time for the hotel. Our flexible pricing policy, consistent and high quality of services and readiness to respond to the requirements of our guests have brought many new contracts which have been in force until today, which is very important in our sector. Year after year the results of our hotel were improving. Today we are witnessing a new global economic meltdown. However, we are facing the hard times richer in experience and we are not wringing our hands. We know that we can do well also in a difficult environment like this one. We have always and in every situation been able to count on the support from our experienced Best Western partner. We have always felt a member of the organization which allows us to remain independent at the same time guaranteeing high and consistent quality of services and offering joint marketing and sales campaigns in which we also have a share and vote”, continues Ms Kopystecka.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN TRAVEL BLOG YOUMUSTBETRIPPIN.COM TO FEATURE PET TRAVEL TIPS FROM CESAR'S WAY, THE NEW MAGAZINE FROM CESAR MILLAN
PHOENIX (September 29, 2009) – Cesar Millan’s new magazine, Cesar’s Way, will provide unique content and share pet travel tips, along with ideal destinations to travel with pets, on the travel blog, www.YouMustBeTrippin.com, beginning this fall and timed with the launch of his new magazine, Cesar’s Way, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® announced today.
“Taking pets on a family vacation can be an enjoyable experience if travelers prepare properly, train their pets in advance and are armed with the right tips, “ said Cesar’s Way Executive Editor, Barbara Haigh. “Best Western guests and Cesar’s fans will find the posts helpful and hopefully they will encourage travel to include all members of the family.”
Best Western is the exclusive mid market hotel partner for the first issue of Cesar’s Way, which means extra savings for Best Western’s pet-loving customers. By visiting www.bestwestern.com/pets, animal enthusiasts get access to special Best Western offers to help them save on their next trip. In addition, pet travelers can sign up for Best Western’s loyalty program, Best Western Rewards, for even more savings. New members receive 500 bonus points at sign up, then get an additional 1,000 bonus points when they complete their first qualified stay by Dec. 31, 2009.
“As the global leader in family hospitality, we recognize that pets are very much a part of our guests’ families, “said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Best Western. “Cesar Millan’s loyal fans and readers of Cesar’s Way will find that Best Western pet friendly hotels are the ideal destination when traveling with four-legged friends.”
With more than 1,000 pet-friendly properties in North America and 1,900 globally, Best Western has expanded its pet travel offerings to help travelers make educated decisions when on the road with their pets. The hotel chain’s lowest-rate guarantee Web site, www.bestwestern.com, includes an easy-to-use booking engine to help find animal loving properties, tips for vacationing with pets, a pet photo contest in conjunction with AAA, and other features. Pet owners can access the pet travel page directly at http://www.bestwestern.com/tripplanner/travelwithpets.asp.
Best Western also recently launched a new Web application that allows animal lovers to merge their photos with that of their pets. The “Best Western Friends Forever Inseparator” creates a hilarious merged image that can be shared with family, friends and co-workers. Pet lovers can create their photo by logging on to www.bwff.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN REWARDS MEMBERS TO DONATE POINTS TO AID CHILE
PHOENIX (March 4, 2010) –Best Western International’s North American office today announced that members of Best Western Rewards, the company’s global frequent-stay program, can donate Rewards points to disaster relief efforts underway in Chile.
Rewards program members can go to www.bestwestern.com/chilerelief to donate in 4,500-point increments. Every 4,500 points equals a $15 donation to World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner.
“We are saddened to see the devastation of this latest natural disaster, and are giving our loyal guests the opportunity to show their generosity during this critical time,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western, and current chairman of the American Hotel & Lodging Association.
Best Western has five hotels in Chile, including three in Santiago, one in Punta Arenas and another in Vina Del Mar. None sustained major damage, and all are fully operational.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ELECTS NEW BOARD OFFICERS
New Director Also Joins Seven-Member Board
PHOENIX (DECEMBER 14, 2010) – P.G. West, owner of the BEST WESTERN Turquoise Inn & Suites in Cortez, Colo., has been elected to a one-year term as chairman of the Best Western International Board of Directors. West has been affiliated with the brand for nearly 30 years, and has served as a Board director since 2007.
“With the official launch of Best Western’s Descriptor Program in February, 2011 will be a pivotal year for our brand. We are fortunate to have an experienced leader like P.G. West in place to lead us through it,” said David Kong, Best Western International president and CEO.
The seven-member Board of Directors elected Julie Montmaneix as its vice chairwoman. Montmaneix, owner and operator of the BEST WESTERN Kings Inn in Corona, Calif., is a second-generation Best Western hotel owner and has been affiliated with the brand for more than 30 years.
Devang Amin, owner of the BEST WESTERN Horizon Inn in Edinburgh, Ind., the BEST WESTERN PLUS Gateway Inn & Suites in Evansville, Ind., and the BEST WESTERN Torchlite Motor Inn in Wheatlands, Wyo., was elected secretary-treasurer.
Best Western hotel owners in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas recently elected Jay Patel to a three-year term as Board Director representing their region. Patel has been affiliated with Best Western for more than 25 years and owns four Best Western hotels in Louisiana, along with six additional hotels in suburban New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ELECTS NEW BOARD OFFICERS
New Director Also Joins Seven-Member Board
PHOENIX (DECEMBER 14, 2010) – P.G. West, owner of the BEST WESTERN Turquoise Inn & Suites in Cortez, Colo., has been elected to a one-year term as chairman of the Best Western International Board of Directors. West has been affiliated with the brand for nearly 30 years, and has served as a Board director since 2007.
“With the official launch of Best Western’s Descriptor Program in February, 2011 will be a pivotal year for our brand. We are fortunate to have an experienced leader like P.G. West in place to lead us through it,” said David Kong, Best Western International president and CEO.
The seven-member Board of Directors elected Julie Montmaneix as its vice chairwoman. Montmaneix, owner and operator of the BEST WESTERN Kings Inn in Corona, Calif., is a second-generation Best Western hotel owner and has been affiliated with the brand for more than 30 years.
Devang Amin, owner of the BEST WESTERN Horizon Inn in Edinburgh, Ind., the BEST WESTERN PLUS Gateway Inn & Suites in Evansville, Ind., and the BEST WESTERN Torchlite Motor Inn in Wheatlands, Wyo., was elected secretary-treasurer.
Best Western hotel owners in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas recently elected Jay Patel to a three-year term as Board Director representing their region. Patel has been affiliated with Best Western for more than 25 years and owns four Best Western hotels in Louisiana, along with six additional hotels in suburban New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ELECTS NEW BOARD OFFICERS
New Director Also Joins Seven-Member Board
PHOENIX (DECEMBER 14, 2010) – P.G. West, owner of the BEST WESTERN Turquoise Inn & Suites in Cortez, Colo., has been elected to a one-year term as chairman of the Best Western International Board of Directors. West has been affiliated with the brand for nearly 30 years, and has served as a Board director since 2007.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ELECTS NEW BOARD OFFICERS
New Director Also Joins Seven-Member Board
PHOENIX (DECEMBER 14, 2010) – P.G. West, owner of the BEST WESTERN Turquoise Inn & Suites in Cortez, Colo., has been elected to a one-year term as chairman of the Best Western International Board of Directors. West has been affiliated with the brand for nearly 30 years, and has served as a Board director since 2007.
“With the official launch of Best Western’s Descriptor Program in February, 2011 will be a pivotal year for our brand. We are fortunate to have an experienced leader like P.G. West in place to lead us through it,” said David Kong, Best Western International president and CEO.
The seven-member Board of Directors elected Julie Montmaneix as its vice chairwoman. Montmaneix, owner and operator of the BEST WESTERN Kings Inn in Corona, Calif., is a second-generation Best Western hotel owner and has been affiliated with the brand for more than 30 years.
Devang Amin, owner of the BEST WESTERN Horizon Inn in Edinburgh, Ind., the BEST WESTERN PLUS Gateway Inn & Suites in Evansville, Ind., and the BEST WESTERN Torchlite Motor Inn in Wheatlands, Wyo., was elected secretary-treasurer.
Best Western hotel owners in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas recently elected Jay Patel to a three-year term as Board Director representing their region. Patel has been affiliated with Best Western for more than 25 years and owns four Best Western hotels in Louisiana, along with six additional hotels in suburban New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ELECTS NEW BOARD OFFICERS
New Director Also Joins Seven-Member Board
PHOENIX (DECEMBER 14, 2010) – P.G. West, owner of the BEST WESTERN Turquoise Inn & Suites in Cortez, Colo., has been elected to a one-year term as chairman of the Best Western International Board of Directors. West has been affiliated with the brand for nearly 30 years, and has served as a Board director since 2007.
“With the official launch of Best Western’s Descriptor Program in February, 2011 will be a pivotal year for our brand. We are fortunate to have an experienced leader like P.G. West in place to lead us through it,” said David Kong, Best Western International president and CEO.
The seven-member Board of Directors elected Julie Montmaneix as its vice chairwoman. Montmaneix, owner and operator of the BEST WESTERN Kings Inn in Corona, Calif., is a second-generation Best Western hotel owner and has been affiliated with the brand for more than 30 years.
Devang Amin, owner of the BEST WESTERN Horizon Inn in Edinburgh, Ind., the BEST WESTERN PLUS Gateway Inn & Suites in Evansville, Ind., and the BEST WESTERN Torchlite Motor Inn in Wheatlands, Wyo., was elected secretary-treasurer.
Best Western hotel owners in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas recently elected Jay Patel to a three-year term as Board Director representing their region. Patel has been affiliated with Best Western for more than 25 years and owns four Best Western hotels in Louisiana, along with six additional hotels in suburban New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western International Revs Up Partnership with Michael Waltrip Racing For Eighth Consecutive Race Season Together
PHOENIX (Feb. 28, 2011) – Best Western International has extended its partnership with one of NASCAR’s most popular race teams, Michael Waltrip Racing, for the 2011 NASCAR season, the hotel chain announced today.
Best Western, THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, has sponsored the two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip and his team for the past seven seasons. The hotel chain will serve as the primary sponsor of the No. 00 Toyota Camry driven by David Reutimann for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race which was held at the Phoenix International Raceway on February 27, 2011. Best Western will also serve as an associate sponsor of the No. 00 for the remainder of the 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule.
“Best Western continues to serve as one of our team’s most dedicated and creative partners and sponsors and our entire team is thankful that they are back on board for another NASCAR season,” said Michael Waltrip. “From the annual ‘Fan Swap’ promotion to becoming an ordained minister to renew the vows of NASCAR’s ‘All-Star’ couple, I know each year we’ll have fun supporting Best Western and have the opportunity to interact with race fans and travelers.”
“Michael, David and the entire Michael Waltrip Racing Team continue be wonderful partners for us both on the track and off, and we’re looking forward to teaming up on some exciting initiatives this race season,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “With a hotel for every type of trip and our Speed Rewards loyalty program just for NASCAR enthusiasts, race fans are certainly among our most welcome guests.”
Best Western Speed Rewards, the only hotel loyalty program for race fans, is one of the most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for race fans to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. For more information on Best Western Racing or to sign up for the Speed Rewards loyalty program, please visit www.bestwesternracing.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About Michael Waltrip Racing
The Cornelius, N.C.-based team fields Toyotas in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for David Reutimann, Martin Truex Jr., and Michael Waltrip. MWR captured the 2009 and 2010 championships in K&N Pro Series East competition with driver Ryan Truex. Brett Moffitt will drive MWR’s East entry in 2011. Under the Pastrana-Waltrip banner, MWR fields a Nationwide entry with co-owners Gary and Blake Bechtel and action sports star Travis Pastrana. Pastrana and Ryan Truex will race for the team in 2011.
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NAVY LT. COMMANDER TO RECEIVE ULTIMATE RACING EXPERIENCE AS WINNER OF BEST WESTERN’S “FAN SWAP” FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL
Helicopter pilot who tied Navy record for consecutive days at sea will get a behind the scenes look at what it takes to be a championship NASCAR driver
PHOENIX (September 9, 2011) –As a Navy Lt. Commander and helicopter pilot, Scott Moak is comfortable at sea or in the air, but his personal passion lies at the race track and this week Moak had a one of kind racing experience as the winner of the Best Western and Michael Waltrip “Fan Swap.”
On September 8, Moak and his wife Sarah were flown from their home in Chesapeake, Va. to Michael Waltrip Racing (MWR) headquarters in Cornelius, N.C. for a V.I.P tour led by two-time Daytona 500® champion and team owner Michael Waltrip. The Moaks will then travel with the MWR team to the September 10 Sprint Cup race in Richmond, Va., where they will shadow Waltrip and driver David Reutimann during their appearances and enjoy all the high-speed action during the race from a spot on pit row.
Moak was deployed last year for seven months onboard the USS Nassau and was part of a crew that tied the Navy record for most consecutive days at sea (159). In total, Moak has served for nearly 20 years in the Navy and spent more than half that time as a helicopter pilot. While awaiting his next deployment Moak is currently stationed at the Navy Warfer Development Command in Norfolk, Va.
“As a huge NASCAR fan and someone who loves cars, I’m really looking forward to see what goes on behind the scenes at a championship level team like Michael Waltrip Racing,” said Scott Moak. “And I’m especially excited to be able to share this amazing weekend with my wife after all the time we’ve spent apart over the past year.”
For the second half of the “Fan Swap,” Waltrip will travel to Norfolk to spend a day “working” with Moak at the Navy Command center and visiting the family’s nearby home to meet the Moak’s two children and their retired racing greyhound “Penny.”
““It’s always a lot of fun to meet the winner of the Best Western ‘Fan Swap’ and show them all the work that goes on behind the scenes here at Michael Waltrip Racing before we even step on the race track,” said Michael Waltrip. “But this year it’s a little more special because we are rewarding an amazing couple that has sacrificed so much to serve our country. I know my entire team and I are pulling out all the stops to make sure their experience is truly unforgettable.”
This is the fourth year that Best Western and Michael Waltrip Racing have teamed up for the “Fan Swap” contest and the first time the contest was open exclusively to active and retired members of the armed forces.
Best Western, THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, has sponsored the two-time Daytona 500 champion Michael Waltrip and his team for the past seven seasons. Best Western Speed Rewards, the only hotel loyalty program for race fans, is one of the most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for race fans to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. For more information on Best Western Racing or to sign up for the Speed Rewards loyalty program, please visit www.bestwesternracing.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN’S “BACK TO BUSINESS TRAVEL SEASON” SURVEY REVEALS THAT HALF OF ALL BUSINESS TRAVELERS USE A CAR MOST OFTEN WHEN TRAVELING FOR BUSINESS
Survey: 73 percent of business travelers expect to travel the same amount or more this fall compared to fall 2010
PHOENIX (Sept. 14, 2011) – Seventeen percent of business travelers plan to travel more for business this fall compared to the fall of 2010 and more than half (56%) expect to travel the same amount for business this fall compared to last year, according to a survey conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Best Western International, Inc. (www.bestwestern.com) this month among over 2,000 U.S. adults and released today.
Best Western’s “Back to Business Travel Season” survey also found 51 percent of business travelers most often use a car most often when travelling for business, followed by 36 percent who most often use a plane.
The survey looked at fall business travel trends and amenities that are important to business travelers. According to survey findings, travelers don’t want to be “nickel and dimed” when on the road, as 80 percent of business travelers expect high-speed Internet to be included in their hotel’s advertised room rate.
“Despite uncertainly on Wall Street, we expect to see a growing number of business travelers back on the road this fall as advance bookings at our hotels are up eight percent this fall over last,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Guests and business travelers are growing tired of surprises at check out, and we’re seeing that pricing transparency is growing in importance. All of our properties offer free high-speed Internet as we know that our loyal business guests appreciate it and rightfully so, have come to expect it.”
Additional highlights from Best Western’s “Back to Business Travel Season” survey, conducted September 7 through 9, 2011 among 2,038 adults aged 18 and older, include:
• Business travelers expect value. Nearly 40 percent of business travelers say a travel pet peeve is paying for amenities such as breakfast or parking (38 percent) that they expect to be included in the room rate. When it comes to being charged for amenities, 74 percent of business travelers expect parking to be included in a hotel’s advertised room rate and 65 percent expect breakfast to be included.
• Loyalty programs pay for business travelers. Of those business travelers that belong to loyalty programs, 38 percent use hotel-based loyalty programs (i.e., earning points when staying at a specific hotel chain) most often while 34 percent use airline-based programs (i.e., earn miles when flying with a specific airline) most often. Twelve percent of business travelers use a travel branded credit card (i.e., a credit card that, when used, earns miles or points when you fly with a specific airline or stay at specific hotel chain) most often.
• Free hotel room nights are valuable to business travelers. Of loyalty program members, 66 percent of business travelers would like to redeem their loyalty points for free nights at a hotel. Thirty eight percent said they would like to redeem points for retail and restaurant gift cards and 13 percent would redeem points for charitable donations.
• Business travelers are savvy with loyalty programs. Nearly half of business travelers who belong to a travel loyalty program (48 percent) consider themselves an “intermediate” or “savvy” loyalty program user in that they check their points balance often, redeem points and tend to use multiple programs at once.
• Airport woes continue to peeve business travelers. Flight delays and long security lines at the airport are pet peeves amongst 39 and 32 percent of business travelers, respectively. Other travel pet peeves include lack of quality sleep (29 percent) and lack of healthy food options (29 percent).
This “Back to Business Travel Season,” which unofficially begins after the Labor Day holiday weekend, business travelers can earn double points with Best Western Rewards® (www.bestwesternrewards.com) during the chain’s Fall Promotion. Guests who stay two separate times at any Best Western hotel worldwide will earn double rewards on their second stay. Points can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates. For more information and to register for the Fall Promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/fall .
Survey Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of Best Western International from September 7-9, 2011 among 2,038 adults ages 18 and older, among which 780 say they travel for business (“business travelers”). This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact Meghan Lee at Meghan@allisonpr.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT HARRIS INTERACTIVE
Harris Interactive is one of the world’s leading custom market research firms, leveraging research, technology, and business acumen to transform relevant insight into actionable foresight. Known widely for the Harris Poll and for pioneering innovative research methodologies, Harris offers expertise in a wide range of industries including healthcare, technology, public affairs, energy, telecommunications, financial services, insurance, media, retail, restaurant, and consumer package goods. Serving clients in over 215 countries and territories through our North American and European offices and a network of independent market research firms, Harris specializes in delivering research solutions that help us – and our clients – stay ahead of what’s next. For more information, please visit www.harrisinteractive.com .
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL IS NAMED A 2010 WEB PERFORMANCE
AWARD WINNER BY COMPUWARE
Best Western.com Recognized as a Silver Award Winner in the Second Annual
Gomez Best of the Web 2010 Awards
(Phoenix) May 26, 2011—Best Western International, THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, has been named a 2010 web performance Silver award winner by Compuware Corporation (NASDAQ:CPWR), the technology performance company. As part of its annual Best of the Web awards, the Compuware Gomez Web and Mobile Performance Awards recognize the outstanding Web and mobile site performance of leading companies across six industries during 2010.
Best Western was honored as a Silver award winner for Bestwestern.com based on its average rankings on the US Hotels Room Search Business Process benchmark throughout 2010. Gomez web and mobile benchmarks measure three key performance metrics – response time, availability and consistency.
“ Bestwestern.com is our single most important tool. It enables us to maximize revenue delivery to our member hoteliers, and to provide guests with information, convenience and the assurance of a low rate guarantee,” said Best Western Chief Information Officer and SVP of Distribution & Strategic Services Scott Gibson. “In this competitive marketplace, delays and inconsistencies are simply unacceptable. This award is a testament to the investment our team makes every day to keep our website and all of its mobile extensions in fighting shape.”
The second annual Best of the Web 2010: Compuware Gomez Web and Mobile Performance Awards comprehensive report showcases the leaders in Web and mobile site performance across six industries – retail, finance, travel, media, healthcare, and government – based on Gomez’s Web and mobile performance benchmark analysis of more than 3,000 brands in 2010.
The report provides detailed measurements of each winner’s average Web or mobile site performance throughout the year. It highlights how each award winner sets their industry’s standard for providing a Web or mobile site experience that enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty, strengthens their brand, lowers operating costs, and increases revenue.
“The challenges of today’s online marketplace are significant - businesses are clamoring for more functionality faster to stay competitive, customers expect greater interactivity and speed,” said Bruce Reading, senior vice president, Compuware Application Performance Management. “Web or mobile sites with the best performance like Best Western contribute to sales with more items in the shopping cart or higher ad revenue per customer by improving performance and better managing customer expectations and experiences.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in over 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com .
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About Compuware Corporation
Compuware Corporation, the technology performance company, provides software, experts and best practices to ensure technology works well and delivers value. Compuware solutions make the world’s most important technologies perform at their best for leading organizations worldwide, including 46 of the top 50 Fortune 500 companies and 12 of the top 20 most visited U.S. web sites. Learn more at: http://www.compuware.com/.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL REWARDS GUESTS WITH UP TO QUADRUPLE POINTS FOR WINTER TRAVEL
Winter Promotion Kicks off Year-Round Offers to Reward Travelers
PHOENIX (Jan. 5, 2009) – Best Western International, The World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, is offering guests who pay with their MasterCard® card the chance to earn double, triple and even quadruple the rewards on their winter travel. This generous offer makes it possible for Best Western RewardsSM program members to earn the equivalent of two free room nights after staying just four nights during the promotion!
From January 1 through February 14, members of Best Western Rewards (formerly Gold Crown Club International) earn double points when they stay two nights, triple points when they stay three nights and quadruple points when they stay four nights during the promotional period. Nights do not have to be consecutive, but Rewards members must pay with a MasterCard card to receive bonus points.
The winter promotion is the first in Best Western’s yearlong campaign of generous promotions and offers.
“Times are tough, so Best Western is giving our loyal customers greater value and extra rewards,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We plan to offer our guests a promotion every day of 2009 to help them earn more rewards and faster rewards during a time when it matters most.”
To be eligible, guests must register for the promotion at www.bestwestern.com/stay234, reside in North America, South America, China or Asia and be members of Best Western Rewards. Individuals who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free.
Best Western Rewards is one of the hotel industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
For more information on the promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/stay234 or call 1-800-WESTERN.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Asia joins World Vision in support of underprivileged children
BANGKOK (July 29, 2009) Best Western International Asia’s headquarters has entered into an agreement with World Vision, the leading global relief organization, to use its extensive hotel network throughout Asia to raise funds to improve the lives of underprivileged children.
Entitled “Best Western Bringing Smiles to our Children,” the campaign is the latest addition to Best Western International’s Best Western for a Better World program.
Under the agreement, signed on July 28, 2009, guests at Best Western hotels at 43 locations throughout Asia will be voluntarily donating $1 USD of their bill upon check out to World Vision. Funds will be targeted to programs that raise the standard of living for underprivileged children. In the first year, priority will be placed on underprivileged areas in Thailand with other Asian countries to follow. Best Western International - Asia Head Office in Bangkok plans to contribute a donation directly to World Vision Thailand on completion of the program’s first year. The first phase of this program will run from August 1, 2009 to January 31, 2010.
“Thanks to our vast Best Western Asia network, we are in a unique position to contribute substantial funds that will significantly impact the lives of underprivileged children for the better by equipping the communities with such necessities as food, water, education and health care,” said Glenn de Souza, Vice President International Operations – Asia, Best Western International.
Other Best Western offices, including North America and Australia / New Zealand, have partnered with World Vision on child sponsorship programs. To learn more about North America’s program, visit www.worldvision.org/bestwesterncares.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT WORLD VISION
World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by our Christian values, we are dedicated to working with the world’s most vulnerable people. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. Visit: www.wvi.org
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Nashville flooding survivors aided by World Vision’s collaborative long-term disaster response
Federal Way, WA. July 25, 2011 – Nearly 5 months after severe thunderstorms flooded much of Tennessee, World Vision continues to pledge its long-term support to area survivors. This week, World Vision is partnering with volunteers from Renton Christian Center in Washington to host the organization’s first domestic disaster ‘service project trip.’ Nearly two dozen volunteers will participate in the organization’s latest long-term response effort in collaboration with World Vision’s domestic disaster
response team, local partners, donors and corporations.
Volunteers have traveled from Washington to Nashville to spend this week refurbishing several flood damaged homes identified by the southeast Nashville Recovery Group as gutted or destroyed by last year’s flood waters. World Vision has also deployed its mobile distribution pickup and 16-foot tools trailer from the Christian organization’s new domestic disaster hub in North Texas to deliver tools to Nashville including hammers, safety helmets/goggles, saws and gloves. World Vision is also delivering a truckload of building materials including new doors and high quality sinks. The group of volunteers includes 2 licensed contractors who will be assisting World Vision with multiple home restoration projects including hanging dry wall, painting and installing sinks and doors.
“World Vision was specifically looking for those areas of Nashville that have fallen through the cracks throughout this past year,” said Phyllis Freeman, World Vision’s domestic emergency response director and a veteran of the agency’s Hurricane Katrina response. “Disasters of this scale don’t take months but years for families and communities to recover which is why World Vision is committed to being there over the long haul.
In 2010, World Vision shipped 50 pallets of relief supplies from its distribution centers in Chicago and Appalachia to assist flood victims in Nashville. The supplies included men’s and women’s clothing, blankets, personal hygiene items and cleaning supplies, enough to benefit approximately 2,000 people.
World Vision is grateful for Best Western International’s generous donation toward the rebuilding effort, raised through points donations from the hotel company’s Best Western Rewards loyalty program. The additional funds will be used to purchase necessary building and contribute to the Recovery Centers ongoing efforts.
“Time and time again, our Best Western Rewards members have generously stepped up to donate massive amounts of points to help World Vision respond to natural disasters,” said Tammy Lucas, managing director of marketing for Best Western International. “Travel reward points are a valuable currency and in this case, a currency that was converted to cash to help folks in need.”
“Cash donations are invaluable in this stage of the rebuilding effort when so much is still needed,” said Freeman. World Vision is honored to partner with Best Western to better resource Nashville survivors and provide for parents still struggling to support their children.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in over 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About World Vision
World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated working with children, families, and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. We serve the world’s poor - - regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. For more information on their efforts, visit WorldVision.org/press or follow them on Twitter at @WorldVisionNews.
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STRONG 2008 PROPELS BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL TOWARD CUSTOMER IN 2009
PHOENIX (Jan. 13, 2009) - The Best Western brand delivered a record-setting $1.16 billion in reservations revenue to its hotels in fiscal year 2008. During 2009, Best Western will focus on enhancing its property-level customer care training program, “I Care,” to increase guest satisfaction scores, reduce customer complaints and grab market share during the soft economy of the coming year.
The World's Largest Hotel Chain® ended 2008 with 4,018 hotels in 80 countries - on par with 2007 numbers - including 2,251 in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean, and 1,767 internationally. The current number of hotels is a result of stepped-up brand quality assurance efforts in 2007, resulting member retention in 2008, and continued growth in India, China and the rest of Asia.
"More than ever, Best Western’s 400,000 nightly guests depend on our brand promise of quality and value," said David Kong, president and CEO. “In order to deliver on this pledge in 2009, our hotel owners will continue their relentless focus on customer service.”
With regard to product mix, 2008 was a year of firsts for the brand, which broke ground on its first Atrea upper midscale business hotel in San Antonio, Texas, and its first LEED-certified hotel, the Best Western Inn and Suites at Dinosaur Ridge in Golden, Colo. Best Western also opened its first hotel in New York City’s Chinatown, the Best Western Bowery Hanbee Hotel. In Canada, Best Western Fredericton Hotel and Suites in Fredericton, New Brunswick, was the first in its city.
Outside North America, Best Western broke ground on its first hotel in Dubai, the Best Western Residences. The brand also opened its first hotels in Colombia (Best Western Cyan Suites in Medellin) and Suriname (Best Western Elegance Hotel in Paramaribo), and secured plans for its first hotel in Haiti. In addition, the Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow was the first of its kind to open in Poland.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 801 countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Adds 4 New Hotels in Japan, with More to Follow
Bangkok (April 29, 2010) - Best Western International - The World’s Largest Hotel Chain® - has added four new hotels to its growing presence in Japan – the 242-room Best Western Hotel Fino Sapporo (Sapporo), 145- room Best Western Hotel Fino Oita (Oita), 72- room Best Western Naha Inn (Okinawa) and 168-room Best Western Fukuoka Nakasu Inn (Fukuoka).
The four new hotels join Best Western’s existing portfolio of 7 hotels in Japan, located in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagasaki, Hirosaki, Sendai, Takayama and Wakayama, further establishing the brand’s position as one of the country’s fastest expanding hotel chains. Another two properties are also set to soon join Best Western in Osaka and Sapporo in July and November 2010.
“Japan boasts a diverse array of tourism destinations and enchanting culture, backed up by strong government support for the tourism industry and impressive infrastructure, transportation and communication systems,” said Best Western International’s Vice President Operations for Asia and the Middle East, Mr. Glenn de Souza.
“We are thrilled with the new additions to the Best Western family in Japan, which significantly reinforces our presence in what is a key destination for our brand. Adding up to 11 hotels in Japan in strategic cities, it will position Best Western as the second largest international brand in the country,” Mr. de Souza added.
Best Western Hotel Fino Sapporo is centrally located in Sapporo, a major gateway city to the state of Hokkaido, famous for its natural beauty and ski resorts. Shopping, seafood dining and breathtaking golf courses are also enjoyed.
Best Western Hotel Fino Oita enjoys a convenient location between state government offices and a shopping/dining district in Oita city. Situated along the Seto Ocean, the seafood is abundant and the hotel is also close to the Beppu Hot Springs area, the world’s second largest output of hot spring water.
Best Western Naha Inn is in Naha, the capital city and business, shopping and entertainment centre of Japan’s renowned beach resort on Okinawa. Naha’s main street Kokusai Dori and the monorail are a few minutes’ walk from the hotel.
Best Western Fukuoka Nakasu Inn is centrally located in Fukuoka, Kyushu island’s largest city known for its blend of beautiful green spaces and big city feel. There’s wild nightlife, plentiful shopping, traditional shrines and historical sights to visit and a unique cuisine to enjoy.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* guests worldwide each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Best Western’s partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN IS MULTIPLYING THE REWARDS THIS FALL
PHOENIX (Sept. 13, 2010) – Best Western is making it even easier and faster to earn a free night with its fall promotion, which offers triple Best Western Rewards points when you register, stay two separate times on a qualifying rate between Sept. 12 and Nov. 21 and book both stays on www.bestwestern.com. Those who book elsewhere earn double points when they register and stay two separate times on a qualifying rate during the promotion. The promotion also includes a 1,000-point bonus for those who pay for each of their qualified stays with the Best Western Rewards MasterCard®.
Members of CAA Preferred Best Western Rewards earn an additional 10 percent bonus points on each stay (see www.bestwestern.com/fallcaa).
Best Western Rewards members can earn double or triple points one time during the promotion. Elite members of Best Western Rewards can earn double or triple points twice during the promotion. Learn more and register at www.bestwestern.com/fall.
“The fall travel season is here, and we want guests to stay at a Best Western, whether they’re traveling for work or hitting the road for a football game or a family get-together,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Best Western’s loyalty program is one of the most generous around. With this promotion, you can earn a free night after just a couple of stays.”
Members of Best Western Rewards who have selected Aeroplan® or AIR MILES® as their earning preference have their own valuable offer: Earn quadruple miles when you stay 2 separate times during the promotional period. This is an addition to the standard 250 Aeroplan Miles or 20 AIR MILES reward miles members earn for each qualified stay, and there is no limit to the number of bonuses members can earn. To register for these offers, visit www.bestwestern.com/fallaeroplan for Aeroplan or www.bestwestern.com/fallam for AIR MILES.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS™ and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
® Aeroplan is a registered trademark of Aeroplan Canada Inc.
®†™ Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Inc. and Best Western International, Inc.
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BEST WESTERN® OPENS FIRST ‘PLUS’ HOTEL IN RUSSIA
BEST WESTERN PLUS Spasskaya Hotel in Tyumen is brand’s first hotel in Siberia
Tyumen (January 17, 2012) - Best Western International, the World’s Biggest Hotel Family®, continues its global expansion with the addition of the company’s first Plus hotel in Russia, the BEST WESTERN PLUS® Spasskaya Hotel, in the country’s oldest Russian settlement in Siberia, Tyumen.
The BEST WESTERN PLUS Spasskaya Hotel is a newly constructed hotel and features 84 rooms with mini-bar, free Wi-Fi, Interactive TV, beds with orthopedic mattress, antiallergenic pillows and blankets. The four star property, which includes 7 suites (including the Presidential Suite) , features a full service restaurant serving international cuisines for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a lobby bar with a grand fireplace. The hotel also features a business center, health club and gift shop.
Tyumen is the largest city and the administrative center of Tyumen Oblast, Russia, located on the Tura River, 2,144 kilometers (1,332 mi) east of Moscow. The city is the transportation and industrial hub of Tyumen Oblast—a vast, oil-rich region stretching from the Kazakh border to the Arctic Ocean—as well as home to many companies active in Russia's oil and gas industry.
BEST WESTERN PLUS Spasskaya Hotel is located in the heart of the historical centre of Tyumen on one of the main streets of the city. It is close to many of the important oil companies (including LUKOIL and TNK-BP), the administrative centre of the city, as well as the University, Sport Centre, FC Tyumen football stadium and Tyumen Dram Theatre. Roshino International Airport is 18 kilometers west ,and the main train station is 2 kilometers to the south.
“We are very excited to not only be the first Best Western hotel in Siberia but also to have qualified for the Best Western Plus descriptor ,” said Vitaly Samoilik, owners’ representative of the BEST WESTERN PLUS Spasskaya Hotel. “As a newly built property we rely on support from the brand in areas such as customer care, quality assurance and revenue management, to help us attract both international and Russian guests to our door. We are primarily a business hotel, but with ample facilities for leisure guests, we know Best Western Rewards will play an important role in our success.”
BEST WESTERN PLUS Spasskaya Hotel is located in the heart of the historical centre of Tyumen on one of the main streets of the city. It is close to many of the important oil companies (including LUKOIL and TNK-BP), the administrative centre of the city, as well as the University, Sport Centre, FC Tyumen football stadium and Tyumen Dram Theatre. Roshino International Airport is 18 kilometers west ,and the main train station is 2 kilometers to the south.
“We are very excited to not only be the first Best Western hotel in Siberia but also to have qualified for the Best Western Plus descriptor ,” said Vitaly Samoilik, owners’ representative of the BEST WESTERN PLUS Spasskaya Hotel. “As a newly built property we rely on support from the brand in areas such as customer care, quality assurance and revenue management, to help us attract both international and Russian guests to our door. We are primarily a business hotel, but with ample facilities for leisure guests, we know Best Western Rewards will play an important role in our success.”
BEST WESTERN PLUS Spasskaya Hotel is the brand’s third hotel in Russia, two of which went live near Moscow within the last 6 months. The chain also opened two hotels in CIS countries Ukraine and Moldova, as part of a concerted effort to establish a footprint in this promising region.
“This hotel represents a significant move forward for our development efforts in Russia. We know that all of the international chains are talking about expansion into the secondary cities outside of Moscow and St. Petersburg, but Best Western has the global recognition that is critical to success in new markets” said Best Western’s Vice President of International Operations Suzi Yoder. “We see many excellent opportunities for us to develop the brand further throughout the entire region.”
To learn more about this hotel or discover other Best Western hotels across the world, visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 66 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, racecar driver Michael Waltrip, and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN RENEWS PARTNERSHIP WITH MICHAEL WALTRIP RACING FOR SEVENTH NASCAR SEASON
PHOENIX (November 16, 2009) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, has extended its partnership with one of NASCAR’s most popular teams, Michael Waltrip Racing, for the 2010 NASCAR season, the hotel chain announced today.
Best Western has been a loyal sponsor of the two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip and his team for the past six seasons. The hotel chain will serve as the primary sponsor of the No. 00 Toyota Camry driven by the 2009 Coca-Cola 600 winner David Reutimann for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race to be held at the Phoenix International Raceway on April 10, 2010. Best Western will also serve as an associate sponsor of the No. 00 for the remainder of the 2010 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule.
“Best Western is one of the most dynamic and creative sponsors and we’ve experienced incredible success together over the past six seasons,” said Michael Waltrip. “We know that when we start our engines that Best Western hotel owners and fans will be cheering both David and me on during the 2010 NASCAR season.”
“Michael and David have been wonderful ambassadors for Best Western on and off the track, and continue to serve as an ideal fit for our brand. Both drivers have loyal fans, much like our hotel chain,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “This renewed partnership with Michael Waltrip Racing continues Best Western’s support of racing, and our quest to help race fans save on hotel rooms.”
“Racing from dirt track to dirt track across the years, I spent a lot of nights in Best Western hotels across the country,” said David Reutimann. “So I know personally the kind of amazing service and great value Best Western offers. Now when I stay at Best Western, I get my own king bed, so I feel like I’ve made some progress. I am just so thankful that Best Western sees the value in our partnership and has decided to continue to support Michael Waltrip Racing.”
The only hotel loyalty program for racing fans, Best Western’s Speed Rewards is one of the most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, racing fans will find it easy to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
For more information on Best Western Racing or to sign up for the Speed Rewards loyalty program, please visit www.bestwesternracing.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor
children in need around the globe. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About Michael Waltrip Racing
Over a decade ago, Michael Waltrip established a modest family-owned NASCAR Nationwide Series team in Sherrills Ford, N.C., called Michael Waltrip Racing (MWR). In 2007 when TRD, U.S.A. (Toyota Racing Development) entered competition in both the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and Nationwide Series, Waltrip developed a strong partnership with Toyota to field three full-time Toyota Camrys at the pinnacle of the sport while maintaining the integrity of his championship caliber Nationwide team. In the midst of building three NASCAR Sprint Cup teams from the ground floor, Waltrip commenced the construction of a 140,000 sq. ft shop in which his two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams and Nationwide Series team are housed today along with JTG-Daugherty’s No. 47 Toyota Camry.
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BEST WESTERN OPENS ITS FIRST HOTELS IN GHANA AND NIGERIA
Includes First Best Western Premier in Africa
PHOENIX (July 22, 2010) – Best Western International expands its presence in Africa with the opening of three new hotels, including the Best Western Premier Accra Airport Hotel in Accra, Ghana, the Best Western Island Beach Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria, and the Best Western Port Harcourt Hotel in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
“Best Western membership is a great option for hotel developers in Africa, who want to retain local character in their properties, yet leverage the sales, marketing and brand recognition of a strong global brand,” said Suzi Yoder, vice president of international operations. “We see great potential for continued growth in South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa – particularly in west African nations like Ghana, Nigeria and Cameroon.”
The Best Western Premier Accra Airport Hotel in Ghana is a newly-built four-star hotel located in one of Accra’s most affluent areas 5 minutes from the Kotoka International Airport. With 89 rooms and 24 suites, each guestroom features free high-speed internet access, mini-bars, flat-screen LCD televisions and bathrobes. The hotel’s centerpiece is its five-story atrium decorated with African art. It offers 24-hour concierge service, complimentary airport transportation and an on-site restaurant, bar and jazz club.
The Best Western Island Beach Hotel in Lagos, Nigeria, is also newly constructed. The property is located in the heart of Lagos’ financial and business hub on Victoria Island’s Bar Beach, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel’s 142 guestrooms and suites offer free high-speed internet access, mini-bars and 32-inch flat-screen televisions. The hotel also offers an on-site restaurant and cocktail lounge with free breakfast and 24-hour room service.
Also in Nigeria, the Best Western Port Harcourt Hotel in Port Harcourt opened in 2008 and recently received significant upgrades that will help it earn Best Western’s “Premier” status this year. The hotel offers 89 guestrooms and suites and meeting space for up to 200 people. On-site amenities include a restaurant, cocktail lounge, fitness center, gift shop and outdoor pool. Guests receive complimentary high-speed internet access and free breakfast.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated Best Western, Best Western PlusTM and Best Western Premier® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL RECOGNIZES 11 PROPERTIES IN TURKEY WITH INTERNATIONAL QUALITY AWARD
Weekly awards recognize top performers worldwide
PHOENIX (March 11, 2010) – The World’s Largest Hotel Chain® announces that eleven of its Turkish properties have been awarded the International Quality Award, having achieved the required high level of excellence in quality and brand standards. Nine of the properties are located in Istanbul, which was selected by the European Union as a European Capital of Culture for 2010.
The Best Western award was developed to provide recognition to properties that excel during their quality assurance assessments. Properties in Turkey receiving the award include the following:
Best Western President Hotel
Best Western Citadel Hotel
Best Western Senator Hotel
Best Western Eresin Taxim Hotel
Best Western Acropol Hotel
Best Western Hotel Konak
Best Western Khan Hotel
Best Western Tashan Business & Airport Hotel
Best Western Empire Palace
Best Western Premier Regency Suites Hotel & Spa
Best Western Amber Hotel
“The fact that three quarters of our properties in Turkey have qualified for this award is tremendous, “said Suzi MacDonald Yoder, Vice President, International Operations, Best Western International. “It’s a testament to the incredible experience that awaits guests in this beautiful part of the world, where their business is valued and earned by Best Western owner- operators.”
Award criteria allow for approximately 5% of international properties to achieve the award.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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STAY AT BEST WESTERN, EARN TURKISH AIRLINES MILES
ISTANBUL (November 16, 2011) – Having started on October 20,2011, members of Best Western Rewards® are able to earn 500 Turkish Airlines Miles for every qualified stay at a Best Western hotel. Best Western’s Vice President of International Operations Suzi Yoder and Turkish Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer Orhan Sivrikaya formalized the agreement in Istanbul.
“Turkish Airlines is a natural earning partner for our hotel guests,” said Yoder. “They fly to destinations where Best Western is both present and expanding – including North and South America, throughout Europe and Asia, 14 countries in Africa – and are a member of the popular Star Alliance.”
“The number of Miles&Smiles members is rapidly increasing, parallel to Turkish Airlines vast market growth. With Best Western Hotel’s wide service network, we are expecting to raise the service diversity offered to our members. We are happy to be in partnership with Best Western International, all our members will be able to earn miles and issue award tickets to their favorite destination,” added Turkish Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Orhan Sivrikaya.
‘Miles&Smiles is Turkish Airlines’ advantageous Frequent Flyer Programme which has more than 2 million members and more than 50 partnerships as long as choosing to fly with Turkish Airlines and other program partner airlines and to take advantage of the many opportunities designed to collect miles.’
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT TURKISH AIRLINES
Turkish Airlines was founded in 1933 with a fleet of only 5 aircraft and is today Turkey’s leading global carrier with a fleet of 158 airplanes and 29 million passengers. Turkish Airlines is a member of Star Alliance since 2008 and is today a 4 star airline company flying to 171 destinations around the world, comprising 41 domestic and 130 international destinations.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
CONTACT:
Turkish Airlines, Office of Media Relations, General Administrative Building 34830 Yeºilköy-Istanbul
PRESS AND COMMUNICATIONS LINE: +90 (212) 463 63 63(1153-1173), Fax: +90 (212) 465 20 78, e-mail : press@thy.com
BWI Contact
Best Western International, Turkey - Tiyatro Caddesi No: 25 Beyazit – Istanbul
PRESS AND COMMUNICATIONS LINE: +90 (212) 638 79 72, Fax: +90 (212) 638 79 73, e-mail: info@bestwestern.com.tr
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“SHAKE IT UP” THIS SUMMER WITH BEST WESTERN:
FREE ROOM NIGHTS, DISNEY SWEEPS AND MORE
Stay three separate times this summer and earn a free room night voucher valid at any Best Western-branded hotel in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean
PHOENIX (June 20, 2011) – Best Western, THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, is giving U.S. travelers three great reasons to hit the road this summer: free room nights, up to 13,000 bonus Best Western Rewards® points and a chance to win a trip to Hollywood to attend the finals of Disney Channel’s “Make Your Mark, The Ultimate Dance Off” – Shake It Up Edition.
“Best Western wants to be families’ summer vacation headquarters. Our summer hotel promotion has something for everyone – for parents, it’s the value of a free room night; for kids, it’s our partnership with Disney Channel,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “And everyone loves our hotels’ swimming pools, free high-speed internet access and free breakfast at most of our properties.”
Between now and August 14, Best Western Rewards members who stay three separate times at any Best Western hotel will earn a free-night voucher, which can be redeemed at any of the 2,200 BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS or BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels in the United States, Canada, the Bahamas or U.S. Virgin Islands. Vouchers are limited to one per person and must be redeemed before January 31, 2012. Register for the promotion at www.bestwestern.com/summer.
Elite members of Best Western Rewards can earn even more. To help celebrate Best Western’s 65th birthday, those who qualify for the promotion and complete two of their stays at at least two separate descriptor hotels (BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER) will earn 6,500 bonus points.
An additional 6,500 bonus Best Western Rewards points can be earned by paying for all three qualified stays with the Best Western Rewards MasterCard®.
For the fourth straight year, Best Western is partnering with Disney Media Sales and Marketing on a once-in-a-lifetime summer sweepstakes. One lucky fan of Disney Channel’s “Shake It Up” and three guests will win a trip to Hollywood to attend a taping of the “Make Your Mark, the Ultimate Dance Off” – Shake It Up Edition and meet some of the show’s stars. The trip includes round-trip transportation and hotel accommodations. One hundred first-prize winners will receive a $50 Best Western Travel Card®, redeemable like cash at any Best Western-branded hotel.
Fans can enter the sweepstakes between June 20 and August 14 by texting the word “SHAKE” to DISNEY (347639) or by registering as a member on the www.Disney.com/ShakeIt website and following the “how to enter” instructions. Fans may enter once per day.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs. It has the lowest redemption thresholds for awards, and is one of few loyalty programs that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card®, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline/partner rewards and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch ® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About Disney Media Sales and Marketing
Disney Media Advertising Sales and Marketing Group is the advertising sales and promotion team for Disney’s kids- and family-focused businesses, and creates cross-platform sponsorship and advertising sales opportunities spanning Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD, ABC Kids, Disney.com, Radio Disney and Disney Family Fun magazine.
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BEST WESTERN OUTPACES INDUSTRY IN 2009 DESPITE RECESSION
World’s Largest Hotel Chain Sets Sites on Growing Market Share in 2010, 2011 Through Improved Customer Service and Harnessing Diversity as Strength
PHOENIX (Nov. 16, 2009) — More than 2,000 hoteliers from across the United States and Canada gathered in Phoenix in late October for Best Western International’s North American Convention to recap 2009 and preview 2010.
Among the topics addressed by executives from the World’s Largest Hotel Chain: capturing additional market share and strategies for rebuilding business lost during the current recession, growing the Best Western Rewards® loyalty program, education and training initiatives to reinforce employees’ superior customer service skills and garnering member feedback on a new product descriptor strategy to help travelers find the right hotel among Best Western’s diverse properties.
Best Western president and CEO David Kong said that although the impact of the recession over the last 12 months has been the industry’s worst in recent history, signs of improvement are ahead. Best Western’s drop in revenue per available room, or RevPAR, during 2009 was less than the dramatic declines experienced by the hospitality industry overall. Not only has the chain consistently outperformed the industry since 2005, but it’s on tap to do so again by four percentage points in 2010.
One key growth area was the chain’s Web site, www.bestwestern.com, where number of room nights booked improved by nearly four percent compared to 2008. According to Scott Gibson, Best Western’s CIO and senior vice president of distribution, the number of unique monthly visitors also increased 19 percent this summer compared to a year prior.
Best Western Rewards, the company’s most important marketing vehicle, is expected to reach 10 million members by the end of 2009. Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of sales and marketing, said the evolution and growth of the program is the company’s number one marketing priority.
“Loyalty programs have become a differentiator in winning new customers and holding onto high value customers,” said Dowling. “We need to execute an all out drive toward acquiring our guests as loyal Rewards customers because if we don’t sign them up, surely our competitors will.”
A key component of Kong’s vision for the brand, to lead the industry in superior customer care, began more than two years ago with the chain’s “I Care” training initiative, a comprehensive program designed to improve customer service and address complaints. At Convention, Best Western unveiled the next evolution of this program; “I Care 2” will train general managers to be more effective in their leadership role, to focus on preventing problems before they result in complaints, and to enhance cleanliness and opportunities for guests to customize the hotel experience.
Best Western is also exploring partnerships with Cornell University on an e-learning and certification program, as well as with the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute to develop Web-based training programs that will be accessible to properties across North America.
“We’re committed to bringing a range of accredited courses and education programs to our Members to help them provide heroic hospitality to our 400,000+ nightly guests,” said Ron Pohl, vice president of brand management and member services. “Internet-based training programs are cost-effective and convenient at the same time, and we’re confident these offerings will be a welcome addition to properties’ educational repertoire.”
Still under discussion among Best Western’s executive team, Board of Directors and North American Membership, is a proposed marketing communications strategy that would assign descriptors to various property types, with the goal of helping travelers navigate the diverse range of mid-scale hotels that fly the Best Western flag.
Implementation of such a program, if approved by Best Western Members, would involve:
•Sourcing an outside organization to recommend descriptor nomenclature
•Defining precise assignment processes and design requirements
•Bringing all facets of the proposed initiative to ballot for Members to vote
“Properly setting guest expectations before they arrive at a property will ultimately result in higher satisfaction,” said Kong. “This marketing communications strategy will help the brand win more business and also lead to increased brand loyalty.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley-Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Wins Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand in Asia
Readers of all four TTG publications unanimously vote Best Western as the Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand
PHOENIX (October 29, 2008) Best Western International has been awarded the Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand award from Asia’s top travel trade newsletter, TTG Asia, for the second consecutive year.
The awards recognize outstanding performances in the travel industry and are widely accepted as a benchmark for high standards. The awards are significant because they are determined by votes cast by trade professionals in the magazine’s annual poll and by readers of TTG Asia, TTG China, TTGmice and TTG-BTmice China, all prominent travel trade publications.
“We are thrilled that our outstanding properties in Asia are once again being recognized with this prestigious award,” said David Kong, Best Western International president and CEO. “As we continue to expand our presence in Asia, we look forward to providing more customers with exceptional value and service.”
“This award is particularly significant as Best Western was selected by our industry peers,” said Glenn de Souza, Best Western International’s vice president of international operations in Asia. “Winning the Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand award for two consecutive years makes a statement that we are truly the leader in this hotel segment in Asia.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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FIRST BEST WESTERN PREMIER HOTEL OPENS IN KANSAS
BEST WESTERN PREMIER KC Speedway Inn & Suites has Prime Location Near Kansas Speedway, LIVESTRONG Sporting Park and Legends Mall
PHOENIX (August 2, 2011) – The first BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel in Kansas opened last month in Kansas City. With 82 guestrooms, an on-site lounge and Pause… The Spa, the newly-built BEST WESTERN PREMIER KC Speedway Inn & Suites is located in the heart of Village West, at the entrance to the Kansas Speedway and across from LIVESTRONG Sporting Park.
To view photos or book a room, visit www.bestwestern.com.
The hotel is the eleventh BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel to open in the United States. First introduced in North America in early 2011, BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels offer travelers an upscale travel experience. Guestrooms feature guestLINK, which lets travelers plug in their laptops, camcorders, digital cameras, game systems, DVD players, iPods, iPads or other device to surf the internet or look at photos or videos on the rooms’ 42-inch HDTVs. Guests also can listen to their music on surround sound speakers.
“We are excited to welcome the BEST WESTERN PREMIER KC Speedway Inn & Suites to our hotel portfolio,” said David Kong, Best Western International president and CEO. “Its location is second-to-none, and the hotel has the upscale features that make travelers’ stays both comfortable and efficient.”
Amenities at the BEST WESTERN PREMIER KC Speedway Inn & Suites include high-end linens, pillow top mattresses, free high-speed wireless internet access, free full breakfast, in-room microwaves and refrigerators, and in-room bottled-water quality water filtration system. Hotel guests and non-guests can book appointments for massages, facials and other spa treatments at the on-site “ Pause… the Spa .”
Hotel décor is influenced by its racetrack location, including black and white photos of the Kansas Speedway in each guestroom.
Contact the hotel at (913) 334-4440 for rates and information on special spa, shopping and sports packages.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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MICHAEL WALTRIP AND BEST WESTERN LOOKING FOR “ALL-STAR” COUPLE: AS DEVOTED TO RACING AS THEY ARE TO EACH OTHER
One Lucky Couple Will Win a Trip to the 25th NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race™
to have their Vows Renewed by Driver Michael Waltrip
PHOENIX (April 10, 2009) – Best Western International, the Official Hotel of NASCAR®, and two-time Daytona 500 winner, Michael Waltrip, are looking for the nation’s most devoted NASCAR couple. This lucky “All-Star” couple will win a trip to the 25th Running of the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race in Charlotte, N.C. on May 16. Driver Michael Waltrip will preside over the renewal of the winning couple’s chosen vows, in true NASCAR® fashion.
Now and through April 27, couples are encouraged to visit the Best Western Racing “All-Star” Couple promotional site (www.bestwestern.com/allstarcouple) and submit a brief story (1000 words or less) about why they deserve to have their vows renewed during the 25th Running of the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race weekend. Couples are encouraged to reflect on their devotion to NASCAR and each other – perhaps with anecdotes about how they met at the track, visited the races during their honeymoon, or watch the race together every weekend.
Entries submitted through the site will be judged by a Best Western panel of judges, including Waltrip. All entries will be judged on compelling nature of story, relevance of entry and devotion to NASCAR.
Once selected, the winning couple will receive roundtrip airfare to Charlotte, lodging, tickets to the race and local transportation. As an added bonus, Best Western will award the devoted couple with a travel card valued at $1,000 that can be used at any of the more than 4,000 Best Western properties worldwide-- for a first, second, or tenth honeymoon, or to host incoming family and friends for that wedding on the horizon.
“NASCAR fans are some of the most passionate in sports and that passion extends to other areas of their lives, including travel and family,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “We want to help a lucky couple add a truly special snapshot to their photo albums as they ring in the 25th running of this great race.”
As an official sponsor of NASCAR since 2004, Best Western has continued to provide race fans with everything they need for an enjoyable and affordable weekend at the races, including breakfast, free high-speed Internet, free in-room coffee, a comfortable stay and the best customer service around. As more and more families continue to feel the pinch of tough economic times, Best Western is helping race fans save money so they can still travel and enjoy the races around the country. Fans who join the free Speed Rewards loyalty program for race fans, earn points towards free nights and save an estimated ten percent on every booking. To join Speed Rewards and find out more about what Best Western is doing to help race fans during these tough economic times, log onto www.bestwesternracing.com.
For official All Star Couple contest rules, fans should visit www.bestwestern.com/allstarcouple.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN MAKES STOCKING STUFFING EASIER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
PHOENIX (October 16, 2009) – Best Western is making stuffing stockings easier this year by offering a free bonus gift card with the purchase of a Best Western Travel Card®.
Now through December 31, Best Western Rewards® (BWR) members who purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card online will receive a free $10 gift card from one of several retailers. Individuals can choose gift cards from Best Buy®, Macy’s, Starbucks, Walmart, AMC Entertainment, Olive Garden® and Red Lobster®. Purchasers can also choose a $10 Best Western Travel Card as their bonus.
“With the holiday season upon us, we’re all looking for ways to make gift buying easier,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Best Western’s bonus gift card offer is a convenient way for consumers to give the gift of travel and get a gift in return.”
This offer is only available to BWR members who reside in the U.S. and Canada at travelcard.bestwestern.com/holiday09. Consumers who are not members of BWR can join the free rewards program quickly and easily on the promotion Web page.
The Best Western Travel Card can be used to pay for accommodations and related incidentals at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide. The card is offered at Best Western member hotels, online at travelcard.bestwestern.com or by calling Best Western Travel Card Customer Care at 1-877-CARD-2TVL (227-3288) in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN REWARDS MEMBERS CAN DONATE POINTS FOR TORNADO RELIEF EFFORTS IN SOUTHEAST U.S.
Donations Will Be Provided to Best Western’s Official Charity Partner World Vision
PHOENIX (May 3, 2011) – Members of Best Western Rewards®, the hotel chain’s global frequent-stay program, can now donate their Rewards points to tornado and storm relief and recovery efforts underway in the Southern United States. Best Western Rewards members should visit www.bestwestern.com/stormrelief to make a donation of 4,000 points, equaling $15, or more to World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner.
“Our hoteliers are active and caring members of their local communities. We as a global brand are committed to leveraging the power of our Rewards program to assist in clean up, healing and rebuilding efforts in these devastated areas of our country,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. “Our regional teams are currently on the ground working with hoteliers to care for their guests, their staff and their livelihoods.”
Best Western has more than 2,000 hotels in North America. Physical damage has been reported at more than a dozen Best Western hotels in affected areas. There have been no reports of guest or employee injuries at the chain’s affected hotels.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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TRAVELERS WHO DIGITALLY “CHECK IN” TO BEST WESTERN HOTELS THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS EARN BONUS BEST WESTERN REWARDS POINTS
Best Western’s Partnership with Topguest Expands Tools to Reward Its Most Loyal Guests
PHOENIX (May 18, 2011) – Members of Best Western’s global loyalty program, Best Western Rewards®, are now able to earn bonus rewards points redeemable for travel, gift cards, merchandise and more just for using popular social media channels thanks to the brand’s partnership with the popular social media platform Topguest.
Integrating with the Topguest platform allows guests at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide to instantly earn Best Westerns Rewards points by “checking-in” via location based social media services such as Facebook Places, Gowalla and Foursquare. Rewards members can also earn additional points through Topguest by sharing pictures through the online photo app Instagram and tweeting about their Best Western stay and experience via Twitter as well.
To instantly earn 50 bonus Rewards points, active Best Western Rewards members connect their existing social media accounts through Topguest.com and then share their Best Western experience via their mobile device. Guests who are not yet Rewards members can also accumulate points via Topguest, which they can then cash in upon joining the free Best Western Rewards program.
“We want to creatively engage Best Western Rewards members who we know are active on a wide range of social media services, from Facebook to Gowalla, and help them earn that free night even faster,” said Tammy Lucas, managing director of marketing programs for Best Western. ”Our integration with the Topguest technology platform enables us to measure, encourage, and reward engagement across the entire social web.”
The Topguest integration is the latest example of Best Western helping travelers take advantage of one of the most valuable and accessible loyalty programs in the industry. The brand’s innovative and award winning “Status Match...No Catch®” program, which allows members of competing loyalty programs to transfer their elite status to Best Western Rewards for free, continues to attract frequent travelers to The World’s Biggest Hotel Familysm.
The first widely promoted and packaged programs of its kind in the industry, “Status Match...No Catch” led more than 2,400 travelers to join Best Western Rewards in the two months following last year’s launch and to date has generated close to 5,000 new Best Western Rewards members.
Best Western is also currently offering Rewards members the chance to win 6.5 million points, one of the industry’s largest ever stand-alone points prizes, as part of the brand’s “Jump Start to Summer” promotion. Rewards members can also earn a $50 gift card or 6,500 bonus points as part of the promotion, which runs through June 5th. Guests can register for the promotion at http://www.bestwestern.com/jump
.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in over 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline rewards and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in over 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT TOPGUEST
Topguest is a technology company that translates social media activity by loyalty program members into incremental engagement and transaction opportunities. Launched in 2010, their clients include the largest travel loyalty programs including Best Western. The Topguest platform seamlessly connects client loyalty programs with top social media services including Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Instagram, and Gowalla. The Company is backed by notable Silicon Valley venture capital firms, including the first investors in Facebook. Topguest is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay area. http://www.topguest.com | http://www.facebook.com/Topguest | www.twitter.com/topguest
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL SWEEPS PARTNER AWARDS AT THE CANADIAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION NATIONAL CONFERENCE
Hotel Chain is Honored as Lodging Partner of the Year
PHOENIX (March 31, 2009) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, won four out of six Partner Awards at the American and Canadian Automobile Association National Conference on Tuesday night, including the prestigious Lodging Partner of the Year award. Best Western also took home top honors for Best Marketing Support, Best Sales Support and Best Technology Support.
“This overwhelming recognition from AAA/CAA clubs across the country is a tremendous honor, and we look forward to continuing to deepening this valuable relationship,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Working with AAA/CAA has allowed us to offer special discounts and benefits to consumers, while helping our member hotels increase revenue.”
To determine the winners, AAA/CAA surveyed travel professionals in more than 1,000 AAA/CAA travel agency offices, asking them to rate their level of satisfaction with each of AAA/CAA’s air, cruise, tour and hotel preferred travel partners. Partners were rated in five categories including service, product, marketing, sales support and technology. Winners were selected in each of the five categories, with the awards for Partner of the Year presented to the partner with the highest overall cumulative score in travel segment.
“To win four out of six awards in the lodging category is a remarkable achievement,” said Alison Hermansen, CAA Executive Vice President Association & Club Services. “Our clubs across Canada truly appreciate the support they receive from Best Western and these awards are a reflection of Best Western’s efforts to excel in all areas of our partnership. Best Western was also the first lodging partner to provide CAA Dollars® to CAA members coast to coast.”
All of CAA’s more than 5.3 million members receive a guaranteed lowest available CAA hotel discount when they book with Best Western. In addition, Best Western offers an exclusive loyalty program for CAA members, the Best Western Rewards CAA Preferred Guest program.
Benefits of the program include:
• Earn Best Western Rewards Points or CAA Dollars®
• 10 points for every dollar spent on qualified hotel room rates
• 10 percent bonus points with each qualified hotel stay
• Up to a 20 percent CAA hotel discount on best available hotel rates
• Additional rewards on seasonal promotions
Best Western was named a CAA Preferred Lodging Partner in 2007 and the company’s North American hotel properties are close to 100 percent diamond rated.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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PHOENIX (Jan. 11, 2011) – Best Western International’s Premier presence continues to grow with the opening of the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Ivy Hotel Napa, located at 4195 Solano Avenue in the beautiful wine country of Napa, Calif. Owned and operated by Paradigm Hotels Group, the property recently underwent a multi- million dollar renovation transforming the property into an opulent avant-garde boutique hotel.
The BEST WESTERN PREMIER Ivy Napa Hotel offers 115 loft-style guest rooms and provides travelers with a fitness center, on-site dining, outdoor heated swimming pool and hot tub, 24-hour business center and a complimentary continental breakfast. The three-plus AAA-rated hotel also includes 7,000 square feet of ballroom space and six meeting facilities to host a variety of events.
The chic urban guest rooms and oversized suites cater to both business and leisure travelers. Each guest room features the following amenities:
•42-inch flat screen televisions
•Luxurious pillow-top mattresses
•Contemporary furnishing with fine wood, rich upholstery and luxury bed lines
•Comfy lounge seating and in-room dining
•Rain dome shower heads and plush his/her bath robes
•Functional desk with complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access
“We are very pleased to open the first California BEST WESTERN PREMIER in Napa,” said Mark Williams, vice president, North American development for Best Western International. “The new hotel’s proximity to the famous wine region and many attractions makes it an ideal lodging choice.”
Centrally located in Napa Valley, the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Ivy Hotel Napa offers easy access to variety of attractions including the Napa Valley Wine Train, where guests can enjoy the beautiful countryside, Infineon Raceway and the Napa Valley Spa. The cities of Yountville and Calistoga are just a short drive away, where guests can experience some of the most famous kitchens in the region. Plenty of shopping and dining options are also nearby in downtown Napa.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT PARADIGM HOTELS GROUP
Paradigm Hotels Group is a privately held, hotel and commercial real estate company based in San Francisco, California. Paradigm has earned a reputation as an innovator in managing, marketing, and developing distinctive lodging properties. For more information please visit www.paradigmhotelsgroup.com.
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TWO LUCKY MOTORCYCLE RIDERS WIN BIG REWARDS WITH BEST WESTERN’S MOTORCYCLE PHOTO CONTEST FOR RIDERS
PHOENIX (Aug. 4, 2011) – Best Western International, the World’s Biggest Hotel FamilySM, today announced the winners of its 2011 motorcycle photo contest for riding enthusiasts. Motorcyclists visited Best Western hotels during the contest and uploaded a photo of their bikes in front of a BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS or BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel for a chance to win 65,000 Best Western Rewards points and other great prizes.
The grand-prize winner, Kathy Smith of Myers Flat, Calif., will receive 65,000 Best Western Rewards points in celebration of the hotel chain’s 65th birthday. Smith was chosen at random, and her 65,000 points are redeemable for room nights, gift cards, airline miles and more.
“Our winning photo was taken in front of the BEST WESTERN Miner’s Inn in Yreka, Calif. which is our favorite Best Western. We love to stay there, as they are rider-friendly and welcome our Yorkie dog Tina,” said Smith. “I feel really lucky to have won as I actually damaged my camera before I took the photo. So in addition to redeeming the points for our future stays at Best Western hotels, I plan to use some of the points to get a new camera.”
Lee Baldwin from Butte, Mont., also won, as he was the first Best Western Rewards member to take a photo in front of all three types of Best Western hotels: BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER. He is the winner of a $650 Travel Card which is good for travel at any of the more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
In addition to Smith and Baldwin, each week during the contest three additional winners were randomly chosen to receive 5,000 Best Western Rewards points.
“Best Western is the only hotel chain to offer motorcycle riders a loyalty program -- Best Western Ride Rewards®, exclusively for bike enthusiasts, and we welcome travelers on two wheels with open arms,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “This photo contest was a fun way for travelers to hit the open road and experience our three types of Best Western hotels – BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER.”
Best Western Ride Rewards is the industry’s only free loyalty program for guests traveling by motorcycle. Best Western Ride Rewards members automatically earn Gold Elite status when they sign up, allowing them to earn 10 points for every U.S. dollar spent on qualified room rates and 10 percent
bonus points with each qualified stay at any Best Western hotel. Motorcycle travelers can register for Best Western Ride Rewards by visiting www.bwrider.com or calling 1-888-BW2BIKE.
As part of its partnership with Harley-Davidson®, Best Western has more than 1,200 Rider-Friendly® hotel locations in North America which provide services such as a special Harley-Davidson rate, a clean wipe-down at check-in and a bike cleaning station. Additional benefits at some properties include reserved parking spaces, bottled water and lip balm.
As a complement to Ride Rewards, enthusiasts can also use the Harley-Davidson Ride Planner tool to map and plan rides, and book a Best Western hotel along the route.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN ANNOUNCES 2012 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Best Western Elects Devang Amin as Chairman, Directors Elected
(PHOENIX) December 12, 2011— Best Western International announced today that its Board of Directors has elected Devang Amin as chairman of the Board of Directors. Amin previously served as the Board’s secretary-treasurer and is the owner of the BEST WESTERN Horizon Inn in Edinburg, Ind., the BEST WESTERN PLUS Gateway Inn & Suites in Evansville, Ind., and the BEST WESTERN Torchlite Motor Inn in Wheatlands, Wyo.
James Cosgrove, District VII Director (northeastern U.S. and eastern Canada) and a second-generation Best Western Member, was elected as vice-chairman to the Board of Directors. Cosgrove is the owner of the award-winning BEST WESTERN PLUS Revere Inn & Suites in Paradise, Pa.
The Board of Directors also elected District V Director (mid-southern U.S.) Jay Patel to the position of secretary-treasurer. Jay Patel has been with Best Western for more than 25 years and has developed five Best Western hotels in Louisiana.
Prior to these Board of Director appointments, District IV (southeastern U.S.) elected Dilipkumar (Danny) Patel as its Director. Danny Patel, who has been a Best Western Member for 17 years, has served as chairman of the Board of Directors for the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (www.aahoa.com) and as a Best Western Governor and member of the Design Advisory Committee. He is the CEO of Peach State Hospitality, a Georgia-based hotel development and management company, which has developed 32 branded and independent hotels in Georgia and Alabama. Additionally, Danny Patel has served as director on the board of the Georgia Hotel & Lodging Association.
In the northwest U.S. and western Canada, District II members elected Beth Campbell to serve a second term as their Director. Campbell served as Board Chair in 2010, has chaired the brand’s Marketing Advisory Committee, and served as a brand governor for 15 years. In addition, Campbell she spent 15 years as mayor and city council member for the city of Penticton, BC. For the past 30 years, Campbell has owned and operated that city’s BEST WESTERN PLUS Inn at Penticton, a Three-Diamond resort-style property.
“Our Board of Directors, made up of seven of Best Western’s dedicated hoteliers, is committed to helping define what our iconic brand’s course will be,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. “These talented hotel owner-operators work very hard to ensure all our hotels remain competitive and deliver on our brand promise.”
Best Western Resources:
• For bookings: www.bestwestern.com
• For rewards: www.bestwesternrewards.com
• Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BestWestern
• Read the Best Western blog: www.youmustbetrippin.com
• Follow Best Western on Twitter: www.twitter.com/thebestwestern
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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Best Western Australasia expands to Fiji
Best Western is delighted to announce that Fiji has joined Australia and New Zealand under the Best Western Australasia banner. Best Western will welcome three properties into its portfolio: the BEST WESTERN Hexagon International Hotel in Nadi; BEST WESTERN Grand West Villas in Nadi; and the BEST WESTERN Suva Motor Inn in Suva.
Rob Anderson, Chief Executive for Best Western Australasia said, “Fiji is a key destination for Australians and New Zealanders, for both business and pleasure. We are excited to bring the Best Western brand, known for its consistent high standards, friendly service and terrific value, into Fiji.”
The four-star BEST WESTERN Hexagon International Hotel boasts poolside rooms, studios or family-friendly two-bedroom apartments. Facilities include a poolside restaurant, bar, three swimming pools, tour desk and conference rooms. A complimentary Nadi airport shuttle service and babysitting make it easy to travel and stay in Fiji.
BEST WESTERN Grand West’s Villas feature 20 self-contained units on large manicured grounds. The two-bedroom units contain two bathrooms (main with full bath) and full cooking facilities. All units are air-conditioned and also have ceiling fans, television, stereo and housekeeping service. Within the expansive tropical grounds, guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool with water slide, tennis courts, tour desk, garden view restaurant and bar, gift shop, taxi and bus service and babysitting services.
The BEST WESTERN Suva Motor Inn is an easy stroll away from the heart of the city and within close proximity to the government buildings. The property boasts a waterslide, infinity swimming pool and a cave spa for guests to rejuvenate and unwind. With 47 modern one and two bedrooms on site, the Best Western Suva Motor Inn Hotel is perfect families and business travellers.
For more information on Best Western’s Fiji hotels, visit www.bestwestern.com.
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FLORIDA’S FIRST BEST WESTERN PREMIER OPENS IN MIAMI
PHOENIX (Jan. 25, 2011) – Best Western International opens Florida’s first Premier property with the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Miami International Airport Hotel and Suites, located at 4100 Flagler Street in the heart of Miami, Fla.
The brand-new, upscale BEST WESTERN PREMIER Miami International Airport Hotel and Suites offers 144 contemporary guest rooms and provides travelers with a state-of-the-art fitness center, on-site restaurant and full bar, outdoor swimming pool, business center and a complimentary hot breakfast buffet.
The hotel offers over 800 square-feet of meeting and banquet space to host a variety of events. The hotel also offers complimentary airport shuttle service to Miami International Airport. Like all BEST WESTERN PREMIER properties, BEST WESTERN PREMIER Miami International Airport Hotel and Suites has features and amenities that exceed AAA’s three diamond requirements.
The modern designed guest rooms and suites feature the following amenities:
•42-inch flat screen LCD HDTV's
•Premium clock radio with MP3 connection
•Contemporary furnishing and luxury bed lines and towels
•Comfortable lounge seating and in-room dining
•Functional desk with complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access
“We’re very pleased to open the first BEST WESTERN PREMIER property in Florida with the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Miami International Airport Hotel and Suites,” said Mark Williams, vice president, North American development for Best Western International. “Not only is it a popular leisure destination, but Miami is also a highly-traveled corporate market, and our amenities will appeal to guests whether on business or pleasure.”
Located two miles from Miami International Airport, the hotel offers easy access to Miami’s most popular attractions, including: Museum of the Americas, Miami Museum of Science, Miami Sea Aquarium, Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami Metro Zoo and Magic City Casino. The beautiful cities of Coral Gables and Coconut Grove are also just a short drive from the property. Plenty of shopping and dining options are nearby in downtown Miami and Miracle Mile in Coral Gables.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN BUSINESS TRAVEL ADVISORY BOARD FINDS INCREASE IN BUSINESS TRIPS, NEW GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES IN 2010
More Than Half of Best Western Diamond 100 Members Report Favorable Signs of New Activity In Their Industries, Up from 37 Percent in Mid-2009
NEW YORK (March 18, 2010) – Results from a new survey of unmanaged business travelers in Best Western’s loyalty program, Best Western Rewards®, provide further indication that the effects of the recession are easing and that more people plan to hit the road for business again in 2010.
Survey findings were a key discussion point at this year’s annual Best Western Business Travel Summit, held yesterday for members of the media in New York. A panel of experts including Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of sales and marketing; Mike McCormick, executive director and COO of the National Business Travel Association; and Jesal Meswani, vice president of global commercial products for MasterCard discussed a wide range of topics important to business travelers who are adjusting to a “new normal” following changes taking place during the recession.
As a sign of ongoing economic recovery, positive indicators in industries such as aerospace, maritime, petroleum and food are being seen, according to members of the Best Western Diamond 100 (BWD100) Advisory Board. Made up of nearly 400 of the brand’s best customers, BWD100 members work for small and medium sized companies, or for themselves. These business travelers drive more often than they fly and often make their own travel decisions, rather than relying on travel agents or corporate travel managers.
“The positive signals indicated in this recent survey are in line with recent data from American Express and others that show a slow but steady return to business travel as the year progresses,” said Chris McGinnis, editor for Best Western’s blog, YouMustBeTrippin.com and manager of the survey. “More than 20 percent of BWD100 members, for example, said they plan on taking more business trips in the coming months, compared with just 11 percent back in July of 2009.”
Other key findings from the survey include:
•"My territory is vast and personal contact is the best way for us to generate new and ongoing business," said a member planning to travel more in 2010. On a similar note, another member said, "I need to be in front of my customers more than before."
•More than 60 percent expect to control their business travel spending habits the same way they did in 2009.
•While many pointed to an improving economy as the reason for an increased number of trips, some said they'll travel more because of recent downsizing. "Layoffs have caused sales territory consolidation, so I'll be traveling more than usual to fill the holes until the economy heals," wrote one member.
•The so-called "hassle factor" of air travel (new fees, security issues, delays) is having little impact on this group's decision to fly or drive. Just over 70 percent report that air travel hassles will not result in fewer plane trips.
For more of the survey’s findings or to speak with its author, please contact McGinnis at Chris.McGinnis@bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley-Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ELECTS NEW BOARD OFFICERS
Two New Directors Also Join Seven-Member Board
PHOENIX (Nov. 24, 2009) – Best Western International’s Board of Directors named Beth Campbell its chairwoman, effective for a one-year term starting today. Campbell is a hotelier and business leader from Penticton, British Columbia, and owns and operates the Best Western Inn at Penticton, a Three-Diamond resort property.
The seven-member Board of Directors elected P.G. West as its vice chairman. West has been affiliated with the Best Western brand for nearly 30 years and has served as a Board director since 2007. He and his wife Linda own and operate the award-winning Best Western Turquoise Inn & Suites in Cortez, Colo.
The Board elected Julie Montmaneix as secretary/treasurer. Montmaneix, owner and operator of the Best Western Kings Hotel in Corona, Calif., joined the Board earlier this month to represent hotel owners in California, Nevada and Hawaii. She is a second-generation hotel owner and has been affiliated with Best Western for more than 30 years.
Also elected to the Board earlier this month was Devang (Dave)Amin, owner of the Best Western Horizon Inn in Edinburgh, Ind., the Best Western Gateway Inn & Suites in Evansville, Ind., and the Best Western Torchlite Motor Inn in Wheatlands, Wyo., Amin was elected to represent hotel owners in the Midwestern United States and Ontario.
Amin and Montmaneix were elected to three-year terms.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Introduces BEST WESTERN PLUS Hotels Worldwide
Travelers can now choose from BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotel types throughout the world
PHOENIX (September 23, 2011) – Building on the success of Best Western International’s adoption of its three product descriptors – BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER – in North America, the hotel chain today announced the introduction of its BEST WESTERN PLUS hotel type internationally.
The WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM now has 41 BEST WESTERN PLUS properties open outside of North America, with more than 60 additional BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels expected to be open internationally by the end of 2011. The largest concentration of BEST WESTERN PLUS properties are currently in Europe, with 28 currently welcoming guests. There are also eight BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels in Australia and at least one BEST WESTERN PLUS hotel open in Asia, South America and Africa.
BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels were initially introduced in North America in February, 2011 as part of the brand’s descriptors program, which classifies Best Western’s more than 2,200 North American properties into one of three types based on the hotels’ product experience: BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS or BEST WESTERN PREMIER. The adoption of descriptors has been the biggest change in Best Western’s 65-year history and helps provide travelers a better understanding of what is offered at each individually owned and operated Best Western hotel so they can choose the right hotel for every type of trip.
“By introducing three types of Best Western hotels globally we are more clearly defining our hotel brand, which will ultimately lead to increased guest satisfaction, loyalty and bookings for Best Western’s member hoteliers,” said David Kong, Best Western International’s president and CEO. “By introducing our BEST WESTERN PLUS hotel offering internationally, we are bringing that same level of clarity to our entire hotel family and ensuring travelers will be able to choose the right Best Western for their needs, wherever they are in the world.”
BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels are upper midscale properties that offer a superior accommodation experience, offering enhanced additional services and amenities. While BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels are new to the international hotel landscape, the BEST WESTERN PREMIER descriptor has been used successfully in Europe, Asia and South America for more than a decade. BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels are upscale hotels that offer luxury at the right price. BEST WESTERN hotels are midscale properties that offer guests great value without the cookie-cutter experience.
Guests can learn more about each descriptor through virtual tours, extensive photos and enhanced search functionality at www.bestwestern.com and www.bestwestern.com/hotel-types.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Expands Portfolio with Its First Hotel in Egypt
Marsa Alam resort to be followed by Zafarana hotel in 2010
PHOENIX (Sept. 30, 2009) – Best Western International has expanded its North African portfolio with its first hotel in Egypt, The Best Western Solitaire resort in Marsa Alam, one of the country’s fastest growing leisure destinations.
“As the only Best Western property in Egypt, the Solitaire Resort is uniquely positioned to accommodate the growing leisure market trend in Marsa Alam,” said Suzi Yoder, Vice President of International Operations at Best Western International. “We are delighted to have such a stellar property in this gorgeous location, and look forward to opening our next Egyptian hotel in early 2010, in Zafarana.“
The Best Western Solitaire Resort is located on the Red Sea, 24 miles from Marsa Alam International Airport. The 151-room hotel features unique architecture and an exclusive private beach with convenient access to some of the world’s most exotic coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Each luxurious room features a refrigerator, high speed internet access and balcony with views of the Red Sea.
Guests will also enjoy the convenience of 24-hour room service and two on-site restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world, multiple cocktail lounges and live entertainment at the hotel’s amphitheatre, as well as nightly music in the hotel’s disco bar. Key attractions include three outdoor pools, steam room, hot tub and an exercise facility. Recreational activities are available including tennis, basketball, cycling, fishing, camel riding and scuba diving excursions from the hotel’s private marina.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL SWEEPS PARTNER AWARDS AT AAA TRAVEL EXECUTIVE FORUM
Hotel Chain is Honored as Lodging Partner of the Year
PHOENIX (April 2, 2009) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, won four out of six Partner Awards for the lodging category at the AAA Travel Executive Forum on March 24, including the prestigious Lodging Partner of the Year award. Best Western also took home top honors for Best Marketing Support, Best Sales Support and Best Technology Support.
“This overwhelming recognition from AAA clubs across the country is a tremendous honor, and we look forward to continuing to deepen this valuable relationship,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Working with AAA has allowed us to offer special discounts and benefits to consumers, while helping our member hotels increase revenue.”
To determine the winners, AAA surveyed travel professionals in more than 1,000 AAA travel agency offices, asking them to rate their level of satisfaction with each of AAA’s air, cruise, tour and hotel preferred travel partners. Partners were rated in five categories including service, product, marketing, sales support and technology. Winners were selected in each of the five categories, with the awards for Partner of the Year presented to the partner with the highest overall cumulative score in the travel segment.
“To win four out of six awards in the lodging category, including our highest honor, is a remarkable achievement,” said Doug Bower, vice president of AAA Travel and Financial Services. “Our clubs across North America truly appreciate the support they receive from Best Western and these awards are a reflection of Best Western’s efforts to excel in all areas of our partnership.”
All of AAA’s more than 51 million members receive a guaranteed lowest available AAA hotel discount when they book with Best Western. In addition, Best Western offers an exclusive loyalty program for AAA members, the Best Western Rewards AAA Preferred Guest program. Benefits of the program include:
•10 points for every dollar spent on qualified hotel room rates
•10 percent bonus points with each qualified hotel stay
•Up to a 20 percent AAA hotel discount on best available hotel rates
•Additional rewards on seasonal promotions
Best Western was named a AAA Preferred Lodging Partner in 2007 and the company’s North American hotel properties are close to 100 percent AAA Diamond Rated.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT AAA
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.
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BEST WESTERN EXECUTIVE TO RECEIVE “TOP 25” HONOR AT HSMAI ADRIAN AWARDS GALA
Sehrab Grewal Honored As “Best Of The Best” In Travel Industry
NEW YORK, NY (February 4, 2010) – The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) has selected Sehrab Grewal, director of consumer marketing at Best Western International, as one of the “Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Sales and Marketing” for 2009. The seventh annual list recognizes the “best of the best” in the hospitality, travel and tourism industries. The recipients were honored during a private ceremony preceding the Adrian Awards Gala on Feb. 1, 2010, in New York, and were recognized on-stage at the Gala.
The 2009 “Top 25” recipients were judged by a panel of senior industry executives for their recent work based on the following criteria: creativity and innovation; cutting edge sales or marketing campaigns; triumph in challenging situations; and sales efforts that resulted in dramatic gains.
“The Top 25 is a 'hot list' that celebrates the sales and marketing leaders and innovators of our industry,” said Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHA, president and CEO of HSMAI. “The creative strategies, passionate dedication and sharp intelligence of these professionals have not only made a difference within their organizations but have also truly raised the bar for the hospitality industry as a whole.”
Sehrab has more than 17 years of experience in the travel, hospitality and tourism industries, including five years at Best Western International. As Director of Consumer Marketing for Best Western, Sehrab leads a team focused on developing and maintaining B2B strategic alliances with integration across marketing & sales functions. Notable partnerships that Sehrab has managed include Best Western affiliations with AAA/CAA, Harley-Davidson, NASCAR, Michael Waltrip Racing and Cesar Milan Inc.
“We’re fortunate to have Sehrab leading a critical part of our organization which benefits our partners and the millions of consumers who are loyal to the brand,” said Best Western President and CEO David Kong. “Her work and leadership has built creative marketing and sales affiliations that allow us to remain competitive in today’s innovative landscape.”
In addition to celebrating Sehrab’s award-winning work, the Gala recognized the top achievements in advertising, marketing and public relations in the hospitality, travel and tourism industries with the Adrian Award.
ABOUT HSMAI
HSMAI is an organization of sales and marketing professionals representing all segments of the hospitality industry. With a strong focus on education, HSMAI has become the industry champion in identifying and communicating trends in the hospitality industry, and bringing together customers and members at annual events, including HSMAI's Affordable Meetings(r). Founded in 1927, HSMAI is an individual membership organization comprising more than 7,000 members worldwide, with 40 chapters in the Americas Region. For more information on HSMAI, contact the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International, 1760 Old Meadow Road, Suite 500, McLean, Va. 22102; (703) 506-3280; fax (703) 506-3266, or visit the website at www.hsmai.org.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley-Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL REWARDS GUESTS WITH BONUS REWARDS
Earn Triple Rewards for Booking on bestwestern.com
PHOENIX (Feb. 8, 2010) – Best Western is giving travelers an extra incentive for spring travel by multiplying their rewards earning potential. Between now and March 28, guests who stay two times at any Best Western hotel can earn double or triple rewards. To earn the triple bonus, reservations must be booked on www.bestwestern.com.
“We are doubling and tripling our guests’ rewards to thank them for their loyalty and to help them earn points, miles or credits that can be used toward a summer vacation,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Stay with Best Western a couple of times during this promotion, and you can easily earn a free night at one of our 4,000 hotels.”
Double or triple rewards begin with the second qualified Best Western Rewards stay, and continue on each qualified stay thereafter, up to four stays during the promotion period. There is no cap on the number of bonuses that can be earned by elite members of Best Western Rewards.
To be eligible, guests must register at www.bestwesternrewards.com/spring, reside in North America, South America, the Caribbean Asia, South Africa, Israel, Egypt or Ukraine and be members of Best Western Rewards. Individuals who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free. To join Best Western Rewards, visit www.bestwesternrewards.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN REWARDS
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Gives Back This Holiday Season with $10 Gift Card Bonuses
Now Through Dec. 31, Purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card® and
Receive a $10 Gift Card of Your Choice
PHOENIX (Nov. 15, 2011) – With holiday shoppers looking for more bang for their buck than ever before, Best Western International, Inc. is offering a special holiday deal – purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card online, and receive a bonus gift card reward for yourself.
Holiday shoppers who purchase a $100 (CAD) Best Western Travel Card can choose one of the following rewards: $10 (CAD) Best Western Travel Card, $10 Best Buy gift card, $10 Walmart gift card, $10 Red Lobster gift card.
The Best Western Travel Card can be used like cash to pay for accommodations at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
“Whether gifting a Best Western Travel Card to friends, family, clients or gifting one to yourself for travel in the new year, this limited-time promotion offers the perfect opportunity to cash-in on valuable savings at popular retailers,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “With this special holiday deal, it’s more rewarding than ever before to give the gift of travel – and get $10 back in your pocket.”
To receive the bonus, visit www.travelcard.bestwestern.com/holiday11ca
Best Western Rewards® is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of the few that is truly international. With over 4,000 locations in more than 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline/partner rewards and more.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
BEST BUY® is not affiliated with Best Western International, Inc. Best Buy does not sponsor, endorse, approve or have any responsibility for this promotion. BEST BUY, the BEST BUY logo and the tag design are trademarks of BBY Solutions, Inc. © 2011 BBY Solutions, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Best Western International doing business as Best Western International is/are not affiliated with Walmart Stores, Inc. The services, products or activities of Best Western International, are neither endorsed nor sponsored by Walmart Stores, Inc.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ELECTS NEW BOARD MEMBER
PHOENIX (March 2, 2011) – James Cosgrove, a hotel owner from Lancaster, Pa., has been elected to serve on the Best Western International Board of Directors. Cosgrove represents Best Western hotel owners in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada, from Newfoundland and Labrador south to Virginia.
“Jim and his family have been affiliated with Best Western for many years. We are excited to welcome him to his new role, and look forward to his thoughtful leadership,” said David Kong, Best Western International president and CEO.
Before being elected to the Board, Cosgrove held a number of leadership positions with the brand. He served as a brand governor for southeastern Pennsylvania and as a member of the brand’s marketing advisory and reservation and technology committees. He also served as chair of Best Western’s New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania marketing co-op and sat on the board of the brand’s Global Marketing Group. For the past decade, Cosgrove has represented his hotel and the brand at travel trade shows around the globe.
Cosgrove and his family own and operate the award-winning BEST WESTERN PLUS Revere Inn & Suites in Paradise, Pa., The historic, full-service hotel in Pennsylvania’s Amish country has been in the family for more than 40 years. The Cosgroves also own and operate the adjacent Revere Tavern. Built in the 1700’s, the former stagecoach stop was previously owned by President Buchanan.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN MAKES STOCKING STUFFING EASIER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
PHOENIX (November 3, 2008) – Best Western is making stuffing stockings easier this year by offering a free bonus gift card with the purchase of a Best Western Travel Card®.
Now through December 31, Gold Crown Club® International (GCCI) members who purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card online will receive a free $10 Best Western travel gift card or a gift card from one of several retailers. Individuals can choose bonus cards from Walmart, Home Depot, and gas cards from Shell (U.S) or Petro (Canada).
“With the holiday season upon us, we’re all looking for ways to make gift buying easier,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Best Western’s bonus gift card offer is a convenient way for consumers to get two gifts in one.”
This offer is only available to Best Western Rewards members who reside in the U.S. and Canada at http://Travelcard.bestwestern.com/Holiday. Consumers who are not members of Best Western’s Rewards program can join the free rewards program quickly and easily on the promotion Web page.
The Best Western Travel Card can be used to pay for accommodations and related incidentals at 4,000 Best Western hotels in 80 countries and territories worldwide. The card is offered at Best Western member hotels, online at www.travelcard.bestwestern.com or by calling Best Western Travel Card Customer Care at 1-877-CARD-2TVL (227-3288) in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Available in U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars, euros and six other currencies, the card can be purchased in denominations between $25 and $1,000 U.S./euro.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Joins the AIR MILES(R) Reward Program
TORONTO (Oct. 22, 2009) - Best Western International is pleased to announce it has joined the AIR MILES Reward Program as a Sponsor. Beginning today, Best Western will offer its Best Western Rewards member AIR MILES reward miles for every qualified stay at any Best Western hotel in Canada, the United States and the Caribbean Islands.
"Partnering with one of Canada's strongest loyalty programs gives Best Western Rewards members more opportunities to turn their hotel stays into rewards," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western. "Now, not only can AIR MILES collectors redeem miles for free nights at our 4,000 worldwide hotels, they can also earn miles for staying at Best Western."
AIR MILES Collectors will earn 20 AIR MILES reward miles for every qualified stay at any Best Western International hotel in Canada, the United States (including Hawaii and Alaska) and the Caribbean Islands. As a launch bonus, AIR MILES Collectors will earn TRIPLE reward miles when they register at bestwestern.com/amfall and stay any 2 nights by December 31, 2009.
"We are thrilled to add Best Western to our growing list of travel Sponsors and provide our Collectors with another way to earn reward miles," said Todd March, SVP and chief client officer, AIR MILES Reward Program. "This partnership represents the AIR MILES Reward Program's commitment to partner with leading organizations that provide our Collectors additional value."
AIR MILES Collectors earn reward miles at more than 100 leading brand-name Sponsors representing thousands of retail and service locations across Canada. AIR MILES reward miles can be redeemed for more than 1,200 different rewards, including Best Western Travel Cards in $50, $100 and $175 denominations.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN(R), providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About the AIR MILES(R) Reward Program
Founded in 1992, The AIR MILES(R) Reward Program is Canada's premier coalition loyalty program. More than 10 million active Collector accounts, representing approximately two-thirds of all Canadian households, actively participate in the Program.
The AIR MILES Reward Program allows Collectors to indulge in leisure, entertainment, merchandise, travel and other lifestyle rewards quickly, simply by doing their everyday shopping for products and services at AIR MILES Sponsors. AIR MILES reward miles can be redeemed for more than 1,200 different rewards, such as movie passes, family attractions, electronic merchandise, sports and recreation, travel and more.
Collectors can shop and collect AIR MILES reward miles at more than 100 brand-name Sponsors across the country, representing thousands of retail and service locations nationally, including BMO Bank of Montreal, RONA, Shell, SportChek (Sports Experts), The Shoe Company, American Express, Metro and airmilesshops.ca. The AIR MILES Reward Program's website is www.airmiles.ca
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STAY AT BEST WESTERN®, EARN LIFEMILES FROM THE AVIANCA AND TACA FREQUENT FLYER PROGRAM
Best Western Rewards® members to earn 250 LifeMiles for every qualified stay, double points during winter promotion
LIMA (January 16, 2012) – Best Western International, Inc., THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, announced today that members of its Best Western Rewards® frequency program can now earn 250 LifeMiles, the frequent flyer points from Avianca and TACA Airlines, for every qualified stay at any Best Western hotel around the world.
In addition, between January 16, 2012 and March 31, 2012, Best Western Rewards members who have chosen LifeMiles as their earning preference will be awarded an additional 250 bonus miles for qualified stays at Best Western branded hotels in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, or the Caribbean. For complete terms, conditions and limitations, click here and to adjust earning preferences, register for promotions and manage accounts, Best Western Rewards Members please visit www.bestwesternrewards.com.
“Avianca and Taca Airlines offers one of the most comprehensive networks in Latin America, and is an ideal partner for Best Western, “said Suzi Yoder, VP of International Operations for Best Western. “We have hotels in nearly every Latin American country they serve, and LifeMiles’ over 4 million members will now have the advantage of earning miles for their stays at any Best Western.”
“In terms of distribution throughout Latin America, Best Western’s presence is very strong. This partnership provides a huge added benefit for our frequent flyers, as they can earn LifeMiles for hotel stays in nearly every city we fly to in the region,” said Mauricio Angulo, LifeMiles’ Business Development Director.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in over 100 countries and territories, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwesternrewards.com.
About AviancaTaca
AviancaTaca Holdings is a leading airline group in Latin America. With a modern fleet of 140 short, medium and long haul aircraft and an exceptional team composed of more than 15,000 Employees, Avianca and Taca directly serves over 100 destinations in America and Europe, which connect to over 750 destinations worldwide through agreements with partner airlines around the globe. With more than 4 million members in its loyalty program, the group recorded combined annual sales revenues of approximately three billion dollars. Its multi-hub operating model offers diverse and convenient passenger flight options through Bogotá, Colombia, San Salvador, El Salvador, Lima, Peru and San Jose, Costa Rica. The group also offers a broad portfolio of air products and services, including air cargo, mail, courier, aeronautical support specialists and tourism packages. For more information about the airlines please visit www.taca.com or www.avianca.com
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 66 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, racecar driver Michael Waltrip, and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western International:Worldwide Development
Once again Best Western has enlarged its portfolio: In 2009 there were 113 hotel additions in Europe, in total 275 hotels joined the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®. Best Western Hotels Germany had 15 new hotel additions and realized the second largest development of European Best Western hotels.
ESCHBORN (March 2010) — Even in times of the global economic crisis, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® realized continuous and solid growth: In 2009, 275 independently owned and operated hotels joined Best Western, including 113 in Europe, which equates to nearly half of new Best Western hotels worldwide. By end of 2009 there were 4,048 Best Western hotels worldwide in over 80 countries.
Best Western Hotels Germany expanded in 2009 with 15 new hotels, by year end there were 184 hotels in total. New destinations include Timmendorfer Strand at the Baltic Sea and the idyllic Bavarian Forest. In Berlin, the Best Western Grand City Hotel Berlin Mitte joined the brand, making it the fifteenth in Germany’s capital. In 2010, ten additional hotels have already been signed, such as the Best Western Premier Grand Hotel Russischer Hof in the historic city of Weimar and Germany’s most northern hotel – the Best Western Hotel des Nordens. By end of 2010, the number of hotels in Germany and Luxembourg is expected to be 200.
Best Western France realized the largest development in Europe: 28 new hotels enlarged the French portfolio up to 293 properties. Highlights are the Best Western Premier Opéra Diamonds in Paris and the Best Western Hôtel Univers in Cannes.
Other European development highlights for Best Western include:
•Eleven new hotels were added in Great Britain for a total of 279 Best Western properties by the end of 2009. New hotels include the Best Western Henbury Lodge in Bristol and the Best Western Livermead Cliff Hotel in Torquay at the British Riviera.
•Italy added twelve new Best Western hotels, bringing the country’s total to 175. Select properties include the Best Western Premier Hotel Monza e Brianza Palace in Milan; the Best Western Admiral Palace Hotel located in Chianciano Terme in Tuscany; and two hotels in Rome. •Eleven new hotels joined Best Western in Norway, including two in Oslo, the Best Western Oslo Airport Hotel and the Best Western Sunndalsora Hotel.
•Sweden added seven new hotels, including the Best Western Hotel Karlaplan in Stockholm and the Best Western Wåxnäs Hotel in Karlstad.
•Denmark welcomed three new hotels – featuring two properties in Copenhagen, the Best Western Mercur Hotel and the Best Western Richmond Hotel.
•In Finland, there are three new hotels, including the Best Western Hotel Carlton in Helsinki.
•Poland added the Best Western Premier Katowice in the historic city of Katowice.
•Best Western added four hotels in the Netherlands, including three properties in Amsterdam – the Best Western Apollo Museumhotel Amsterdam, the Best Western Dam Square Inn and the Best Western Leidse Square Hotel.
•Belgium added four hotels.
•Switzerland added three properties, including the newly built business hotel Best Western Hotel Stuecki in Basel.
•Austria and Croatia added a total of two hotels.
•Two new Best Western hotels opened in the countries of Ireland, Romania and Spain.
•Greece and Turkey each added one new Best Western hotel.
•The Best Western Hotel Sevastopol opened in Ukraine. It is the first Best Western Hotel in the CIS countries and signals future expansion for that region.
In the United States and Canada, 112 properties joined the brand. New flagship properties in the US include the Best Western Clearwater Grand Hotel & Suites in Clearwater, Fla., the Best Western Atrea Hotel & Suites in San Antonio, Texas, the Best Western Sundial Resort in Scottsdale, Ariz., and the Best Western Jasper Inn in Jasper, Alberta, Canada.
In South America the Best Western Paradiso Del Sol in Cabo Frio joined in Brazil.
In Asia, 28 hotels joined the brand:
•Eleven in China, including two in Beijing;
•Seven in India, including Goa and Kolkata
•Four in the popular leisure destination Thailand, including the Best Western Premier Amaranth Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok and the Best Western Premier Signature Hotel Pattaya.
•Three in Indonesia, including two in Bali and one hotel in Java.
•One each in Korea, Laos and The Philippines. One hotel in each country joined. In total there were 87 Best Western hotels by year end in Asia.
The total number of Best Western hotels in Asia is now 87.
Africa welcomed two hotels, including the brand’s first in Egypt: The Best Western Solitaire Resort in Marsa Alam at the Red Sea; and the Best Western Tikida Garden in Marrakech, Morocco.
“Down Under” in Australia and New Zealand, 19 hotels joined the brand in 2009, bringing the total in that region to 192. Development highlights include the Best Western Seachange Coolum Beach at the Sunshine Coast in Queensland targeting leisure travelers, and the Best Western Johnsonville Motor Lodge in Wellington.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000 worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer core. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the gIobe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip Racing TM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequent program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fIuctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL AND HARLEY-DAVIDSON EXTEND PARTNERSHIP TO GIVE RIDERS TRAVEL PERKS ON THE ROAD
Best Western Ride RewardsSM Loyalty Program Offers Savings and Benefits for Riding Enthusiasts at More Than 1,200 “Rider-Friendly” Hotels
PHOENIX (July 15, 2009) -- Best Western International today announced that the chain has extended its exclusive partnership with Harley-Davidson Motor Company for an additional three years to reward motorcycle riders and Harley-Davidson enthusiasts with enhanced travel benefits when they stay at one of more than 1,200 “rider-friendly” Best Western properties in North America.
“Best Western will continue to cater to the unique travel needs of the millions of motorcycle adventurers who believe the journey is as important as the destination,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Our heritage is deeply rooted along America’s scenic roads, and extending our relationship with Harley-Davidson, another iconic brand synonymous with road travel, is a natural way to introduce more travelers to our hotel chain and contemporize our brand.”
Harley-Davidson owners or enthusiasts can register for Best Western Ride RewardsSM by visiting www.bwrider.com or calling 1-888-BW2BIKE. Once registered, members earn 10 points for every U.S. dollar spent on qualified room rates or 250 airline miles per qualified stay at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
Upon registering for Best Western’s free Ride Rewards loyalty program online, riders will automatically receive Gold Elite status, which includes 10 percent bonus points on every stay. H.O.G. Members receive even greater benefits. They are automatically upgraded to platinum elite status, giving them 15 percent bonus points on every stay, complimentary room upgrades when available, plus early check-in and late check-out if available. When staying at the 1,200 plus Best Western properties that are certified “rider-friendly,” guests will have access to a host of amenities , such as complimentary wipe-down rags and access to a washing station at check-in. Additionally, some hotels offer extra benefits, including reserved parking spaces, bottled water and lip balm.
As a complement to Ride Rewards, enthusiasts can also use Harley-Davidson’s Ride Planner to help map and plan rides, available at www.harley-davidson.com. The tool also makes it easy to book a stay at a Best Western hotel by indicating where each is located in correlation to the trip being planned. Each hotel listing includes hotel descriptions along with a directory of services and amenities.
For more information on Ride Rewards and other features of the Best Western/Harley-Davidson partnership, visit www.bwrider.com or http://rideplanner.harley-davidson.com/rideplanner.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL REWARDS GUESTS WITH BONUS POINTS FOR FALL TRAVEL
Best Western Rewards® Members Earn up to Quadruple Points When Paying with a MasterCard® Card
PHOENIX (Sept. 14, 2009) – Just because summer will end soon doesn’t mean earning bonus Best Western Rewards® points from the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® is ending, too. Now through November 22, Best Western Rewards members who pay with their MasterCard card earn double, triple or quadruple Rewards points, after staying any two, three, or four nights this fall. This makes it possible to earn a free room night after staying as few as four nights.
Members who opt to receive airline rewards receive the double, triple or quadruple rewards after any two, three or four stays.
In addition, Rewards members who book online at www.bestwestern.com during this promotional period will receive 250 bonus points, or up to 500 points after two online bookings.
“Fall getaways and the heavy business travel season are starting, so we’re multiplying points and miles for our loyal guests, giving them the opportunity to earn their free room nights or flights faster,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales.
“We’re pleased to be working with Best Western to offer our cardholders a simple and exclusive way to get more value for their money when booking trips away from home this fall season,” said George Zilvetti, Vice President, Travel & Entertainment, U.S. Commerce Development, MasterCard Worldwide.
For more information and to register for the points promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/fall; and for bonus airline rewards, visit www.bestwestern.com/fallair. Or, call 1-800-WESTERN.
To be eligible, guests must register, reside in North America, South America, the Caribbean or Asia and be members of Best Western Rewards. Individuals who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free. To join Best Western Rewards, visit www.bestwesternrewards.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN REWARDS
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT MASTERCARD WORLDWIDE
MasterCard Worldwide advances global commerce by providing a critical economic link among financial institutions, businesses, cardholders and merchants worldwide. As a franchisor, processor and advisor, MasterCard develops and markets payment solutions, processes approximately 21 billion transactions each year, and provides industry-leading analysis and consulting services to financial-institution customers and merchants. Powered by the MasterCard Worldwide Network and through its family of brands, including MasterCard®, Maestro® and Cirrus®, MasterCard serves consumers and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. For more information go to www.mastercard.com.
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BEST WESTERN OFFERS DOUBLE AND TRIPLE REWARDS POINTS ON CANADIAN DESTINATIONS
Visit travelbestWesterncanada.com, book online, and earn triple points
PHOENIX (Oct. 20, 2010) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, is offering travellers this fall the opportunity to earn double and triple points when they book stays at Best Western properties within Canada.
Through Nov. 21 members of Best Western Rewards who book their travel online at BestWestern.com
and stay two separate times earn double rewards and those who enter the code “CADPROMO” earn triple rewards points.
Also, visitors to the chain’s new Canadian microsite, TravelBestWesternCanada.com,will find tips about traveling within Canada from Canadian travel expert and YouMustBeTrippin.com blogger Bryson Forbes, and can play “Where’s Mr. M?,” an online game featuring Best Western’s fictional travel guide in Canada, Mr. Mountie, for a chance to win Best Western gift cards.
“Best Western has fabulous properties throughout Canada, to meet the needs of consumers here and from other countries,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president, marketing and sales for Best Western International. “That means more places for Best Western Rewards members to earn rewards. Giving double and triple points allows us to show our tremendous appreciation, and the rich content on TravelBestWesternCanada.com
is designed to help everyone explore all Canada has to offer.”
Forbes offers travel tips and will highlight a different province each week on TravelBestWesternCanada.com, giving visitors a peek at some of both the most popular and up-and-coming destinations within the country.
In addition, travellers have a chance to win a CA$25 or US$25 Best Western Travel Card by correctly guessing Mr. M’s location in Canada. Each Wednesday, Mr. M will be featured in a different destination in Canada on TravelBestWesternCanada.com. Visitors to the site may enter their guesses in the field provided. Those who follow Best Western on Twitter @TheBestWestern and are friends on Best Western’s Facebook fan page, facebook.com/BestWestern, will receive notifications to check the site to submit their guesses.
The first three correct respondents on TravelBestWesternCanada.com
will win a CA$25 or US$25 Best Western Travel Card. The location, revealed each Thursday, will be the featured region on the microsite with travel tips posted the following week.
“Best Western’s fall promotion gives travellers a chance to explore all that Canada has to offer, and earn double or triple points for being a Best Western Rewards member,” said Neil Hornsby, Best Western’s marketing director for Canada.
Visit TravelBestWesternCanada.com for more information and to view the rules and regulations.
For more information on Best Western International visit the website BestWestern.com or TravelBestWesternCanada.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS™ and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western to Jump-Start Summer Vacations with $50 Travel Card Offer, One of Industry’s Biggest-Ever Stand-alone Points Prizes
PHOENIX (April 18, 2011) – Best Western is giving its loyalty program members a down payment on their summer vacations. Now through June 5, Best Western Rewards members who register for the promotion and stay with Best Western three separate times will earn a $50 USD Best Western Travel Card®, which can be used like cash at any of the chain’s 4,000 global hotels until November 1, 2011.
In addition, Best Western Rewards members who qualify for the promotion and stay with at least two separate descriptor hotels (BEST WESTERN® and/or BEST WESTERN PLUS®, and/or BEST WESTERN PREMIER®), will be automatically entered in the brand’s biggest-ever points giveaway and one of the biggest-ever one-time points prize giveaways by any hotel company: The grand prize is 6.5 million Best Western Rewards points – the equivalent of more than a year of free hotel stays. Five second-place winners will receive a $650 Best Western Travel Card. All who register for the promotion will be entered into a daily drawing for a $65 Best Western Travel Card.
“We know families want to hit the road this summer, and our $50 Travel Card award is a way to make that a little easier to do so,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales. “And because we’re celebrating our 65th birthday – 65 years of being travelers’ home away from home – we’re also going to gift a loyal guest with the biggest points prize we’ve ever awarded.”
In addition to the Travel Card, Best Western is layering on 6,500-point bonus for those who pay for each of their three qualified stays with the Best Western Rewards MasterCard®. Both bonus awards are capped at one bonus per Best Western Rewards member.
Register for the promotion at www.bestwestern.com/jump.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline rewards and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch ® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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ESCHBORN, GERMANY (November 2009) – In the last 10 months, 13 new hotels have joined Best Western Germany, bringing the brand’s hotel count in that country to 180. The growth is expected to continue.
“We expect to grow to 200 hotels in Germany in 2010,” said Marcus Smola, CEO for Best Western Hotels Germany GmbH.
The newly-added hotels include:
• Best Western Premier Schlosshotel Park Consul, Heidenheim
• Best Western Premier Hotel LanzCarré, Mannheim
• Best Western Hotel Yachtclub, Niendorf/Timmendorfer Strand
• Best Western Mark Hotel Duesseldorf Mettmann, Mettmann
• Best Western Hotel Stuttgart Winterbach, Winterbach
• Best Western Premier Sonnenhof, Lam/Bayerischer Wald
• Best Western Hotel am Vitalpark, Heilbad Heiligenstadt
• Best Western Mark Hotel Koblenz Lahnstein, Lahnstein
• Best Western Grand City Hotel Wismar, Wismar
• Best Western Hotel Bamberg, Bamberg
• Best Western Grand City Hotel Berlin Mitte, Berlin
• The Best Western Parkhotel Krone, Bensheim
• Best Western Grand City Hotel Liebenwalde, Liebenwalde
Detailed information on each hotel can be found on www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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FIND AND BOOK ‘GREEN’ HOTELS ON BEST WESTERN’S WEB SITE
New Web Icon Helps Travelers Support Environmentally-Friendly Hotels
PHOENIX (September 8, 2010) – A new enhancement to Best Western’s web site is helping the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® meet travelers’ demands for environmentally-friendly hotels. Hotels that comply with a state, national or international eco-labeling program for the hotel industry now can display a green leaf icon next to their listing on bestwestern.com. Travelers also can search for green hotels using this feature.
Approved eco-labeling programs include the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED certification, American Hotel & Lodging Association’s 11 Minimum Green Guidelines, Hotel Association of Canada’s Green Key, Green Seal, Energy Star, and others.
“Hotel guests are increasingly more conscious of the environmental impact of their hotel stays, and want to do business with hotels that share those same environmental values. Best Western’s new green hotels icon gives them the ability to patronize our green hotels,” said Ron Pohl, Best Western’s senior vice president of brand standards and member service.
To date, more than 220 of the brand’s 2,200 North American properties are eligible to display the icon. Pohl said the number is expected to grow quickly, as member hotels are implementing green measures at record pace.
Learn more about Best Western’s green efforts at www.bestwestern.com/green.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS™ and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN FALL HOTEL BONUS MULTIPLIES REWARDS
Stay Twice, Earn Double Rewards; CAA Members Earn Even More
PHOENIX (Sept. 12, 2011) – Starting today, Best Western, THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, is helping its members earn a free hotel night even faster. Between now and Nov. 20, members earn double rewards points for every second qualified stay when they register at www.bestwestern.com/fall. Elite members of Best Western Rewards can earn the bonus up to four times; non-elite members can earn the bonus twice.
That’s just the beginning. Rewards are increased as follows:
• If two stays are at two different brand descriptor hotels – including any combination of BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® – earn triple rewards on the second stay.
• CAA PreferredSM Best Western Rewards members also earn a one-time bonus of 1,000 points on their second stay.
• Those who pay for their first two qualified stays with a Best Western Rewards Platinum Plus MasterCard earn a one-time 1,000 points bonus.
“September means back to school, back to business travel and a great time to use Rewards points for travel deals,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Our fall promotion is a great way for our guests to earn a free night even faster.”
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs. It has the lowest redemption thresholds for awards, and is one of few loyalty programs that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card®, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline/partner rewards and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch ® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN AND MICHAEL WALTRIP RACING UNVEIL STOCKCAR RACING’S FIRST-EVER “TWEET CREW TEAM”
This First-of-its-Kind Team Will be Introduced Before the Sprint Cup Series Race at the Phoenix International Raceway on April 10, 2010
CORNELIUS, N.C. (March 25, 2010) – Best Western, The World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, in conjunction with Michael Waltrip Racing has developed stockcar racing’s first-ever “Tweet Crew Team, ”with three Twitter correspondents selected to cover the NASCAR race in Phoenix on April 10, 2010.
As part of a national “Tweet Crew Team” job search, fans were asked to submit an application, which included a link to a creative video or picture, to become a member of this historic team. Best Western and Michael Waltrip Racing received hundreds of applications from excited racing fans hoping to be one of three people chosen to travel to Phoenix and work as driver David Reutimann’s team of Twitter correspondents.
When Reutimann arrives at Phoenix International Raceway on Saturday, April 10, he’ll be followed by the newly-selected “Tweet Crew Team,” which includes Randall Martin, a father and longtime racing fan from Worcester, Mass., Rebecca Kivak, copy editor and avid NASCAR Tweeter from Plains, Penn., and Nancy Mills, an actress and contractor from Cordova, Tenn.
The Tweet Crew Team will spend the afternoon Tweeting about every twist and turn David makes on-and-off the track. Each “Tweet Crew Team” member will be provided with a smartphone that has camera capabilities to enable “Twitpics.”
“While my pit crew team will keep me racing during the Subway Fresh Fit 600 in Phoenix, our ‘Tweet Crew Team’ will put NASCAR fans in the middle of the action throughout the weekend,” said Reutimann. “Fans will get a driver’s perspective into everything that goes on behind-the-scenes at the racetrack, as well as a never-before-seen play-by-play of the race – from start to finish – on Twitter.”
The “Tweet Crew Team” will give racing fans a written play-by-play of the race in 140 characters or less via Twitter from the team’s different vantage points around the track. Fans can follow all the heart-pounding and intimate action by logging onto www.twitter.com and following the team at @tweetcrewteam.
Additionally, fans watching the race from home and following the “Tweet Crew Team” on Twitter will be given the chance to win prizes including official Best Western Racing and Michael Waltrip Racing gear, as well as earn Best Western Speed Rewards® points that can be redeemed for future hotel stays and a wide variety of merchandise.
One lucky Best Western Speed Rewards member, Best Western’s loyalty program for race fans, will also win a Best Western Travel Card® valued at $500.
As part of the promotional grand prize, the first-ever “Tweet Crew Team” will receive roundtrip airfare to Phoenix, hotel accommodations, local transportation, as well as a Best Western/Michael Waltrip Racing- branded team uniform and VIP access to the track for the race. The winners will also have the opportunity to join Michael Waltrip and David Reutimann in a race day press conference for the unveiling of the Best Western and Michael Waltrip Racing “Tweet Crew Team.”
“With our newly-formed Tweet Crew Team, we’re once again giving fans a unique opportunity to get closer to drivers Michael Waltrip and David Reutimann than ever before,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Our guests have come to count on Best Western to create integrated and exciting promotions that fully leverage our partnership with Michael Waltrip Racing and create one-of-a-kind experiences for the fans.”
To join Speed Rewards log onto www.bwracing.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT MICHAEL WALTRIP RACING
From its 140,000-square-foot shop in Cornelius, N.C., Michael Waltrip Racing fields Toyota Camrys in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for Waltrip, David Reutimann and Martin Truex Jr. as well as a NASCAR Nationwide entry for Trevor Bayne and a Camping World East Series entry for Ryan Truex. The team also maintains JTG-Daugherty’s No. 47 Toyota Camry driven by Marcos Ambrose. MWR began more than a decade ago as a modest family-owned NASCAR Nationwide Series team in Sherrills Ford, N.C. and has posted five NASCAR Nationwide victories. In 2007, MWR served as a flagship team for Toyota Racing Development, USA’s entry into both NASCAR Sprint Cup and NASCAR Nationwide competition. Reutimann earned MWR its first NASCAR Sprint Cup victory in May 2009 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. MWR announced the formation of Diamond-Waltrip Racing with majority owners Gary and Blake Bechtel for the 2010 season. The NASCAR Nationwide team will help develop young drivers for MWR’s Cup effort.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL OFFERS MOTORCYCLE TRAVELERS MORE THAN 1,200 RIDER-FRIENDLY® HOTEL OPTIONS WITHIN THE U.S. AND CANADA
The Best Western and Harley-Davidson exclusive rewards program – Best Western Ride Rewards® – Gives Harley-Davidson® Enthusiasts Savings and Benefits at all of the Chain’s “Rider-Friendly®” Hotels
PHOENIX (November 30, 2010) – Best Western International today announced its collection of rider-friendly properties has grown to more than 1,200 hotel locations throughout North America as part of the hotel chain’s multi-year agreement with Harley-Davidson.
These rider friendly hotels, searchable on www.bwrider.com and www.harley-davidson.com, offer motorcycle travelers and enthusiasts a host of amenities important to them including complimentary wipe-down towels, access to a cleaning station at the property and often times extra benefits such as reserved parking spaces, bottled water and lip balm.
“Best Western offers a hotel stay for every type of traveler and we’re proud to serve as the largest family of hotels to welcome those traveling on two wheels and ensure their unique needs are met consistently,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International.
Best Western also offers the industry’s only free loyalty program geared towards Harley-Davidson® enthusiasts, with registered members of Best Western Ride Rewards earning 10 points for every U.S. dollar spent on qualified room rates or 250 airline miles per qualified stay at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide. Motorcycle travelers can register for Best Western Ride Rewards by visiting www.bwrider.com or calling 1-888-BW2BIKE.
Upon registering for Ride Rewards online, riders automatically receive Gold Elite status, which includes 10 percent bonus points on every stay. H.O.G. ® Members receive even greater benefits as they are automatically upgraded to platinum elite status, giving them 15 percent bonus points on every stay, complimentary room upgrades when available, plus early check-in and late check-out if available.
As a complement to Ride Rewards, enthusiasts can also use Harley-Davidson’s Ride Planner to help map and plan rides, available at www.harley-davidson.com/Experience.
The tool also makes it easy to book a stay at a Best Western hotel by indicating where each is located in correlation to the trip being planned. Each hotel listing includes hotel descriptions along with a directory of services and amenities.
For more information on Ride Rewards and other features of the Best Western/Harley-Davidson partnership, visit www.bwrider.com or www.harley-davidson.com/Experience.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, BEST WESTERN has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, BEST WESTERN recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for BEST WESTERN in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN REWARDS MEMBERS TO DONATE POINTS FOR JAPAN EARTHQUAKE AND TSUNAMI RELIEF
Donations Targeted to World Vision, Best Western’s Official Charity Partner
PHOENIX (March 15, 2011) – Members of Best Western Rewards®, the company’s global frequent-stay program, can now contribute Rewards points to earthquake and tsunami relief efforts underway in Japan. Best Western Rewards members can go to www.bestwestern.com/japanrelief to make a donation of 4,000 points, equal to $15, or more to World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner.
“The scope of the devastation is heartbreaking, and Best Western is mobilizing to aid in this crisis,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International.
Best Western is the second-largest international hotel group in Japan. At this time, there have been no reports of guest or employee injuries or significant damage to any of the 13 Best Western hotels in the country.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BUSINESS TRAVEL REBOUNDING IN CANADA ACCORDING TO BEST WESTERN, GLOBAL BUSINESS TRAVEL ASSOCIATION AND HOTEL ASSOCIATION OF CANADA
Value Remains Crucial to Travellers, Best Western Product Descriptor Strategy Outlined at Annual Business Travel Summit
TORONTO (February 17, 2011) – The collective sentiment from travel industry executives from Best Western International, the Global Travel Association (GBTA) of Canada and The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) who recently gathered at the fifth annual Business Travel Summit is that the Canadian business travel market is rebounding and will continue to improve in 2011.
This annual panel discussion, moderated by YouMustBeTrippin.com travel blogger and Canadian travel expert Bryson Forbes, covered themes including 2011 travel trends, the importance of value for business travellers and corporations, the high cost of airfare in Canada and Best Western’s new descriptor program.
“The business traveller is back on the road, and the steady increase in hotel bookings we’re tracking is a positive indicator for heavier spring and summer travel,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Revenue at our hotels in Canada was up 21 percent in the fourth quarter in 2010 compared to the same period in 2009 and, looking to March and early April, advance bookings are up more than 20 percent for all provinces,” she added. According to Dowling, 60 percent of guests that stay at Best Western’s 186 hotels in Canada are business travellers.
Tanya Racz, president of the Global Business Travel Association of Canada, echoed the optimism for a business travel rebound in 2011. “The business travel future is bright – flight loads are up, hotel rates are remaining constant or showing moderate increases – all indications that point to signs of recovery,” said Racz. “The importance of face-to-face meetings is still there, and we’re seeing some recovery in the meetings segment too,” she added.
Tony Pollard, president of the HAC, cited the group’s recently released annual survey that 76 percent of Canadians who do travel for business said they’ll be travelling this year.
In addition to an uptick in business travel in 2011, another key theme throughout the panel discussion was the continued importance of value amongst travellers and corporations. “Even though we are moving out of the recession, value remains king, especially in the managed travel space,” said Dowling. “Corporate travel buyers are more discerning than ever before and have come to expect complimentary high speed Internet, breakfast and parking –all of which Best Western offers.”
Pollard seconds the importance of value saying, “Value is the number one thing people are looking for when booking travel.”
Another key theme discussed at the Summit was the increasing number of Canadians crossing the border into the U.S. to secure less expensive flights for U.S. and foreign travel. In fact, the HAC found that 21 percent of Canadians would cross the border by car for a cheaper airline ticket.
“There is the potential for almost one third of Canadian travellers to spend money on foreign airline tickets, as Canadian air carriers are at a distinct disadvantage and cannot offer the airfare prices to match those in the U.S.,” said Pollard. “This growing trend has serious consequences for the Canadian travel industry and needs to be addressed via the reduction of airport fees, travel security costs and airline surcharges.”
Rounding out the topics, Dowling spoke to Best Western’s official launch of its descriptor program, which gives its member hoteliers the option to identify their properties as BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® or BEST WESTERN PREMIER®. Approved in April 2010, the program was implemented to help guests find the right Best Western hotel for each trip, to increase guest satisfaction, and to drive superior revenue to all Best Western hotels.
“Because Best Western is the most diverse hotel brand, it’s important that we make it clear to our guests what they can expect in terms of amenities and services at each of our hotels, before they check-in,” said Dowling.
Additionally, a new advertising campaign highlighting descriptors and a new tagline – the World’s Biggest Hotel FamilySM – was previewed, prior to its February 6 launch.
To receive an audio recording of the panel discussion, please send your name, organization and return email address to Meghan@allisonpr.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT GBTA
The Global Business Travel Association(GBTA) is the world’s premier business travel and meetings organization. Collectively, GBTA’s 5,000-plus members manage over $340 billion of global business travel and meetings expenditures annually. GBTA provides its network of 17,000 business and government travel and meetings managers, as well as travel service providers, with networking events, news, education & professional development, research, and advocacy. For more information, visit gbta.org.
ABOUT HAC
The Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) is a professional industry association representing the lodging industry in Canada. Its membership encompasses the provincial and territorial hotel associations, the corporate hotel chains, independent hotels, motels and resorts and the many suppliers to the hotel industry. HAC’s objective is to assist both its national and international members as they endeavour to enhance their competitiveness and achieve their bottom line. The HAC accomplishes this through advocacy, the collection and dissemination of information, research, education, and operational support services designed to assist its members. The Hotel Association of Canada represents more than 8,400 hotels, motels and resorts across Canada www.hotelassociation.ca.
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BEST WESTERN BONUS TO JUMPSTART REWARDS MEMBERS’ SUMMER VACATIONS
Stay Twice this Spring, Earn $50 Toward Summer Travel
PHOENIX (April 5, 2010) – The World’s Largest Hotel Chain® is giving its Best Western Rewards® loyalty program members a head start on paying for their summer vacations. Now through May 30, registered members who stay two times will earn a $50 Best Western Travel Card®, which can be used like cash at any of the chain’s 4,000 global hotels.
Best Western is layering on a 250-point bonus for those who book their stays on www.bestwestern.com and a 1,000-point bonus for those who pay for each of their qualified stays with the Best Western Rewards MasterCard® issued by Barclaycard.
Elite members of Best Western Rewards who register and complete two qualified stays during the promotional period are automatically entered into a sweepstakes to win 100,000 Best Western Rewards bonus points – enough for up to 12 free room nights.
“Summer vacations are just around the corner, so we are giving our loyal customers the opportunity to leverage their spring travel to pay for a fun summer getaway,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “With the value offered at Best Western’s hotels, a $50 Travel Card goes a long way toward making a summer vacation affordable.”
All bonus awards – including the $50 Travel Card, online booking bonus and MasterCard bonus – are capped at one bonus per Best Western Rewards member.
To be eligible, guests must register at bestwesternrewards.com/jump, reside in North America, South America, Asia, South Africa, Israel, Egypt or the Ukraine and be members of Best Western Rewards. Qualified stays can be made at any Best Western hotel worldwide. Individuals who are not already members may join the program and register prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free. To join Best Western Rewards, visit bestwesternrewards.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN REWARDS
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western’s Family Travel Expert Names Top 12 Family Destinations For 2012
Top Travel Spots Nationwide Boast Budget-Friendly Attractions and Notable Accommodations for Families
PHOENIX (Oct. 14, 2011) – As another year comes to a close, families are making New Year’s resolutions to stay on a budget – but not at the expense of losing fun-filled family vacations, according to Amy Graff, independent family travel expert for Best Western International and senior editor for the award-winning blog, On the Go with Amy.
In 2012, families will be looking for budget-friendly travel spots with local attractions like national parks, museums with free or discounted days and hotels with kid-friendly amenities, such as pools and playgrounds. To help families plan memorable and budget-conscious vacations, Graff released today her Top 12 Destinations for Family Travel for 2012 list with tips for how to enjoy an affordable getaway.
“Families are eager to trade in the interstate for one of North America’s iconic routes to create lasting family travel memories starting next year,” Graff said. “Whether traveling along Route 66 or across the Trans-Canada Highway, expect families to become creative in the way they approach travel and visit cities and attractions that entice a sense of nostalgia for grownups and deliver new adventures for kids.”
Graff’s Top 12 Destinations for Family Travel list includes the following cities (listed in alphabetical order):
Bainbridge, Wash.
A short 35 minute ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island offers family the beauty and culture of the Pacific Northwest in a quiet waterfront setting. Nestled among forested hills and quiet harbors, the BEST WESTERN PLUS Bainbridge Island Suites is tucked in the Washington State wilderness, but is still convenient to many free local attractions, including walking along the beautiful Bloedel Reserve or biking through one of the surrounding state parks.
Bloomington, Minn.
Home to the Mall of America, Bloomington is the ideal destination during stormy winter months when it can be most difficult to find ways to keep kids entertained. Escape the rain and snow with a trip to Nickelodeon Universe, the country’s largest indoor amusement park. Budget-savvy families can take advantage of online coupon sites, like Groupon and Living Social, to maximize retail and local attraction deals. For free entertainment, BEST WESTERN PLUS Bloomington Hotel offers two indoor pools and a water playland for guests of all ages.
Clayton, N.M.
As the first town on the Santa Fe Trail, Clayton has a variety of free outdoor recreational and learning activities. See more than 500 real dinosaur tracks and fossils along the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail and get a rare chance to walk inside an actual volcano crater at Capulin Volcano National Park . The BEST WESTERN Kokopelli Lodge offers guests Southwestern hospitality with easy access to outdoor adventures, including hiking, swimming, fishing, golf, archery and tennis.
Fort Walton Beach, Fla.
Forgo the crowds and cost of Miami and find beach solace in family- and budget-friendly Fort Walton Beach. With sparkling sands and crystal blue water, Fort Walton Beach visitors can break from fun in the sun with visits to the Air Force Armament Museum and Indian Temple Mound Museum to see more than 6,000 ancient Native American artifacts. Located along the beachfront, the BEST WESTERN Fort Walton Beachfront hotel is centrally located near seasonal festivals, snorkeling and playing in the sand.
Fredericksburg, Va.
Cross off visiting America’s most historic monuments from the family bucket list with a trip to Fredericksburg, located just an hour outside of Washington, D.C. Take the family on a spooky historical journey with a Ghosts of Fredericksburg walk and visit Ferry Farm , George Washington’s boyhood home, which offers dozens of seasonal activities. The BEST WESTERN Fredericksburg hotel is located near fun family activities like canoeing down the Rappahannock River or taking a horse-drawn carriage tour of historic sites.
Helena, Mont.
Take a nostalgic trip to Helena’s famous Parrot Candy Store, featuring more than 130 mouthwatering types of candy and an old fashioned soda shop for a price reminiscent of the “good ol’ days.” Or give kids a hands-on science lesson at Exploration Works, which offers free admission on select days. The BEST WESTERN PREMIER Helena Great Northern Hotel is also steps away from the world-famous Great Northern Carousel.
Houston, Texas
They say everything is bigger in Texas, but the cost of some of Houston’s best attractions is anything but. From the Downtown Downtown Landry’s Aquarium to the Space Center Houston, where visitors can watch astronauts and engineers in training, Houston is the ideal setting for families looking to have big fun without a big price tag. Located in the heart of downtown and within walking distance to more than a dozen kid-centric attractions, BEST WESTERN PLUS Downtown Suites is the perfect hotel for budget-conscious families seeking to discover everything that Houston has to offer.
Manchester, N.H.
The largest city in New Hampshire, Manchester is a bustling urban center in quiet New England. Children under 18-years-old can experience fine art by Pablo Picasso and Georgia O’Keefe for free at the famed Currier Museum of Art or enjoy tractor and pony rides at Charmingfare Farm . Close to the White Mountain Region ski area and Hampton Beach, The BEST WESTERN PLUS Executive Court Inn & Conference Center is a picturesque and affordable New England winter or summer getaway for the entire family.
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
Beloved by thousands of visitors and inhabitants alike for the unparalleled variety of its climate and landscape, the Okanagan Valley has something for everyone. For a special wildlife-viewing experience Vaseux Lake Provincial Park, hit the ski trails at Silver Star, Big White, or Apex, or step back into the Okangan’s history on the fully restored S.S. Sicamous Steam Paddlewheeeler. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint in style, visit the BEST WESTERN PLUS Kelowna Hotel & Suites, Okanagan Valley’s award-winning “green” hotel.
Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
The birthplace of French America, Quebec is one of the world's most beautiful cities with the district of Old Quebec City recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Treasure. Home to the world’s largest winter carnival each February, the Quebec Winter Carnival, where a $13 (CAD) ticket buys access to all 17 days of the event. Quebec also hosts the Quebec City Summer Festival in July. BEST WESTERN Hotel L'Aristocrate is less than 15 minutes from the celebrated Battlefields Park, which hosts the winter carnival and summer festival each year.
Salt Lake City, Utah
With its gorgeous setting between the Wasatch Mountains and Great Salt Lake, Salt Lake City is a prime destination for outdoorsy families looking for affordable skiing, hiking and biking. Take a break from the outdoor adventures and visit the new, state–of-the-art Utah Museum of Natural History opening in late 2011. BEST WESTERN PLUS Cotton Tree Inn is close to the Lagoon Amusement Park and the Energy Solutions Arena with kid-friendly concerts and fairs.
San Simeon, Calif.
Home to the famed Hearst Castle, San Simeon offers beauty and tranquility along California’s stunning Central Coast. As you wind your way down scenic Highway 1, take the chance to watch elephant seals at Piedras Blancas. Located just three miles from Hearst Castle, the BEST WESTERN PLUS Cavalier Oceanfront Resort is San Simeon's only oceanfront hotel and is a short drive to neighboring Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo.
ABOUT ONTHEGOWITHAMY.COM
OnTheGoWithAmy.com was created to celebrate the joys of travel and everything that goes with it – from flat tires and screaming children in the backseat to an amazing view of the New York skyline at the top the Empire State Building. Seasoned travel expert and journalist Amy Graff takes readers on the road with her husband and two children, her girlfriends and sometimes alone. With more than a dozen years of experience as a travel editor and writer, Amy most recently served as a senior editor at VIA, a travel magazine that reaches more than three million members of the American Automobile Association. Prior, she was a contributor to Bay Area regional lifestyle magazines including Diablo and San Francisco. In addition to serving as a contributing columnist for Best Western, Amy writes for Sunset Custom Publishing and serves as the community manager for the San Francisco Chronicle's new parenting site, Bay Area Moms, for which she writes The Mommy Files blog.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN AND MICHAEL WALTRIP RACING TO GIVE BACK TO THOSE WHO SERVE WITH FIRST EVER “FAN SWAP” FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL
Member of U.S. or Canadian Military Will Win a Visit to Michael Waltrip Racing Headquarters in Charlotte & VIP Trip to Richmond Race with Racing Team
PHOENIX (July 28, 2011) – As a way to show appreciation for the brave men and women of the U.S. and Canadian military, Best Western International and Michael Waltrip Racing have launched their annual “Fan Swap” contest, which this year is open exclusively to active and retired members of the armed forces.
The contest will select one lucky serviceman or woman to receive a one-of-a-kind stock car racing experience. The winner and a guest will travel to Cornelius, N.C. to spend the day with two-time Daytona 500® champion Michael Waltrip as well as travel with his team to the races in Richmond, Va. the weekend of September 9.
The service person who wins the “Fan Swap” will have a chance to:
• “Swap” jobs with Michael Waltrip in Cornelius, N.C. on Thursday, September 8
• Spend an afternoon exploring the behind-the-scenes, inner workings of Michael Waltrip Racing at the team’s headquarters
• Have lunch with Michael Waltrip and driver David Reutimann
• Travel to Richmond, Va. the weekend of September 9 as a member of the No. 00 Michael Waltrip Racing team and shadow David Reutimann and/or Michael Waltrip during their appearances on race day
• Get as close to the action as possible with a tour of pit row and a seat in the pit box
This “Fan Swap” experience includes roundtrip airfare, Best Western hotel accommodations and transportation for the winner and a guest. To complete the swap, Waltrip will travel to the winner’s hometown or base at a later date and “work” as they would for an afternoon, meeting with their friends and family and interacting with fellow soldiers.
“We’ve dedicated this year’s annual "Fan Swap" to the heroes who put their lives on the line every day for their country,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Having the opportunity to show our appreciation and bring them closer to one of their heroes, Michael Waltrip, is truly a privilege.”
The military “Fan Swap” contest begins Thursday, July 28 and ends Friday, August 19. Entry is open to any active or retired military member. Family members, friends, colleagues and community members are encouraged to nominate a deserving military service man or woman.
The entry form at www.bestwestern.com/fanswap must be filled out in its entirety and includes information such as the entrant’s branch of military, if they are active or retired, current job description and name of base (if applicable). Additionally, those nominating a military member must share why the entrant should be awarded the “Fan Swap,” if they are a race and/or Michael Waltrip fan, and any other anecdotes in the allotted space in the entry form. The winner will be chosen based on their eligibility and the strength of their entry. Once selected, the winner must show a military ID to redeem the prize.
“Best Western’s ‘Fan Swap’ is one of my favorite events to support annually and I’m honored for the opportunity to switch jobs with a member of the military and support their efforts even for just a day,” said Waltrip. “I hope the winner knows just how much fun we are going to have and what an honor it will be for me to work side-by-side with them and show all that goes into running a professional race team.”
For official rules and to enter, visit www.bestwestern.com/fanswap.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN BRINGS BACK 10-HOUR “COUNTDOWN TO SAVINGS” PROMOTION
PHOENIX (March 9, 2009) – Due to the tremendous response to Best Western’s “Countdown to Savings” 10-hour sale in February, The World’s Largest Hotel Chain is bringing back the discount extravaganza. From Monday, March 9, through Friday, March 13, a new “Countdown to Savings” clock will alert visitors when the two-hour window to book travel will begin. The specials, which will only be available through www.bestwestern.com, will be offered at properties highlighted in categories such as “popular spring break destinations,” “most walker-friendly cities” and “sports fan havens,” among others.
On Monday, folks can put spring break back on the calendar with exclusive bargains to popular spring break destinations including Cabo San Lucas, Lake Havasu, Ariz., and Fort Lauderdale, Fla. On Tuesday, Best Western will feature deals to North America’s most walker-friendly cities as listed by walkscore.com. Among these are San Francisco, Chicago and Nashville, Tenn. Wednesday will feature savings to popular family-friendly destinations such as Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Hershey, Penn., and San Antonio, Texas, while on Thursday, sports fans can score a great deal to see their favorite team on an away game. Friday will round out the week of savings with a “grab bag” of family-friendly packages that will include tickets to local events and attractions at dozens of cities across the U.S. and Canada.
“The overwhelmingly positive response to our first “Countdown to Savings” initiative highlighted the fact that travelers love finding good deals, and we’re happy to help fulfill their desires,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Everyone deserves a vacation and we’re excited to offer them the opportunity to take one without breaking the bank.”
For those who visit the Best Western Web site outside the “Countdown to Savings” daily promotion window, a message will advise them as to when the next offer will be available.
These special Internet-only deals will be based on hotel availability. To view them, guests can visit www.bestwestern.com/countdown beginning March 9. Most reservations booked through the Countdown will be prepaid, though guests can obtain refunds for any reservation that’s canceled seven or more days prior to arrival.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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A New Hotel Joins the Best Western Family in Ireland
BEST WESTERN PLUS Ballina Manor Hotel, Co. Mayo
The BEST WESTERN PLUS Ballina Manor Hotel, Ballina, Co. Mayo is a family run quality hotel on the River Moy in the centre of bustling Ballina, County Mayo.
The BEST WESTERN PLUS Ballina Manor Hotel offers 65 beautiful rooms - all furnished to the highest standards. The hotel offers complimentary WIFI, car parking and mineral water in rooms, a dedicated business centre, weekend entertainment and lots more.
Sinead Costello, General Manager of the BEST WESTERN PLUS Ballina Manor Hotel when asked about their decision to join Best Western said: `We are delighted to join the Best Western family which we believe will expand dramatically our visibility to international markets!`
The BEST WESTERN PLUS Ballina Manor Hotel is situated on the banks of one of the most famous salmon angling venues in the world, the River Moy. The Hotel is ideally placed for experienced angler`s or an enthusiastic beginner.
This Hotel is truly a fantastic location for conferences, meetings, or seminars. The Hotel offers Modern & Spacious Superior Meeting Facilities and can cater up for to 300 delegates.
A perfect venue for that special day! The BEST WESTERN PLUS Ballina Manor Hotel has years of experience in hosting and planning weddings in Ireland. The Hotel offers many wedding packages to suit all needs catering for up to 120 guests.
Best Western is delighted to welcome The BEST WESTERN PLUS Ballina Manor Hotel into the family in the West of Ireland.
www.bestwestern.com/ie/PLUSBallinaManorHotel
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™, and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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BEST WESTERN® HOTELS: STAY TWICE THIS SUMMER, EARN A FREE NIGHT VOUCHER
Best Western also offering a chance to Win Dance Party with star of Disney’s Camp Rock 2 The Final Jam
PHOENIX (June 21, 2010) – Best Western is giving travelers, teens and tweens just what they need for a fun Summer Vacation: a free hotel night and the chance to win an exclusive dance party with a star of Disney’s Camp Rock 2 The Final Jam.
“Families are back on the road this summer, and we know they look to Best Western for value and fun,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “We’re offering free nights, a sweepstakes with Disney and Camp Rock collectible key cards that they can’t get anywhere else – all this is in addition to swimming pools, free high speed Internet, free parking and free breakfast at most of our properties.”
By staying two separate times at Best Western hotels between June 20 and August 15, members of Best Western Rewards® (the chain’s free loyalty program) can earn a free night voucher toward their next stay, which can be used at any Best Western hotel in the United States or Canada. Learn more and register for the promotion at www.bestwestern.com/summer. This promotion also includes a 250-point bonus for booking online at www.bestwestern.com and a 1,000-point bonus for those who pay for their qualified stays with the Best Western Rewards World MasterCard®.
Best Western is partnering with Disney Media Sales and Marketing on “Camp Rock 2 The Final Jam” starring Demi Lovato, the Jonas Brothers and Alyson Stoner, and will reward one fan with a dance party for 40 guests at a nearby Best Western with an appearance and choreography taught by teen star Alyson Stoner (“Camp Rock,” “Phineas and Ferb”).
Fans can enter the sweepstakes from June 20 through August 15 at www.disney.com/dancepartysweeps or by texting the word “BEST” to DISNEY (347639). In addition to the grand prize, Best Western and Disney are giving away 100 $50 Best Western Travel Cards®, redeemable at any of the chain’s 4,000 global hotels.
Select Best Western hotels also will be giving away collectible Camp Rock key cards to guests. In addition to unlocking the guestroom, each key card will have a code that unlocks exclusive behind the scenes content of the Camp Rock 2 The Final Jam soundtrack releasing August 10. Five different cards, each featuring a star from the movie, will be distributed throughout the summer.
"Camp Rock 2 The Final Jam" premieres Friday, September 3 (8:00 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney Channel.
One free-night voucher can be earned per person; elite members of Best Western Rewards can earn up to two vouchers. Vouchers expire December 25, 2010. The promotion is open to Best Western Rewards members in the United States, Canada and Caribbean.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated Best Western, Best Western PlusTM and Best Western Premier® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About Disney Media Sales and Marketing
Disney Media Advertising Sales and Marketing Group is the advertising sales and promotions team for Disney's kids- and family-focused businesses, and creates cross-platform sponsorship and advertising sales opportunities spanning Disney Channel, Playhouse Disney, Disney XD, ABC Kids, Disney.com, Radio Disney and Disney Family Fun magazine.
MasterCard is a registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated.
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BEST WESTERN INTRODUCES NEW MOBILE SITE FOR REWARDS MEMBERS
Best Western Rewards mobile site caters to windshield warriors and
allows travelers to manage their Rewards from the road
PHOENIX (September 6, 2011) – Best Western International introduced a new mobile site that allows the nearly 13 million Best Western Rewards® members to manage their profiles, review their balances and redeem points for travel and merchandise, all from their smartphones.
Travelers interested in joining Best Western Rewards can also do so through the new mobile site, www.BestWestern2go.com, as well as review current offers and book future travel to more than 4,000 Best Western hotels in 90 countries.
“We’re seeing that booking windows continue to shrink, as more windshield warriors manage their travel plans through their smartphones,” said Tammy Lucas, managing director of marketing programs for Best Western International. “We are committed to providing the mobile channels and applications that travelers value so that they can dream, shop and share travel through our brand.”
Best Western Rewards points, which can be earned at any of the brand’s global hotels, can be redeemed for free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card®, dining, shopping, gas cards, airline miles and more.
The Best Western Rewards mobile site is a complement to the brand’s primary mobile site – www.BestWestern2go.com and the free “Best Western to Go” application for iPad, iPhone and Android. The mobile site and application allow travelers to find and book reservations at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN RACKS UP AWARDS FROM INDUSTRY PEERS FOR INNOVATION, SERVICES, AND OUTREACH IN 2011
Best Western Recognized as AAA and CAA’s Preferred Travel Partner of the Year
and One of Nine Global COLLOQUY Loyalty Award Winners
(PHOENIX) October 27, 2011— Best Western International, THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, has been collecting awards for its trophy case in 2011 from partners and industry associations, highlighted by the American Automobile Association’s (AAA) Preferred “Hotel Partner of the Year,” the Canadian Automobile Association’s (CAA) “Partner of the Year,” and a Gold COLLOQUY Loyalty Award recognizing the brand’s global Best Western Rewards program and its “Status Match No Catch” initiative.
The global hotel brand has also been recognized by industry peers with the following awards:
• AAA’s “Hotel Partner of the Year,” along with AAA’s “Best of Sales Support” and “Best of Marketing” within the hotel category
• Six Adrian Awards, awarded by the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association (HSMAI) for excellence in public relations, advertising and social media
• Ten Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, including Gold Magellan Awards in recognition for the brand’s Independent Films series, the brand’s 2011 television commercial, the brand advertising campaign and its Mapquest.com takeover to launch product descriptors
“These awards affirm our industry leadership position and confirms that we provide our hoteliers the strategic support they need so they can focus on providing their guests with an exceptional travel experience,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “The unique structure of our organization allows our member hotels to maintain their individuality while keeping them committed to a high standard of excellence. Ultimately, travelers know that with Best Western they will be able to find a quality hotel to meet their needs and taste.”
Best Western was named “Hotel Partner of the Year” by both AAA for the third consecutive year. Additionally, Best Western won overall “Partner of the Year” from CAA.
Best Western was also one of only nine brands to be awarded with a COLLOQUY Loyalty Award, one of the world’s premier global loyalty awards, earning recognition within the “Loyalty Innovation in Travel – North America” category. Best Western joins Coca Cola, American Express, FedEx and Sears, as award winners in 2011.
For more information on Best Western, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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INDUSTRY LEADERS FROM BEST WESTERN, SOUTHWEST AIRLINES AND MASTERCARD ADDRESS RECESSION’S IMPACT ON BUSINESS TRAVEL
Industry’s “New Normal” Leads to Increased Usage of Loyalty Points, Expense Management Programs, and Value-Added Goods and Services that Help Curtail Costs
NEW YORK (February 17, 2009) – Travel industry executives representing Best Western International, Southwest Airlines and MasterCard Worldwide recently convened for the third annual Business Travel Summit for a discussion of the recession’s impact on business travel. The roundtable, moderated by business travel expert Chris McGinnis, also provided tips for companies and individual business travelers to reign in expenses in a down economy.
According to Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western, though business travelers are employing a number of techniques to control costs and reduce spending, they are opting for shorter trips rather than canceling travel across the board. In addition, more companies are looking to mid-market hotels for corporate travel to streamline costs, where chains including Best Western incorporate all-inclusive pricing.
“Business travelers who have been nickel and dimed at upscale and luxury hotels for amenities such as Internet access, breakfast and parking are now coming through our doors more than ever before,” Dowling said. “This positions Best Western favorably with corporate travel managers and individual business travelers who are looking to aggressively cut costs any way possible.”
BUSINESS-TO-BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS
Travel brands are using the economic slowdown to grow business-to-business relationships in an effort to provide new value-added services to their customers. Southwest Airlines and Best Western recently announced a partnership that provides Best Western Rewards members the opportunity to earn Rapid Rewards credits for each qualifying hotel stay.
“Our partnership with Best Western comes at an ideal time for travelers eager to control spending while still hitting the road to maintain personal relationships with their clients,” said Linda Rutherford, vice president of communications and strategic outreach for Southwest Airlines.
EXPENSE MANAGEMENT TOOLS
Rutherford said Southwest’s corporate booking tool SWABIZ continues to attract business travelers. SWABIZ offers Customers a wide range of tools that help road warriors efficiently plan, book and purchase business travel.
George Zilvetti, vice president, co-brand development for MasterCard Worldwide, said even though the weak economy has led to a smaller number of people to view business trips as perk-filled experiences, several simple steps can be taken to minimize inconveniences.
“Small business travelers can reduce costs and receive perks such as rental car upgrades and cash back for purchases, while also eliminating certain fees for checked bags that some airlines have implemented,” he said. “Some of these cards also provide the technology which eases the expense management process, thereby giving travel managers better control over their employees' expenses.”
LOYALTY PROGRAMS
Increasingly, business travelers are taking advantage of loyalty programs and associated benefits, which allow them to take business trips that might have otherwise been cancelled. Best Western has tracked record numbers of loyalty point redemption in the past several months, with a 23 percent year-over-year increase in 2008. Free night award redemption jumped to a 36 percent year-over-year increase during December 2008 and January 2009 alone.
Companies continue to work hard to provide business travelers with more convenience and rewards when on the road. For example, Southwest Airlines introduced Rapid Rewards Dining, which gives business travelers more ways to accrue and use credits when flying on Southwest. The airline recently added the enhancement to its loyalty program, allowing its Members to earn credits when dining at more than 9,000 restaurants, bars and clubs across North America.
To receive a podcast of the session, send your name, organization and return email address to krista.hinz@bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information, visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES
Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience. Southwest offers a very comfortable ride with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom with a young all Boeing 737 fleet. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 64 cities (with service to Minneapolis/St. Paul starting in March 2009) in 32 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.
ABOUT MASTERCARD WORLDWIDE
MasterCard Worldwide advances global commerce by providing a critical economic link among financial institutions, businesses, cardholders and merchants worldwide. As a franchisor, processor and advisor, MasterCard develops and markets payment solutions, processes approximately 21 billion transactions each year, and provides industry-leading analysis and consulting services to financial institution customers and merchants. Through its family of brands, including MasterCard®, Maestro® and Cirrus®, MasterCard serves consumers and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. For more information go to www.mastercard.com.
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“ELECTRIFYING” END TO BEST WESTERN’S ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” CHARITY AUCTION GENERATES A FINAL BID OF MORE THAN $2,500
“Fan Swap” Auction Winner David Emery Prepares to Take the Reins of Michael Waltrip Racing for a Day; Two-Time Daytona 500 Winner Michael Waltrip Will Travel to New Jersey to Work as an Electrical Engineer
PHOENIX (September 2, 2010) – A key component for winning race cars is a high-performing electrical system and Michael Waltrip Racing team owner and professional driver Michael Waltrip will get a firsthand look at complex electrical hardware, when he travels to New Jersey to “swap” jobs with the winner of the third annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction this fall.
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BEST WESTERN INTRODUCES IPHONE APP, CHAIN’S FIRST IN SERIES OF MOBILE APPLICATIONS
Free Application Allows Travelers to Research and Book Best Westerns Worldwide, Personalize Trips with Stored Travel Activities and Keep Friends and Family Updated Along the Way
PHOENIX (December 23, 2009) – Best Western International today announced its debut in mobile offerings with the unveiling of its free iPhone application, titled “Best Western to Go.”
“Best Western to Go” features include:
•Search and Book: Find and book reservations at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels in over 80 countries worldwide.
•Program:Create an itinerary and input addresses of attractions and restaurants. Once these have been entered, users can easily find their location using the app’s GPS-enabled map.
•Personalize:Capture and categorize favorite locations in specific destinations. Travelers can also upload photos and descriptions to remember the locale.
•Socialize:Stay connected with family and friends by sharing an experience, such as a lunch at a kitschy diner or a souvenir purchase. Travelers can push this information directly from the app to their Facebook page, email or to other iPhone users.
The “Best Western to Go” iPhone application marks a first for the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, which plans to launch applications for multiple mobile platforms in 2010 that cater to the growing number of travelers staying connected via smart phones.
“We pride ourselves on being available to travelers no matter their location, which is why mobile accessibility was a natural next step for us,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western. “We can now be even more of a resource for our guests, particularly those who are making decisions on the fly.”
Best Western plans to unveil multiple upgrades to its iPhone application throughout 2010, as well as introduce applications for other mobile platforms including Blackberry® and Android™. The hotel chain will work closely with application users to incorporate helpful features that best meet their travel needs.
The free “Best Western to Go” iPhone application can be downloaded at either www.bestwestern.com/iphone or www.itunes.com/app/bestwesterninternational.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley-Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN PREMIER GRAND CANYON SQUIRE INN EARNS BRAND’S “BEST WESTERN PREMIER®” DESCRIPTOR
New Name Signifies Brand’s Most Refined Amenities and Comfort
Grand Canyon, AZ (December 6, 2011) -The former BEST WESTERN Grand Canyon Squire Inn is now the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Grand Canyon Squire Inn, after earning the “BEST WESTERN PREMIER” descriptor from the World’s Biggest Hotel FamilySM. The descriptors, launched in 2010, give Best Western hotels the opportunity to earn the “BEST WESTERN PLUS®” or “BEST WESTERN PREMIER” designation by meeting specific design and amenity guidelines. “BEST WESTERN PREMIER” represents an upscale hotel with a refined level of comfort and courtesy for business and leisure travelers.
“No two Best Western hotels are alike, so these new descriptors will help our guests choose the right hotel for their needs from among the brand’s 2,200 North American properties,” said David Kong, Best Western International president and CEO. “Hotels that earn the ‘Premier’ descriptor typically have a 3-plus Diamond rating from AAA, and have a distinct and memorable style, often influenced by their local region.”
With 250 guestrooms and personalized guest services such as Park Passes upon check-in and a scenic air tour of the Grand Canyon, the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Grand Canyon Squire Inn is an ideal place to stay, whether for relaxing vacation or for an important business meeting. The hotel is located at the entrance to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park, at 74 State Route 64.
“Our team has worked hard to provide a hotel experience eligible for the ‘Best Western Premier’ designation,” said Mr. Greg Bryan, general manager of the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Grand Canyon Squire Inn. “We offer the great service and value that Best Western is known for, with a truly upscale experience at the incomparable Grand Canyon.”
Guests who stay at the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Grand Canyon Squire Inn can join and earn rewards from Best Western Rewards, one of the hotel industry’s most generous hotel loyalty
programs. Members can earn rewards that can be redeemed for free room nights around the globe with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Membership is free.
To learn more or book a room at the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Grand Canyon Squire Inn, visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Expands Portfolio
Since January 2010, 21 new properties have joined The World’s Biggest Hotel FamilySM in Germany. The number of Best Western hotels in Germany has increased to 189.
ESCHBORN, GERMANY (March 2011) –Best Western Hotels of Germany continues to expand their portfolio. Since 2010, 17 new hotels have been added to the portfolio and four more have already joined The World’s Biggest Hotel FamilySM in 2011. Of the 21 new properties, three have been named BEST WESTERN PREMIER, which is the premium category for Best Western. Best Western now provides 189 independently owned and operated hotels in all main touristic spots and key cities in Germany.
The newly-added hotels include:
BEST WESTERN PREMIER Grand Hotel Russischer Hof, Weimar (Thuringia)
BEST WESTERN Parkhotel Weingarten, Ravensburg/Weingarten (Baden-Wuerttemberg)
BEST WESTERN Nordic Hotel Ambiente, Hannover-Langenhagen (Lower Saxony)
BEST WESTERN Plazahotel Stuttgart-Ditzingen, Ditzingen (Baden-Wuerttemberg)
BEST WESTERN Plazahotel Stuttgart-Filderstadt, Filderstadt (Baden-Wuerttemberg)
BEST WESTERN Hotel des Nordens, Harrislee/Flensburg (Schleswig Holstein)
BEST WESTERN Hotel Aurora, Hessdorf/Erlangen (Bavaria)
BEST WESTERN Grand City Hotel Halle, Halle (Saxony-Anhalt)
BEST WESTERN Grand City Hotel Bremen, Achim-Uphusen (Bremen)
BEST WESTERN Hotel Heide, Oldenburg (Lower Saxony)
BEST WESTERN Grand City Hotel Quedlinburg, Quedlinburg (Lower Saxony)
BEST WESTERN Grand City Hotel Rosenheim, Rosenheim (Bavaria)
BEST WESTERN Hotel Rastatt, Rastatt(Baden-Wuerttemberg)
BEST WESTERN Grand City Hotel Bad Oldesloe, Bad Oldesloe (Schleswig-Holstein)
BEST WESTERN Parkhotel Ropeter, Goettingen (Lower Saxony)
BEST WESTERN PREMIER Hotel Moa Berlin, Berlin (Berlin)
BEST WESTERN Hotel Favorit, Ludwigsburg (Baden-Wuerttemberg)
BEST WESTERN Hotel Weisses Lamm, Veitshoechheim (Bavaria)
BEST WESTERN Hotel Dasing-Augsburg, Dasing (Bavaria)
BEST WESTERN PREMIER Schloss Reichmannsdorf, Schluesselfeld (Bavaria)
BEST WESTERN Bierkulturhotel Schwanen, Ehingen (Baden-Wuerttemberg)
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN REWARDS® MEMBERS NOW OFFERED OPTION TO PURCHASE HARLEY OWNERS GROUP® (H.O.G. ®) MEMBERSHIP USING LOYALTY POINTS
Best Western Ride RewardsSM Loyalty Program Offers Savings and Benefits for Riding Enthusiasts at More Than 1,300 “Rider-Friendly®” Hotels
PHOENIX (April 14, 2010) – Best Western International today announced that members of its loyalty program, Best Western Rewards®, now have the ability to purchase Harley Owners Group® (H.O.G. ®) memberships with loyalty points.
H.O.G. is the largest factory-sponsored motorcycle club in the world. Best Western Rewards members can now enroll or renew the following H.O.G. memberships in the U.S. and Canada with point values ranging from just 6,250 to 37,120.
•H.O.G. Membership – Full Member: One, two or three-year membership
•H.O.G. Membership – Associate Member: One, two or three-year membership
H.O.G. members are automatically upgraded to platinum elite status within the Best Western and Harley-Davidson® exclusive rewards program – Best Western Ride RewardsSM , giving them 15 percent more bonus points for every qualified stay, plus complimentary room upgrades and early check-in and late check-out, if available. Members also earn the ability to save 10 percent or more with the Harley-Davidson rate. Following is a sampling of additional benefits and services available to Full H.O.G. members:
•Discounts and enhanced travel benefits through Best Western Ride Rewards. More than 1,300 Best Western hotels in North America offer rider-friendly services. Guests will have access to a host of amenities , such as complimentary wipe-down rags and access to a washing station at check-in. Additionally, some hotels offer extra benefits, including reserved parking spaces, bottled water and lip balm.
•H.O.G. America's Touring Handbook, which provides dealer information and locations across North America
•Safe Rider Skills reimbursement of up to $50 in the form of a coupon
•H.O.G. Roadside Assistance Standard Package: especially for motorcycle towing
•Harley-Davidson Insurance that includes money-saving discounts
•Subscription to HOG® magazine
•H.O.G. Fly & Ride motorcycle rentals
•Invites to local, state and national events and rallies
•Members-only access to members.hog.com
•And much more! Please visit www.hog.com for more information.
Harley-Davidson owners or enthusiasts can register for Best Western and Harley-Davidson’s exclusive rewards program Best Western Ride Rewards by visiting www.bwrider.com or calling 1-888-BW2BIKE. Once registered, members earn 10 points for every U.S. dollar spent on qualified room rates or 250 airline miles per qualified stay at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
As a complement to Ride Rewards, enthusiasts can also use Harley-Davidson’s Ride Planner to help map and plan rides, available at www.harley-davidson.com. The tool also makes it easy to book a stay at a Best Western hotel by indicating where each is located in correlation to the trip being planned. Each hotel listing includes hotel descriptions, including whether the property is “biker-friendly” along with a directory of services and amenities.
For more information on Ride Rewards and other features of the Best Western/Harley-Davidson and H.O.G partnership, visit www.bestwestern.com/hog or www.bwrider.com. To use the Harley-Davidson Ride Planner, visit http://rideplanner.harley-davidson.com/rideplanner.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Rewards Members To Donate Points for Haiti Relief Effort
Members of Global Frequency Program Can Make a Difference through World Vision, Best Western Hotelier and Employee Efforts Underway
PHOENIX (January 15, 2010) – Best Western International today announced that Best Western Rewards members can now contribute rewards points to the massive relief effort currently underway in the devastated nation of Haiti. Frequency program members can go to www.bestwestern.com/haitirelief to make a donation of 5,000 points, which translates to $20, or more to World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner. Similar efforts are underway in Best Western regions globally.
Best Western hoteliers will also be able to donate via their monthly member statements to relief efforts being implemented by World Vision, and employees of Best Western International will be able to donate cash and vacation time.
In addition, on behalf of the Best Western membership, Best Western’s North American Development team made a substantial donation yesterday through World Vision, in support of the Best Western hotelier that was about to break ground in Port-au-Prince.
“Our hearts go out to the people of Haiti, to our associates there and to their loved ones” said David Kong, President and CEO of Best Western, and current Chairman of the American Hotel and Lodging Association. “We are rallying at the hotel, employee, and guest levels to contribute to this critical humanitarian mission.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley-Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL AND AAA TURN BACK TIME ON ONE FAMILY’S SUMMER ROAD TRIP
Sweepstakes offers families chance to win a weeklong vacation across North America
PHOENIX (May 4, 2009) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, and AAA are offering one family the chance to find out how road trips have changed during the last 60 years by giving away a weeklong summer trip. The “Retro to Now” road trip sweepstakes will turn back time this summer and send one family on the vacation of a lifetime – starting in the past and ending in present day.
Now through May 31, travelers are encouraged to log onto www.bestwestern.com/roadtrip to submit a picture of their family on a road trip or vacation. Ten finalists will be chosen from the submissions and posted to the Web site, where they will be available for the public to vote on. The photo with the most votes on June 12, 2009 will win the “Retro to Now” road trip prize.
“As a AAA Preferred Lodging Partner, Best Western caters to travelers hitting the road for their summer vacation, offering unparalleled convenience and value,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We are excited to offer to one family the chance to see how the road trip has evolved over the last 60 years and how both Best Western and AAA have evolved with it.”
The “Retro to Now” road trip will start in “retro” style, complete with an old-school vehicle, paper maps and car games, as well as other familiar supplies of yesteryear. Mid-way through the trip, the vacationing family will fast-forward to “now” and be equipped with a modern vehicle, GPS device, DVD players and all the conveniences of modern day.
"AAA has a long heritage of helping travelers have safe and memorable vacations and we are pleased to partner with Best Western on this unique program," said Doug Bower, vice president, Travel & Financial Services with AAA. "We look forward to following the winning family and their experiences.”
The grand prize winning family will receive a road trip for four, including airfare, transportation and accommodations, hitting some of North America’s most popular landmarks.
For official rules, fans should visit www.bestwestern.com/roadtrip.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT AAA
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.
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BEST WESTERN’S THIRD ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” GIVES FANS THE CHANCE TO SWAP JOBS WITH MICHAEL WALTRIP
Auction Package Includes Travel to Charlotte to See the New NASCAR Hall of Fame, a Tour of the Showtime Program “Inside NASCAR” Studios and a Ride to the Richmond Races With Michael Waltrip Racing
PHOENIX (August 10, 2010) – Best Western, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, has teamed with Michael Waltrip Racing for a third consecutive year to offer fans a one-of-a-kind stock car racing experience, with the annual “Fan Swap” charity auction launching on Thursday, August 12.
A pair of race fans will win a trip to Cornelius, N.C., to “swap” jobs for a day with two-time Daytona 500® winner Michael Waltrip, as well as travel with his race team to the races in Richmond, Va.
Fans who visit the Best Western “Fan Swap” auction site starting August 12 through August 22 will bid to:
•“Swap” jobs with Michael Waltrip in Cornelius, N.C. on Thursday, September 9
•Spend an afternoon exploring the behind-the-scenes, inner workings of Michael Waltrip Racing
•Experience an exclusive tour of the new NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte on Thursday, September 9
•Tour exclusively Showtime’s “Inside NASCAR” studios with Waltrip, including lunch with Waltrip and driver David Reutimann
•Travel to Richmond, Va., the weekend of September 10 through 11 to become a member of the No. 00 Michael Waltrip Racing team
•Be as close to the action as possible and watch both races that weekend from inside the driver’s pit area
The “Fan Swap” auction experience also includes roundtrip airfare, Best Western hotel accommodations and transportation for the winner and a guest.
As an added bonus, Waltrip will travel to the winning bidder’s hometown and work as they would for an afternoon, meeting with their friends and family and interacting with co-workers and colleagues. Proceeds from the “Fan Swap” auction will benefit World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner, dedicated to alleviating the causes of poverty and injustice among children and families around the world.
“As Michael Waltrip Racing relies on team work to enjoy success on the track, race fans rely on Best Western as their hotel brand of choice throughout the stockcar racing season,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “To thank Michael’s and our most loyal fans, we’re again giving them an opportunity to win an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of the sport’s most successful racing teams with our third annual ‘Fan Swap.’”
The “Fan Swap” auction begins Thursday, August 12 at 7:00 p.m. EDT/4:00 p.m. PDT and will end at 7:00 p.m. EDT/4:00 p.m. PDT on August 22. Fans should visit www.auctionjam.com/fanswap to review the auction’s official rules and regulations.
“While racing fans are some of the most loyal and knowledgeable sports fans, two will have the opportunity to see if they can keep up with my hectic schedule as a driver and team owner,” Waltrip said. “Get ready for an experience of a lifetime as Best Western and Michael Waltrip Racing prepare to launch the third annual Fan Swap charity auction!”
For official rules and to register before the auction begins, visit www.auctionjam.com/fanswap.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated Best Western, Best Western PlusTM and Best Western Premier® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western is back in Hong Kong
(Bangkok – July 27, 2011) Best Western International has recently opened the BEST WESTERN Hotel Causeway Bay, a 40-story high-rise located in Causeway Bay, the center of Hong Kong Island adjacent to Wanchai and Central Business District. The 258 guestrooms adopted a modern chic design and offer free internet, cable TV, in-room safe, coffee/tea making facilities, IDD phone and central air conditioning, gourmet room and wine lounge, gym and pool facilities.
Causeway Bay is the center of Hong Kong Island, minutes away from Wanchai and Central Business District, the hotel is just next to the Times Square Shopping Centre and is encircled by thousands of shops from the famous Sogo Department Store to traditional hawker markets offering the best international brands and local delights.
Other attraction includes Convention and Exhibition Centre, Ocean Park and Victoria Peak, Golden Bauhinia Square and Hong Kong Jockey Club. Three minutes’ walk to Causeway Bay MTR Subway Station is across the road at the Times Square, only 40 minutes to The Hong Kong International Airport and connects to all major districts on the Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula.
Transportations including the famous centenary tram, multi-route cross harbor buses, airport bus are just outside the hotel’s doors.
For more information and special offers, visit www.bestwestern.com/cn/hotelcausewaybay.
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BEST WESTERN FACEBOOK FANS CAN “BE A TRAVEL HERO” &
WIN A VACATION OF A LIFETIME FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS
New Promotion Rewards Business Travel “Heroes,” Allowing Best Western Rewards Members to Win Prizes By Planning Virtual Vacations with Friends
(PHOENIX) February 9, 2012— Best Western International is reversing the guilty feelings of being away from friends and family while traveling on business by rewarding travelers this spring with its new “Be a Travel Hero” Promotion on its Facebook page. The contest, which runs in tandem with Best Western’s® “Stay Three, Stay Free” Spring Promotion from February 6 to April 8, 2012, allows Best Western Rewards (BWR) ® members to build a vacation for their family and friends as a reward for their patience and support of their ‘heroes’ ‘ business travel. Once they plan the virtual trip, participants can invite their friends and family to join in for a chance to win a dream vacation and other great prizes that they have earned from all their nights on the road as “travel heroes.”
To participate in the Best Western “Be a Travel Hero” promotion:
• Best Western Facebook Fans will need to sign in or enroll as BWR members.
• They will then choose a dream destination of their choice and invite up to 15 of their Facebook friends to virtually join the trip.
• If one of their Facebook friends accepts an invite, the referring participant will be awarded with an extra entry to win.
Prizes include the grand prize dream vacation which includes 150,000 Best Western Rewards points that are good for hotels, air travel, car rentals and more; five nights at any Best Western hotel; and one $5,000 MasterCard® Gift Card. Other weekly prizes include Best Western Travel Cards up to $500 in value, MasterCard Gift Cards up to $500 in value, Avis® rental car vouchers and gift cards, AAA/CAA memberships, gas cards and much more.
“Best Western understands the needs of business travelers and we know that time away from friends and family can be challenging,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We want to remind everyone that road warriors are heroes to the people back home, and this promotion is a way to connect the dots between making a living and living it up with those you love.”
BWR members who create a trip with the “Be Travel Hero” promotion will be automatically registered for Best Western’s “Stay Three, Stay Free” Spring Promotion for the chance to earn a free room night and accelerate their hero status. The Spring Promotion will reward members who stay three separate times between February 6 and April 8, 2012 with a free night voucher, good at any BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® or BEST WESTERN PREMIER® in the world until June 30, 2012. Register for the promotion and view Terms and Conditions at www.bestwestern.com/spring. Additionally, members of Best Western’s Business Advantage program for who register for the Spring Promotion and stay one night during the promotion will automatically receive a complimentary year subscription to TripIt Pro.
Best Western Resources:
• For bookings and Low Rate Guarantee: www.bestwestern.com
• For rewards: www.bestwesternrewards.com
• Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BestWestern
• Read the Best Western blog: www.youmustbetrippin.com
• Follow Best Western on Twitter: www.twitter.com/thebestwestern
ABOUT BEST WESTERN REWARDS
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 100 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch ® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 66 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, racecar driver Michael Waltrip and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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Best Western International Welcomes AAA Hotel Veteran to
Sales and Marketing Department
(PHOENIX) October 25, 2011—Best Western International announced today that Glen MacDonell has joined its sales and marketing department as managing director of strategic partnerships and field marketing.
“Glen brings to us significant experience in the hospitality industry, broad-based expertise in strategic brand management and a successful track record of conducting impactful marketing programs through deep business partnerships, “ said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president, sales and marketing for Best Western.
In his role, MacDonell will lead Best Western’s strategic partnerships with organizations including AAA/CAA, AARP, Harley-Davidson, Costco and Michael Waltrip. Additionally, he will oversee Best Western’s field marketing organization, which is comprised of marketing cooperatives throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Prior to joining Best Western, MacDonell served as director, travel programs & alliances at AAA, overseeing its North American hotel program, corporate alliance with the Walt Disney Company, as well as its airline, rail and specialty tour programs.
MacDonell joined AAA in 1999, after serving 12 years in a variety of management positions with United Airlines, Inc.
He recently served on the Advisory Council for the Airline Reporting Corporation, has been on several hospitality industry advisory boards, is a member of SKAL International and serves on the Board of Directors for Meals on Wheels of Seminole County, Fla.
For more information on Best Western, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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Sudhir Sinha Appointed as Head of Best Western India
Best Western on expansion and consolidation mode
BANGALORE (Oct. 15, 2008) - Hotel industry veteran Sudhir Sinha has joined leading hotel chain Best Western India as President and Chief Operating Officer. The appointment is an integral part of the chain’s expansion plans in India.
Mr. Sinha brings a wealth of experience of spanning over 22 years in the hospitality and service industry. Prior to this, Mr. Sinha was Vice-President of Development and Franchise Services at Choice Hotels for seven years. Mr. Sinha achieved a record franchise development feat by adding twenty new hotels to the Choice Hotels’ in 24 months. Mr. Sinha has also handled diversified business operations at several companies including International Travel House (an ITC Group company), CLG Hotels & Resorts, South Asian Hotels & Resorts, and Abercrombie & Kent India.
Best Western India, a part of the world’s largest hotel chain Best Western International (BWI) is on an impressive expansion spree and has grown from a portfolio of six hotels, to 20 hotels. Of these, seven are fully operational while the rest are fast nearing completion. The Best Western India footprint now includes BW Capitol Hotel, located in the heart of Bangalore, extending its presence in the fast growing city.
By the end of the year, BW Marickar Hotels & Suites, Nedumbassery in Cochin will be operational after renovation, while new properties in Neral and Ratnagiri will follow soon thereafter. 2009 is expected to be an important year for the Best Western brand, as a Signet Hotels 4-star, 100 room property in Navi Mumbai will be launched towards the latter half of the year. 2009 will also see the opening of another Signet Hotels property in Electronic City, Bangalore.
Welcoming Mr. Sinha to the Best Western fold, David Kong, President and CEO of Best Western International said, “India is a very important development market for Best Western International. Mr. Sinha is a key addition to the talented team of Best Western India and will help make Best Western the preferred hotel brand in India." Dr. Prabhu Goel, Co-Chairman and CEO of Best Western India, said, “These are exciting times for Best Western in India. We are well positioned to leverage the anticipated long-term growth in the industry, and we are glad to have Sudhir with us in this period. With his experience and in-depth understanding across the hospitality industry, we are certain that he will further drive the expansion of our brand and help us realize our aggressive growth plans for India.”
Speaking on his appointment Mr. Sinha said, “I am excited to be part of a professionally managed and fast growing international chain like Best Western. I am looking forward to utilizing my experience to strengthening the Best Western brand besides strengthening our already established partnerships in India.”
In 2007 Best Western International, Inc. entered the Indian market through master licensee Cabana Hotel Management Pvt. Ltd. The collaboration will add more than 100 hotels and 10,000 rooms to the burgeoning Indian hospitality market over the next decade. Cabana Hotels is planning a major investment of more than $1.2 billion in Best Western-branded hotels, including the building or converting hotels at 3, 4, and 5-star levels in markets including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Ooty, Rameshwaram, Hyderabad, Kanyakumari.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INDIA
Best Western India is part of THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®. Best Western India is expanding from 7 properties now to 12 properties by Q2, 2009. With an active pipeline in place, the expected footprint is 20 properties by 2009 year-end, and 100 hotels in the next decade. For more information or to make a reservation at a Best Western India property, please visit www.bestwesternindia.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate
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Best Western Switzerland Opens Hotel Catering to Tall Guests
BERN (Sept. 24, 2009) – At last there is a hotel that can offer tall people a comfortable stay. Last month, the new Best Western Hotel Stücki in Basel opened its doors. All the hotel beds are more than 7 feet long (2.2 meters) long and at least 43 inches (110 centimeters) wide. Even the tallest basketball player will be comfortable in these beds! In addition, all the rooms are on an average 9.5 feet (2.9 meters) high and the showers are generously equipped with rainshower heads.
The Best Western Hotel Stücki has 122 air-conditioned rooms and 9 suites, all have 32-inch flat-screen television and computer screens as well as free high-speed Internet. For business travelers who need to stay longer in the trade fair city of Basel, there are 13 business apartments with their own kitchens, which are equipped with glass ceramic cooktop, microwave oven, grill, refrigerator, and coffee machine, as well as with king-sized beds and large bathrooms.
The hotel is a part of the shopping centre with the same name, and its lobby is directly accessible from the underground parking garage. Based on its unique layout with a bar, foyer, gallery with a food-service island, as well as an efficient, high-capacity kitchen, it can be used for receptions. In addition the hotel is connected to the first Block House Steak Restaurant in Switzerland.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN SWISS HOTELS
Best Western Swiss Hotels unites over 40 mainly private-owned middle and first-class hotels all over Switzerland. In 2008 the services of Best Western provided its Swiss member hotels with over 85,000 overnight reservations and sales of CHF 17,3 million.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN RENEWS SPONSORSHIP OF NBA’S HORNETS BOOKMOBILE
Continues Support of Literacy in Gulf Coast Region
PHOENIX (Dec. 3, 2009) – Today Best Western announced it is renewing its sponsorship of the New Orleans Hornets Bookmobile, an interactive library-on-wheels that has distributed more than 90,000 free books to students in southeastern Louisiana. Since 2007, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® has been presenting sponsor of the Bookmobile, which supports the NBA’s Read to Achieve initiative. The renewal agreement is for two more years -- a $110,000 commitment.
In addition to the sponsorship, since 2007, Best Western hotel owners and staff have reached into their own pockets to donate nearly $130,000 to purchase 65,000 books to help stock the Bookmobile.
“Supporting the Hornets’ Bookmobile is an extension of Best Western hotel owners’ philosophy of giving back, especially to children and families,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western. “Our work with the Hornets is an investment in an area that lost so much after Hurricane Katrina.”
“The entire Hornets family is excited to welcome back Best Western as a presenting partner for the Hornets Bookmobile,” said Hornets Executive Vice President of Basketball Chad Shinn. “We appreciate all the hard work and resources that Best Western continues to pour into the New Orleans community, and we appreciate the fact that they share our mission to promote the importance of literacy and education to the youth in the Gulf South.”
During the 2009-2010 NBA season, the Bookmobile’s goal is to place 65,000 books in the hands of 65,000 children in southeastern Louisiana. More than 5,000 books have been distributed to date.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT THE NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
The New Orleans Hornets are proud to be a New Orleans business that happens to be an NBA franchise. Under the leadership of owner George Shinn, the Hornets remain committed to revitalize New Orleans and the entire state of Louisiana through numerous community initiatives and by providing world-class entertainment on the court that appeals to the entire family. For more information about the New Orleans Hornets, please visit www.Hornets.com.
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BEST WESTERN REWARDSSM MEMBERS CAN NOW REDEEM POINTS FOR CANADIAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP
PHOENIX (July 30, 2009) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, and the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), today announced that Best Western RewardsSM members can now redeem points for membership with CAA.
CAA basic membership includes the following benefits, in addition to discounts at thousands of partners around the world:
• Five kilometers of free towing from point of disablement
• Battery jump starting service
• Flat tire service
• Free delivery of emergency fuel with a charge for fuel at current pump prices
• Lockout and key service
CAA members receive guaranteed best available rates during their Best Western stays and earn Rewards points and miles faster during promotions. Plus, CAA members have the benefit of choosing CAA Dollars® as their rewards earning preference.
“As a CAA Preferred Lodging Partner, Best Western recognizes how valuable CAA membership is for our Rewards customers,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Rewards members that sign up for CAA membership are going to maximize their earning potential and get great benefits from both Best Western and CAA.”
Rewards members need 16,000 points to convert for CAA membership. The points can only be used towards a new basic membership with CAA. Current CAA members can use points to purchase membership for a family member or friend.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. This summer, Best Western is rewarding travellers who complete two separate stays at its hotels by August 16, 2009 with a free room night voucher valid at many of its 4,000 locations worldwide. Members can redeem points year-round for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
To be eligible, guests must register and be members of Best Western Rewards. Individuals who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free. To join Best Western RewardsSM, visit www.bestwesternrewards.com/CAA.
About Best Western International
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN ANNOUNCES INSTANT ELITE MATCHING PROGRAM FOR BEST WESTERN REWARDS MEMBERS
“Status Match, No Catch” Matches Elite Status of Other Hotel Loyalty Programs for Free, Rewarding Best Western Rewards Members With Immediate Earnings Potential at Same Elite Status
PHOENIX (February 18, 2010) – Best Western International today announced the launch of the “Status Match, No Catch” program in North America, which rewards members of its free global Best Western Rewards® loyalty program with matching elite status of any other hotel loyalty program—free of charge.
Beginning today, new and existing Best Western Rewards members can upgrade their Rewards status by contacting (800) 444-7646 or BWRelite@bestwestern.com and providing proof of elite status with another hotel loyalty program. Best Western Rewards points will be earned at the equivalent elite status immediately. Members of Best Western Speed Rewards and Best Western Ride Rewards are also eligible.
“Road warriors who face devalued loyalty programs at other chains will benefit from their Best Western Rewards Elite status by earning special benefits even faster at our hotels, including perks like room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out privileges when available,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western. “In addition, as one of the richest hotel loyalty programs in the industry, Best Western Rewards elite members will have the ability to earn up to 30 percent more Rewards points with each qualifying stay.”
Elite status levels available through Best Western Rewards include:
• Gold Elite (awarded after 10 qualified nights in one calendar year), which earns a 10 percent Rewards bonus;
• Platinum Elite (awarded after 15 qualified nights in one calendar year), which earns a 15 percent Rewards bonus; and
• Diamond Elite (awarded after 30 qualified nights in one calendar year), which earns a 30 percent Rewards bonus.
For more information, please visit www.bestwesternstatusmatch.com.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley-Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN® GUARANTEES LOWEST RATE WITH $100 GIFT CARD
Moves to provide ‘ultimate’ incentive to book on bestwestern.com
PHOENIX (February 7, 2012) – As part of Best Western International, Inc.’s mission to make its award-winning website the consumer destination of choice for hotel bookings , the chain announced today its new Low Rate Guarantee. Guests who book BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® or BEST WESTERN PREMIER® on www.bestwestern.com and then find a lower rate elsewhere online will receive a US $100 Best Western Travel Card®. Full terms and conditions are available here.
In recent related news, Best Western was named Best of the Web by technology performance expert, Compuware. The brand’s booking site received a Gold award, Compuware’s top honor for website response time, availability and consistency, placing it ahead of all other hotel brands in terms of providing consumers with an efficient and reliable online shopping experience.
“We want to give guests total confidence that the best deal is always on bestwestern.com,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We’ve worked hard to give customers a great shopping experience. Our web content is richer than ever, and a new look and feel is on its way---but at the end of the day, it’s about rate. This guarantee is about helping guests feel protected with every purchase.”
Best Western Resources:
• For bookings: www.bestwestern.com
• For rewards: www.bestwesternrewards.com
• Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BestWestern
• Read the Best Western blog: www.youmustbetrippin.com
• Follow Best Western on Twitter: www.twitter.com/thebestwestern
Best Western will feature its Low Rate Guarantee throughout the year in television, print and digital advertising, as well as through social media channels.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated.Now celebrating 66 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, racecar driver Michael Waltrip, and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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MICHAEL WALTRIP AND BEST WESTERN PLAY APRIL FOOLS’ PRANK ON AN UNSUSPECTING FAN
Online Contest Gave NASCAR® Fan the Opportunity to Sing the National Anthem at a NASCAR Nationwide Series ™ Race (Sort of!)
PHOENIX (May 8, 2009) – Best Western International, the Official Hotel of NASCAR®, and two-time Daytona 500 winner, Michael Waltrip, conspired with the winner of Best Western’s second annual April Fools’ contest, Clay Bridges, to play the ultimate prank on his unsuspecting brother-in-law and diehard NASCAR® fan, Paul Clifton. The prank was captured on video and can be viewed on Best Western TV at http://tinyurl.com/dayybr.
As part of a contest hosted on www.bestwesternracing.com, Best Western, The World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, encouraged fans to submit their ideal April Fools’ prank for Waltrip to play on an unsuspecting friend or family member at a NASCAR Nationwide Series™ race. The winning April Fools’ entry was submitted by Clay Bridges of Indianapolis, who requested that Best Western convince his brother-in-law, Paul Clifton, that he would be required to sing the National Anthem at the NASCAR Nationwide Series™ race in Phoenix, in front of thousands of fans.
As Clay and Paul arrived at the track, they were greeted by a Best Western team and given a VIP tour. The Best Western team then informed Paul, as part of the prank, that he would be taken to a holding room at the track “to prepare for his National Anthem performance.” Not aware until that time that he was obliged to sing in front of thousands of fans, Paul began to panic and for the next couple of hours sweated it out.
As the beginning of the race approached, Paul was taken from the holding room to the ultra-high profile Phoenix International Raceway finish line, where drivers are announced and the National Anthem is sung. As he stood quietly rehearsing the National Anthem to himself, Michael Waltrip approached Paul, and after a few minutes “vocal coaching,” finally relieved him with the news that he didn’t have to sing and that the whole promotion was an April Fools’ prank executed by Best Western. After a great many laughs from drivers, pit crews and fans who were gathered around, Paul and Clay enjoyed the race from the Best Western pit box with the crew on pit row.
“I can’t thank Best Western and Michael Waltrip Racing enough for this unforgettable experience,” said Bridges of April Fools’ winner Paul Clifton. “It was such a cleverly executed April Fools’ prank that I’m positive Paul will be getting me back big-time next year!”
The entire April Fools’ prank was captured on video and uploaded to Best WesternTV, Best Western’s official YouTube brand channel. The finished video can be viewed by clicking on the following link: http://tinyurl.com/dayybr.
As the OFFICIAL HOTEL of NASCAR since 2004, Best Western has continued to provide race fans with everything they need for an enjoyable and affordable weekend at the races, including breakfast, free high-speed Internet, free in-room coffee, and a comfortable stay. As more and more families continue to feel the pinch of tough economic times, Best Western is helping race fans save money so they can still travel and enjoy the races around the country. Fans who join the free Speed Rewards loyalty program for race fans earn points towards free nights and save an estimated ten percent on every booking. To join Speed Rewards and find out more about what Best Western is doing to support race fans, log onto www.bestwesternracing.com.
View the official April Fools’ viral video at http://tinyurl.com/dayybr.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN MEMBER HOTELIERS APPROVE PRODUCT DESCRIPTORS BALLOT
PHOENIX (April 20, 2010) – Best Western owners last week passed a landmark ballot approving the rollout of a product descriptor program. This marketing strategy is part of the brand’s long-term commitment to enhance its image, ensure brand relevance and drive superior revenue to its hotels.
As the largest hotel chain in North America and the world, Best Western competes across the broad midscale market offering a wide variety of hotels. While continuing to operate as a single brand, Best Western will introduce three descriptors in the U.S. and Canada: Best Western, Best Western Plus and Best Western Premier. The strategy, which will roll out to consumers in the first quarter in 2011, is designed to explain the various product experiences of its hotels and set guest expectations at the point of booking. Best Western Premier will be used to describe hotels with physical attributes similar to upper midscale hotels, Best Western Plus for the middle midscale and Best Western for the lower midscale.
“The success of this ballot speaks to the dedication of our owners and staff to moving the brand forward and also to Best Western’s unique democratic structure,” said Beth Campbell, Best Western Board Chair and owner of the Best Western Inn at Penticton in British Columbia. “Through our in-depth and transparent process of engaging our partners and hoteliers, we’re launching a strategy designed by the collective wisdom of our organization.”
To determine the need for a descriptor program, Best Western engaged expert consultants, interviewed its Worldwide Sales clients and surveyed 2,400 travelers who prefer midscale hotels, conducted 80 town hall meetings with the chain’s Member hoteliers, as well as conducted meetings with its Advisory Committees and Governors.
“The descriptor program will turn the diversity of our portfolio into the strength that it should be, and as part of our long-term strategy will ensure an increase in consumer confidence, in loyalty and will drive superior revenue to our hotels,” said President and CEO David Kong. “We’ve worked diligently over the past several years to improve our brand image. This work has included separating from over 500 hotels, implementing comprehensive training programs to improve customer care, re-launching our Best Western Rewards program, and introducing various design prototypes to attract quality hotels to join our system.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAl, INC.
Best Western International, INC is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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HORNETS TEAM UP WITH WEST COAST CUSTOMS TO UNVEIL NEW BOOKMOBILE PRESENTED BY BEST WESTERN AND SUNSHINE PAGES
NEW ORLEANS (July 1, 2010) —The New Orleans Hornets have teamed up with the world’s premier custom car shop, West Coast Customs, to create a new, modern Bookmobile that will be unveiled on Saturday, July 3 at 9 a.m. at the Alario Center. Hornets All-Star guard Chris Paul will be on hand at the unveiling ceremony and will read his children’s book, Long Shot: Never Too Small to Dream Big, to the nearly 50 Jr. Hornets kids club members in
attendance.
“The entire Hornets family is excited to show off the new Bookmobile and let it hit the road distributing free books to local students,” said Hornets Sr. Vice President of Community Enrichment Steve Martin. “West Coast Customs did an amazing job on the
design and look, and we’re excited to continue our relationship with Best Western and Sunshine Pages as we strive to promote the importance of literacy and education through the Bookmobile.”
“Supporting the Bookmobile, as Best Western has done for the past three years, is an extension of our hotel owners’ philosophy of giving back to children and families,” said David Kong, Best Western president and CEO. “We are thrilled with this new-and improved Bookmobile, with even more resources to help kids experience the joy of reading.”
“The Hornets continue to be a community leader, and they share the vision and passion we have to enhance the lives of students,” said Josh Descant, Marketing Manager from Sunshine Pages. “We are so excited to launch this new Bookmobile, and we look
forward to another great season.”
In the past three seasons, the Bookmobile has given out more than 155,000 free books to local students and made nearly 450 appearances throughout the region with the help of Best Western and the Sunshine Pages.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated Best Western, Best Western PlusTM and Best Western Premier® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN SIGNS ON AS ROOM KEY’S FIRST COMMERCIAL PARTNER
Brand to supply inventory to landmark industry-founded hotel search engine
PHOENIX (January 12, 2011) - Best Western International, the World’s Biggest Hotel Family®, announced today that it has signed on as the first commercial partner to supply hotel inventory to Room Key. This move makes Best Western® hotels the first to benefit from the innovative new online hotel search engine, aside from those of the service’s founding investor brands.
Roomkey.com provides travelers a search and book experience tailored for ease of hotel shopping through an uncluttered and trustworthy site. It will provide hotel information straight from Best Western and likewise enable direct booking.
“Best Western is in the business of maximizing revenue delivery to our member hotels, while enabling our guests to book effectively through their preferred channels,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales, Best Western International. “By providing direct access to our brand’s inventory, Room Key is in effect an extension of our branded website, one that strengthens the business case for our individual hotels. We see this venture as an important tool to enhance Member value, and another example of our 360 degree thinking on behalf of the entrepreneurs who make up our brand.”
To learn more or discover Best Western hotels across the world, visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 66 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, racecar driver Michael Waltrip, and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Gives Back This Holiday Season with $10 Gift Card Bonuses
Now Through Dec. 31, Purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card® and
Receive a $10 Gift Card of Your Choice
PHOENIX (Nov. 15, 2011) – With holiday shoppers looking for more bang for their buck than ever before, Best Western International is offering a special holiday deal – purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card online, and receive a bonus gift card reward for yourself.
Holiday shoppers who purchase a $100 (USD) Best Western Travel Card can choose one of the following rewards: $10 (USD) Best Western Travel Card, $10 Amazon.com Gift Card, $10 Best Buy gift card, $10 Walmart gift card, $10 Darden® Restaurants gift card (redeemable at Red Lobster®, Olive Garden®, LongHorn Steakhouse®, Bahama Breeze®, Seasons 52® or any other Darden restaurant in the U.S.).
The Best Western Travel Card can be used like cash to pay for accommodations at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
“Whether gifting a Best Western Travel Card to friends, family, clients or gifting one to yourself for travel in the new year, this limited-time promotion offers the perfect opportunity to cash-in on valuable savings at popular retailers,,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “With this special holiday deal, it’s more rewarding than ever before to give the gift of travel – and get $10 back in your pocket.”
To receive the bonus, visit www.travelcard.bestwestern.com/holiday11us.
Best Western Rewards® is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of the few that is truly international. With over 4,000 locations in more than 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline/partner rewards and more.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
Darden® Restaurants, Inc. owns (Red Lobster®, Olive Garden®, LongHorn Steakhouse®, Bahama Breeze®, and Seasons 52®) and is not affiliated with Best Western International, Inc. Darden is not a sponsor or co-sponsor of this program. Use of our restaurant names, logos or trademarks requires written approval from Darden. See backside of gift card for additional terms and conditions or visit www.darden.com/legal/legal.asp .
BEST BUY® is not affiliated with Best Western International, Inc. Best Buy does not sponsor, endorse, approve or have any responsibility for this promotion. BEST BUY, the BEST BUY logo and the tag design are trademarks of BBY Solutions, Inc. © 2011 BBY Solutions, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Best Western International doing business as Best Western International is/are not affiliated with Walmart Stores, Inc. The services, products or activities of Best Western International, are neither endorsed nor sponsored by Walmart Stores, Inc.
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BIDDING ONLINE TO “SWAP” JOBS WITH MICHAEL WALTRIP IS SHIFTING INTO HIGH GEAR, ENDS MONDAY
PHOENIX (August 19, 2009) – Racing fans who want to “swap” jobs with two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip and travel with his team to the races in Richmond, Va., will need to act quickly as the annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction ends Monday. The highest bid for this one-of-a-kind auction, organized by Best Western International, The Official Hotel of NASCAR®, and Michael Waltrip Racing, is currently $5,110.00.
The winner of the Best Western “Fan Swap” auction, which ends Monday, August 24 at 5:21:22 p.m. (EDT)/2:21:22 (PDT), will travel to Waltrip headquarters, Raceworld USA, in Cornelius, North Carolina and swap jobs with Waltrip for the day. The winner and a guest will also travel with the Michael Waltrip Race Team to experience the races with VIP treatment in Richmond, September 11-13.
As an added bonus, Waltrip will travel to the winning bidder’s hometown at a later date and work as they would for an afternoon, meeting with their friends and family and interacting with co-workers and colleagues.
The complete “Fan Swap” package also includes:
•Roundtrip airfare to Charlotte, lodging and local transportation for two
•VIP experience at Raceworld USA, the headquarters of Michael Waltrip Racing
•Lunch with Waltrip and possibly David Reutimann
•Official Michael Waltrip racing gear
•The winner and guest will travel with the Michael Waltrip Racing team to Richmond, Va., where they will be awarded accommodations and tickets to both of the weekend’s races
•The winner and guest will also receive airfare home from Richmond
•At a later date, Michael Waltrip will visit the winner’s hometown and work as they would for a day as well
Visit www.auctionjam.com/fanswap to register and bid. Proceeds from the “Fan Swap” auction will benefit World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner, dedicated to alleviating the causes of poverty and injustice among children and families around the world.
For official rules and to bid, please visit www.auctionjam.com/fanswap.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western® Named 2011 Compuware Best of the Web
Gold Award Winner
Hotel Giant’s Branded Site Receives Top Performance Honor For 2011
PHOENIX (February 2, 2012) — Best Western International’s www.bestwestern.com booking site has been named a 2011 Compuware Best of the Web award winner. The annual Best of the Web Compuware Web & Mobile Performance Awards showcase leaders in web and mobile site performance across several major industries nationwide.
Best Western was honored with a Gold award based on its average rankings in the travel category throughout 2011. Compuware benchmarks measure three key Web performance metrics – response time, availability and consistency.
“This award is tremendously satisfying on a number of levels,” said Scott Gibson, Best Western’s senior vice president of distribution and chief information officer. “First, it means our guests are having a successful shopping experience on our website. Second, it means we are maximizing revenue delivery to our member hotels. And finally, it means our hard-working team is achieving the excellence we strive for at Best Western. I am extremely proud.”
Added Jonathan Ranger, Gomez Benchmark Practice Director at Compuware, “Today, companies are challenged to provide comprehensive and dynamic web sites that are competitively fast. The 2011 award winners have made Web performance a key business initiative and have set the standard in their industries for delivering highly available, high-performing Web experiences that enhance customer satisfaction.”
Best Western Resources:
• For bookings: www.bestwestern.com
• For rewards: www.bestwesternrewards.com
• Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BestWestern
• Read the Best Western blog: www.youmustbetrippin.com
• Follow Best Western on Twitter: www.twitter.com/thebestwestern
Available on February 2nd, the “Best of the Web: Compuware 2011 Web and Mobile Performance Awards” report showcases the leaders in Web and mobile site performance across eight industries – automotive, retail, finance, travel, media, healthcare, and insurance – based on Compuware’s Web and mobile performance benchmark analysis in 2011. The report highlights how each award winner sets the industry standard for providing a Web or mobile site experience that enhances customer satisfaction.
The “Best of the Web: Compuware 2011 Web Performance Awards” report can be found at http://www.compuware.com/report.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 66 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, racecar driver Michael Waltrip, and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About Compuware Corporation
Compuware Corporation, the technology performance company, provides software, experts and best practices to ensure technology works well and delivers value. Compuware solutions make the world’s most important technologies perform at their best for leading organizations worldwide, including 46 of the top 50 Fortune 500 companies and 12 of the top 20 most visited U.S. web sites. Learn more at: http://www.compuware.com.
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BEST WESTERN’S SECOND ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” GIVES FANS THE CHANCE TO SWAP JOBS WITH DRIVER MICHAEL WALTRIP
Winner of Fan Swap Auction Will Travel To Charlotte and with Race Team to Richmond Races
PHOENIX (August 13, 2009) – As the Official Hotel of NASCAR®, Best Western has teamed up with Michael Waltrip Racing to make one lucky race fan’s dream come true when they win a trip to Cornelius, N.C., to “swap” jobs for a day with two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip and then travel with his race team to the races in Richmond, Va.
Fans who visit the Best Western “Fan Swap” auction August 14 through August 24, will have the opportunity to bid on the Fan Swap prize which includes travel to Raceworld USA in Cornelius, where they will work as Michael Waltrip does for one day. After their stint at Raceworld USA, the winner and a guest will travel with the Michael Waltrip Race Team to experience the races with VIP treatment in Richmond, September 11-13.
As an added bonus, Waltrip will travel to the winning bidder’s hometown and work as they would for an afternoon, meeting with their friends and family and interacting with co-workers and colleagues. Proceeds from the “Fan Swap” auction will benefit World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner, dedicated to alleviating the causes of poverty and injustice among children and families around the world.
The “Fan Swap” auction begins Friday, August 14 at 2:00 p.m. EDT/5:00 p.m. PDT and will end at 2:00 p.m. EDT/5:00 p.m. PDT on August 24. Fans should visit www.auctionjam.com/fanswap to review the auction’s official rules and regulations.
“NASCAR fans who have ever dreamed about overseeing their own race team now have the opportunity to do so – at least for one day, with our second annual Fan Swap promotion,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Last year we gave the winning bidder a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Michael Waltrip’s shoes, and this year we are also offering a chance to travel with the Michael Waltrip Racing team to the races in Richmond. Once again, thanks to our partnership with World Vision, all proceeds from this unique promotion will make a difference for children in need.”
All proceeds from the “Fan Swap” auction will benefit World Vision, Best Western’s charity of choice. Proceeds will purchase backpacks and school supplies through the charity’s SchoolTools program. Best Western's owners and staff will pack the backpacks during their annual convention this fall, and distribute to children in need throughout the United States.
The complete “Fan Swap” package also includes:
• Roundtrip airfare to Charlotte, lodging and local transportation for two
• VIP experience at Raceworld USA, the headquarters of Michael Waltrip Racing
• Lunch with Waltrip and possibly David Reutimann
• Official Michael Waltrip racing gear
• The winner and guest will travel with the Michael Waltrip Racing team to Richmond, Va where they will be awarded accommodations and tickets to both of the weekend’s races
• The winner and guest will also receive airfare home from Richmond
• At a later date, Michael Waltrip will visit the winner’s hometown and work as they would for a day as well
“NASCAR fans are some of the most loyal fans in all of sports but unfortunately that doesn’t mean they’ll be able to keep up with my hectic schedule as a full-time driver and team owner,” Waltrip said. “Get ready for an experience of a lifetime as Best Western and Michael Waltrip Racing prepare to launch the second annual Fan Swap charity auction!”
For official rules and to register, please visit www.auctionjam.com/fanswap.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Opens First Hotel in Laos
Bangkok (January 13, 2010) - Best Western International announces the opening of its first hotel in Laos, the Best Western Vientiane Hotel. Located in the capital city Vientiane, the hotel is the first in the chain’s plans for a network of strategically located Loas hotels. Other planned locations include Luang Prabang, Champasak, Xien Khouang and Bokeo.
Located next to the Mekong River, the hotel is ideal for those seeking tranquility, while boasting the convenience of being close to the city’s business and commercial areas, main markets, restaurants and attractions. Wattay International Airport is just 10 kilometers away.
“We are very excited to open this property in Laos as a new territory for Best Western,” said Best Western Vice President International Operations Asia Glenn de Souza. “Laos has become an increasingly attractive tourist destination and has considerable potential to develop much further. This underlines the need for the international standards of accommodation for which Best Western is recognized as an industry leader.”
Best Western Vientiane Hotel’s facilities include a restaurant, fitness room, swimming pool, business center and recreational area.
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FIRST BEST WESTERN PREMIER HOTEL OPENS IN CANADA
The BEST WESTERN PREMIER Freeport Inn & Suites Opens Door for Guests in Calgary, Alberta
PHOENIX (March 24, 2011) –The first Canadian BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel, which offers guests upscale amenities and a refined experience, opened earlier this month in Calgary. The iconic hotel chain has opened seven BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels in North America since launching its three-descriptor strategy in early 2011.
Guests at the newly developed BEST WESTERN PREMIER Freeport Inn & Suites, located just three kilometers from the Calgary International Airport, will enjoy luxurious amenities including on-site dining, complimentary breakfast, an exercise facility, an indoor heated pool with a waterslide and a cocktail lounge. The hotel also offers free parking, a complimentary airport shuttle, meeting facilities that can accommodate up to 80 guests and a business center.
Located at 86 Freeport Blvd. NE in Calgary, the hotel is near shopping, dining and recreation choices, including popular Calgary attractions such as Canada Olympic Park, Calgary Aero Space Museum and the Calgary Zoo.
“The BEST WESTERN PREMIER Freeport Inn & Suites is a welcome addition to our North American portfolio of hotels,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. “Calgary is not only a popular tourist destination, but it serves as a major business travel corridor. This new hotel is an ideal lodging choice for a refined stay.”
Like all BEST WESTERN PREMIER properties, the BEST WESTERN PREMIER Freeport Inn & Suites has features and amenities that exceed CAA’s three diamond requirements.
The 97 sophisticated guest rooms and suites feature:
•42-inch flat screen televisions
•Premium clock radios with a MP3 connection
•Contemporary furnishings and luxury bed lines and towels
•Functional desk with complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access
Rates start at $129.99 CAD. Travelers can contact the property directly for special packages at (403) 264-9650 or book via www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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CANADIAN TRAVEL INDUSTRY LEADERS FORECAST A SUMMER OF TRAVEL BARGAINS AND DOMESTIC TRAVEL
Best Western International, CAA and TIAC Address State of the Industry, Forecast New Travel Trends at Annual Best Western Leisure Travel Summit
TORONTO (June 17, 2009) – Travel executives from Best Western International, CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) convened last week to address the summer travel outlook, and predicted that Canadians will actively seek aggressive deals before booking travel and stay closer to home when vacationing.
What will get travellers on the road?
Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of sales and marketing, said people today are seeking value like never before. Families are still hitting the road, but are looking for the most budget-friendly vacation, she stated. In many cases, that means leveraging rewards program perks to offset costs.
“Our loyalty program has seen a 60 percent increase in the number of points issued and redeemed,” said Dowling. “Best Western is delivering value to travellers by putting the best deals we have ever offered into the market place. This summer, we are rewarding travellers with a free night after staying with us just twice - earning points while they stay and bonus points for simply booking online.”
Canadian travel expert and YouMustBeTrippin.com blogger Bryson Forbes agreed, indicating that value would reign supreme for summer travel, but that quality was an important part of the value equation.
“Value is a function of quality and price,” said Forbes. “You can’t have value with just a low price point; the experience has to include good customer service. It wasn’t that long ago that price alone ruled travel decisions. Travel choice today is impacted by the customer experience.”
What types of vacations are people looking to take?
The economic climate, cost of air travel and new passport legislation are all causing travellers to take another look at their destination of choice.
“I am calling it the Yay-cation,” said Chris Jones, vice president, public affairs for TIAC. “As in ‘yay’ – I can afford a vacation! People are cutting back in other areas, like lattes, lunch and clothes, because they want the money to go on vacation. Vacations may be shorter and closer to home, but people will take them.”
Alison Hermansen, executive vice president association and club services for CAA, noted that new passport legislation, which requires that all citizens have a passport to cross the Canada/United States border, will have a positive impact on Canadians travelling domestically. TIAC reported approximately 54 percent of Canadians have a passport.
“We are anticipating a strong summer drive market, with Canadians exploring their own backyard,” said Hermansen. “The uses of our on-the-road features, like Trip Tik, maps and tour books, have shown a steady increase which points to a heavy road trip season.”
Where can travellers find deals?
Travel brand Web sites are great sources for deals as these companies often post the best offers directly through their own marketing channels. Best Western provides its lowest rate guarantee for all its hotels in North America on www.bestwestern.com, noted Dowling.
Travellers should look for targeted communications, such as newsletters and e-mails that provide the best deals and are often segmented based on the specific interests of the traveller.
Hermansen commented that the days of mass marketing are over. “Our goal is to have a relationship with each of our customers, and with 5.5 million members, that can be difficult,” she said. “We have to be smart and innovative to reach our customers and drive the right product to the right members, which we do through targeted direct marketing and social media.”
The panelists agreed that social media was a powerful tactic for reaching customers. Avenues such as Facebook and Twitter allow companies to not only deliver deals to customers, but also create an open dialogue for feedback.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT CAA
CAA is a federation of 9 automobile clubs serving 5.3 million members through 138 offices across Canada. CAA provides a wide range of member services and works to improve travelling and motoring conditions at home and around the world, including national advocacy efforts on both traffic safety and public policy issues that affect Canadian motorists.
www.caa.ca
ABOUT TIAC
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada is the voice of Canadian tourism. Founded in 1930 to encourage the development of tourism in Canada, TIAC serves today as the national private-sector advocate for this $74.9 billion industry, representing the interests of the tourism business community nation-wide. It successfully influences government thinking and action on behalf of Canadian tourism businesses, promoting positive measures that help the industry grow and prosper. TIAC’s membership reflects partnerships among all sectors of the industry, and provincial, territorial and regional tourism associations, enabling the association to address the full range of issues facing Canadian tourism—forcefully and effectively. Its activities focus on legislative and regulatory barriers to the growth of Canadian tourism.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL OFFERS GUESTS DOUBLE REWARDS, CHANCE TO WIN 1 MILLION BEST WESTERN REWARDSSM POINTS AND SOUTHWEST AIRLINES FLIGHTS
PHOENIX (Feb. 17, 2009) – Best Western is offering double points, miles or credits for Best Western RewardsSM members who stay this spring. THE WORLD’S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® is sweetening the offer with a sweepstakes that gives entrants the chance to win 1 million Best Western Rewards points – good for up to 125 free nights at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
“At a time when consumers need it most, we’re rolling out promotions and sweepstakes that help travelers make the most of today’s travel budgets, and build up points for free travel in the future,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales.
To earn double rewards, guests must register for the promotion at www.bestwestern.com/spring and stay at least two nights between February 15 and April 5, 2009. Nights need not be consecutive to earn double points.
In addition, promotion participants can earn 250 bonus points – up to 500 points – each time they book their hotel online at www.bestwestern.com.
All Best Western Rewards members who register for the promotion are automatically entered in the million points sweepstakes.
Best Western Rewards members who have chosen Southwest Rapid Rewards® as their earning preference and register through www.bestwestern.com/swspring will earn double Rapid Rewards credit – one credit per stay – when they stay two or more nights during the promotional period. They also will be automatically entered in a sweepstakes to win six roundtrip tickets on Southwest Airlines. Rapid Rewards members must register for the program at www.bestwestern.com/swspring.
Best Western Rewards is one of the hotel industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
To be eligible for the promotion, guests must register at www.bestwestern.com/spring, reside in North America, South America, China or Asia and be members of Best Western Rewards. Those who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western International and AAA/CAA Continue Long Term Partnership
Best Western’s Agreement Extends Existing Strategic Relationship through 2013
PHOENIX (Feb. 8, 2011) – AAA and CAA have renewed their agreement with Best Western International for three additional years through 2013, extending the partnership initiated in 2007.
As part of the Preferred Lodging Partner agreement, Best Western and AAA/CAA will continue to leverage the mutual strengths of their iconic brands and road-travel heritage through channels including the associations' Approved Lodging, Official Appointment, TourBook, travel agency, AAA.com and Show Your Card & Save® programs. The partnership continues to provide Best Western greater access to the more than 52 million AAA/CAA members and their respective clubs. In addition, Best Western will retain extensive usage rights to the AAA/CAA brand and logo in its related advertising/promotional activities.
According to D.K. Shifflet & Associates, AAA members spent $40 billion on overnight accommodations in 2009, representing 36 percent of all overnight accommodation spending by all US travelers.
"Best Western hotels are located everywhere from seaside resorts and national parks, from major cities to small towns, and across North America’s highways and byways. It is vital that we uphold our commitment to delivering exceptional value and unmatched service to AAA and CAA members who are visiting these destinations every day," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “The position of Preferred Lodging Partner is one we value highly, particularly now when we are in the midst of launching our three property types, BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER, in the US and Canada.”
“AAA is pleased to extend our partnership with Best Western to continue to provide our members with exclusive discounts, benefits and special recognition upon check-in,” Glen MacDonell, director, AAA Travel Services. “We are committed to providing our members with exceptional travel experiences, and partners like Best Western enable us to deliver on that promise.”
In 2005, Best Western introduced a free, customized loyalty program designed exclusively for this market segment. The AAA/CAA Preferred Best Western Rewards® International program offers members elite benefits and privileges plus richer promotional offers throughout the year.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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ONE TRAVELER TO WIN ONE MILLION BEST WESTERN REWARDS POINTS FOR HELPING DETERMINE THE NEXT BEST WESTERN IPHONE APPLICATION FEATURE
PHOENIX (April 21, 2010) – One million Best Western Rewards points, equivalent to more than 62 room nights at one of Best Western’s 4,000 hotels worldwide, is on the table for a lucky travel enthusiast who helps Best Western International (www.bestwestern.com)determine the next feature to be added to its popular iPhone application, “Best Western to Go.”
Users of the “Best Western to Go” app, which launched in December 2009, can research and book Best Western hotel rooms worldwide, personalize trips with stored travel activities and keep friends and family updated along the way via social media sharing capabilities.
In addition to free room nights, Best Western Rewards points can also be redeemed for shopping, dining, and entertainment gift cards, as well as rental car and airline benefits. Members of the program are eligible for seasonal promotions throughout the year, including the current “Jump Start to Summer” promotion, in which members receive a $50 Best Western Travel Card for staying two qualified nights at any Best Western hotel worldwide.
“‘Best Western to Go’ was developed to help our customers with their travel and booking needs when they’re on the road,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “We plan to update our app with interactive, clever and helpful features that make traveling easier and even more fun, including one selected by the end-user, our guest.”
Now through June 19, 2010, travelers can visit www.bestwestern.com/iphoneappcontest and cast their vote for the next app feature. Once a vote has been submitted, the site visitor will be entered for a chance to win the grand prize of one million Best Western Rewards points. Alternate prizes include $100 Best Western Travel Cards and iTunes gift cards.
The current free “Best Western to Go” iPhone application can be downloaded at either www.bestwestern.com/iphone or www.itunes.com/app/bestwesterninternational.
Best Western Rewards (bestwesternrewards.com) is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more.
For more information, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES MOBILE WEB SITE WITH USABLENET
New Service Will Enable Best Western To Better Serve Customers On-The-Go
PHOENIX (November 5, 2008) – Best Western International today launched Best Western Mobile, powered by Usablenet, which enables its customers to access all of the features of the Best Western Web site from any web-enabled mobile device. Users simply type www.bestwestern.com into the phone’s mobile Web browser to access the site.
This new mobile site will extend the full functionality of the Best Western site to its customers, enabling them to reserve a room, check the status of a reservation, get directions and more.
”We are excited to provide our customers with the Best Western Mobile service,” said Karmela Gaffney, Best Western International’s managing director of advertising and e-commerce. “This will allow them ease of booking both at home and on the road.”
Usablenet Mobile is a fully managed service that leverages the features and functionality of a company’s existing Web site and extends it to all mobile devices worldwide in less than six weeks, requiring no client IT or Web design resources.
“Best Western’s mobile offering lets its customers take advantage of the full Web site functionality from any Web-enabled mobile device,” said Nick Taylor, president of Usablenet. “This is a huge benefit to Best Western customers who can now take care of their hotel needs simply and easily on their phone, no matter where they are.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About Usablenet
Usablenet’s unique mobile Web platform provides leading brands with a new channel to extend marketing, commerce and client service efforts to their customers. It offers companies a fully managed service called Usablenet Mobile that translates all existing Web site functionality to a full-featured mobile interface. The solution requires no IT or Web resources on the client side, works on all Web-enabled mobile devices worldwide and can be implemented in six weeks. Usablenet customers include American Airlines, Amtrak, Limited Brands, Marriott Hotels, Nissan and Pfizer. Founded in 2000, Usablenet is a private company headquartered in New York City with offices in Italy. For more information, visit www.usablenet.com
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BEST WESTERN PLUS Shakopee Inn Earns EPA’s ENERGY STAR
Becomes First Hotel in Minnesota to Achieve Milestone
SHAKOPEE, MINN. (March 8, 2011) – The BEST WESTERN PLUS Shakopee Inn has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s prestigious ENERGY STAR, the national symbol for protecting the environment through superior energy efficiency. The 65-room BEST WESTERN PLUS Shakopee Inn is the first hotel in Minnesota to achieve this milestone, which signifies that the building performs in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency.
“We are excited to receive this honor. It reflects our commitment to our guests and to our planet – we owe it to both to make our hotel as energy-efficient as possible,” said Haren Shroff, owner and general manager of the BEST WESTERN PLUS Shakopee Inn, and a former manufacturing engineer for Control Data Corporation.
To earn the ENERGY STAR, the BEST WESTERN PLUS Shakopee Inn implemented a number of eco-friendly features, some of them include:
•LED and compact fluorescent lights in hallways and guestrooms;
•Occupancy sensors in guestrooms, vending machines and in the lobby arcade to reduce energy use when no one is nearby;
•A device on the dryer that reclaims excess heat and puts it to other uses; and
•Evergreen landscaping that is watered by a drip irrigation system.
Shroff and his team are continually looking for innovative ways to conserve energy. “I view the hotel as my laboratory, and set a goal of improving it each day,” he said.
The BEST WESTERN PLUS Shakopee Inn is located at 511 South Marschall Road, just a half mile from Canterbury Horse Racepark and two miles from ValleyFair Amusement Park. Rates include a complimentary hot breakfast and free wireless Internet access. Guestrooms feature LED flatscreen televisions, MP3 players, microwaves and refrigerators. To book a room, visit www.bestwestern.com/PlusShakopeeInn.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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PHOENIX - The fall 2009 business travel season will not be as bleak for individual, or “unmanaged,” business travelers, compared to industry-projected reductions in corporate, or “managed,” travel, according to a newly-formed Best Western advisory board.
According to the group of “unmanaged” business travelers and Best Western Rewards loyalty program members who make up the Best Western Diamond 100 Advisory Board, regular business travel routines have not and will not be significantly altered by the recession, and will remain at similar levels through fall 2009.
A large majority of these “elite” tier Best Western Rewards members, who spent more than 250 nights with the World’s Largest Hotel Chain over the past five years, plan to hit the road for the same number of nights or more compared to a year ago. Though most do not foresee much change in their business travel schedules, only one-third are seeing signals of recovery in their respective industries.
These and other findings are included in a new report entitled “Taking The Pulse of Unmanaged Business Travelers: A Marketplace Research Report” which will be released later this week, toplines results from an August survey of Best Western Diamond 100 Advisory Board members. Other highlights include:
· 80 percent plan to travel for business as much or more than they did last fall
· 75 percent have not been asked to dramatically reduce business travel spending or provide more justification for trips in the last six months
· More than 80 percent have not made any permanent changes in their business travel habits due to the recession
· Fewer than one in five feel virtual alternatives such as videoconferencing are likely to replace business trips over the next six months
Henry Harteveldt, vice president and principal analyst of airline and travel research for Forrester who was interviewed for this report, says unmanaged business travelers will not only continue to account for a noticeable majority of all business travelers, but their numbers may even grow in the near future.
With more than 4,000 locations globally, Best Western provides business travelers with the tools they need to maximize travel budgets and remain productive. More than 600 Best Western hotels in the U.S. and Canada are part of the new Best Western Business Plus program, which ensures a consistent experience for individual and corporate business travelers at every participating Best Western property, including free high-speed Internet access (both in-room and in all public spaces), free local calls under 30 minutes, free long distance access and free business center access. In-room coffee/tea makers and irons and ironing boards are in every room, while breakfast and express check-out are always available, as well.
“Over our sixty-year history, we've learned that business travelers have two priorities on the road: they want to be comfortable, and they want to be productive. These go hand in hand, "said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. "In addition, the unmanaged business travel insights shared by members of the Best Western Diamond 100 Advisory Board are particularly valuable because frequency programs are an increasingly critical consideration to these travelers."
According to Forrester’s Consumer Technographics North American Q1 2009 travel online study, a majority (56 percent) of U.S. business travelers are unmanaged, relatively unchanged compared to 2008. Members of the Best Western Diamond 100 Advisory Board represent a significant portion of this group, as well:
- 40 percent work for themselves or for a small company 29 percent work for companies with fewer than 5,000 employees
- Nearly half decide when to take trips instead of seeking permission from their bosses 74 percent spend less than $100 per night at hotels, with a similar number spending more than 11 nights every month on the road
- 63 percent drive instead of fly on nearly every business trip
- 88 percent are based in the U.S. and 11 percent are from Canada
For a copy of “Taking The Pulse of Unmanaged Business Travelers: A Marketplace Research Report,” go to
http://www.bestwestern.com/unmanagedtravelers.pdf
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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BEST WESTERN AND THE DISNEY CHANNEL LAUNCH A ROCKIN’ VACATION SWEEPSTAKES TO MEET STARS OF HIT “JONAS” SERIES
June 8, 2009 (PHOENIX) – Have you dreamed of hanging out on the set of a Disney Channel original series? One lucky fan and his or her family will have the exclusive opportunity to visit the set of the Disney original series JONAS and rock out with the cast as part of the Best Western International Rockin’ Vacation Sweepstakes, which begins today.
Through August 16, fans can enter the Best Western Rockin’ Vacation Sweepstakes by visiting www.bestwestern.com. One grand prize winner will be randomly selected to travel to Los Angeles with up to three additional family members for a three-night vacation and the chance to meet the JONAS cast in early 2010, when the show begins taping second season episodes.
In addition to the grand prize winner, 100 first-prize winners will receive a $50 Best Western travel voucher that can be used at any of Best Western’s 4,000 properties worldwide.
“A vacation that involves the entire family is sure to create memories that will last a lifetime,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Best Western. “This kid-friendly sweepstakes is a perfect complement to the Best Western Rewards offer we will be announcing shortly, and together with our World Vision child sponsorship drive, it’s another example of The World’s Largest Hotel Chain building the World Largest Family.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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FOURTH BEST WESTERN ATREA PROTOTYPE OPENS IN TEXAS
PHOENIX (Nov. 4, 2009) — The fourth Best Western Atrea, an upper midscale prototype designed to attract business travelers, has recently opened its doors in Denton, Texas.
With its stylish architecture and contemporary décor, the 74-room Best Western Atrea Crown Chase Inn and Suites is among the first of this new concept for the 63-year-old brand.
“This prototype is something the brand has needed for a long time, and it’s a perfect fit for Denton,” said owner Charles Helm, who also serves as a director for Best Western International’s Board of Directors. “We’re so very proud to become a part of the Denton business community, and most importantly, pleased to be able to develop one of the first Best Western properties of its kind right here in North Texas.”
Conveniently located along the I-35 East corridor and about a mile from downtown Denton, the hotel offers an on-site cocktail lounge, a media center, 24-hour business center, 24-hour fitness room, 24-hour sundry and a unique outdoor pool and spa with rock formations and walls that provide relaxing waterfall and water spraying features. The complimentary full hot breakfast buffet features freshly prepared make-your-own Texas-shaped waffles and made-to-order omelets.
The spacious and homelike guest rooms are equipped with ceiling fans, thermostatically controlled air, microwaves, refrigerators, flat-screen LCD televisions, coffee makers and free wired and wireless high-speed Internet access.
Additionally, the facility includes more than 1,800 square feet of meeting space. The largest room, the Atrea Hall, can comfortably accommodate about 100 guests, while the board room is ideal for roundtable meetings of up to 10.
“The new Best Western Atrea Crown Chase Inn and Suites sets a new standard for guests in Texas,” said Mark Williams, vice president, North American development for Best Western International. “With its features designed to make travelers more comfortable and productive on the road, this upper midscale concept will make a great lodging choice for guest traveling for business.”
The Denton facility is located in the developing local medical district and near a number of businesses and industries. It is only minutes from the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University. A variety of attractions are also nearby, among them Texas Motor Speedway, Bayless-Selby House Museum, North Texas Gateway Center and Courthouse-on-the-Square. Several nationally recognized restaurants are within walking distance, and Golden Triangle Mall and other shopping and recreational outlets are within blocks.
In addition to Best Western Atrea Crown Chase Inn and Suites, Helm and his business partner and wife, Sharon, own and operate five other lodging facilities in Texas. These include three other Best Western facilities – Best Western Christopher Inn and Suites in Forney, Best Western Monica Royale Inn and Suites in Greenville and Best Western Crown Colony Inn and Suites in Lufkin. The couple’s other properties are the Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Greenville and Holiday Inn and Suites in McKinney. An owner and operator in the lodging industry for almost 40 years, Helm has been involved with the Best Western organization since 1982. The Helm’s hotel company is headquartered in his hometown of Sulphur Springs.
The property’s general manager is Mike Green, a local hotelier with 14 years experience in the lodging industry, including three years in the Denton market.
Best Western’s Atrea prototype was first announced at the brand’s annual Convention in October 2007, and hotel developers have since committed to build an additional 28 Atrea properties in both the United States and Canada. The Denton property is the third Atrea to open in Texas.
To learn more about Best Western’s Atrea design prototype, visit www.bestwesterndevelopers.com or www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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“ELECTRIFYING” END TO BEST WESTERN’S ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” CHARITY AUCTION GENERATES A FINAL BID OF MORE THAN $2,500
“Fan Swap” Auction Winner David Emery Prepares to Take the Reins of Michael Waltrip Racing for a Day; Two-Time Daytona 500 Winner Michael Waltrip Will Travel to New Jersey to Work as an Electrical Engineer
PHOENIX (September 2, 2010) – A key component for winning race cars is a high-performing electrical system and Michael Waltrip Racing team owner and professional driver Michael Waltrip will get a firsthand look at complex electrical hardware, when he travels to New Jersey to “swap” jobs with the winner of the third annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction this fall.
David Emery, the owner and operator of Powertronic, Inc, an electrical company he started in 1995 in Ocean, N.J., outbid race fans on eBay to earn this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “swap” jobs with Waltrip for a day, as well as travel with the team to the races in Richmond, Va.
Emery posted a winning bid of $2,606, with proceeds from the charity auction benefiting World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner, dedicated to alleviating the causes of poverty and injustice among children and families around the world.
Best Western, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, and Michael Waltrip Racing will send the auction winner to Cornelius, N.C. to experience the inner workings of owning a race team and all the work that goes into preparing for race weekend.
At Michael Waltrip Racing headquarters, he’ll enjoy an exclusive tour of Waltrip’s private office and pickup some official Michael Waltrip Racing gear. David will also be treated to an exclusive tour of the new NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, as well as a tour of Showtime’s “Inside NASCAR” studios with Waltrip, the show’s host. Emery will also enjoy a lunch with Waltrip and driver David Reutimann before traveling with the entire race team to Richmond where he will stay at a Best Western hotel for the weekend and receive VIP treatment at the September 10th and 11th races.
“I’ve always thought running a race team would be similar to owning an electrical company because of the skill and precision it takes to work on intricate systems and hardware,” said David Emery. “I’m looking forward to working with Michael to see if what I’ve always believed is true when I join him in Cornelius for a day to learn everything there is to know about running his team.”
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“ELECTRIFYING” END TO BEST WESTERN’S ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” CHARITY AUCTION GENERATES A FINAL BID OF MORE THAN $2,500
“Fan Swap” Auction Winner David Emery Prepares to Take the Reins of Michael Waltrip Racing for a Day; Two-Time Daytona 500 Winner Michael Waltrip Will Travel to New Jersey to Work as an Electrical Engineer
PHOENIX (September 2, 2010) – A key component for winning race cars is a high-performing electrical system and Michael Waltrip Racing team owner and professional driver Michael Waltrip will get a firsthand look at complex electrical hardware, when he travels to New Jersey to “swap” jobs with the winner of the third annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction this fall.
David Emery, the owner and operator of Powertronic, Inc, an electrical company he started in 1995 in Ocean, N.J., outbid race fans on eBay to earn this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “swap” jobs with Waltrip for a day, as well as travel with the team to the races in Richmond, Va.
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“ELECTRIFYING” END TO BEST WESTERN’S ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” CHARITY AUCTION GENERATES A FINAL BID OF MORE THAN $2,500
“Fan Swap” Auction Winner David Emery Prepares to Take the Reins of Michael Waltrip Racing for a Day; Two-Time Daytona 500 Winner Michael Waltrip Will Travel to New Jersey to Work as an Electrical Engineer
PHOENIX (September 2, 2010) – A key component for winning race cars is a high-performing electrical system and Michael Waltrip Racing team owner and professional driver Michael Waltrip will get a firsthand look at complex electrical hardware, when he travels to New Jersey to “swap” jobs with the winner of the third annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction this fall.
David Emery, the owner and operator of Powertronic, Inc, an electrical company he started in 1995 in Ocean, N.J., outbid race fans on eBay to earn this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “swap” jobs with Waltrip for a day, as well as travel with the team to the races in Richmond, Va.
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“ELECTRIFYING” END TO BEST WESTERN’S ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” CHARITY AUCTION GENERATES A FINAL BID OF MORE THAN $2,500
“Fan Swap” Auction Winner David Emery Prepares to Take the Reins of Michael Waltrip Racing for a Day; Two-Time Daytona 500 Winner Michael Waltrip Will Travel to New Jersey to Work as an Electrical Engineer
PHOENIX (September 2, 2010) – A key component for winning race cars is a high-performing electrical system and Michael Waltrip Racing team owner and professional driver Michael Waltrip will get a firsthand look at complex electrical hardware, when he travels to New Jersey to “swap” jobs with the winner of the third annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction this fall.
David Emery, the owner and operator of Powertronic, Inc, an electrical company he started in 1995 in Ocean, N.J., outbid race fans on eBay to earn this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “swap” jobs with Waltrip for a day, as well as travel with the team to the races in Richmond, Va.
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“ELECTRIFYING” END TO BEST WESTERN’S ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” CHARITY AUCTION GENERATES A FINAL BID OF MORE THAN $2,500
“Fan Swap” Auction Winner David Emery Prepares to Take the Reins of Michael Waltrip Racing for a Day; Two-Time Daytona 500 Winner Michael Waltrip Will Travel to New Jersey to Work as an Electrical Engineer
PHOENIX (September 2, 2010) – A key component for winning race cars is a high-performing electrical system and Michael Waltrip Racing team owner and professional driver Michael Waltrip will get a firsthand look at complex electrical hardware, when he travels to New Jersey to “swap” jobs with the winner of the third annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction this fall.
David Emery, the owner and operator of Powertronic, Inc, an electrical company he started in 1995 in Ocean, N.J., outbid race fans on eBay to earn this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “swap” jobs with Waltrip for a day, as well as travel with the team to the races in Richmond, Va.
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“ELECTRIFYING” END TO BEST WESTERN’S ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” CHARITY AUCTION GENERATES A FINAL BID OF MORE THAN $2,500
“Fan Swap” Auction Winner David Emery Prepares to Take the Reins of Michael Waltrip Racing for a Day; Two-Time Daytona 500 Winner Michael Waltrip Will Travel to New Jersey to Work as an Electrical Engineer
PHOENIX (September 2, 2010) – A key component for winning race cars is a high-performing electrical system and Michael Waltrip Racing team owner and professional driver Michael Waltrip will get a firsthand look at complex electrical hardware, when he travels to New Jersey to “swap” jobs with the winner of the third annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction this fall.
David Emery, the owner and operator of Powertronic, Inc, an electrical company he started in 1995 in Ocean, N.J., outbid race fans on eBay to earn this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “swap” jobs with Waltrip for a day, as well as travel with the team to the races in Richmond, Va.
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Best Western Travel Card Deal: Give the Gift of Travel®, Get a Gift for Yourself
PHOENIX (Nov. 22, 2010) – Best Western is making holiday shopping easier this year: Purchase a $100 Best Western Travel Card online at www.travelcard.bestwestern.com/holiday10us , and receive a bonus reward for yourself. The Best Western Travel Card can be used like cash to pay for accommodations and incidentals at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
For every $100 Best Western Travel Card purchased, choose from one of the following rewards: 2,500 Best Western Rewards points, $10 Best Western Travel Card, $10 Amazon.com Gift Card, $10 Home Depot Gift Card, $10 Walmart Gift Card, or a $10 Carrabbas, Flemings or Outback Steakhouse Gift Card.
“Our Best Western Travel Cards are so popular this time of year because people love receiving the gift of travel,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “With this deal, you can give a great gift, and reward yourself at the same time.”
To receive the bonus, you must be a member of Best Western Rewards and purchase the card at www.travelcard.bestwestern.com/holiday10us . If you are not a member of Best Western Rewards, you can join for free at www.bestwesternrewards.com.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS™ and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN PROMOTES RON POHL TO SVP, BRAND MANAGEMENT AND MEMBER SERVICES
PHOENIX (April 28, 2010) – Best Western International (www.bestwestern.com) today announced the promotion of Ron Pohl to senior vice president, brand management and member services. In this new role, Pohl will oversee North American development in addition to managing a number of key departments including customer care, member care, education and training, revenue management and international quality assurance. He also serves on the company’s executive committee and leads its Brand Management Team.
Pohl, who brings nearly 30 years of industry experience to the position, most recently served as a vice president, where he led a cross-department team to roll out a comprehensive training campaign to help Member hotels weather the economic crisis.
“In the three years Ron has worked with Best Western, he’s truly proven his passion, dedication and commitment to the brand and our hoteliers, helping elevate our chain to the leadership position it holds today,’ said David Kong, Best Western’s president and CEO. “His diverse hospitality background combined with deep experience in hotel management have earned him the returns he deserves, and we’re fortunate to have him serve in this new role.”
Pohl joined Best Western in 2007 as vice president of operations. During his tenure, he significantly improved the Customer Care department by implementing the Best Western I Care program and a uniform survey system for Best Western properties, resulting in increased customer satisfaction scores and dramatically reduced complaints. Pohl reports directly to Kong.
Prior to joining Best Western, Pohl spent more than 20 years with Boykin Management Company, a respected hotel management firm based in Cleveland. While there, he served in a number of senior-level positions in the areas of operations, marketing, sales and revenue management.
Pohl earned a bachelor's degree in business from the University of Akron and also holds Certified Hotel Administrator and Certified Rooms Director designations.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA®/CAA®, Michael Waltrip RacingTM and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN OPENS FIRST HOTEL IN RUSSIA
The BEST WESTERN Vega Hotel & Convention Centre In Moscow Becomes The Largest Best Western Hotel In The World
MOSCOW (August 9, 2011) - Best Western International, the World’s Biggest Hotel FamilySM, continues its global expansion with the addition of the company’s first hotel in Russia, the BEST WESTERN Vega Hotel & Convention Centre, in the country’s capital city of Moscow. With 970 guest rooms, the BEST WESTERN Vega Hotel & Convention Centre is the largest hotel in Best Western’s portfolio of more than 4,000 hotels worldwide.
The Vega hotel was originally built in anticipation of the 1980 Olympics and remodeled in 2007. The three-plus star property features three on-site restaurants, a coffee shop, and lobby bar. The hotel welcomes more than 190,000 visitors to its conference center with 15 separate meetings spaces. The hotel also features four guest room styles, a business center and fitness facility featuring Turkish baths and a Finnish sauna.
The BEST WESTERN Vega Hotel & Convention Centre is located in Izmaylovo Village, one of Moscow’s most picturesque regions. It is within walking distance of Izmailovsky Park, Izmailovo Souvenir Market and Aqua Circus. It is also only a two-minute walk to the Partizanskaya metro station, providing easy access to the Kremlin and Moscow’s business districts.
“As Russia continues to attract more business and leisure travelers, we felt it was a perfect time to join Best Western’s global family of hotels and take on its internationally recognized name and reputation,” said Valery Maximov, general manager of the BEST WESTERN Vega Hotel & Convention Centre. “Our property has tremendous appeal to corporate and leisure travelers, and we’re confident that the brand’s loyalty club, Best Western Rewards, and sales programs will help attract travelers globally.”
The addition of the BEST WESTERN Vega Hotel & Convention Centre to the hotel chain’s family of hotels is the next step in Best Western’s development efforts to meet the need for more hotels in Russia and the surrounding Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) catering to business and leisure travelers. The brand recently opened the BEST WESTERN PLUS Flowers hotel in Chisinau, Moldova, following the BEST WESTERN Sevastopol Hotel in Sevastopol, Ukraine in 2010.
“We’ve found that there is a need in Russia and surrounding regions for hotels that offer leisure and business travelers international standards in the midscale and upper midscale markets,” said Best Western’s Vice President of International Operations Suzi Yoder. “With many existing hotels competing only in the luxury or budget hotel sectors, we’re afforded the tremendous opportunity to introduce BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS and BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels to travelers.”
To learn more about this hotel or discover other Best Western hotels across the world, visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN OPENS ITS FIRST HOTEL IN TANZANIA
Marks Fourth Best Western-Branded Hotel to Open in Africa in 2010
PHOENIX (DECEMBER 9, 2010) – Best Best Western International’s African presence continues to grow with the opening of the Best Western Coral Beach Hotel, located in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania’s exclusive Msasani Peninsula area.
Located within 5 kilometers of the U.S. Embassy, the hotel overlooks the Indian Ocean and offers an amazing vantage point for the beautiful sunsets seen on Africa’s East Coast.
“We are excited to welcome Best Western’s first hotel in Tanzania, and one of the first Western hotel brands in Dar Es Salaam,” said Suzi Yoder, vice president of international operations. “With its prime location, amazing sunset views and business-class services, the Best Western Coral Beach Hotel is a strong addition to our brand portfolio in Africa.”
The boutique-style hotel offers 62 guest rooms, an ocean-side restaurant and on-site bar and lounge. Upscale guestrooms feature free wireless internet access and flat-screen LCD televisions, and some offer ocean views. Complimentary full breakfast, business center and fitness center also are available for guests.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL REWARDS TRAVELERS WITH MORE POINTS DURING THE HOLIDAYS
First-Ever Best Western Holiday Promotion Gives Best Western Rewards/Gold Crown Club Members Double Points or Miles
PHOENIX (Nov. 12, 2008) – Best Western International, The World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, is rewarding travelers at a time when it matters most – during the peak holiday travel season.
From November 22 – December 31, members of Best Western’s Gold Crown Club International – soon to be re-named Best Western RewardsSM – earn double points or miles when they book online and stay one or more nights during the promotional period.
The promotion is Best Western’s first-ever national Rewards program promotion to be offered during the holiday season.
“Best Western knows this is a tough economic time for travelers, and we want to help them find value during this holiday season,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “This is an exciting opportunity for Best Western Rewards members to double their points and earn great redemption items – such as gas cards and free room nights – even faster.”
To be eligible, guests must register for the promotion, reside in North America, South America, China or Asia and be members of Gold Crown Club International. Individuals who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free. To join Gold Crown Club/Best Western RewardsSM, visit www.goldcrownclub.com.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Best Western’s Gold Crown Club International program, soon to be re-launched as Best Western Rewards, is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
For more information on the promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/holiday or call 1-800-WESTERN.
Double points or miles offer is valid for Gold Crown Club® International (GCCI) members residing in the North America, South America, China and Asia that complete a qualified stay between 11/22/08 and 12/31/08. For a complete list of countries included in this promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/holiday. Registration and GCCI enrollment/membership required prior to first qualified stay. A qualified stay night is defined as one or more nights at a Best Western® hotel regardless of frequency of check-ins/check-outs at a GCCI qualifying rate (eligible for GCCI points/miles). Other restrictions may apply. Offer not valid with any other promotion or discount. Promotion subject to cancellation or change without notice. Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for posting of bonus points/miles. GCCI is owned and operated by BW GCCI, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Best Western International, Inc. All GCCI program rules apply. See www.goldcrownclub.com for additional terms. Each Best Western® hotel is independently owned and operated. Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International, Inc. ©2008 Best Western International, Inc. All rights reserved.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western® Launches “Stay 3, Stay Free” Spring Promotion
Best Western Rewards® Offer Marks Brand’s 66 Years, 100-plus Countries
PHOENIX (Feb. 6, 2012) – THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY® invites members of its free global loyalty program Best Western Rewards to earn a free night. Marking the brand’s 66th birthday and presence in over 100 countries and territories, the promotion will reward members who stay three separate times between February 6 and April 8, 2012 with a free night voucher, good at any BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® or BEST WESTERN PREMIER® in the world until June 30, 2012. Register and view Terms and Conditions at www.bestwestern.com/spring.
“We continue to work hard to make Best Western Rewards the most valuable loyalty card in our guests’ wallets,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales. “This free night is to thank guests for their repeat business, and to help them experience one of our three hotel types in the more than 100 countries where we serve travelers.”
The Best Western Rewards spring promotion and related sweepstakes will feature heavily in the brand’s social media channels this season ( www.facebook.com/BestWestern and @TheBestWestern), as well as at the property level.
Best Western Resources:
• For bookings: www.bestwestern.com
• For rewards: www.bestwesternrewards.com
• Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BestWestern
• Read the Best Western blog: www.youmustbetrippin.com
• Follow Best Western on Twitter: www.twitter.com/thebestwestern
About Best Western Rewards
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 100 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch ® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 66 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, racecar driver Michael Waltrip, and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN FACEBOOK FANS CAN “TAKE THE WHEEL”
TO WIN FREE NIGHTS WITH NEW “VIRTUAL ACCELERATOR” APP
Best Western to award its Facebook fans 10 million Best Western Rewards® points as part of its “Fastest Way to a Free Night” social media initiative
PHOENIX (October 3, 2011) – As part of Best Western International’s continued efforts to help travelers earn the “Fastest Way to a Free Night,” the chain has launched a “Virtual Accelerator” app on its Facebook page that allows Best Western Rewards® members to earn up to 100,000 rewards points with the click of a mouse.
New and existing Best Western Rewards members can get behind the digital wheel and take a spin on the “Virtual Accelerator” dashboard to win rewards points, which are redeemable at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide.
“The ‘Virtual Accelerator’ provides us with a fun and unique way to engage with travelers and show them how fast and easy it is to earn a free night with Best Western Rewards, “ said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of sales and marketing. “To thank our members for their loyalty, we’ll give away a total of 10 million points, good for more than 1,200 free nights. It’s a program designed to ensure that everyone who participates is a winner.”
To take advantage of the “Fastest Way to a Free Night” promo, Best Western Rewards Members can:
• “Like” the Best Western Facebook page, take a seat behind the wheel of the “Virtual Accelerator,” and rev the engine with their mouse to score between 100 to 100,000 rewards points
• Encourage other Facebook friends to play the Virtual Accelerator to earn an additional 100 points
This fall, travelers can also earn double rewards points during the Best Western’s Fall Promotion through November 20, 2011. Guests who stay two separate times at any Best Western hotel worldwide will earn double Rewards points on their second stay. Points can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates. For more information and to register for the Fall Promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/fall.
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs. It has the lowest redemption thresholds for awards, and is one of few loyalty programs that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in more than 90 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, the Best Western Travel Card®, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline/partner rewards and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS WITH MEDALLIA TO ASSIST MEMBERS IN MANAGING ONLINE HOTEL REVIEWS
Solution provides expanded monitoring and customer feedback capabilities to hotel owners
PHOENIX (January 9, 2012) – Best Western International today announced a new feature of its partnership with Medallia, the global leader in software-as-a service Customer Experience Management solutions, to offer hotel owners new capabilities to manage their property’s online travel reviews more accurately. Best Western worked with Medallia to create the Social Feedback for Hospitality tool and is the first hotel chain to offer this solution to its hoteliers to help them better monitor and respond to online guest reviews.
“As social media and online review sites continue to play a larger role in consumer booking decisions, we want to ensure that we are able to thoroughly monitor those sites and respond to guests in a timely and appropriate manner,” said Michael Morton, vice president, member services at Best Western. “Medallia’s platform gives us the tools to do this in a simple and effective way.”
The solution will provide each hotel with the ability to better manage customer feedback on various online channels. Medallia’s Social Feedback for Hospitality aggregates reviews from leading social networking and online travel review sites, such as TripAdvisor, Facebook and Twitter. It also allows hotel owners to respond to customer feedback. Individual hotels will use this data to better understand customer needs, resulting in improved customer experiences.
“Best Western is the perfect partner for us to work with and develop a solution that completely integrates unsolicited social media feedback with solicited feedback,” said Borge Hald, CEO and co-founder of Medallia, “They asked us to create a product that would complement their existing program, and we are proud of the industry-leading system that came about as a result. Working together will make it easier to provide Best Western guests the best hotel experience in the industry.”
This is Best Western’s latest initiative to expand its online efforts to further engage with consumers. The chain uses its six social media channels to gain feedback from guests, promote contests and promotions and share travel industry insight with its followers. The company will also be announcing additional advancements to its online initiatives later in the year. For more information on Best Western, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILY®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 66 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts hundreds of thousands of guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, racecar driver Michael Waltrip, and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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BEST WESTERN BECOMES FIRST HOTEL CHAIN TO OFFER NEW GPS AND ONLINE MAPPING SERVICE FOR NORTH AMERICA/CARIBBEAN
Easier than ever for guests to find Best Western locations
PHOENIX (May 5, 2009) – Best Western announced today that it is the first hotel company to make all of its North American and Caribbean hotel locations available for download to GPS devices from the www.bestwestern.com site, courtesy of leading GPS and online mapping site POIfriend.com.
“As the World’s Largest Hotel Chain, we are always on the lookout for tools that help guest navigate our enormous portfolio of properties,” said Karmela Gaffney, managing director of e-commerce and advertising for Best Western. “Our work with POIfriend.com is about saving our guests time and enabling them to connect with our hotels when and where it makes sense. “
Through bestwestern.com and POIfriend.com, users can download an official listing of all North American and Caribbean Best Western hotel locations to the majority of GPS-enabled navigation devices.
“Customers will no longer have to rely solely on the pre-loaded data on their GPS devices, “added Gaffney. “This will place the most current Best Western information at their fingertips.”
Best Western’s official hotel location listing can be downloaded to GPS devices by visiting www.bestwestern.com
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT POIfriend.com
POIfriend.com is the point of interest community that connects people and the places important to them. It is the first site of its kind that lets people find, create, comment, rate, share, and use Point of Interest (POI) information for GPS, maps and driving directions. POIfriend is free to use for all users and works with most portable GPS enabled devices. For a complete listing of compatible devices please visit POIfriend.com’s FAQ at http://www.poifriend.com/faq.php#using04.
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BEST WESTERN DEBUTS “INDIE FILMS” FEATURING INDEPENDENT BEST WESTERN HOTEL OWNERS
Short films celebrate the small business entrepreneurs behind the chain’s hotels
PHOENIX (April 11, 2011) – Best Western International, the World's Biggest Hotel FamilySM,unveiled this week the brand’s first series of Independent Films – three-minute documentaries that tell the inspiring stories of five Best Western hotel owners. These films exemplify the independent spirit and commitment to hands-on management of the brand’s more than 2,200 individually owned and operated hotels across North America.
The first five films are being released in celebration of Best Western’s 65th birthday this year and can be viewed on Best Western’s Facebook and YouTube pages as well as at www.bestwestern.com/indiefilms. An additional series of Best Western Indie Films is currently in production.
These unique films are also being entered within a number of regional and national film festivals in 2011, including the LA Shorts Fest, NXT Stage and Atlantic Film Festival, to further share the personal stories of Best Western’s hotel owners, the backbone of the iconic hotel chain.
“Thanks to the dedication of our independent owner-operators and their ability to connect with guests, which is the essence of the hospitality industry, Best Western has become one of the most trusted and respected hotel brands in the world,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Our owners have long been featured in Best Western advertising, and are truly the heroes of our brand. We want guests to peek behind the curtain to see the generations of hard work and commitment that have made our owners important contributors to their local communities.”
The Best Western Independent Films feature the following hoteliers:
•Alnoor Tejpar, British Columbia
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Country Meadows
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Langley Inn
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Suites Downtown
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Regency Inn & Conference Center
•Bart Baker, Davenport, Iowa
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Dubuque Hotel & Conference Center
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Steeplegate Inn
•Bill O’Connell, Anaheim, Calif.
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Pavilions
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Stovall’s Inn
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Anaheim Inn
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Park Place Inn & Mini-Suites
•Dale Gerstner, Jefferson City, Mo.
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Capital Inn
•Jim Cosgrove, Paradise, Paradise, Penn.
o BEST WESTERN PLUS Revere Inn & Suites
These films were created by Best Western and its partner advertising agency, New York-based Gotham, Inc.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN AND MICHAEL WALTRIP RACING IN SEARCH OF STOCK CAR RACING’S FIRST-EVER “OFFICIAL TWEET CREW TEAM”
Three Internet-Savvy Race Fans Will Be Selected to Travel to Phoenix for the April 10 Race and Serve as David Reutimann’s Team of Twitter Correspondents
CORNELIUS, N.C. (January 21, 2010) – The World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, Best Western, has teamed up with Michael Waltrip Racing to conduct a national job search for stock car racing’s first-ever “Official Tweet Crew Team.” To help kickoff the 2010 racing season, the pair is “hiring” three qualified fans to travel to Phoenix for the April 10, 2010 race weekend and work as David Reutimann’s team of Twitter correspondents.
Fans who visit the Best Western “Official Tweet Crew Team” Web site, www.bestwestern.com/tweetcrewteam, starting today through Wednesday, March 17, will have the opportunity to submit an application, which includes a link to a creative video or picture, to become a member of this historic team. The selected three-person team will join David Reutimann in Phoenix on April 10 and spend the weekend with the 2009 Coca-Cola 600 winner, Tweeting about every twist and turn he makes on-and-off the track. Each Tweet Crew Team member will be provided with a smartphone that has camera capabilities to enable “Twitpics.”
The first-ever “Official Tweet Crew Team” will also give racing fans around the world an up-close-and-personal glimpse into the Sprint Cup Series Race in Phoenix by providing a written play-by-play of the race via Twitter from the team’s different vantage points around the track. Fans can follow all the heart-pounding and intimate action by logging onto www.twitter.com and following the team at @tweetcrewteam. Finally, race fans watching from home or following the team on Twitter will be given the chance to win great prizes throughout the race including official Best Western Racing and Michael Waltrip Racing gear, as well as rewards program points that can be redeemed for future hotel stays and a wide variety of merchandise. One lucky member of Speed Rewards, Best Western’s loyalty program for race fans, will also win a Travel Card valued at $500.
“As we’ve learned over the last decade, the Internet, particularly social media, is an increasingly important communication channel for our guests. We’ve also realized recently it’s no different for the thousands of race fans who visit our hotels each week, making it incredibly important for our brand to continue to reach our guests through creative and innovative digital avenues,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “Our partnership with Michael Waltrip Racing, one of the most forward thinking race teams in the sport, allows us to execute fun and interactive promotions such as the ‘Official Tweet Crew Team’.”
Those selected as members of the first-ever “Official Tweet Crew Team” will receive roundtrip airfare to Phoenix, hotel accommodations, local transportation, as well as a Best Western/Michael Waltrip Racing- branded team uniform and VIP access to the track for the race. The winners will also have the opportunity to join Michael Waltrip and David Reutimann in a race day press conference for the unveiling of the Best Western and Michael Waltrip Racing “Official Tweet Crew Team.”
“I have one of the most loyal and active followings on Twitter and I’m hoping through the Best Western ’Official Tweet Crew Team’ promotion I’ll be able to find three likeminded fans who want to help me share the ins-and-outs of a race team with millions of people all over the world,” said two-time Daytona 500 winner, Michael Waltrip. “In the 62 year history of the sport, this is unlike anything that’s ever been offered to fans – a real chance to be a critical part of a successful race team.”
To join Speed Rewards log onto www.bwracing.com.
For official rules and to enter, please visit www.bestwestern.com/tweetcrewteam.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing and Harley Davidson help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night, join Best Western Rewards®, the only hotel frequency program that's truly global. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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NEW WEB APP FROM BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL TAKES “LOOKING LIKE YOUR PET” TO A NEW LEVEL
PHOENIX (September 2, 2009) – The next photo of your favorite four-legged friend may look more familiar than usual. Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, has introduced the “Best Western Friends Forever Inseparator” application, allowing owners to merge their photo with an image of their pet.
The end result is a hilarious image that tests the theory that people start to look like their pets over time and can be shared with family, friends and co-workers, as well as posted online at www.bwff.com.
“Best Western is known for being pet friendly and we wanted to create a fun way for pet owners, and pet travelers, to share their love for their pets,” said Troy Rutman, director of external communications for Best Western. “We hope the application will remind travelers that pets need vacations too!”
The free “Friends Forever Inseparator” requires just a few simple steps to create a frame worthy memory:
•Visit www.bwff.com
•Upload a photo of yourself
•Upload your pet’s photo
•Highlight the areas of both photos to be merged
•Watch as your face is instantly merged with your pet – creating one unique and new photo
•Share via email with your friends and family or post for others to view on the “Friends Forever Inseparator” site
The “Friends Forever Inseparator” application is just one more way that the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® is catering to animal lovers and pet travelers. With more than 1,000 pet-friendly properties in North America and 1,900 globally, Best Western has expanded its pet travel offerings to help travelers make educated decisions when on the road with their pets. The hotel chain’s lowest-rate guarantee Web site, www.bestwestern.com, includes an easy-to-use booking engine to help find animal loving properties, tips for vacationing with pets and other features.
Pet owners can access the pet travel page directly at http://www.bestwestern.com/tripplanner/travelwithpets.asp
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Oslo (June 29th, 2009) – Next month, Best Western Hotels Norway’s strategic expansion will reach a new milestone: the opening of seven new rebranded properties. The new member hotels are located across Norway in Aalesund, Sunndalsora, Lofoten, Oslo, Gardermoen, Noresund and Trondheim. After this expansion Best Western Norway will have 26 hotels, up from just 14 at the beginning of 2008.
“It is a great thrill for Best Western Hotels Norway to finally enter these highly attractive markets,” said Hege Ramm, CEO of Best Western Hotels Norway.
Most of the hotels are joining the chain because of its strong worldwide reservation system, quality assurance program and global loyalty program, Best Western RewardsTM, she said.
The new hotels include
•Best Western Baronen Hotel in Aalesund
•Best Western Sunndalsora Hotell in Sunndalsora
•Best Western Lofoten Hotell in Lofoten
•Best Western Karl Johan Hotell in Oslo
•Best Western Oslo Airport Hotell in Gardermoen
•Best Western Sole Hotell & Herregaard in Noresund
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BRAND DESCRIPTORS BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS®, BEST WESTERN PREMIER® LAUNCH IN NORTH AMERICA
More than 800 Hotels in United States and Canada to Use New Descriptors
PHOENIX (Feb. 3, 2011) – This week, Best Western International officially launched its Descriptor Program in North America, giving its member hotels the option to identify their properties as BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® or BEST WESTERN PREMIER®. Approved in April 2010, the program was implemented to help guests find the right Best Western hotel for each trip, to increase guest satisfaction, and to drive superior revenue to the 2,200 North American hotels that make up THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM.
“We’ve built 65 years of goodwill with guests worldwide, and we are constantly evolving to better serve our customers. Descriptors enable better navigation of our large and diverse hotel portfolio, making it easier for business and leisure travelers to know which type of Best Western hotel to book,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. “This promises a more satisfying experience once they check in.”
BEST WESTERN hotels are midscale properties that offer guests great value without the cookie-cutter experience. They are rated two- or three-diamond from AAA/CAA, and offer free high-speed Internet, often free breakfast and parking, free local calls less than 30 minutes, and a free-of-charge publicly-accessible computer with Internet access.
BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels – approximately 800 expected in North America – are upper midscale hotels that offer a more premium experience, featuring contemporary furnishings in comfortable and spacious rooms and common areas. They offer all of the amenities of BEST WESTERN hotels, along with updated furnishings, high-quality bedding, upgraded bath amenities and select sundry items. BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels are AAA/CAA three-diamond rated.
BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels – currently open in Miami, Napa, Calif., suburban Dallas and Lancaster, Pa., with more than a dozen more expected later this year – are upscale hotels that offer real luxury at the right price. Each offers the amenities of BEST WESTERN and BEST WESTERN PLUS hotels, along with deluxe bath amenities, premium linens and towels, and typically 42-inch LCD or plasma televisions. BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotels also offer enhanced guest services, such as on-site dining, a concierge and turn-down service.
The brand, 65 years young in 2011, is marking this pivotal time with 65 Days of Best Western Giveaways. The daily drawings are part of the brand’s Spring Promotion, which runs for 65 days between Feb. 6 and April 11, 2011. Guests can receive a free room night, bonus Best Western Rewards points and gifts as an incentive to try hotels with different descriptors. See www.bestwestern.com/spring for details and to register.
Guests can learn more about each descriptor through virtual tours, extensive photos and enhanced search functionality at www.bestwestern.com.
The BEST WESTERN PREMIER descriptor has been used successfully in Europe, Asia and South America for a decade. The BEST WESTERN PLUS descriptor, new for North America, will be launched in select global markets throughout 2011, 2012 and 2013.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN JUMP STARTS SUMMER TRAVEL WITH FREE GIFT CARDS FOR THOSE WHO HIT THE ROAD NOW
PHOENIX (April 6, 2009) – Best Western International is kicking-off warm-weather travel by rewarding guests that vacation during the spring with a gift card to use on their summer travel. THE WORLD’S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® is offering Best Western Rewards® members who stay twice during the spring with a $50 (USD) Best Western Travel Card® that can be redeemed at more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide on their next vacation.
“Best Western is providing travelers that hit the road this spring with tremendous value and encouraging them to vacation this summer by giving them $50 to help them save on their hotel stay,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales.
To earn the $50 Travel Card, guests must register for the promotion at www.bestwestern.com/jump and stay at least twice between April 6 and June 14, 2009.
In addition, promotion participants can earn 250 bonus points, up to a total of 500 points, each time they book their hotel online at www.bestwestern.com.
Best Western Rewards is one of the hotel industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of a few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline rewards and more. Program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
For base Best Western Reward members to be eligible for the promotion, they must register at www.bestwestern.com/jump, and reside in North America, South America, South Africa, China or Asia. All other Best Western Rewards members belonging to Speed Rewards, Ride Rewards, AAA, CAA or AARP must reside in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean Islands and register for the promotion. Those who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Offers Deals from 49€ per Night Across Europe During Two-Day Promotion
MILAN, ITALY (November 9, 2009) – Best Western hotels across Europe and in Egypt are offering outstanding winter value during a two-day promotion. On Nov. 20 and Nov. 21, book a December, January or February stay on www.bestwestern.it/2daypromotion for rates starting at just 49€ per night, including breakfast. Family-size guestrooms and triple occupancy rooms start at just 69€ per night, including breakfast.
Members of Best Western RewardsSM, the WORLD’S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN’S® loyalty program, have the opportunity to book their winter stays early, on Nov. 12 and 13. Go to www.bestwestern.com, select a participating hotel and enter 01487560 as the corporate ID number. Rewards program members earn 1,000 points per stay.
Countries participating in the promotion include: Armenia, Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Egypt, Finland, France, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, The Netherlands and Turkey.
For a list of the 400 participating hotels and rates, visit www.bestwestern.it/2daypromotion.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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CELEBRATE BEST WESTERN’S 65TH BIRTHDAY WITH FREE NIGHTS, BONUS POINTS AND GIVEAWAYS
Rolling Out Huge Promotion to Mark Milestone, Launch of Brand Descriptors
PHOENIX (Feb. 3, 2011) – THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM invites members of its free loyalty program Best Western Rewards® to help celebrate the brand’s 65th birthday and the launch of three descriptors -- BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® – in North America. The 65-day event begins Feb. 6 and runs until April 11, and gives Best Western Rewards members several opportunities to stay, earn and win.
Register at www.bestwestern.com/spring (the site will be live on Feb. 6), stay three separate times during the promotional period, and earn a voucher for a free night toward a future stay. Vouchers can be redeemed at any of the brand’s 2,200 hotels in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean before June 30, 2011. Pay for the three stays with your Best Western Rewards MasterCard® and earn an additional 1,000 bonus points.
Best Western is also offering guests a special incentive to try its three new brand descriptors during the promotion. Those who qualify for the spring promotion and complete their three stays at at least two separate descriptor hotels will receive an additional onetime bonus of 6,500 Best Western Rewards points.
Each of the first ten Best Western Rewards members who registers for the promotion and stays at a BEST WESTERN, a BEST WESTERN PLUS and a BEST WESTERN PREMIER hotel during the promotion will receive a grand prize of 650,000 Best Western Rewards points.
Every Best Western Rewards member registered for the promotion will be automatically entered into a daily prize drawing. One winner will be drawn each day for the following giveaways:
•On days 1 through 32, win 6,500 Best Western Rewards points, which can be redeemed for a $25 gift card to Walmart, Shell, one of the program’s 60 other retail partners, or a Best Western Travel Card®.
•On days 33-48, the prize doubles to 13,000 Best Western Rewards points – which can be redeemed for a $50 gift card.
•On days 49-60, one daily winner will receive 26,000 Best Western Rewards points – equal to a $100 gift card.
•The daily winners on days 61 and 62 will be awarded Lifetime Diamond Elite status in Best Western Rewards. Once the status is activated, they will be eligible for a 30 percent points bonus on each stay, room upgrades, check-in /check-out privileges and other special offers.
•The winners on days 63, 64 and 65 will each receive 260,000 Best Western Rewards points, which can be redeemed for a $1,000 gift card to Macy’s, The Home Depot or another retail partner; or could potentially be worth a month of free hotel nights.
“Best Western is 65 years young--we’ve been around long enough to know what our guests expect, yet we’ve never been more dynamic in terms of enabling guests to get the most out of our large and diverse hotel portfolio,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We want our Best Western Rewards members to celebrate with us in a big way. Folks are gearing up for spring travel making now the perfect time to thank our members for their loyalty with many opportunities to earn and win.”
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch ® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN ADDS SOUTHWEST AIRLINES AS A KEY LOYALTY PROGRAM PARTNER
NEW YORK (February 5, 2009) – Members of Best Western’s global hotel loyalty program, Best Western RewardsSM, will be able to earn Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards credits redeemable for free flights anywhere the airline flies beginning February 15, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain® announced today at its annual Business Travel Summit in New York.
Best Western Rewards members have the option to earn half of one Southwest Rapid Rewards credit for each stay at any of the more than 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide
During Best Western’s spring promotion, which runs February 15 through April 5, Best Western Rewards members who register Southwest Airlines Rapid Reward credits as their earning preference can earn double – one full credit – after staying two nights during the promotional period.
“Whether they choose to earn points toward free room nights or credits toward a free flight, our guests can travel with confidence knowing Best Western and Southwest Airlines are helping stretch their budgets,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “This alliance is a tremendous opportunity for Best Western and Southwest Airlines to best serve our loyal travelers, as we have hotels in every U.S. city Southwest flies.”
To celebrate this partnership during the hotel chain’s spring promotion, one Best Western Rewards member who registers Southwest Airlines credits as their earning preference will be randomly selected to win six roundtrip tickets to any destination Southwest Airlines flies nationally. Eligible members can register by using promo code SWSPR09 at www.bestwestern.com/swspring.
"Earning credits towards free travel on Southwest Airlines by simply staying at Best Western hotels is an option we know our Members will appreciate,” said Kevin Krone, vice president of marketing, sales and distribution.
In addition to earning Rapid Rewards credit for staying at Best Western hotels, Best Western Rewards members also are able to convert 5,000 Best Western Rewards points into one Rapid Rewards credit.
Best Western Rewards is one of the hotel industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com. Membership is free.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES
After 37 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers – offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience. Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest convenient and simple. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) , the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 64 cities (soon to be 65 with the addition of Minneapolis/St. Paul in March 2009) in 32 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.
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MICHAEL WALTRIP AND BEST WESTERN TO PLAN AND PLAY THE ULTIMATE APRIL FOOLS’ PRANK
The Most Creative April Fools’ Prank will be Played on a NASCAR® Fan at the NASCAR Nationwide Series™ Race in Phoenix in April
PHOENIX (March 20, 2009) – Best Western International, the Official Hotel of NASCAR®, and two-time Daytona 500 winner, Michael Waltrip, will conspire with one race fan to plan the ultimate April Fools’ prank on an unsuspecting friend or family member.
Now and through April 1, fans are encouraged to visit the Best Western Racing April Fools’ promotional site (www.bestwestern.com/aprilfools) and submit their ideal April Fools’ prank for Waltrip to play on their unsuspecting friend or family member at the NASCAR Nationwide Series™, Bashas’ Supermarkets 200 race in Phoenix on Friday, April 17, 2009.
Entries submitted through the site will be judged by a Best Western panel of judges, including Waltrip. All entries will be judged on creativity and relevance of the submitted prank, as well as the degree of difficulty.
Once selected, Best Western and Waltrip will secretly work with the winner to plan the April Fools’ prank on the unsuspecting NASCAR® fan the week leading up to the NASCAR Nationwide Series™ Race in Phoenix. The winner, as well as the unsuspecting friend or family member, will receive roundtrip airfare, lodging tickets to the race and local transportation.
“As the Official Hotel of NASCAR®, Best Western is committed to creating memorable experiences for NASCAR fans either in our hotels or at the track,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Michael is sure to have several hilarious pranks to choose from, plan and play in April.”
As an official sponsor of NASCAR since 2004, Best Western has continued to provide race fans with everything they need for an enjoyable and affordable weekend at the races, including breakfast, free high-speed Internet, free in-room coffee, a comfortable stay and the best customer service around. As more and more families continue to feel the pinch of tough economic times, Best Western is helping race fans save money so they can still travel and enjoy the races around the country. Fans who join the free Speed Rewards loyalty program for race fans, and stay any two nights between now and April 5th, will earn double reward points, as well as have a chance to win one million Speed Rewards points.
To join Speed Rewards and find out more about what Best Western is doing to help race fans during these tough economic times, log onto www.bestwesternracing.com.
For official April Fools’ rules, fans should visit www.bestwestern.com/aprilfools.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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New Best Western Australia Website Halves Booking Time
Best Western Australia is excited to launch its new look website - www.bestwestern.com.au which is easier, faster and offers more features to both consumers and individual hotels.
"The Internet is the largest and fastest growing distribution channel for our market. In May 2006 our online bookings showed a 41 percent growth compared to 2005," says General Manager Marketing, Kimi Anderson. "As part of a new online strategy for this year our website was re-designed and users can now more easily navigate around the site and quickly make bookings with 50 percent less clicks required than before."
"We've also included a new photo gallery and revamped the 'online guided tour,' as visual factors are important to consumers when selecting accommodation on the web."
Each of Best Western's 220 hotels across Australia have their own individual property website within the main site and the new website gives each hotel greater flexibility to expand their information and images and receive better reporting on the performance of their 'microsite.'
Kimi added "We’ve also retained the features that have proven to be popular with consumers in the past such as Hot Deals, the Discovery Series and the Great Australian Drives, and consumers are now able to book complete packages, such as a wine or golf package on our website."
Also coming soon are online street level maps that will pinpoint the exact location of Best Western hotels to consumers, providing them with specific diving directions and even regional weather information.
The new look is inline with new Best Western global website designs to ensure the World's Largest Hotel Chain maintains a strong and consistent brand presence online, just as it does elsewhere.
The new website is just the first stage of a new online marketing strategy for Best Western Australia which also included the appointment of Clear Blue Day as their online agency. Commenting on the new website Clear Blue Day said "This demonstrates Best Western's commitment to using the web as an extremely targeted communications tool. Our aim now is to further increase dialogue with Best Western customers by bringing the benefits of staying at a Best Western hotel to them in a more targeted, content specific way."
About Best Western Australia:
Best Western Australia offers over 220 hotels, motels, resorts & apartments throughout Australia and is an affiliate of Best Western International, the World's Largest Hotel Chain with more than 4000 properties in 80 countries and territories.
About Clear Blue Day:
Clear Blue Day is an interactive agency specializing in producing communication strategies and solutions for the digital space. We boast a complete offering that includes marketing, creative and technology services, all under the one roof. Day in and day out, we do this for small and large brands alike. Our goal is to extend our clients' brands online, while ensuring the best possible user experience.
At the core of our interactive development is an abundance of industry experience and passion which we draw on to make sure the solutions we create and execute are brilliant. Fresh ideas without fear – that's our motto!
Our clients include Macquarie Bank, Pioneer Electronics, Sunbeam, Diageo and Unilever. In 2006 Clear Blue Day has won the AIMIA award for Best Sport Website, as well as being a finalist in three other categories.
Media contact:
Tanya Wilkins
Communications Manager
Best Western Australia
Ph: +61 2 8913 3346
Fax: +61 2 9955 9555
twilkins@bestwesternaustralia.com.au
www.bestwestern.com.au
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Best Western Helps You Keep the Kids Entertained These Winter Holidays
Best Western Australia's Kids Packs have proved popular with their little guests for over four years now. To keep the Packs fresh and current, they have just been re-launched for the winter school holidays.
"Keeping children amused is a challenge for parents when on the family holiday. Bored kids equal frazzled parents and no one gets the rest and relaxation a holiday should provide," believes Kimi Anderson, General Manager - Marketing, Best Western Australia. "At Best Western we offer more than just a comfortable bed for the night, we aim to ensure our guests receive the experience they were after. For families, this means finding ways to keep the kids busy and having fun, so mum and dad can have a real holiday."
With a new look and a new name, "Kids On the Move," should be even more sought after, especially to keep kids entertained in the car or while waiting for their meal in the restaurant.
Available at participating Best Western properties, the packs now include activity sheets, coloured pencils, rulers, an Uncle Toby's muesli bar, K-Zone Magazine and family friendly discount offers from Sydney Tower, Sydney Aquarium, AMF Bowling Centers, Dominos Pizza, Holidays with Kids Magazine and the Australian Reptile Park.
"These Kids Packs are a sure way to win every child's heart. At Best Western Wesley Lodge, we offer these packs to all children at check-in. The kids love them and the parents appreciate that," says Saurabh Kumar, Best Western Wesley Lodge, Westmead, NSW.
Best Western Wesley Lodge – Kids Wildlife Discovery Package
To celebrate the release of the new Kids Packs, Best Western Wesley Lodge is offering a special wildlife discovery package. Two adults and two children (under 15 years) can enjoy the true Australiana wildlife experience with free entry to the Featherdale Wildlife Park, a night's accommodation at Best Western Wesley Lodge (Friday, Saturday or Sunday), continental breakfast, free Kids Packs for all children, free video game access, free parking and a noon check-out, all for just $205. Valid until 31 December 2006, subject to availability. To book, visit http://wesleylodge.bestwestern.com.au or call 131 779 and request this package.
Best Western Australia offers over 220 hotels, motels, resorts & apartments throughout Australia and is an affiliate of Best Western International, the World's Largest Hotel Chain with more than 4,100 properties in 80 countries and territories.
Media contact:
Tanya Wilkins
Communications Manager
Best Western Australia
Ph: +61 2 8913 3346
Fax: +61 2 9955 9555
twilkins@bestwesternaustralia.com.au
www.bestwestern.com.au
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BEST WESTERN INTRODUCES ITS LATEST HOTEL
IN KOCHI, JAPAN
Best Western International expands its presence in Asia with a new property in Kochi on the beautiful tropical Island of Shikoku, the smallest, yet, best-preserved island in Japan.
Best Western Kochi, a newly built 172-room hotel, is ideally located right in the very city center of Kochi, home to Japan's most famous feudal castles and scenic historical attractions. Within walking distance to popular shopping streets and the famous Sunday Market Daimaru, the hotel provides superior amenities, first-class international services, and modern facilities such as free in-room high speed wireless Internet access and a business center with latest equipment. The hotel's state-of-art design French restaurant "Les Palmiers" entices local and international crowds to savor its many signature dishes in a jazzy ambiance.
The naturally rich and beautiful town of Kochi, Shikoku's cultural and commercial center, boasts its irresistible unique Japanese-style country charm. The city is bordered by lush green mountains to the north, and blessed by the abundance of the Pacific Ocean to the south. Kochi allows visitors to indulge themselves in a relaxing dip in a hot spring, stunning hiking in the fresh air, the world-class surfing along a ruggedly beautiful coastline, and enjoy themselves with one of Japan's freshest and most delicious seafood at the end of the day.
Best Western International is celebrating its 60th Anniversary as a membership association of independently owned and operated hotels that provide marketing, reservations and operational support to its members. Growing from an informal referral system among hotel members in 1946, Best Western International now becomes THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® with more than 4,200 hotels in 80 countries worldwide and is one of the industry's most endearing iconic brands. For more information, please visit www.bestwestern.com
Media contact:
Kanapa Pitakpong
Public Relations Coordinator
Best Western International (Thailand)
Phone: +662 654 1400
Fax: +662 654 1414
kanapa@bestwestern.co.th
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BEST WESTERN BRINGS ITS POPULAR TRAVEL CARD TO NUMBER OF ADDITIONAL RETAIL OUTLETS THIS FALL
Wal-Mart, The Kroger Co. and Shoppers Drug Mart to Offer Hotel Gift Card Just in Time for Holiday Shopping Season
Best Western International announced today that it will soon be introducing its popular gift card at several additional North American retail outlets, providing consumers with a convenient and smart option for the upcoming holiday season.
Through an agreement with InComm, a leading technology provider and distributor of prepaid products, the Best Western Travel Card will be sold in the U.S. by discount giant Wal-Mart and The Kroger Co. – launching initially at Ralphs, Food 4 Less and Fry’s locations in California and Arizona beginning this week. In addition, the card also will be made available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Canada starting in mid-November. Together, the three North American retailers will offer the $50 card in more than 4,500 locations. They join U.S.-based Walgreens drug stores, who first offered the card in November 2005.
"Partnering with such powerful merchants as these, we are able to greatly expand the consumer reach for our travel card program, whose market is now approaching a critical time of year," said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing. "With the holiday season just around the corner, the gift card industry is poised for yet another record-setting performance. We are thrilled to provide shoppers with the convenience and flexibility of the Best Western Travel Card, a gift that anyone will enjoy."
The Best Western Travel Card is used by guests to pay for both accommodations and related incidentals, such as room service and phone charges*, at more than 4,200 Best Western hotels worldwide. Available for purchase in U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars and euros, as well as a variety of other currencies, the card is offered in any denomination between $25 and $1,000 U.S./euro (or equivalent in other currencies).
Consumers are expected to spend about $80 billion on gift cards in 2006, up from $66 billion in 2005, according to a study by The Tower Group. Surveys also show that about three quarters of U.S. consumers purchase or receive a gift card each year, and gift recipients report gifts cards among the most desired gift items every year. The average dollar amount spent on all gift cards remained well above $200 among those who purchased gift cards, according to Packaged Facts.
Best Western will continue to develop its retail travel card business, with additional merchants to be announced in 2007.
Since its debut in December 2002, more than 540,000 Best Western Travel Cards have entered the worldwide marketplace, generating nearly $36.7 million in sales. Until last fall, the card had been available only through corporate incentive programs, at Best Western member hotels, online at www.travelcard.bestwestern.com or by calling Best Western Travel Card Customer Service at 1-877-CARD-2TVL (227-3288) in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.
About Best Western International
Best Western International is celebrating its 60th Anniversary as a membership association of independently owned and operated hotels that provides marketing, reservations and operational support to its members. Growing from a string of roadside motels starting in 1946 Long Beach, Calif., to THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® with more than 4,200 hotels in 80 countries, Best Western is one of the industry’s most endearing iconic brands. For more information, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
About InComm
InComm is an innovator in prepaid products and point-of-sale technology specializing in retail prepaid services, subscriber services and payment solutions that are changing the way consumers purchase. InComm provides the most robust product portfolio in the industry including wireless airtime, financial debit cards, gift cards, music downloads, ring tones, games, long-distance cards, online games, broadband, digital television as well as bill payment solutions. InComm partners with consumer brand leaders around the world to provide more than 145,000 retail locations the products and services their customers demand. Since 1992, InComm's patented technology has made the buying process easier for consumers while streamlining the selling process for product and retail partners. To learn more about InComm, visit www.incomm.com or call 1-800-352-3084. InComm is headquartered in Atlanta with offices in Canada, Colorado, Texas, Florida, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom.
*Any eligible service managed or operated by a Best Western hotel.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES YEAR-END RESULTS
263 Hotels Added to System Worldwide
THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® finished the fiscal year with 4,164 hotels in 80 countries and territories, including 2,395 hotels in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean, and 1,769 hotels internationally.
"The Best Western brand continues to attract excellent hotels through both conversions and new construction, while maintaining its current membership base renewal rate of 99 percent for the 11th consecutive year," said David Kong, president and CEO for Best Western International.
In North America, 133 hotels were added; 2006 key additions included the 120-room Best Western Kendall Hotel and Suites in Kendall, Fla. near Miami; the 120-room Best Western Posada Royale Hotel and Suites in Simi Valley, Calif.; the 52-room Best Western Bainbridge Island Suites in Bainbridge Island, Wash. near Seattle and the 95-room Best Western North Edmonton Inn and Suites in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
"Best Western's strategic global expansion efforts are yielding solid results," said Kong. "The company currently has 20 properties in China and another 10 hotels are in the pipeline for 2007. Through a new Master Licensing Agreement in India, Best Western also expects to bring 10 to 12 new hotels per year into the system over the next five years."
In 2006, growth in China increased by 50 percent. This included the addition of the 196-room Best Western Fuzhou Fortune Hotel in Fuzhou, which opened in October. In other regions of Asia, the brand added the 556-room Best Western Premier Seri Pacific Hotel Kuala in Malaysia and the 172-room Best Western Kochi in Japan.
In Europe, Best Western added eight hotels in Germany -- including the 178-room Best Western Premier Hotel Regent in Cologne -- nine hotels in Italy and 10 hotels in Sweden. The brand added 16 hotels in France including the new, four-star, 49-room Best Western Amiral Hotel in Paris. Other additions included the 61-room Best Western Magherabuoy House Hotel in Ireland; the 51-room Best Western Premier Kaiserhof in Kitzbuehel, Austria and the 48-room Best Western Premier Montenegro, the only international hotel in the country, located in the city's newly developed business center. Best Western added 16 hotels in Great Britain, including the 147-room Best Western Stoke-on-Trent Moat House in Stoke-On-Trent; and the 34-room Best Western Kenwick Park Hotel, set on a 320-acre estate and surrounded by a golf course and nine lakes.
Best Western also experienced growth in other regions of the world, with 11 new hotels in Australia, nine hotels in South America and eight hotels in Mexico. The brand also plans to open its first hotel in Curacao, the largest island in the Netherland Antilles.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200 independently owned and operated member hotels in 80 countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive member-owned business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ENDS ITS AGREEMENT
WITH MOTEL FEDERATION OF NEW ZEALAND
PHOENIX (February 21, 2007) Best Western International, Inc. and Motel Federation of New Zealand a.k.a. Best Western New Zealand have mutually agreed to end their affiliation.
“Our decision to separate from Best Western was mutual,” said James Shearer CEO Best Western New Zealand. “Moving forward, we are looking at several scenarios to best serve our hotel owners and guests,” added Shearer.
“After several amicable discussions with our New Zealand Affiliate, it became apparent that our branding and development initiatives were not strategically aligned,” said Suzi MacDonald-Yoder, vice president, International Operations, Best Western International. “We wish the New Zealand hotel owners all the best in their future endeavors, and look forward to continuing to build our brand relationships with our other Best Western hotel members along the Pacific Rim.”
Best Western currently has 213 hotels in Australia and another 40 hotels throughout Southeast Asia. An additional 20 hotels are under development in the region.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate
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The Best Western Coachman's Rest has a local flavour
With a new team in the kitchen, the emphasis for Cafe Lamplighter at the Best Western Coachman's Rest Motor Inn in Eden NSW is on offering guests a real taste of Eden.
With two local chefs in the kitchen, the new menu has been designed to showcase the local produce, especially the fantastic fresh seafood on offer.
"These days running a motel is about a lot more than just offering weary travellers a place to rest their heads. It is about offering guests the chance to really experience their destination," says property owner Deanne Bibby. "Our new menu for Café Lamplighter ensures visitors experience the amazing fresh produce Eden has to offer. Not only do we offer them a good night's sleep and the chance to experience our great region, they can enjoy the taste of Eden as well."
Philip Archibald has recently been promoted to Head Chef after two years with the Best Western Coachman's Rest. He is a local boy who, after completing his training at Bega TAFE, gained experience Eden's Bianca's Restaurant in the Australasia Hotel. Kayleen Cox, another local chef who previously worked at Pambula Hotel/Motel, was recently appointed to Philip's team.
"Both Philip and Kayleen are well acquainted with the local food scene and have created a new menu that features the fresh seafood coming in daily from the Eden fishing fleet including local Pambula Lake rock oysters, fish, mussels and crayfish, while also offering Sapphire Coast grain fed beef and local fruits and vegetables," commented Deanne.
Café Lamplighter is situated at the Best Western Coachman's Rest Motor Inn in Eden NSW and has seating for up to 100 guests. Catering is available for families or couples on self drive holidays and corporate travelers are invited to join the special Reps table if they don't wish to dine alone.
Set on two acres, so guests wake to the sound of the native birds, the 3.5 star Best Western Coachman's Rest Motor Inn features ground floor units including deluxe spa suites, a salt water pool and heated spa, a BBQ area and friendly staff that can advise guests about the local attractions nearby. Eden is the gateway to the Sapphire Coast, offering unspoiled beauty surrounded by national parks and is situated on the shores of Twofold Bay - one of the deepest natural harbours of the world. This old whaling town has so much to offer.
Best Western Australia offers over 220 hotels, motels, resorts & apartments throughout Australia and is an affiliate of Best Western International, the World's Largest Hotel Chain with more than 4,100 properties in 80 countries and territories.
Media contact:
Tanya Wilkins, Communications Manager, Best Western Australia
Ph: +61 2 8913 3346 Fax: +61 2 9955 9555 Email: twilkins@bestwesternaustralia.com.au
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The Best Awards for Excellence - The Best of Best Western Australia
Best Western Australia recognized 14 winners of its annual Best Awards for Excellence at a Gala Dinner last night as part of their National Convention. These awards recognize Best Western hoteliers throughout Australia for excellence in quality and service. The awards were open to all Best Western Australia hotels, motels, resorts and apartments across Australia. The winners were:
Best 4 ½ Star Property
Best Western Madison Motor Inn, Newcastle NSW
Best 4 Star Property
Best Western Crystal Inn, Bendigo VIC
Best 3 ½ Star Property
Best Western Beechworth Motor Inn, Beechworth VIC
Most Improvements & Upgrades within a Best Western Australia Property
Best Western Hospitality Inn, Geraldton WA
Most Positive Customer Comments
Best Western Golden Grain Motor Inn, Horsham VIC
Most Improved Quality Assurance* Score
Best Western Kalbarri Palm Resort, Kalbarri WA
Highest Quality Assurance Score
Best Western Ballarat Suites, Ballarat VIC
Most FlyBuys Points (per room) Issued
Best Western Country Pathfinder Motor Inn, Dalby QLD
Most Gold Crown Club International** Points (per room) Issued
Best Western Early Australian Motor Inn, Mildura VIC
Most International Hotel Passes (per room) Issued
Best Western Great Ocean Road Motor Inn, Port Campbell VIC
Most Central Reservations Office Bookings (per room)
Best Western Great Ocean Road Motor Inn, Port Campbell VIC
Best Application of the Advertising Toolkit by a Co-operative
Best Western Hospitality Inns in Western Australia
Best Application of the Advertising Toolkit by a Property
Best Western Travellers Motor Village, Newcastle NSW
President’s Award
Paul Hodda, Best Western Country Pathfinder Motor Inn, Dalby QLD
The Best Western Australia National Convention, held on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, from 20 to 22 August 2006, was attended by over 200 delegates. The emphasis of the event was on training and providing key business information to Best Western hotel owners/operators. Highlights included:
- A tourism update from Tourism Australia's Lynne Hocking
- AAAT's Lorraine Duffy discussed accommodation sector sustainability
- Keynote speaker Terry Hawkins presented the dynamic "The Path to Success or Failure – Pitman V Stickman"
- Saatchi & Saatchi presented their theory on branding called 'Lovemarks'
- Loyalty Pacific presented workshops on loyalty marketing
- "Understanding Inbound Business" was presented by Gary O'Riordan, Australia Tourism Export Council
- "International Tourism – Online Distribution" was a session run by Irene Williams, Travelport
- "How to access the lucrative group seniors market" was a workshop presented by Heather Pascoe-Smith, Expanding Horizons Pty Ltd
- John Lewis, CTM talked about "Corporate Travel Management –Building Business for Best Western Australia"
- "Industrial Relations Update – Work Group Changes" was discussed by Rae Philips, Inspire Success
- And Best Western Australia staff ran workshops of "Sales & Marketing – Steps for Success" and "Benchmarking for Profits"
Best Western announced several new initiatives at the event, including the new internet strategy, marketing co-ops and revenue management programs as well as new training programs for new and existing Best Western members.
Best Western is comprised of more than 4,100 hotels, motels, resorts and apartments spread throughout 80 countries and territories. In Australia, Best Western proudly offers an extensive range of over 220, 3½ – 5 star motels, hotels, apartments and resorts.
* Best Western offers global standards of excellence. All of our properties undergo a stringent 200 point assessment as part of our quality assurance program and are required to offer BestRequests™ - standard features such as telephone outlet (dataport), hair dryer, iron & board, tea / coffee making facilities, soap / soap dispenser and shampoo in all guest rooms, non-smoking rooms available, photocopying facilities on site, bottled water available and complimentary toiletries available on-site upon request.
**Gold Crown Club International is a Best Western global frequent guest program designed to reward business and leisure travelers for their loyalty with points at more than 4,100 Best Western properties in 80 countries and territories.
Media contact:
Tanya Wilkins
Communications Manager
Best Western Australia
Ph: +61 2 8913 3346
Fax: +61 2 9955 9555
Email: twilkins@bestwesternaustralia.com.au
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BEST WESTERN FEATURES CELEBRITY TRAVEL EXPERT EMILY KAUFMAN ON WEB SITE
"The Travel Mom" Brings Her Insight and Enthusiasm to bestwestern.com in Hotel Chain Exclusive
Best Western International announced today that it has entered into a strategic partnership with nationally recognized travel expert Emily Kaufman, known as "The Travel Mom."
An exclusive within the hotel chain category, Kaufman will produce a monthly advice column on the trip planner section of www.bestwestern.com, targeting the female audience – the primary decision–makers when it comes to travel. Each installment will provide helpful hints and suggestions that focus on family/leisure trips. Her first piece, a look at weekend getaways for adults, is now available on the Best Western Web site.
In addition, Kaufman will also serve as a Best Western spokesperson throughout the year, discussing the latest travel trends and issues with industry media.
"We are extremely excited to welcome The Travel Mom to Best Western," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing for the lodging company. "Her personal experiences and unique perceptions on today's ever-changing travel environment will be invaluable assets to our worldwide guests. In our continuing commitment to provide quality customer care, we believe travelers of all ages will find her to be an important and dependable resource when planning their next trip."
Added Kaufman: "I am proud to be joining forces with Best Western to offer travel advice to families. Best Western is committed to providing outstanding hotel experiences to its customers and I am so excited to be working with such a successful organization. Together we can help other travel moms have meaningful trips with their families, partners and companies."
As The Travel Mom, Kaufman has been addressing the questions and concerns of vacationers for more than a decade. Whether it's a weekend getaway for parents, or tips on how to survive a theme park, she covers a wide range of topics geared to women and the many roles they play as the primary travel planner – wife, sister, friend, businessperson and mom. A regular guest on national television programs including ABC's Good Morning America and The View, Kaufman participates in more than 100 radio interviews across the country each year. In addition, she frequently serves as a travel expert for such popular magazines as Redbook and Woman's Day. Her first book, The Travel Mom's Ultimate Book of Family Travel: Planning, Surviving and Enjoying Your Vacation Together, was published by Broadway Books earlier this year.
About Best Western International
Best Western International is celebrating its 60th Anniversary as a membership association of independently owned and operated hotels that provides marketing, reservations and operational support to its members. Growing from a string of roadside motels starting in 1946 Long Beach, Calif., to THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® with more than 4,200 hotels in 80 countries, Best Western is one of the industry's most endearing iconic brands. For more information, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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BEST WESTERN HOLDS ELECTION AND NAMES CHARLES HELM CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
The Board of Directors of Best Western International, Inc., has named Charles Helm its chairman, effective November 6. Other Board announcements include Roman Jaworowicz as vice chairman and David Francis as secretary/treasurer.
Helm, who served as secretary/treasurer when he joined the Best Western Board in 2005, was most recently vice chairman. He replaces Raymond Johnston who, having served his one-year term as chairman, remains a Board director. Helm co-owns and operates the Best Western Crown Colony Inn & Suites in Lufkin, Texas. He has been a member of Best Western since 1982, serving as a Board-appointed Governor for 16 years while active on numerous advisory committees, including the company's Executive Marketing Advisory Committee, the Membership Development Committee and the Supply Committee. He currently chairs the Audit Committee. Well respected in the business and civic communities of northeast Texas, Helm is a former member of the Texas Hotel Motel Association's Board of Directors. He also served as president of the Hopkins County Economic Development Corporation. Helm is a Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) and represents Best Western members in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana.
Jaworowicz is a veteran hotelier and president of the Highland Inn Corporation, which owns and operates the Best Western Highland Inn and Conference Centre in Midland, Ontario. Active in Canadian tourism and commerce, he is a member of the Midland Rotary Club and a founding member of the Midland Penetanguishene Tourism Consortium. Involved in nearly all facets of marketing, Jaworowicz most recently was president of the Best Western Marketing Co-op and a member of the CEO Roundtable. He is a CHA and a two-time Best Western INNfluence Award recipient for both worldwide communications and community affairs. Jaworowicz represents Best Western members in Ontario, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Michigan.
Francis has served on the Board since 2005 and has been a Best Western member since 1991. He co-owns and operates the Best Western of Lynchburg in Lynchburg, Va. With more than 25 years of experience, Francis is a CHA who has held various leadership roles within Best Western, including past chair of the Marketing Advisory Committee and the Mid-Atlantic Co-op, in addition to his current position as chairman of the Communications Committee. Francis represents Best Western members in Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Washington, DC, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Quebec, Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island.
Best Western International is celebrating its 60th Anniversary as a membership association of independently owned and operated hotels that provides marketing, reservations and operational support to its members. Growing from a string of roadside motels starting in 1946 Long Beach, Calif., to THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® with more than 4,200 hotels in 80 countries, Best Western is one of the industry's most endearing iconic brands.
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SPRING BREAK IS ABLOOM WITH FAMILY TRAVEL
CHOICES, SAYS “THE TRAVEL MOM”
PHOENIX (February 27, 2007) – Whether it’s a vacation at the beach or one last dash down the ski slopes , family travel expert and BestWestern.com columnist Emily Kaufman, better known as “The Travel Mom,” says families should begin planning their Spring Break escapes before winter melts away.
Vacationers will have greater choices and flexibility, both from a destination and financial perspective, by acting now, says the travel authority.
“Before the weather begins to warm, opportunities for family travel start to blossom,” says Kaufman. “Kick-starting your Spring Break plans right away improves your chances of booking a great trip and getting the most value for your money.”
To help create a memorable Spring Break vacation, The Travel Mom suggests the following:
•Gather as a family to discuss potential Spring Break destinations and activities, creating excitement and involving every member in the decision-making process
•Avoid destinations made popular by college students, and head to quieter locations that cater to families
•Search for hotels that offer package deals, which often include tickets or admission to local attractions, as this helps families maximize their budgets
In her monthly travel column posted on the “Trip Planner” section of Best Western International’s Web site (www.bestwestern.com), Kaufman includes a sampling of her personal Spring Break family travel favorites, including:
Orlando, Florida:
The classic all-American family vacation spot is bursting with theme parks, activities and restaurants that are ideal for families. Walt Disney World is celebrating the “Year of a Million Dreams,” as well as the debut of a spectacular, Broadway-style musical, ”Finding Nemo.”
Where to stay:
Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel
2000 Hotel Plaza Boulevard
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
Toll-Free Reservations: 1 (800) WESTERN
Maui, Hawaii:
Families can’t help but flock to the tropical beaches, outdoor fun, fine dinning and culture of Maui. Goofy Foot Surf School, the Lahaina Luau and the Maui Ocean Center are just a few attractions that capture the unique traditions and features of the island.
Where to stay:
Best Western Pioneer Inn
658 Wharf Street
Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Toll-Free Reservations: 1 (800) WESTERN
San Diego, California:
If the family enjoys animals and wildlife adventures, then San Diego is your Spring Break destination. The San Diego Zoo is home to some of the most popular exhibits in the world, featuring the Wild Animal Park and Balloon Safari Tour. Another family favorite in San Diego is SeaWorld, which is celebrating the season with a “Spring Into Night” vacation package and a new show, “Shamu Rocks.”
Where to stay:
Best Western Hacienda Suites-Old Town
4041 Harney Street
San Diego, California 92110
Toll-Free Reservations: 1 (800) WESTERN
Lake Tahoe, California:
Spring Break is not always synonymous with warm weather – there is still time for the entire family, including preschoolers, to hit the slopes and enjoy one last ski and snowboard vacation.
Where to stay:
Best Western Truckee Tahoe Inn
11331 Brockway Road
Truckee, California 96161
Toll-Free Reservations: 1 (800) WESTERN
Burlington, Iowa:
Perhaps considered an unusual choice for a family Spring Break getaway, this small town has more for your kids to do than most other vacation destinations. Located just outside of Des Moines, Burlington is home to Pzazz Fun City – a complete hotel/entertainment complex that includes a 70,000 square-foot indoor/outdoor water park, an indoor speedway and laser tag arena, among other features.
Where to stay:
Best Western Pzazz Fun City
3001 Winegard Drive
Burlington, Iowa 52601
Toll-Free Reservations: 1 (800) WESTERN
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive member-owned business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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ROLLING MEADOWS, IL (March 20, 2007) Best Western International President and CEO David Kong (right), and Anthony Klok, owner of the Best Western Hawthorne Terrace Hotel in Chicago (left), visit with Maryellen Klang (center), service delivery leader for American Express Global Travel Services, as part of THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®'s seventh annual "World's Largest Thank You" event. The weeklong campaign, involving more than 11,000 sales calls in approximately 30 countries, provides Best Western with the unique opportunity to express its appreciation to travel agents and other important clients for their business, while highlighting the company's brand initiatives and programs.
Best Western hotel owners, general managers and sales directors, as well as corporate executives and sales teams, are currently fanning out across five continents to make in-person visits to more than 100,000 travel agent partners, corporate clients, tour operators and other key accounts.
Photo credit: Andrew Campbell
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BEST WESTERN PRESIDENT HOTEL CELEBRATES AMERICAN DEMOCRACY WITH $15 MILLION RENOVATION
NEW YORK (Oct. 6, 2009) — The Best Western President Hotel in New York City’s Times Square today announced its grand reopening after completing a $15 million top-to-bottom renovation. The 334-room, 44-suite property incorporates a fresh look that is exclusively modern, yet historically inspired, and draws upon the roots of American democracy with suites named after presidents including Obama, Reagan, Kennedy and Nixon.
Owned by Hampshire Hotels, the 15-floor property was completely remodeled by the award-winning architectural firm, Stonehill and Taylor. The hotel’s design was inspired by the 2008 presidential election and the unprecedented level of bi-partisan engagement and passion surrounding it. Centrist purple, a mix of Republican red and Democratic blue, is the dominant accent color throughout the hotel. The lobby blends décor from the Lincoln and Jeffersonian eras, while each guest room is adorned with postmodern art depicting presidents or distinguished first ladies. Throw pillows embroidered with silhouettes of Jefferson and Lincoln also complement the political motif.
“The Best Western President Hotel has been a fixture of our brand for many years and we are thrilled to see its owners take a leadership position to evolve the property for today’s domestic and international guests,” said Mark Williams, vice president of North American Development for Best Western International. “The renovations are clever, beautifully executed and a welcome addition to our portfolio of excellent properties in New York and other gateway cities around the country.”
Guests will enjoy the convenience of two on-site restaurants, the hotel’s lobby cocktail lounge, 24-hour fitness center and business center. The hotel’s conference center is perfect for meetings and special events. A complimentary weekly newspaper and discounted parking is available nearby.
Guest rooms are equipped with modern amenities including:
•37-inch or 42-inch flat panel televisions
•iPod docking alarm clocks
•Complimentary wireless Internet
•Ultra plush pillow top mattresses
•Eco-friendly bath linens
Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Theatre District, guests at the Best Western President Hotel will be centrally located to many of the City’s best attractions including Central Park, the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, 5th Avenue shopping district and world-famous museums.
Reservations may be booked by calling Best Western International’s 24-hour, toll-free reservations number at (800) WESTERN. Reservations are also available from Best Western International’s Web site at www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Where will you wake up next?
BWA launches major viral campaign to drive online bookings
This week Best Western Australia launched an email marketing campaign which is expected to reach more than 100,000 consumers who have expressed an interest in travel.
The major prize of the "Where will you wake up next?" campaign* is two million Best Western Gold Crown Club International points (Best Western's global loyalty program) which can be redeemed for up to 200 room nights at Best Western properties or other prizes such as up to $16,000 worth of various shopping vouchers, over 345 books of movie tickets, gas BBQs, Ipod Nanos or even a jet fighter or racing car experiences for those with an adventurous spirit.
Aimed at driving more bookings through bestwestern.com.au, a special promotional rate is also being offered for consumers who book between now and October 30, 2006.
The new online marketing strategy kicked off with the unveiling of a new website in July, which was more user friendly. The new website was re-launched following a major useability study conducted by Best Western in the U.S., which was then adapted to suit the Australian market. Consumers now not only benefit from booking with 50 percent less clicks, they are also able to better see the property before they make a booking via new image galleries and updated guided tours.
General Manager Sales and Marketing, Kimi Anderson said "The aim of our online strategy is to address key internet trends and increase bookings through our electronic distribution channels, which remain our fastest growing source of business."
Internet bookings for Best Western properties have increased by over 40 percent compared to growth rates of five percent for other distribution channels such as voice bookings.
Best Western already offers a Low Rate Guarantee on their website and property information can be converted into eight different languages.
"We are aiming to increase visitors to the Best Western Australia website by 15 percent and increase the subscriptions to our e-newsletter database by 300 percent," commented Anderson. "Another key component of our strategy is search engine marketing and optimization. With 83 percent of users going straight to a search engine and 93 percent never looking past the first page of results, this will remain a key focus in the future."
To assist with the implementation of this strategy, Best Western Australia appointed Clear Blue Day as their online agency.
An online booking engine for packages was recently implemented and is still being updated while, looking ahead, Best Western plans another major online promotion early next year.
To view the campaign click here: http://streaming.premiereglobal.com.au/dcsdata/985865/lb_Viral/promotion_layout/intro-notreg.htm
or visit www.bestwestern.com.au and click on "Where will you wake up next?"
Best Western Australia offers over 220 hotels, motels, resorts & apartments throughout Australia and is an affiliate of Best Western International, the World's Largest Hotel Chain with 4,200 properties in more than 80 countries.
* Entries are awarded when recipient subscribes and refers a friend. Bonus entries are awarded when a referred friend subscribes or when they make a booking.
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BEST WESTERN EXPANSION IN CHINA ON FAST TRACK
William Dong, President and CEO of Best Western China Company Ltd., Driving Global Brand's Expansion
Best Western International, Inc. today announced its accelerated growth plan for China under the leadership of William Dong, president and CEO of Best Western China Company Ltd. The company currently has 17 hotels in China with 12 formal agreements for new development in place, making Best Western the fastest-growing hotel company in the nation.
"Best Western's worldwide distribution and internationally recognized brand are the primary reasons developers are attracted to this successful global brand," says William Dong. "The flexibility of Best Western's business model is attractive to developers and is the catalyst for the brand's rapid expansion in China and throughout Asia. We offer superior distribution, sales & marketing, operations support and reservations service. We also allow owners the flexibility to run their hotels they way they prefer and we don't require them to report revenues or show us financial statements. All of these advantages open the door for rapid expansion."
"China is the fourth-largest business travel market in the world and the opportunities for Best Western's expansion are tremendous," said David Kong, president and CEO of U.S.-based Best Western International. "The key to our development strategy is to engage people from the region who have the business relationships and market familiarity. William Dong has impeccable credentials as China's former foreign affairs officer and brings a wealth of experience in hotel development making him an excellent choice to oversee Best Western's expansion here."
Best Western's focus for growth includes: Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Xian, Nanjing, Kunming, the Pearl and Yangzi River Deltas and Baohai Bay. The company expects to have 60 hotels offering 10,000 rooms by 2009. All hotels will be top-rated properties at the four- and five-star level serving the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
About Best Western International
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® with more than 4,200 hotels in 80 countries. The hotel company is celebrating its 60th Anniversary as a membership association of independently owned and operated hotels that provides worldwide marketing, reservations and operational support to its members. For more information, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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INDUSTRY EXECUTIVES DEBATE RISING COSTS
OF BUSINESS TRAVEL AT SUMMIT
Best Western International, Southwest Airlines and the National Business Travel Association Offer Tips and Solutions to Manage Business Travel Costs
NEW YORK (February 23, 2007) Business travel costs are expected to reach new highs in 2007, as The American Express Business Travel Forecast indicates a three to six percent increase in U.S. economy airfares, and Smith Travel Research estimates the average hotel room rate will surge to $103 in 2007 up more than 11 percent since 2005. To address the issues impacting business travel costs, industry leaders from Southwest Airlines, Best Western International and the National Business Travel Association (NBTA) gathered in New York City earlier this week to discuss how businesses and business travelers can more efficiently cope with rising costs.
UNDERSTANDING AND MAKING VALUE WORK
Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western, emphasized the importance of utilizing hotels that save business travelers money by offering complimentary amenities essential to their stay. Since many road warriors use their hotel rooms as satellite offices, staying at locations that don’t tack on extra fees for must-have amenities such as high-speed Internet access will save hundreds of dollars over the course of a year.
“Business travelers eager to trim costs are increasingly seeking accommodations that provide the most essential business-friendly amenities that won’t break the bank,” said Dowling. “Every Best Western offers free high-speed Internet access, free incoming faxes, free package delivery, free local calls (up to 30 minutes) and free long-distance access. Every Best Western hotel also offers either continental or full hot breakfast, with the majority of our properties offering this convenience at no additional cost.”
MANAGE COSTS WITH ONLINE CORPORATE BOOKING TOOLS
Businesses and business travelers alike track travel costs to identify ways to reduce or eliminate unnecessary expenses. Southwest Airlines marketing manager, Loretta Hohmann, said the company’s SWABIZ program, for example, offers a wide range of tools that give road warriors a way to efficiently plan, book and purchase their business travel needs.
“SWABIZ, which helps road warriors adhere to their company’s travel policies, has redefined how business travel is booked,” said Hohmann. “In addition, SWABIZ provides travel planners and managers a means to track and manage every dollar being spent on business travel, all at no cost.”
Best Western is set to launch a new portal Web site during the second quarter of 2007 that is expected to attract, qualify and retain business travelers who book 10 to 12 nights per year.
BENEFITS OF MANAGED TRAVEL
According to the NBTA’s 2007 Business Travel Forecast, nearly 68 percent of survey respondents expect their companies’ travelers to take more trips in 2007 compared to 2006. As a result, companies need to be smart about managing their travel spending habits, according to Bill Connors, NBTA executive director and chief operating officer.
“Think of managing travel expenditures the way you manage the purchase of office furniture,” Connors said. “Just as it doesn’t make good business sense for employees to choose their own desk or chair from an unmanaged list of vendors, it also isn’t smart for a company to operate without policies and parameters that need to be followed when traveling.”
For companies that already have travel management programs in place, costs can be reduced in a number of ways, according to Connors, including:
•strengthening compliance with corporate travel policies
•increasing the use of preferred online tools for booking travel
•reducing the number of preferred suppliers, thus leveraging increased volume to secure better prices
•booking fewer luxury hotels in favor of midscale properties
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive member-owned business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT NBTA
The National Business Travel Association is the source for critical information on the business travel industry. For more than 35 years, NBTA has dedicated itself to the professional development of its members through advocacy, education and training, and networking opportunities. NBTA represents over 2,700 corporate and government travel managers and travel service providers, who collectively manage and direct more than $170 billion of expenditures within the business travel industry. For more on NBTA, visit www.nbta.org.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES
Southwest Airlines, the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 63 cities in 32 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,100 flights a day and employs almost 32,000 people nationwide. Southwest Airlines was recognized for its top-notch service and low fares for the third consecutive year by Business Traveler Magazine. The magazine's 2004 "Annual Best in Business Travel Reader Survey" named Southwest as "Best Low Cost Carrier." The survey is conducted by independent research firm, Mediamark Research Inc., and is voted on by the magazine's business travel readers.
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BEST WESTERN REWARDSSM MEMBERS CAN NOW REDEEM POINTS FOR AMERICAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP
PHOENIX (January 13, 2009) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, and the American Automobile Association (AAA), today announced that Best Western RewardsSM members can now redeem points for membership with AAA.
AAA basic membership includes the following benefits, in addition to discounts at thousands of partners around the world:
• Three miles of free towing from point of disablement
• Battery service
• Flat tire service
• Fuel delivery service
• Lockout and key service
In addition, AAA members receive guaranteed best available rates during their stay and can earn Rewards points and miles faster during promotions.
“Best Western is excited to bring this new benefit to our Rewards members at a time when travelers are looking to maximize their loyalty program’s value,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “As a Preferred Lodging Partner for AAA, Best Western recognizes how valuable AAA membership is for our Rewards customers. It provides them a great return on their Rewards membership.”
Rewards members need 12,500 points to convert for AAA membership, a $50 value. The points can only be used towards a new basic membership with AAA.
Best Western Rewards – formerly the Gold Crown Club® is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
To be eligible, guests must register and be members of Best Western Rewards. Membership purchase is valid for AAA only, serving members in the United States. Canadian Automobile Association membership is expected to be available in the Best Western Rewards program in the future. Individuals who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free. To join Best Western RewardsSM, visit www.bestwesternrewards.com/AAA.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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SEPTEMBER 14th DECLARED "MICHAEL WALTRIP DAY" IN QUINCY, MASSACHUSETTS
NASCAR Driver Serves as Celebrity Chef at Best Western Adams Inn Clambake, Raising $10,000 for Charity
NASCAR driver and two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip raced into Quincy, Massachusetts, on Thursday in his Best Western #99 Busch Series Street Car to celebrate "Michael Waltrip Day." On behalf of Mayor William J. Phelan, City Councilman Kevin Coughlin and City Planner Dennis Harrington presented Waltrip with a seal of the city during a fundraiser held at the Best Western Adams Inn, located in this historic Boston suburb.
The VIP event, attended by approximately 120 leaders from the Quincy business community, raised $10,000 to be shared with Waltrip's charity of choice, The Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation, and Father Bill's Women's Shelter, selected by the Mayor.
"It’s not everyday a NASCAR driver receives such an honor, and I thank Mayor Phelan for inviting me to be a part of this wonderful, caring community," said Waltrip. "Most importantly, I’m proud to have teamed with both the city of Quincy and my sponsor, Best Western, for tonight's charity event. The Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation is an organization which is close to my heart, and I appreciate the generosity and support expressed this evening."
Held on the eve of this weekend's NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Race at nearby New Hampshire International Speedway, the New England-style gala featured a signature clambake with Waltrip as celebrity chef. Upon arrival, the NASCAR legend served up traditional fare to guests, including lobsters, steamers, corn on the cob and chowder.
"We are thrilled to welcome two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip to our great and historic city," said Mayor Phelan. "I want to thank Michael and Best Western for hosting this great event, raising funds to help Alzheimer's research and help homeless women. We all wish Michael the best of luck up in New Hampshire this weekend."
The festivities continue this weekend for the general public at the Best Western Adams Inn, located at 29 Hancock Street in Quincy. NASCAR fans can have their picture taken with both the Best Western #99 Street Car and Show Car on Saturday, Sept. 16 and Sunday, Sept. 17 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Special prizes will also be given away, including Waltrip-autographed Best Western Pit Crew Shirts, and limited edition Best Western #99 Die-Cast Cars, among other collectibles.
For more information on the evening's charities, please visit www.alzinfo.org, www.waltripchallenge.com, and www.fatherbillsplace.org.
About Best Western International
Best Western International, The Official Hotel of NASCAR® and an associate sponsor of Michael Waltrip, is celebrating its 60th Anniversary as a membership association of independently owned and operated hotels that provides marketing, reservations and operational support to its members. Growing from a string of roadside motels starting in 1946 Long Beach, Calif., to THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN® with 4,200 hotels in 80 countries, Best Western is one of the industry’s most endearing iconic brands.
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BEST WESTERN RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING AT ANNUAL HSMAI AWARDS GALA
PHOENIX (March 9, 2007) Best Western International, THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, was recently recognized by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) for excellence in public relations and marketing at the 17th Annual Adrian Awards Competition in New York City.
Among the multiple honors Best Western received at the Gala Dinner were several Silver Adrian Awards for the following initiatives:
•1946 Room Rate Promotion – To help celebrate Best Western’s 60th Anniversary, participating properties across the country provided one lucky guest with a commemorative Best Western Card that was placed under a pillow, awarding one night’s accommodations to the winner at the average 1946 room rate of $5.40. The promotion prompted widespread coverage in top-tier publications and online outlets, including the Chicago Tribune, Kansas City Star, Arizona Republic and the Boston Globe.
•“Best Western for a Better World” Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts - With 250 of its independently owned and operated hotels located in the Gulf Coast region affected by Hurricane Katrina, Best Western was tasked with developing a communications plan that reached victims—Best Western hoteliers, staff, guests and the overall Gulf Coast community—with information about its support programs. At the same time, the company was focused on generating greater awareness of its “Best Western for a Better World” community service arm, which was implementing a number of fundraising activities to benefit American Red Cross efforts in the area. One such activity was a first-ever Best Western eBay auction featuring a wide variety of travel packages, event offerings and merchandise, as well as a one-of-a-kind pizza delivery by two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip.
•Best Western Museum, Yuma, Arizona – The PR team worked with CNBC-TV reporter Mike Hegedus, who profiles historic companies with a captivating story to tell, such as Best Western. The resulting segment showcased the Best Western Coronado Motor Hotel in Yuma, one of the organization’s charter properties, that houses an unusual museum dedicated to Best Western memorabilia over the past 60 years. The piece ran multiple times on the CNBC network, along with several NBC affiliates across the country. According to the reporter, this story was one of the station’s most popular segments of the year.
Best Western also received three Bronze Adrian Awards recognizing 60th Anniversary stories that ran in top-tier travel industry trade publications.
This year’s Adrian Awards competition attracted more than 1,200 entries from 36 countries and destinations around the world, with submissions judged by teams of experts from all sectors of the industry. Now in its 50th year, the awards ceremony was part of the 2006 HSMAI Adrian Awards Competition, the largest and most prestigious travel event of its kind in the world.
ABOUT HOSPITALITY SALES & MARKETING ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL (HSMAI)
HSMAI is an organization of sales and marketing professionals representing all segments of the hospitality industry. With a strong focus on education, HSMAI has become the industry champion in identifying and communicating trends in the hospitality industry, and bringing together customers and members at annual events, including HSMAI’s Affordable Meetings®. Founded in 1927, HSMAI is an individual membership organization comprising more than 7,000 members worldwide, with 40 chapters in the Americas Region.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive member-owned business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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COPENHAGEN, DENMARK, March 28, 2007- Effective March 1, Peter Laigaard Jensen has been named Country Manager in the Denmark regional office of Best Western International in Copenhagen.
In the newly created position, Jensen will oversee the continued development of the Brand in Denmark as well as responsibility for all Operational and Sales & Marketing activities.
Active in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years, Peter Jensen previously held the position of general manager of the Scheelsminde Hotel in Aalborg, Denmark. Additionally, he has held previous positions in Denmark, China, Finland and Greenland.
"We are very pleased to have Peter as part of our team, said Suzi Yoder, vice president, International Operations. "His strong leadership skills and dedication to the hospitality industry will be an asset to Best Western's as we expand our brand presence in Denmark."
Jensen is a Certified Hotel Administrator. He has earned an MBA in International Management from Business Institute Aalborg and a degree in Hotel Management from the hotel school in Aalborg.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive member-owned business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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As the Best Western brand quickly stretches its wings in Asia, the WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN© brings in hotel veteran, Jurgen Kreipl, to oversee its operations.
Bangkok (March 28, 2007) Best Western International (BWI) has tapped Jurgen Kreipl as Director of Operations Asia, to oversee the management of all BWI Asian properties. His appointment reflects the swift progress being made in Best Western's aggressive regional expansion efforts.
"Jurgen's most welcome addition to our team comes at a time when Best Western International's Asian development is rapidly gaining momentum,"said Glenn de Souza, Vice President International Operations Asia. "He will play a pivotal role in implementing our recently initiated management services, which support all our hotels' operations, while enabling our properties to fully benefit from the Best Western brand. This program is unique in that no other hotel group in Asia offers similar assistance to its property owners."
Mr. Kreipl's primary focus targets operational matters covering all BWI-managed hotels in Asia, whose general managers will now directly report to him. His responsibilities also include the selection of future general managers and administering Best Western's comprehensive training programs, chief of which is Best Western International's flagship course - a five-day GM training session delving into all areas of hotel operations - as well as quality assurance and tailored-made regional service programs.
Mr. Kreipl, who officially joined BWI on Monday, March 19, 2007, will work closely with
Mr. de Souza on operational matters.
Born in Munich, Germany, where he received degrees in hotel management and design, Mr. Kreipl speaks English, Italian and Thai.
Mr. Kreipl has held senior group operational positions with Hilton, Le Meridien, Accor and a privately owned Thai hotel chain. Prior to joining BWI, he served as the GM during the pre-opening and early stages of Sofitel's Garden Cliff Resort & Spa Pattaya and the 500-room Sofitel Vinpearl Resort in Nha Trang Vietnam, as well as Thailand's 525-room Phuket Orchid Resort, Surin Beach Resort and Kamala Bay Garden Resort Phuket. Mr. Kreipl's background also includes sales and marketing during his stints in Europe, the Middle East, Vietnam and Thailand.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive member-owned business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL INTRODUCES HOTEL CHAIN FIRST
WITH "KNOCK KNOCK" DESKTOP TOOL
Travelers Can Now Receive Special Offers, Book Rooms, Directly from Personal Computer
PHOENIX (May 10, 2007) Best Western International has brought a new sound to the personal computer with the debut of its innovative desktop application for travelers. The "Knock Knock" tool, a hotel chain first, is now available for download at www.bestwestern.com.
Easily installed on any computer, the feature allows consumers to reserve hotel rooms, retrieve information on Best Western's Gold Crown Club International loyalty program, receive special offers - even check local weather forecasts all from one location.
"Best Western is constantly developing new programs and applications to bring added convenience and value to the time-taxed traveler," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for the hotel chain. "Recently, we introduced dynamic packaging options and customized navigational tools, along with virtual tours of all 2,400 North American Best Western properties, to our Web site. We have now taken our efforts to the next level, becoming the first hotel chain to bring our product directly to our guests' personal computers."
To celebrate its premiere, Best Western is hosting a special "Knock Knock to Win" game at bestwestern.com through May 25. Visitors are given a virtual Best Western key card to swipe across two of three hotel room doors. Those greeted by an instant winning message will receive a $20 MasterCard® gift card. Each time they play the game, contestants will earn another entry into a Grand Prize drawing - a $5,000 shopping spree, including a $1,000 Best Western Travel Card that can be used for accommodations at any of the 4,200 Best Western hotels worldwide, and a $4,000 MasterCard gift card for spending money. Contestants can also receive additional entries by taking advantage of the tell a friend option on the site.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL EXPECTS
TO BE LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN IN ASIA BY 2010
PHOENIX (Sept. 7, 2007) – Best Western International, already the fastest-growing hotel chain in Asia, is quickly becoming the largest hotel chain on the continent. It is on pace to have more than 200 properties by 2010 – expanding from just six hotels in 2001 to 106 today.
“Our numbers are impressive, and that is because of the way we are expanding in Asia: By forming strong local partnerships with developers who understand the history, culture and people of each country and are interested in building high-quality hotels in high-profile areas,” said David Kong, Best Western president and CEO. “Best Western is quickly becoming one of the most respected hotel brands on the continent.”
Best Western’s global sales and marketing, quality assurance and Gold Crown Club International loyalty programs are several reasons the brand is popular with Asian developers and hoteliers. “As the world’s largest hotel chain, we bring scale, reach and a billion-dollar reservation system,” said Kong.
Best Western currently has properties in:
• China. With 32 hotels either open or in the pipeline -- including two slated to be in operation in Beijing before the 2008 Summer Olympics -- Best Western is on pace to open 7 to 10 hotels per year.
• India. The chain recently signed a new master licensing agreement with Cabana Hotels. A $1.2 billion investment is expected to bring 100 hotels and 10,000 rooms to India over the next decade.
• South Korea. Best Western has 11 hotels and is the country’s largest and fastest-growing hotel chain.
• Thailand. With 11 already operating properties, Best Western aims to have up to 30 hotels in the country by 2010. Best Western’s Asia headquarters is located in Bangkok.
• Japan. Twenty-one hotels are under development in the country. When complete, the new properties will add nearly 3,000 hotel rooms to the system.
• Indonesia. Best Western recently established a development office in the country and expects to have 20 hotels within the next three years.
The chain also is operating or developing hotels in Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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STRONG 2007 PROPELS BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
TOWARD BRAND ENHANCEMENT IN 2008
PHOENIX (Jan. 30, 2008) - The Best Western brand delivered a record-setting $1.1 billion in reservations revenue to its hotels in 2007, while successfully streamlining its property portfolio. The World's Largest Hotel Chain ended the fiscal year with 4,021 hotels in 80 countries - down from nearly 4,164 in 2006 - including 2,287 in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean, and 1,734 internationally.
The current number of hotels is the result of stepped-up brand quality assurance efforts during 2007.
"Roughly 400,000 guests stay at Best Western hotels every night, and we won't let them down. We must consistently deliver on our brand promise of quality and value," said David Kong, president and CEO. "Enhancing our member portfolio will help us achieve this."
With a focus on primary markets, Best Western's improved development process helped the brand open 94 newly-built or converted properties in key U.S. and Canadian markets last year:
•San Francisco: Best Western Hotel California and Best Western Hotel Tomo
•Miami Beach, Fla.: Best Western Atlantic Beach Resort
•Chicago: Best Western Chicago Hillside
•Charleston, S.C.: Best Western Charleston Downtown Hotel
•Dallas area: Best Western Duncanville Inn & Suites
•Halifax, Nova Scotia: Best Western Chocolate Lake Hotel
•Winnipeg, Manitoba: Best Western Pembina Inn & Suites
Best Western also saw strong growth in Asia. The chain is on pace to have more than 200 hotels on the continent by 2010; most are new-builds at the four- or five-star level. Seven new hotels opened in China, including a four-star 430-room property in Beijing's Olympic Village. A new master licensing agreement in India is expected to bring 100 new hotels to the burgeoning hospitality market over the next decade.
Best Western added an additional 150 properties across the globe, including the Best Western Premier Hotel Majestic Plaza, a 190-room property in the heart of Prague; the Best Western Hotel Berlin-Mitte in Berlin's historic district; the Best Western Bel Air Copenhagen, located near the city's international airport; Best Western Premier La Promenade New Caledonia, an all-suite beachfront resort property in the Pacific Islands; and the Best Western Ecovista Hotel in El Calafate, Argentina, just outside UNESCO-protected Glaciers National Park.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES NEW DEVELOPMENT PROTOTYPE FOR UPPER MIDSCALE SEGMENT
MONTREAL (Oct. 15, 2007) - Developers looking for a sleek, turnkey upper mid-scale concept to drive premium, value-added pricing now have an answer: Best Western's new Atrea Prototype. The 100-room Prototype, which was announced officially today at Best Western's North American Convention in Montreal, also offers developers the cost synergies and global brand recognition delivered by the World's Largest Hotel Chain®.
"Best Western's business strategy is to allow developers to build products that best fit their markets. The Atrea Prototype is flexible, functional and extremely cost-effective, so it will succeed in a variety of markets," said David Kong, Best Western president and CEO. "We expect the first Best Western using Atrea Prototype plans to be open in the next year."
The Atrea Prototype can be built at a cost of $85,000 - $90,000 per key, while comparable upper mid-scale brands often cost more than $100,000 per key. Further, the Prototype's high-quality furniture, fixtures and equipment package is available at the extremely competitive cost of $5,000 per key (excluding bed and TV), due to the purchasing power of Best Western International.
The Atrea Prototype has several signature features, including
• Multi-function community space that brings back a sense of excitement and community to the lobby – something that is often missing from upper mid-scale hotels. Guests can watch TV, enjoy a drink or light food, hold a business meeting or chat with friends in the warm and free-flowing gathering space.
• Guestrooms designed around a loft concept with a frosted glass half-wall that separates sleeping areas from living areas. Guest bathrooms feature the comforts of home, including stone-topped vanities.
• Colors and building materials that appeal to multiple generations. The neutral color palette mixes textures, patterns and tone-on-tone coloring to create visual interest and a sense of warmth.
• Features for multi-media travelers, including multi-functional bed lighting that creates an additional workspace for laptop users.
• Modular design that allows developers to adapt the building to meet a local market’s needs, whether through a coffee shop, sweet shop, bar, or expanded food operation. The Prototype layout features 100 rooms in five stories on a two-acre site.
"Best Western is known for its diverse hotel offerings," said Kong. "And the Atrea Prototype is a great tool for developers looking for a turnkey upper mid-scale product."
In addition to the Atrea Prototype, Best Western offers several mid-scale prototypes designed for tertiary and secondary markets.
More information is available at www.bestwesterndevelopers.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL TO CELEBRATE APRIL FOOLS' DAY
WITH "FUNNY" ONLINE PROMOTION FOR RACE FANS
The Official Hotel of NASCAR® Wants to Put a Fan's Face on a NASCAR® racecar
PHOENIX (February 14, 2008) - Best Western International, the Official Hotel of NASCAR®, is asking race fans across North America to plan the ultimate April Fools' gag for a chance at NASCAR immortality.
Now through March 21, race fans are encouraged to log onto www.bestwestern.com/aprilfools to submit a "funny" picture of a friend, family member, co-worker, boss, or neighbor for a chance to have that picture displayed on the Best Western #99 Toyota Camry driven by David Reutimann at the April 11, 2008 Bashas' Supermarkets 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series race in Phoenix, broadcast on ESPN2 at 9:30 p.m. (EST).
Images submitted during the promotion will be showcased in the photo gallery section of www.bestwestern.com/aprilfools and at the conclusion of the promotion a panel of judges will select the "funniest" image awarding it the Grand Prize.
The Grand Prize winner will receive trip for two, including airfare, accommodations, and transportation, to Phoenix for the Bashas' Supermarkets 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series™ race. In addition, the winners will be awarded tickets to the race, as well as an exclusive, behind-the-scenes garage tour courtesy of Michael Waltrip Racing. Winners will also join Michael Waltrip and David Reutimann in a pre-race, track-side, media event as they unveil the winning image on the Best Western #99 Toyota Camry.
"As the first and only Official Hotel of NASCAR® we have a responsibility to help race fans enjoy the NASCAR season whether that be in our hotels or at the race track," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. "To many fans, NASCAR is a spectator sport but Best Western is giving fans a chance to be a part of the excitement through this special April Fools' online promotion where one lucky fan will have their face on the Best Western #99 Toyota Camry."
For official rules, fans should visit www.bestwestern.com/aprilfools.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL OFFERS RACE FANS
THE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE THE "LAP" OF LUXURY
The Official Hotel of NASCAR® to Honor One Lucky Speed Rewards® Member
with VIP Experience to October Busch Race in Charlotte, N.C.
PHOENIX (May 16, 2007)-Best Western International, the Official Hotel of NASCAR®, will give race fans the opportunity to experience the "lap" of luxury through a special sweepstakes launching later this week.
From May 18-June 18, 2007, members of Best Western's free NASCAR-themed loyalty program, Speed Rewards®, will earn an entry into the contest for each night they stay at any of the 4,200 Best Western hotels worldwide. A random drawing will determine the Grand Prize winner, who will receive a VIP experience for two to the October 12 Busch Series race in Charlotte, N.C. The package includes airfare, Best Western hotel accommodations, car rental and Best Western suite tickets, along with a special behind-the-scenes tour and surprise visit.
NASCAR fans who have not yet joined Speed Rewards may enroll in the program prior to their first stay in order to be eligible for the sweepstakes. Those who sign up during the promotional period will also earn 500 bonus points.
For more information, visit www.bestwesternracing.com.
"As the Official Hotel of NASCAR, Best Western hosts thousands of race fans, not only during the season but throughout the year as they travel for business and leisure," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western. "Through this promotion, we extend our sincere thanks to them for making Best Western their preferred home on the road."
Launched in March 2004, Speed Rewards is Best Western's free frequent guest program tailored to the race enthusiast-and the first in the industry designed for a specific lifestyle demographic. As members, individuals can earn valuable points which are redeemable for NASCAR-licensed merchandise such as jackets, caps -- and race-related items including ProScan headsets and Richard Petty Driving Experience gift certificates. Members can also earn free room nights anywhere in the world, as well as dining, entertainment and shopping certificates.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN LEADERS ELECTED OFFICERS
OF AH&LA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PHOENIX (Nov. 26, 2007) - Members of the American Hotel & Lodging Association Board of Directors elected Best Western International leaders to officer positions at its annual meeting this month.
Joe Martin, owner and operator of the Best Western Mark Motor Hotel in Weatherford, Okla., will serve as vice chairman of the Board of Directors in 2008. Martin also serves in a leadership capacity for Best Western International; he represents western Oklahoma as a governor in District V.
"For years, Joe Martin has been a strong leader of Best Western. Members of AH&LA are fortunate to have him be a voice for them, too," said Charlie Helm, chairman of Best Western International's Board of Directors. "Joe represents the best qualities of Best Western and the entire hospitality industry."
Best Western International President and CEO David Kong was named secretary / treasurer of the AH&LA Board of Directors for 2008. He will serve as the association's chairman in 2010, AH&LA's 100th anniversary year.
"David's broad range of industry experience and proactive business approach will effectively take AH&LA to a higher level of member service in the future," said AH&LA President and CEO Joseph A. McInerney, CHA. "With more than 35 years of hospitality experience, he will be a tremendous asset as we continue to surpass core objectives of AH&LA, as well as the goals of the entire lodging community."
The American Hotel & Lodging Association is the sole national association representing all sectors and stakeholders in the lodging industry, including individual hotel property members, hotel companies, student and faculty members, and industry suppliers.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT AMERICAN HOTEL & LODGING ASSOCIATION
Serving the hospitality industry for nearly a century, AH&LA is the sole national association representing all sectors and stakeholders in the lodging industry, including individual hotel property members, hotel companies, student and faculty members, and industry suppliers. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AH&LA provides members with national advocacy on Capitol Hill, public relations and image management, education, research and information, and other value-added services to provide bottom line savings and ensure a positive business climate for the lodging industry. Partner state associations provide local representation and additional cost-saving benefits to members.
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COST OF BUSINESS TRAVEL CLIMBS DESPITE ECONOMIC SLOWDOWN; SURVEY RESULTS REVEAL FACTORS DRIVING SPENDING DECISIONS
Industry Leaders from Best Western, JetBlue, National Business Travel Association and Advito/BCD Travel Offer Tips to Stem Financial Strain
NEW YORK (February 7, 2008) - Travel industry executives meeting last week addressed several ways companies and individual business travelers are curtailing expenses in this era of corporate belt-tightening and economic uncertainty.
Mary Ellen George, general manager of Advito, the consulting arm of BCD Travel, said that although high costs associated with business travel will not diminish any time soon, companies can use existing tools to keep their balance sheets in check.
"We're counseling clients to better enforce their company's travel policy to focus on what can be controlled," George said.
Individual business travelers and corporate travel managers both realize financial savings and other vital benefits depending upon where they choose to sleep.
"A large number of travelers are taking advantage of the value-based, all-inclusive pricing model that we and other hotel chains in the midmarket category provide," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. "Amenities such as free high-speed Internet access - standard in all Best Westerns in North America - help people save on the bottom line. In addition, rich loyalty programs like our Gold Crown Club International help increase compliance with travel policies while rewarding travelers for their continued business."
Corporate travel managers are positioning their companies to take advantage of high-value hotel options. According to the results of a new survey conducted in January by Best Western and the National Business Travel Association (NBTA), more than half (52 percent) of respondents said that complimentary high-speed Internet access is the most important amenity when considering a midmarket hotel chain. Internet access, regardless of fees, was second (16 percent) followed by the quality of bedding/towels (13 percent).
The survey also found that nearly two thirds (63 percent) of travel managers rate convenience and proximity to meeting locations as the most influential factor they consider when making individual hotel decisions. These choices can have a significant impact on transportation costs.
Bill Connors, executive director and chief operating officer for NBTA, said that companies will see a positive impact, financial and otherwise, from investing in the implementation and/or growth of their managed travel programs.
“Corporations will continue to seek out managed travel programs because they’re worried about value, cost, security and, increasingly, liability,” he said. “We’re working very hard to help our members tackle these issues so they minimally affect their bottom line.” Taxes directed toward travelers and consolidation across multiple industry sectors, as well as infrastructure and travel facilitation issues, are also top-of-mind for the association this year.
Although business travelers are being impacted by the reduction in airline seat capacity and rising fuel costs, and will likely experience decreased route and pricing options as a result of pending airline mergers, a number of widespread initiatives are underway to make air travel less stressful and more productive.
The re-slotting of John F. Kennedy International Airport should ease congestion and delays for business travelers, according to Noreen Courtney-Wilds, vice president of sales for JetBlue Airways.
“In addition to our partnership with OPEN from American Express, its small business card program, we also just added a new refundable fare, and have plans to launch a meetings and conventions program as well as a product for the mid-sized corporate market later this year,” said Courtney-Wilds. “These and other initiatives by other low-cost carriers to develop more offerings for business travelers will increase options and help keep last minute and walk-up fares competitive.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT NBTA
The National Business Travel Association (NBTA) is the world’s premier business travel organization. U.S.-based NBTA and its regional subsidiaries – NBTA Asia Pacific, NBTA Canada and NBTA Mexico – serve more than 3,000 members in 30 nations around the globe. NBTA has 42 U.S. Chapters with more than 5,000 members. NBTA members are corporate and government travel and meetings managers, as well as travel service providers, who collectively manage and direct more than US$170 billion of global business travel expenditures annually. The association provides industry-leading networking, education & professional development, research, news & information, and advocacy. For more information, visit www.nbta.org.
ABOUT JETBLUE AIRWAYS
New York-based JetBlue Airways has created a new airline category based on value, service and style. Known for its award-winning service and free TV as much as its low fares, JetBlue is now pleased to offer customers the most legroom throughout coach (based on average fleet-wide seat pitch for U.S. airlines). JetBlue introduced complimentary in-flight e-mail and instant messaging services on aircraft “BetaBlue,” a first among U.S. domestic airlines. JetBlue is also America's first and only airline to offer its own Customer Bill of Rights, with meaningful and specific compensation for customers inconvenienced by service disruptions within JetBlue's control. Visit www.jetblue.com/promise for details. JetBlue serves 53 cities with 550 daily flights. With JetBlue, all seats are assigned, all travel is ticketless, all fares are one-way, and an overnight stay is never required. For information or reservations call 1-800-JETBLUE (1-800-538-2583) or visit www.jetblue.com.
DIRECTV(r) service is not available on flights outside the continental United States; however, where applicable FOX InFlight™ is offered complimentary on these routes. FOX InFlight is a trademark of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. JetBlue's in-flight entertainment service is provided by LiveTV, a wholly owned subsidiary of JetBlue.
ABOUT ADVITO/BCD TRAVEL
Advito provides travel management consulting services that guide clients through a complex travel environment. Advito’s focus on consulting delivers proven value, unbiased counsel and a customized approach for every client and every engagement, together with industry expertise and access to data to drive quantifiable decision-making. Advito is headquartered in Dallas and operates in key business markets around the world. Advito is an independent operating unit of BCD Travel, the world’s third-largest travel-management company, owned by BCD Holdings N.V. For more information, visit www.advito.com.
As a leading provider of global corporate travel management, BCD Travel simplifies and streamlines the business of travel. This benefits our client’s organization on every level: from the bottom-line to the business traveler. BCD Travel operates in more than 90 countries on five continents, with US$12 billion in total sales and a combined worldwide workforce in excess of 12,000. BCD Travel is a BCD Holdings N.V. company. For more information, visit www.bcdtravel.com.
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FIRST-EVER BEST WESTERN UPPER-MIDSCALE ATREA PROTOTYPE
BREAKS GROUND IN SAN ANTONIO
PHOENIX (March 10, 2008) - San Antonio developer and hotel owner Ajay Patel recently broke ground on the first-ever Best Western Atrea prototype, a sleek upper mid-scale concept designed to drive premium, value-added pricing. The 100-room property is being built in southwest San Antonio's Westside Peak development and is expected to be complete next fall.
Although having just unveiled the Atrea prototype in October 2007, Best Western already has 11 Atrea properties in its pipeline, in addition to Patel's. Other markets committed to Atrea include Houston, Denver, Louisville, Dallas and Charlotte.
"Developers have jumped at the chance to build the Atrea prototype. Its design is attractive, functional and flexible enough to suit a variety of markets," said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. "We expect it to be very successful and profitable model for hotel owners."
Guestrooms at Atrea are unique and spacious, designed around a loft concept. But the prototype's signature feature is its multi-function community space, including a breakfast area, bar and media area, that bring a sense of excitement to the lobby. Patel said the Atrea prototype is the ideal fit for its location at the junction of two major highways and a short drive from Lackland Air Force Base, a Microsoft data center, three new hospitals and SeaWorld.
"San Antonio needs more hotel rooms, and this property will have everything that business and leisure travelers need for a great stay," said Ajay Patel, who has plans to build an additional two Best Western hotels - including another Atrea prototype - in suburban San Antonio this year.
The Atrea prototype can be built at a cost of $85,000 - $90,000 per room, while comparable upper mid-scale brands often cost more than $100,000 per room. Its high-quality furniture, fixtures and equipment package is available for approximately $5,000 per room (excluding bed and TV) -- an extremely competitive price, thanks to Best Western's vast purchasing power.
More information about the Atrea prototype is available at www.bestwesterndevelopers.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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START YOUR ENGINES!
BEST WESTERN AND AAA TO AWARD THE `ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP’
Grand prize includes a nine-day trip from Michigan to North Carolina; theme parks and race shop tours
PHOENIX (April 8, 2008) - Best Western International and AAA are dropping the green flag on the race to win the "Ultimate Road Trip" this summer, with one grand prize winner driving a street-legal version of the #99 Best Western Toyota Camry from Michigan International Speedway to Raceworld USA in North Carolina.
Along the 1,138-mile, nine-day journey, the winner will make pit stops at some of the nation's top attractions, theme parks and Best Western hotels. The trip concludes with a visit to Raceworld USA and tours of the Michael Waltrip Racing and Roush Fenway Racing shops near Charlotte, N.C.
Now through June 13, race fans can enter for a chance to win by visiting bestwestern.com/aaaroadtrip or aaa.com/motorsports. The winner's "Ultimate Road Trip" will begin on Aug. 17 at Michigan International Speedway and conclude Aug. 25 in Charlotte. The winner will also receive airline tickets for two and a pre-paid fuel card. The Camry that is provided for the trip will also be equipped with a Magellan GPS navigation device including AAA Approved points-of-interest such as attractions and over 60,000 Diamond Rated lodgings and restaurants.
AAA - Best Western "Ultimate Road Trip" Itinerary
Sun., Aug. 17 (59.4 miles) - Attend Sprint Cup Series race in Brooklyn, Mich. Following the race, drive south to Napoleon, Ohio; overnight stay at the Best Western Napoleon Inn & Suites in Napoleon, Ohio.
Mon., Aug. 18 (176.6 miles) - Napoleon, Ohio to Kings Mills (Cincinnati), Ohio. Visit Kings Island theme park; overnight stay at the Best Western Mariemont Inn in Cincinnati.
Tues., Aug. 19 (123.1 miles) - Kings Mills, Ohio to Louisville, Ky. Visit Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom theme park; overnight stay at the Best Western Green Tree Inn in Clarksville, Ind.
Wed., Aug. 20 (92.4 miles) - Clarksville, Ind. to Lexington, Ky. Visit Kentucky Horse Park; overnight stay at the Best Western Parkside Inn in Frankfort, Ky.
Thurs., Aug. 21 (46.0 miles) - In Lexington area, visit the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Georgetown, Ky.; overnight stay at the Best Western Parkside Inn.
Fri., Aug. 22 (312.7 miles) - Lexington, Ky. to Boone, N.C. Stop en route at Cumberland Gap National Park in Kentucky; overnight stay at the Best Western Blue Ridge Plaza in Boone, N.C.
Sat., Aug. 23 (118.9 miles) - Special event in Bristol, Tenn. Overnight stay at the Best Western Blue Ridge Plaza
Sun., Aug. 24 (110.5 miles) – Boone, N.C. to Charlotte, N.C. Visit Carowinds theme park; overnight stay at the Best Western Crown Suites in Pineville, N.C.
Mon., Aug. 25 (44.7 miles) - Visit the race shops in Concord and Cornelius, N.C.; depart via Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.
“Everyone at Michael Waltrip Racing is excited to host the winner in Charlotte, and I’m looking forward to talking with the winner on my weekly national radio show about the ultimate road trip,” said two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip, a long-time spokesman for Best Western.
“As the nation’s leading expert in drive vacations, AAA is thrilled to offer this prize package to our members and motorists everywhere,” said Mark Brown, AAA executive vice president of association services. “In addition to our well-known TripTik® Travel Planner and TourBook® guide information available in print and online via AAA.com, the prize also highlights the outstanding savings and other benefits available to members at our Show Your Card & Save® partners nationwide. This once-in-a-lifetime sweepstakes prize lets the winner enjoy the open road and take advantage of AAA’s travel partnerships, trip-planning assistance and new technologies to make the most of their summer travels.”
Entrants can elect to be enrolled at no cost in Best Western’s/AAA’s Gold Crown Club International (GCCI) reward program. For more information on the “Ultimate Road Trip,” visit bestwestern.com/aaaroadtrip or aaa.com/motorsports.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT AAA
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. AAA’s 51 million members account for 36 percent of all U.S. lodging reservations, spending $38 billion annually on U.S. hotel stays. AAA’s print and online travel information database includes some 32,000 AAA Approved and Diamond rated lodgings.
AAA’s Show Your Card & Save® program has more than 160,000 locations worldwide and is the largest member discount program in the world.
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A recently published ranking by MKG Consulting lists Best Western as the strongest hotel brand in Europe regarding the number of hotels and rooms. This makes the WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN also the largest brand in Europe.
Eschborn, March 28, 2007-Best Western asserts its position as Europe's strongest hotel brand in 2007, offering the most hotels and hotel rooms under one brand name. This makes Best Western the number one brand in a ranking that was published in March by MKG Consulting, Europe's leading market research and consulting company for the hotel and tourism industry, based in Paris.
Best Western is listed as the number one with 1,215 hotels, followed by Ibis (Accor group) with 631 hotels and 65,868 rooms. Compared to the previous year Best Western grew by 20 hotels and 2.178 rooms (plus 2.8 per cent). The two other Accor brands Mercure and Novotel with 530 and accordingly 268 hotels fill the third and fourth position in the MKG ranking. On number five there's Holiday Inn (ICH Group) with 272 hotels and 42,566 rooms, followed by Hilton International and the Spanish NH Hotels.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive member-owned business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN WINS BEST MID-RANGE HOTEL BRAND IN ASIA
PHOENIX (Nov. 2, 2007) - Readers of Asia's top travel trade newspaper, TTG Asia, have voted Best Western International the top hotel brand in its class. The 2007 TTG Travel Award for Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand was recently presented to Best Western in Bangkok, Thailand.
"We are thrilled that the industry is recognizing our brand in Asia as the best in its category," said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. "Our properties in Asia offer superior value, quality and customer service. These hotels are a source of pride for our organization worldwide."
Best Western International, already the fastest-growing hotel chain in Asia, is quickly becoming the largest hotel chain on the continent. It is on pace to have more than 200 properties by 2010 - expanding from just six hotels in 2001 to more than 110 today.
Presented by TTG Publishing, the annual TTG Travel Awards honor top performers in the Asia Pacific travel industry.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BIKERS CAN REST THEIR HARLEY-DAVIDSON® MOTORCYCLES
AT MORE THAN 1,000 BEST WESTERN HOTELS IN THE U.S. AND CANADA
Best Western's "rider-friendly" hotels offer designated parking, wash stations and wipe-down towels
PHOENIX (April 7, 2008) - More than 1,000 Best Western hotels in the United States and Canada have been identified as "rider-friendly," the company announced today, offering motorcycle riders wipe-down towels at check in and access to a wash station at no additional cost . In addition, some properties offer designated parking, tar remover, sunscreen and lip balm.
The hotel chain's commitment to designating participating hotels as "rider-friendly" is part of a multi-year agreement between Best Western and the Harley-Davidson Motor Company to bring travel benefits to Harley-Davidson enthusiasts.
"Best Western recognizes that Harley-Davidson and motorcycle enthusiasts have unique needs when on the road, and we're committed to providing them with amenities that make their rides more enjoyable," said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western's senior vice president of marketing and sales. "We're thrilled that more than 1,000 Best Western hotels are `rider-friendly,’ and we will add to this total throughout the year."
Harley® riders can also register for the Gold™ Crown Club International Ride RewardsTM program, a free, specially-themed rewards program for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts. Harley-Davidson® owners or enthusiasts can register by going to www.bwrider.com. Once registered online as Ride Rewards members, Harley-Davidson® riders will earn 10 points for every U.S. dollar (or Canadian equivalent) spent on qualified room rates, or 250 airline miles per qualified stay, at any of the 4,000 Best Western hotels worldwide, including the 1,000 "rider-friendly" properties in North America. By joining Best Western's Gold Crown Club International Ride Rewards loyalty program online, Harley-Davidson enthusiasts will automatically receive Gold Elite status, which includes 10 percent bonus points on every Best Western stay and the ability to purchase points for award redemption, along with other signature benefits.
As a complement to Ride Rewards, Best Western will also serve as a preferred hotel chain for Harley-Davidson's interactive Web application 'Ride Planner', found at www.harley-davidson.com/experience. Using Microsoft® Virtual Earth™ technology, the application maps out a variety of picturesque U.S. "Great Roads" and shows Best Western hotels and Harley-Davidson® dealerships along the way. Each property listing features hotel descriptions along with a directory of services and amenities. A 10 percent savings is available to customers who book their Best Western reservations through this Web site, or by calling 1-888-224-BIKE.
For more information on the Ride Rewards™ program, or to search for Best Western's "rider-friendly" hotels, visit www.bwrider.com or www.harley-davidson.com/experience.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL AND CABANA HOTELS
ANNOUNCE INDIA EXPANSION PLAN
World’s Largest Hotel Chain and Cabana Hotels Team Up To Bring Global Network System, Premier Properties and First Hotel Management Institute to India
Mumbai, India (June 1, 2007) – The world’s largest hotel chain, Best Western International, Inc., today announced its aggressive development plan for India under the leadership of master licensee Cabana Hotel Management Pvt. Ltd. Over the next 10 years, the companies intend to add more than 100 hotels and 10,000 rooms to the burgeoning Indian hospitality market.
Through the partnership, Cabana Hotels will represent the Best Western brand in India, provide hotel management services and establish an advanced hotel management institute in Bhubaneshwar. Designed as the first of its kind in this country, the school broke ground yesterday and will bring world-class hotel management standards to India by providing in-depth training programs for employees working in new Best Western properties.
Cabana Hotels is planning a major investment of more than $1.2 billion in Best Western-branded hotels during the next decade, and building or converting hotels at 3.5- and 4-star levels or above in markets including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Ooty, Rameshwaram, Hyderabad, Kanyakumari and Jaisalmer.
“India's booming economy and growing travel market make the country an excellent strategic fit as Best Western furthers its global reach,” said David Kong, president and CEO of U.S.-based Best Western International. “With more than 30 years of hospitality and management experience in North America and India, Cabana Hotels is a respected and proven leader within the industry, and a well-suited partner. The company’s co-chairman and co-founder, B.B. Patel, owns and operates eight Best Western-branded properties in California, bringing a thorough knowledge and understanding of the brand to our development efforts.”
Best Western’s India expansion is consistent with its overall growth strategy for increasing brand awareness and preference in new markets by building high-caliber hotels that receive Best Western’s Premier® descriptor. Designed to identify properties offering a discriminating level of service and amenities that meet the needs of sophisticated business and leisure travelers, the Premier model has been operating successfully in Europe and China for the last several years.
“Best Western’s global footprint and worldwide reservations system make it a strong partner for international hotel developers,” said Dr. Prabhu Goel, a co-founder and co-chairman at Cabana Hotels and leading private venture investor who serves on boards of directors for public and private companies in the United States and India. “Cabana will leverage this strength to become the leading provider of high-quality hotel accommodations in India, with a focus on achieving excellence and building relationships with existing and potential clients.”
In addition to Patel and Goel, Cabana Hotels’ directors include Sushant Patnaik, a successful entrepreneur with holdings in both India and the United States. Cabana Hotels CEO Anil Wad brings more than 25 years of hospitality management experience to the leadership team.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT CABANA HOTEL MANAGEMENT PVT. LTD.
Cabana Hotel Management Pvt. Ltd. is incorporated in India. The Cabana Hotels team has over 30 years of hospitality, entrepreneurial and global management experience. The founders of Cabana Hotels have a well-defined vision, a strong sense of values, and a long-range approach to business. Best Western awarded Cabana Hotels the master license agreement for India in 2007. B.B. Patel, co-Chairman and co-founder of Cabana Hotels, has been a Best Western Member since 1982 and owns and operates eight Best Western hotels in the United States. The founding team’s belief in Best Western and its value propositions for their licensees inspires Cabana Hotels to develop and grow the brand in India. Cabana Hotels is developing a hotel management institute in India to bring world-class hospitality standards for employees working in Best Western properties. For more information please refer to www.thecabanahotels.com.
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BEST WESTERN CELEBRATES SUMMER WITH TOP-RATED KIDS’ NETWORKS, NICKELODEON AND YTV, LAUNCHING PROMOTION WITH “THE FAIRLY ODDPARENTS”
Gold Crown Club International Members to Receive Limited Edition $50 Travel Card; Added Value for AAA/CAA and Speed Rewards Members
PHOENIX (July 10, 2007) – For the third consecutive year, Best Western is teaming with the two top-rated children’s networks in North America – Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids in the United States, and Canada’s YTV – to bring some magic to the summer family vacation.
The Fairly OddParents Summer Promotion runs now through August 12, 2007. During this time period, members of Best Western’s free Gold Crown Club International (GCCI) loyalty program who stay a total of six nights at any member hotel worldwide will receive a collectible $50 (U.S./CAN) The Fairly OddParents Best Western Travel Card.
Members of the AAA/CAA Preferred Gold Crown Club International, as well as Best Western’s NASCAR-themed Speed Rewards program, which are elite levels of GCCI, will receive the limited edition travel card after staying just five nights.
Both Nickelodeon and YTV, home to “The Fairly OddParents,” will host Web pages on www.nickjr.com and www.YTV.com to support the promotion, offering a variety of entertaining features that include e-cards, travel tips and a vacation poll.
“With 67 percent of family travel destinations suggested by a child, Best Western’s The Fairly OddParents Summer Promotion offers children and their parents the opportunity to share in the vacation experience from start to finish,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. “In a time when food and fuel prices are affecting many budgets, this limited edition Travel Card represents an important savings for any family.”
To be eligible, guests must reside in the United States, the Caribbean or Canada and be members of either GCCI, the AAA/CAA Preferred or Speed Rewards programs. Individuals who are not already members may join the program of their choice prior to their first stay. Membership is free. For more information on the promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/summer or call 1-800-WESTERN and mention offer code SUMMER07.
The Fairly OddParents Best Western Travel Card can be used to pay for accommodations and related incidentals, such as room service and phone charges*, at nearly 4,200 Best Western hotels across the globe.
Debuting on Nickelodeon in March 2001, “The Fairly OddParents”’ popularity has soared among both kids and adults, making it the number-two ranked kids’ program on broadcast and cable television in the United States, second only to “SpongeBob SquarePants.” From creator Butch Hartman, “The Fairly OddParents” follows husband-and-wife sprites Cosmo and Wanda as they wreak mayhem and help young boy Timmy conquer typical kid obstacles by granting him wishes. In so doing, they magically fix problems ranging from a tough homework assignment to a bothersome babysitter. Despite the wizardry, though, these overly eager oddballs manage to mess things up every time.
Best Western’s Gold Crown Club International loyalty program—along with its AAA/CAA Preferred and Speed Rewards elite levels—represents one of the industry’s few truly international travel clubs. Members across the globe can earn points toward an extensive offering of product and service awards -- including Global Free Room Nights with no blackout dates; dining, shopping and entertainment gift certificates; as well as airline miles – at Best Western hotels throughout North, Central and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and South Africa.
About Best Western International
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200** independently owned and operated member hotels in 80** countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, in its 28th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in more than 90 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for more than 10 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom, Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B).
About YTV
As a leader in Canadian kids television and celebrating 20 years on-air this fall, YTV is seen in over eight million homes across Canada. As a major force in Canadian kids’ entertainment, YTV has triggered over $1 billion in Canadian independent production; developed a Web site that averages over 90 million monthly page views; published a successful kids’ magazine, Whoa!; and conducts a highly respected annual survey, The YTV Tween Report.
YTV is owned by Corus Entertainment, a Canadian-based media and entertainment company. Corus is a market leader in specialty television and radio with additional assets in pay television, advertising and digital audio services, television broadcasting, children’s book publishing and children’s animation. The company’s multimedia entertainment brands include YTV, Treehouse, W Network, Movie Central, Nelvana, Kids Can Press and radio stations including CKNW, CKOI and Q107. Corus creates engaging branded entertainment experiences for its audiences across multiple platforms. A publicly traded company, Corus is listed on the Toronto (CJR.B) and New York (CJR) exchanges. Experience Corus on the web at www.corusent.com. Nelvana Enterprises licenses the rights to the property outside of the U.S.
*Any eligible service managed or operated by a Best Western hotel.
**Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN REPORTS RECORD-BREAKING YEAR
AT ANNUAL NORTH AMERICAN CONVENTION
PHOENIX (Oct. 19, 2007) - Nearly 2,000 hoteliers representing virtually every U.S. state and Canadian province gathered in Montreal this week for Best Western International's North American Convention.
Brand leaders reported a strong year. Reservations revenue for the United States and Canada is substantially above industry projections. Best Western's loyalty program, Gold Crown Club International, AAA, Worldwide Sales division and www.bestwestern.com also saw dramatic increases over last year's record performance.
"Delivering revenue to our member hotels is Best Western's number-one priority. We expect $1.2 billion in total revenue by year end, which will be a new high for the brand," said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International.
The convention¿s theme - "I Care" - helped showcase a new customer care initiative that will bring innovative training to all of Best Western's roughly 2,400 North American hotels by the end of 2008.
"Caring has been a part of the Best Western DNA since we were founded more than 60 years ago," said Kong. "Superior customer care will differentiate our brand."
The trade show accompanying Best Western's convention is among the largest hotel product showcases in North America. With 400 exhibitors and an estimated $15 million in sales, this year's was the largest ever.
Convention attendees also gave back to the Montreal community. Volunteers assisted at local charitable organizations, including the Old Brewery Mission, Sun Youth Organization and Dans la Rue.
The convention was held October 14-17 at Montreal's Palais des congres.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL NAMED PREFERRED LODGING PARTNER OF AMERICAN AND CANADIAN AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATIONS
Agreement Extends Existing Strategic Relationship through 2010
PHOENIX (May 21, 2007) Best Western International has been selected as a Preferred Lodging Partner of both the American Automobile Association (AAA) and Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) through 2010, extending the long-term relationship between the travel industry organizations.
As part of the Preferred Lodging Partner agreement, Best Western and AAA/CAA will leverage the mutual strengths of their iconic brands and road-travel heritage through channels such as the associations' Approved Lodging, Official Appointment, TourBook and "Show Your Card & Save®" (SYC&S) programs. The partnership also provides Best Western greater access to the more than 50 million AAA/CAA members and their respective clubs through preferential placement in the organizations' sales materials and through targeted marketing efforts. In addition, Best Western will have more extensive usage rights to the AAA/CAA brand and logo in its related advertising/promotional activities.
AAA/CAA members spend $38 billion (USD) annually on lodging, representing 36 percent of all U.S. lodging room nights.
"With many of our hotels located in traditional drive-to markets, Best Western has always been committed to bringing exceptional value and unmatched service to AAA and CAA members," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. "We are proud to be named a Preferred Lodging Partner, and look forward to working together to further enhance the travel experience for this important audience."
"This new program represents a much deeper partnership with Best Western going forward," said Sandi Hughes, vice president, travel services for AAA. "Our goal is to provide AAA/CAA members with reliable information about quality accommodations at a good value and Best Western really embodies that."
In 2005, Best Western introduced a free, customized loyalty program designed exclusively for this market segment. The AAA/CAA Preferred Gold Crown Club® International program offers members elite benefits and privileges plus richer promotional offers throughout the year.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT AAA/CAA
As North America¿s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides its more than 50 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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FIRST BEST WESTERN LEED CERTIFIED HOTEL
BREAKS GROUND IN GOLDEN
PHOENIX (April 9, 2008) - The first Best Western hotel to be built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification recently broke ground in Golden, Colo. The 86-room Best Western Inn and Suites at Dinosaur Ridge, located at 18475 West Colfax, I-70 and US Highway 40 in the west Denver area is expected to be complete in May 2009.
This $13 million project is being designed to achieve a silver LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. It will be the first LEED-certified property in Golden. Gateway Development Group, developers of the hotel have plans to build another three LEED-certified properties in the Colorado region.
"This is a leading-edge green property, and we are excited to add it to our portfolio," said Mark Williams, vice president, North American development for Best Western International. "We are thrilled to see environmentally-friendly hotels and amenities become increasingly popular with guests and developers."
Among the properties key features:
• A high-efficiency, energy-saving HVAC system
• A 10kW grid-tied photovoltaic solar-electric system
• Water-saving fixtures, including dual-flush toilets that will reduce water usage by up to two-thirds
• Healthy indoor air quality achieved through low or no VOC paints, adhesives, carpet, and casework
• Energy Star-rated appliances
• Porous asphalt parking lot allowing for natural recharge of underground aquifers and reduced storm water run-off and a reduced burden on municipal storm water systems
• In-room recycling for guest waste
• Preferred parking for low-emitting vehicle and carpools
• Construction waste recycling
Upon completion, the new Best Western Inn and Suites at Dinosaur Ridge hotel will feature 3,000 square feet of private event and banquet space, a spacious fitness studio, indoor swimming pool, sweet shop and outdoor patio area ideal for weddings. The spacious guest rooms include 22 mini-suites and two presidential suites, multiple windows, custom furnishings, LCD panel TVs, and luxurious bathrooms.
"We are very excited to be part of the Best Western brand, and just as excited to create a healthy, comfortable environment for hotel guests and staff," said John Franzman, director of real estate development for Gateway Hotels.
As an organization, Best Western International is providing its member hotels with the resources, tools and education they need to implement green practices. The chain also is working with the American Hotel & Lodging Association on a voluntary green certification program for the hotel industry.
More information about LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is available at www.usgbc.org.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN BRINGS THE GIFT OF TRAVEL TO CVS/PHARMACY
Hotel Chain’s Travel Card Now Available in More Than 6,000 Stores
PHOENIX (May 31, 2007) – Best Western International announced today that it is continuing to expand the retail presence of its popular gift card, introducing it at all CVS/pharmacy stores across the country.
Through an agreement with InComm, a leading technology provider and distributor of prepaid products, the $50 Best Western Travel Card is now being sold at approximately 6,200 CVS outlets in 43 states. The chain joins U.S. discount giant Wal-Mart and The Kroger Co. -- specifically Western-based Ralphs, Food 4 Less, Smith’s and Fry’s grocery stores -- in carrying the card. Since last fall, it has also been available at Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores throughout Canada. U.S.-based Walgreens was the first retail outlet to offer the Best Western Travel Card beginning in November 2005.
“Whether looking for an appropriate gift that fits friends and family of all ages, or for a quick and easy way to manage your hotel expenses while on the road for business, the Best Western Travel Card provides a convenient solution,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for the hotel chain. “By expanding the availability of our gift card to retail outlets such as CVS, we further enhance the convenience factor.”
The Best Western Travel Card is used by guests to pay for both accommodations and related incidentals, such as room service, at 4,200 Best Western hotels worldwide. Until fall 2005, the card had been offered only through corporate incentive programs, at Best Western member hotels, online at www.travelcard.bestwestern.com or by calling Best Western Travel Card Customer Care at 1-877-CARD-2TVL (227-3288) in the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Available in U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars and euros, as well as a variety of other currencies, the card can be purchased through these channels in any denomination between $25 and $1,000 U.S./euro (or equivalent in other currencies).
A recent survey of U.S. adults by Comdata Corporation found that a growing number of consumers are enjoying the one-stop shopping convenience of gift card malls – a centralized location in outlets including drug and grocery stores that offers cards from a variety of major retailers. During the 2006 holiday season, 22 percent of respondents indicated they had purchased cards at such a mall, up from 14 percent the year before.
Best Western will continue to develop its retail travel card business, with additional merchants to be announced later this year.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT INCOMM
InComm is the industry leading marketer, distributor and technology innovator of stored-value gift and prepaid products using its state-of-the-art point-of-sale transaction technology and payment solutions to revolutionize retail product sales and customer experiences. With more than $5 billion in retail sales transactions processed in 2006, InComm is the nation’s largest provider of gift cards, prepaid wireless products, financial debit cards, digital music downloads, content, games, software and bill payment solutions. InComm partners with consumer brand leaders around the world to provide more than 145,000 retail locations the products and services their customers demand. Since 1992, InComm's patented technologies have made the buying process easier for consumers while streamlining the selling process for product and retail partners. To learn more about InComm, visit www.incomm.com or call 1.800.352.3084. InComm is headquartered in Atlanta with offices in Canada, Colorado, Texas, Florida, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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FAMILIES REPORT TRAVELING FARTHER, SPENDING MORE AND TAKING SHORTER VACATIONS, ACCORDING TO BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL POLL
Fido More Popular than Grandma on Vacation
PHOENIX (August 16, 2007) – Today’s family vacations are shorter yet more elaborate and expensive, involving journeys to farther -- particularly exotic -- locations than what most people remember from their childhood, according to a recent survey by Harris Interactive® commissioned by Best Western International. In addition, travelers are more likely to include pets in their trips over grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.
VACATION 2.0: NOW VERSUS THEN
Eighty-eight percent of U.S. adults who take family vacations indicated that a getaway these days is different from when they were children. More than half (55 percent) claimed that today’s vacations are more expensive, while just over two-fifths (42 percent) said they now travel greater distances. The study also found that:
•36 percent stay in hotels more now than as a child, with 29 percent of adults who have children under 18 living in their households indicating they are less likely than those without children living with them (39 percent) to stay in hotels more now than they did as a child.
•While more than a quarter of respondents indicated that today’s vacations have become more elaborate than they remember (28 percent) and that they go to more exotic locales than they did as a child (27 percent), 19 percent say vacations have become shorter now than in their youth.
VALUE STILL REIGNS SURPREME
Among those who take family vacations, value for the money (62 percent) and the desire to spend time with loved ones (38 percent) are the top considerations when determining where to go on the family vacation, as opposed to an equal amount of activities for adults and children, which came in near the bottom at 14 percent.
“Though value for the money is still a primary factor for many American families, today’s vacation experience is impacted by a number of changes in the way they spend their free time,” said Emily Kaufman, Best Western’s family travel expert otherwise known as The Travel Mom. “For example, parents who remember taking simple family road trips to visit relatives, or go camping or fishing when they were kids, are now embarking on more frequent, yet shorter getaways to places they never dreamed of visiting when they were young.”
The 2007 Best Western International Family Vacation Study also discovered that, contrary to popular opinion, children do not always determine where the family goes on vacation. Only one percent of adults polled indicated that the kids have the most sway in the decision-making process.
AMERICANS’ FAVORITE WACKY ROAD TRIPS/VACATIONS
After more than 30 years, The Brady Bunch still has the “lei” of the land, as more respondents (39 percent) chose the family’s exotic “Hawaiian Adventure” as the wackiest vacation trip they’d most enjoy.
•About one-third (31 percent) indicated they would most enjoy a trip to the mountains, like in “The Great Outdoors.” Adults in the Northeast were least likely to indicate they would most enjoy a trip to the mountains (23 percent), compared to adults in the Midwest (36 percent), South (35 percent) and West (30 percent).
•A quarter (25 percent) indicated they would most enjoy an amusement park vacation, like in “National Lampoon’s Vacation.” Larger households were more likely to indicate they would most enjoy such a vacation (40 percent for households with 5+ members, compared to 29 percent for households with 3-4 members, 20 percent for single-member households and 21 percent for two-member households.
o In general, younger and middle-aged adults were more likely to indicate they would most enjoy taking an exotic vacation (45 percent of those aged 18-34 and 44 percent of those aged 35-54, compared to 29 percent of those aged 55 years and older).
o Single, never-married adults were more likely to indicate they would most enjoy taking an exotic vacation (47 percent for single, never married adults, compared to 38 percent for married adults and 31 percent for divorced, separated or widowed adults).
o Students (52 percent) were more likely to indicate they would most enjoy taking an exotic vacation compared to those employed part-time (46 percent), employed full-time or self-employed (41 percent) and retirees (28 percent).
ADDITIONAL FINDINGS
•When respondents were asked who is included in their family vacations, more people indicated they include their pets (13 percent) over grandparents (10 percent), aunts and uncles (nine percent) and cousins (nine percent). On a regional level, Midwest travelers are most likely to include pets (17 percent) vs. those in the West (15 percent), South (12 percent) or Northeast (eight percent).
•Despite the fact that many upscale properties are adding “kids concierge services” and other special programs for children, the presence of specific kids’ activities or programs at a resort is actually the least important factor in selecting a place to go for vacation. Only 4 percent overall of those who usually stay in hotels for family vacations and 12 percent of those with children under 18 living in their households who stay in hotels for family vacations cited this as one of the most important factors in selecting a hotel.
•Families whose households include children under 18 (30 percent) are less likely than those without kids (40 percent) to consider educational, historic or cultural experiences as a factor in where to go on a family vacation.
Full results, questionnaires, and/or executive summaries of these surveys are available upon request.
SURVEY METHODOLOGY
This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive® via its QuickQuerySM online omnibus service between July 5 and 9, 2007, among 3,389 U.S. adults aged 18 years and older, of whom 2,917 take family vacations. An additional question was fielded online second survey of among 2, 407 U.S. adults aged 18 and over between July 16 and 18, 2007. Data from each fielding were weighted to be representative of the total U.S. adult population on the basis of region, age within gender, education, household income, race/ethnicity, and propensity to be online.
With a probability samples of 3,389 and 2, 917 respectively, one can say with 95 percent certainty that the results would have a sampling error of +/- 3 percentage points. Sampling error for data based on sub-samples would be higher and would vary. However, that does not take other sources of error into account. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no theoretical sampling error can be calculated.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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HALF A MILLION CUSTOMERS WEIGH IN ON BEST WESTERN
THROUGH NEW SURVEY SYSTEM
PHOENIX (January 17, 2008) - Best Western's nearly 4,200 hotels around the globe are getting advice on how to run their business from an important audience: customers. Today, the brand's new customer feedback solution, Medallia, received its 500,000th completed survey, after implementing the system just six months ago.
"Having customers tell us what we're doing right and wrong helps us to enhance the Best Western experience for the nearly 400,000 guests that stay with us each night, " said Ric Leutwyler, Best Western International's senior vice president of brand quality and member service. "Our mission is nothing less than to lead the industry in customer care, and the Medallia guest survey is a major step toward that goal."
After a guest stays at a Best Western property, Medallia sends an e-mail with links to an online survey. Once the survey is completed, the data goes directly into the Medallia customer experience management system, allowing properties to track guest satisfaction and identify any problem areas that need to be addressed.
"We are thrilled to join forces with Best Western International, the world's largest hotel chain," said Elizabeth Carducci, head of Medallia's hospitality practice group. "Medallia's program for Best Western is probably one of the single largest global integrated programs - certainly in the hotel industry - with deployment in 78 countries and more than 18 languages."
Leutwyler noted that a customer-focused culture of care will differentiate Best Western International from other hotel chains in the coming years, and that Medallia is a critical partner in this endeavor.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT MEDALLIA
Medallia (www.medallia.com), founded in 2001, provides enterprise feedback solutions to Global 2000 companies. More than 25,000 businesses and business units around the world use the Medallia system to track customer satisfaction. Medallia¿s solutions enable companies to gather, monitor, and act on feedback from customers, partners, and employees. Customers include global hotel, financial services, retail, and high tech companies. The company is headquartered in Silicon Valley (Menlo Park, Calif.).
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL INVITES BUSINESS TRAVELERS
TO TEST THEIR LUCK WITH ONLINE GAME
PHOENIX (September 6, 2007) - Best Western International is giving business travelers across North America the chance to test their luck and win exciting prizes with the launch of its Daily Jackpot Instant Win Game.
Now through October 4, 2007, individuals are encouraged to register and take a spin for a chance to win one of many exciting prizes. The game, which is set up like a slot machine, features images of items business travelers might find at a Best Western, like free high-speed Internet access, complimentary breakfast and daily newspaper. Players can choose when they want to start and stop the spinning images with the click of a mouse.
Two grand prize winners will receive a laptop computer. Additional prizes include game systems, digital cameras and $100 Best Western Travel Cards, which can be used at any of the approximately 4,200 Best Western hotels worldwide.
"Best Western is serious about catering to the business traveler, but we like to have fun while doing so," said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western's senior vice president of marketing and sales. "The Daily Jackpot Instant Win Game is an enjoyable way for them to take a short break during a hectic day to see what Best Western has to offer and possibly win a prize in the process."
For official rules and to register, consumers should visit www.bestwesternjackpot.com. Some restrictions apply.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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New Gold Crown Club International Ride RewardsTM Frequent Guest Program
Offers Savings and Benefits for Harley-Davidson Enthusiasts
PHOENIX (April 30, 2007) -- Best Western International today announced the launch of Gold Crown Club International Ride RewardsTM, an exciting, free, specially-themed frequent guest program for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts. The rewards program is part of a multi-year agreement between Best Western and Harley-Davidson Motor Company to bring enhanced travel benefits to Harley enthusiasts.
Any Harley-Davidson owner or enthusiast can register for the program by going to https://www.goldcrownclub.com/h-driderewards/. Once registered online as Gold Crown Club Ride Rewards members, any Harley-Davidson enthusiast will earn 10 points for every U.S. dollar (or Canadian equivalent) spent on qualified room rates, or 250 airline miles per qualified stay, at any of the 4,200 Best Western hotels worldwide. Ride Rewards members can redeem points toward an extensive offering of product and service awards -- including Global Free Room Nights, merchandise, as well as dining, shopping and entertainment gift certificates. In addition, Ride Rewards members will be eligible for special promotions and bonuses throughout the year.
As a complement to Ride Rewards, Best Western will also serve as a preferred hotel chain for Harley-Davidson’s “Great Roads” interactive Web application, found at www.harley-davidson.com/experience. Using Microsoft® Virtual Earth™ technology, the application maps out a variety of picturesque U.S. “Great Roads” and shows Best Western hotels and Harley-Davidson dealerships along the way. Each property listing features hotel descriptions along with a directory of services and amenities. A 10 percent savings is available to customers who book their Best Western reservations through this Web site, or by calling 1-888-224-BIKE.
By joining Best Western’s Gold Crown Club International Ride Rewards loyalty program online, Harley-Davidson enthusiasts will automatically receive Gold Elite status, which includes 10 percent bonus points on every Best Western stay and the ability to purchase points for award redemption, along with other signature benefits.
“Like Harley-Davidson, Best Western’s heritage is deeply rooted along America’s scenic highways and byways,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western. “These two brands, synonymous with road travel, have joined together to create an exciting new program to meet the needs of this group of adventurers.”
“Harley-Davidson is very excited to team with Best Western to offer our enthusiasts additional benefits,” said Lara Lee, vice president, Harley-Davidson Enthusiast Services. “There are always plenty of great reasons to ride, and now Harley-Davidson and Best Western are making it even easier to get out and hit the open road.”
For more information on Ride Rewards and other features of the Best Western/Harley-Davidson partnership, visit www.bestwestern.com or www.harley-davidson.com/experience.
About Best Western International
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN LETS TRAVELERS DOUBLE UP WITH ITS 2007 FALL PROMOTION
Frequent Guests can Earn More Points or Miles
When They Pay with their MasterCard Card
PHOENIX (October 12, 2007) -- Best Western International is giving travelers something to fall for with the launch of its 2007 fall promotion, offering frequent guests more points or miles that can be used toward exciting rewards.
Ordinarily, members of Gold Crown Club International (GCCI), Best Western International's rewards program, can earn 10 points per U.S. dollar spent on qualified room rates or 250 airline miles per stay. As a special bonus, now through November 16, 2007, GCCI members who stay any two nights or more will receive double points or double miles when paying with a MasterCard® card.
"Best Western's fall promotion makes getting rewards faster and easier," said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. "And with the holiday season right around the corner, this is a perfect way to earn miles for holiday travel or redeem points for gift buying."
To be eligible for the promotion, guests must reside in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, South America or Asia, and be members of Gold Crown Club International. Individuals who are not already members may join the program when registering for the offer. Membership is free. For more information on this offer and Best Western's other fall deals, customers can visit www.bestwestern.com/fall or call 1-800-WESTERN and mention offer code FALL07.
Best Western's Gold Crown Club International rewards program represents one of the industry's few truly international travel clubs. Members across the globe can earn points towards an array of product and service awards -- including Global Free Room Nights, airline miles, and dining, shopping and entertainment gift certificates -- at 4,200* Best Western hotels throughout North, Central and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
ABOUT MASTERCARD
MasterCard Worldwide advances global commerce by providing a critical economic link between financial institutions, businesses, cardholders and merchants worldwide. As a franchisor, processor and advisor, MasterCard develops and markets payment solutions, processes close to 16 billion payments each year, and provides industry-leading analysis and consulting services to financial institution customers and merchants. Through its family of brands, including MasterCard®, Maestro® and Cirrus®, MasterCard Worldwide serves consumers and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. For more information go to www.mastercardworldwide.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL DRIVES LITERACY
IN GULF COAST REGION WITH HORNETS' BOOKMOBILE
NEW ORLEANS (Nov. 19, 2007) - The World's Largest Hotel Chain® has teamed with the NBA's New Orleans Hornets to put books in the hands of Gulf South children affected by Hurricane Katrina. Today, Best Western International announced a major sponsorship of the Hornets' Bookmobile, a traveling library that will visit more than 150 schools and deliver 30,000 books this season.
The sponsorship has two components. A two-year $110,000 commitment will help fund the overall program. In addition, Best Western International has pledged $100,000 to stock the Bookmobile. Best Western hotel owners and headquarters employees are reaching into their own pockets to purchase books from Scholastic, the world's largest distributor of children's books.
"Best Western's partnership with the Hornets is about investing in children and in the future of communities impacted by Hurricane Katrina," said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. "Our 2,400 North American hotel owners have a strong track record of giving back, both locally and nationally. Our support of the Bookmobile extends this philosophy."
"Best Western International is one of the world's leading brands, and we share their passion for helping New Orleans return to its rightful place among the world's great event cities," said Hornets Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships and Broadcast Peter Goldsberry. "We're extremely proud to partner with Best Western, and their support of the Bookmobile will ensure that children across the Gulf South have access to books they can call their own."
The Bookmobile is being maintained in part by Scholastic, the global children's publishing, education and media company. In addition to donating 3,000 books, the company is contributing storage space and free shipping to the project.
The Bookmobile made its 2007-2008 debut last month at the NBA's Read to Achieve tip-off event featuring the Hornets and Sacramento Kings.
Visit Hornets.com for more information about the Bookmobile, presented by Best Western International, or other Read to Achieve initiatives.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to 4,200* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Founded in 1946, this iconic brand is host to approximately 400,000 worldwide guests each night. A pioneer within the industry, Best Western is recognized for its distinctive business model and diverse hotel portfolio. The company continues to innovate and enhance both the business and leisure travel experience. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT THE NEW ORLEANS HORNETS
With passion, purpose and pride the New Orleans Hornets have returned home full-time to the New Orleans Arena for the 2007-08 season. Led by 2006 T-Mobile Rookie of the Year Chris Paul and a talented cast of players, the Hornets look to reach the playoffs this season in the NBA¿s ultra-competitive Western Conference. For more information on the Hornets please visit Hornets.com.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL JUMP-STARTS TRAVELERS'
POINTS-EARNING POTENTIAL
Gold Crown Club® International Members Receive Double Points;
AAA Members Receive Triple
PHOENIX (Feb. 7, 2008) - Best Western International, the World's Largest Hotel Chain®, is rewarding travelers through its 2008 spring promotion.
From February 10 through April 6, members of Best Western's Gold Crown Club rewards program will earn double points or double miles when they stay two or more times. For AAA members, the offer is even better: Best Western is a Preferred Hotel Partner of AAA and offers AAA Preferred Gold Crown Club members triple points or miles.
"We know business travelers want to be rewarded for their loyalty and like to put their points toward family vacations," said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales. "Through this promotion, we are helping travelers earn points for their family getaways even faster."
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Best Western's Gold Crown Club program represents one of the industry's few truly international travel clubs. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
To be eligible, guests must reside in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean and be members of either Gold Crown Club International or AAA Preferred programs. Individuals who are not already members may join the program of their choice prior to their first stay. Membership is free. For more information on the promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/spring or call 1-800-WESTERN. To sign up for GCCI, please visit https://goldcrownclub.bestwestern.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western is the Strongest Hotel Brand Worldwide
Europe's leading market research and consulting company MKG Hospitality, Paris, lists Best Western as the strongest hotel brand worldwide, based on number of hotels and rooms.
Eschborn, April 28, 2008 - Best Western keeps its position as the world's strongest hotel brand in 2008, offering the most hotels and hotel rooms under one umbrella brand name. These results were announced recently in an annual survey by MKG Hospitality, Paris, Europe's leading market research and consulting company for the hotel and tourism industry.
The ranking lists Best Western as the number one hotel brand with 4,035 hotels and 308,636 rooms. Holiday Inn (InterContinental Hotels Group, IHG) follow with 1,382 hotels and 256,775 rooms. Comfort Inns & Comfort Suites of Choice Hotels International rank third with 2,467 hotels and 188,596 rooms. Marriott Hotels & Resorts and Hilton Hotels & Resorts round out the top five, with 520 hotels / 188,544 rooms and 511 hotels / 176,523 rooms, respectively.
2007 was a successful year for Best Western. While the chain recorded a net loss of properties, roughly 300 new hotels joined the brand worldwide, including more than 80 in Europe.
About Best Western International
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
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“ELECTRIFYING” END TO BEST WESTERN’S ANNUAL “FAN SWAP” CHARITY AUCTION GENERATES A FINAL BID OF MORE THAN $2,500
“Fan Swap” Auction Winner David Emery Prepares to Take the Reins of Michael Waltrip Racing for a Day; Two-Time Daytona 500 Winner Michael Waltrip Will Travel to New Jersey to Work as an Electrical Engineer
PHOENIX (September 2, 2010) – A key component for winning race cars is a high-performing electrical system and Michael Waltrip Racing team owner and professional driver Michael Waltrip will get a firsthand look at complex electrical hardware, when he travels to New Jersey to “swap” jobs with the winner of the third annual Best Western “Fan Swap” charity auction this fall.
David Emery, the owner and operator of Powertronic, Inc, an electrical company he started in 1995 in Ocean, N.J., outbid race fans on eBay to earn this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “swap” jobs with Waltrip for a day, as well as travel with the team to the races in Richmond, Va.
Emery posted a winning bid of $2,606, with proceeds from the charity auction benefiting World Vision, Best Western’s official charity partner, dedicated to alleviating the causes of poverty and injustice among children and families around the world.
Best Western, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, and Michael Waltrip Racing will send the auction winner to Cornelius, N.C. to experience the inner workings of owning a race team and all the work that goes into preparing for race weekend.
At Michael Waltrip Racing headquarters, he’ll enjoy an exclusive tour of Waltrip’s private office and pickup some official Michael Waltrip Racing gear. David will also be treated to an exclusive tour of the new NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, as well as a tour of Showtime’s “Inside NASCAR” studios with Waltrip, the show’s host. Emery will also enjoy a lunch with Waltrip and driver David Reutimann before traveling with the entire race team to Richmond where he will stay at a Best Western hotel for the weekend and receive VIP treatment at the September 10th and 11th races.
“I’ve always thought running a race team would be similar to owning an electrical company because of the skill and precision it takes to work on intricate systems and hardware,” said David Emery. “I’m looking forward to working with Michael to see if what I’ve always believed is true when I join him in Cornelius for a day to learn everything there is to know about running his team.”
For the second half of the “Fan Swap” charity auction, Waltrip will travel to Ocean, N.J. to learn more about David’s business, Powertronic, Inc., which provides two primary electrical services, Industrial Control Panels and Electrical Field Services, to many Fortune 500 companies in the Tri-State area. Once Waltrip completes the rigorous training program, he’ll take his newly-obtained job skills into the field by providing highly skilled technical services to a series of companies in New Jersey.
“Fans always think my days are filled with fun and leisure activities, but the reality is that being a race team owner and driver means long hours to ensure success on and off the track,” said Waltrip. “Every year I’ve opened my office doors to Best Western ‘Fan Swap’ auction winners, and they’ve always walked out with a greater appreciation for my job and the sport as a whole. I’m looking forward to showing this year’s winner the ropes and then traveling to New Jersey to become an electrical engineer!”
For more information on Best Western Racing or to sign up for Best Western’s Speed Rewards loyalty program, please visit www.bestwesternracing.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS™ and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT MICHAEL WALTRIP RACING
MWR fields fulltime NASCAR Sprint Cup teams for Martin Truex Jr. and David Reutimann as well as a K&N Pro Series entry for Ryan Truex. MWR along with Gary and Blake Bechtel co-own Diamond-Waltrip Racing that fields a Nationwide entry for Trevor Bayne.
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Best Western Selects Interactions Corp. to Deliver New Customer Care Technology
Interactions’ HumanTouch Platform to Provide Next Generation Interactive Voice Response (IVR) For Best Western
PHOENIX (February 17, 2011) – Best Western International, the World’s Biggest Hotel FamilySM, has selected Interactions Corp. to provide a highly advanced, conversational voice portal for members of its Best Western Rewards® loyalty program. The voice portal, which leverages Interactions’ HumanTouchTM platform, will help Best Western Rewards members experience a seamless customer care process, enabling them to quickly obtain account information, redeem awards and get details about program benefits. Best Western is the first hospitality company to announce a relationship with Interactions for this advanced customer care solution.
“We are delighted to be working with Interactions to provide what we believe will be the hospitality industry's finest self-service voice experience,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western. “The HumanTouch solution bypasses the frustration normally associated with interactive voice response systems by providing a self-service option that is just as easy as talking directly with an agent.”
In an industry where customer service is inextricably linked with loyalty and continued patronage, Interactions’ patented technology is expected to bolster Best Western Rewards’ already strong customer service track record.
“We are proud to partner with Best Western and look forward to delivering tremendous value and a great experience for their Best Western Rewards members,” said Mike Iacobucci, CEO of Interactions.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western-branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About Best Western Rewards
Best Western Rewards is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Best Western’s Status Match...No Catch ® program will match members’ elite status in any other hotel loyalty program free of charge. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
About Interactions
Interactions enables companies to more effectively interact with their customers. Our patented HumanTouch(TM) platform for automated voice and other interactive systems delivers an unprecedented level of understanding that engages customers in a productive, natural conversation. Serving a growing customer roster of industry leading brands, the Company's corporate headquarters is based in Boston (Franklin), Mass., with its technology center located in Indianapolis (Carmel, IN), along with additional offices in Austin, TX. Interactions: Understanding Enabled™. For more information visit www.interactions.net and our Understanding Enabled blog.
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Americans Unlikely to Alter Summer Travel Plans Over the Cost of Two Pizzas, Industry Leaders Indicate at Summit
Best Western International, AAA and U.S. Travel Association Executives Discuss the Impact of Gas Prices and an Improved Economy on Summer Travel Plans at Annual Leisure Travel Summit
NEW YORK (May 31, 2011) – Americans are expected to travel this summer in greater numbers compared to last year and joined by a higher number of international travelers according to top travel executives from Best Western International, AAA and the U. S. Travel Association at the sixth annual Leisure Travel Summit in New York last week.
At this annual panel discussion, Best Western reported advance reservations for peak summer travel, now through Labor Day, are up more than four percent at Best Western hotels across North America, with approximately 85 to 90 percent of all summer travel expected to be taken by car, according to AAA.
“Americans who made the decision to cut back on spending last year in order to save more, which meant postponing a vacation, are now actively planning and booking summer travel this year, which we believe will translate to a strong summer for our Member hoteliers,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western.
Despite gas prices more than $1 per gallon higher than the same time last year, with AAA reporting a national average of $3.78 per gallon, Gary Oster, U.S. Travel’s senior vice president of business development, remains optimistic that travelers won’t divert from their travel plans.
“The reality is that for the average family driving 500 miles for their summer vacation the increase in their gas budget will be the equivalent of just two pizzas,” said Oster. “Because Americans have been putting more into savings the past two to three years, travelers are unlikely to postpone a planned vacation this summer to the beach or one of our national parks over the cost of a dinner or two out.”
Rather than promote last-minute deals during the peak summer season, airlines, rental car brands and hotels are more likely to offer extras or value-added promotions rather than heavily discounted rates or fares as they did last summer.
“Travelers will find this year that they’re offered things they normally wouldn’t have before in the quoted price, such as a free breakfast, discounted passes to local attractions or bonus miles or points, rather than the ‘everything must go’ sales on seats and rooms,” said Glen MacDonell, director, AAA Travel Services.
Along with millions of Americans on the road, a growing number of international travelers, especially those from Asia and Europe, are expected to vacation this summer to popular U.S. destinations. Best Western is tracking an increase of more than five percent in advance bookings this summer made by international travelers, with a dramatic increase in advance bookings of 16 percent made by Asian travelers.
“We should be excited to welcome back international travelers, as each tourist from overseas will spend on average $4,000 in the U.S. on lodging, rental cars, dining and local excursions,” said Oster. “That delivers a significant volume of revenue to not only companies that cater directly to international travelers, but also tax relief to local governments.”
According to Oster, whether on the road for business or pleasure, a growing number of the 30 million active and frequent travelers are looking to rewards programs as a way to earn points quickly that can be redeemed for discounted or free travel this summer.
Dowling agreed, saying, “Customers want to be recognized for their patronage to a travel brand, and we continue to invest heavily in our global Rewards program as we consider it a winning formula to reward travelers who are loyal to Best Western.”
To receive an audio recording of the panel discussion, please email marcus@allisonpr.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S BIGGEST HOTEL FAMILYSM, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* BEST WESTERN®, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in over 90* countries and territories worldwide. Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated. Now celebrating 65 years of hospitality, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western has embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's biggest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT AAA
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 52 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA .
ABOUT U.S. TRAVEL
The U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing all components of the travel industry that generates $1.8 trillion in economic output and supports 14.1 million jobs. U.S. Travel's mission is to increase travel to and within the United States. Visit www.ustravel.org .
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BEST WESTERN PREMIER EARNS “OUTSTANDING WEB SITE” HONORS IN ANNUAL WEBAWARD COMPETITION
Bestwesternpremier.com receives top honors for “Ease of Use” and near-perfect scores in “Design,” “Innovation” and “Content” categories
PHOENIX (September 29, 2008) – The Web site for Best Western Premier®, the elite division of Best Western International, has been named an “Outstanding Web Site” in the Hotel and Lodging category in Web Marketing Association’s 12th annual WebAward competition.
Bestwesternpremier.com, which features more than 80 Best Western properties across Europe, Asia and the Middle East that provide travelers with a higher level of service and amenities, achieved top honors in the “Ease of Use” category. Near-perfect scores (9.5 out of 10) were achieved in every other category judged, including “Design,” “Innovation,” “Content,” “Technology,” “Interactivity” and “Copywriting.” The Best Western Premier Web site, designed and maintained by Milestone Internet Marketing, achieved an overall score of 67 out of a possible 70; the average overall WebAward score is 51.6.
The WebAwards focus on the entire Web site, with particular emphasis on the creativity and functionality of the overall interactive experience. Each site is evaluated by at least three expert judges who base their decisions on each site’s mission statement and prospective audience. Unaware of who submitted the entry or which category it is entered into, the judges visit each site assuming the role of a target user. The two highest scores awarded by the group of judges are then averaged for the final score.
ABOUT THE WEB MARKETING ASSOCIATION
The Web Marketing Association was founded in 1997 to help set a high standard for Internet marketing and development of the best websites on the World Wide Web. Staffed by volunteers, this organization is made up of Internet marketing, online advertising, PR, and top web site design professionals who share an interest in improving the quality of online advertising, internet marketing, and website promotion.
The Web Marketing Association is the producer of the WebAward Competition. Now in its 12th year, the WebAwards is the premier annual website award competition that names the best Web sites in 96 industries while setting the standard of excellence for all website development. For more information, please visit www.webaward.org.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN PREMIER
In 2003, the Best Western introduced the first Best Western Premier® Hotels. Providing international travelers with a higher level of service and amenities, Premier properties must offer additional 27 or more services/amenities above and beyond Best Western worldwide minimum standards. The properties are also subject to unique design requirements and a special quality review. More than 80 Best Western Premier hotels are currently located throughout Europe, Asia and the Middle East. For more information about Best Western Premier, please visit www.bestwesternpremier.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN “ON SALE” FOR 10 HOURS THIS WEEK
PHOENIX (February 9, 2009) – Travelers on the hunt for bargains will be awarded with the season’s best deals to more than 1,200 Best Western hotels in beach-front, romantic and snow destinations, bookable only through the hotel chain’s Web site, www.bestwestern.com, the week of February 9, 2009, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain announced today.
From Monday, February 9 through Friday, February 13, Best Western will post destinations and specific travel deals each day to its Web site, along with a “countdown to savings” clock to alert visitors when the limited, two-hour window to book designated travel through the Best Western Web site will begin.
On Monday, visitors will be greeted with offers to popular ski destinations and resorts. On Tuesday, Best Western will feature deals to romantic hot-spots, such as Napa, Savannah and Nashville. Wednesday, travelers will have a choice of escaping winter weather for warmer destinations, including Honolulu, San Diego, Scottsdale and Orlando, and on Thursday, to favorite U.S. cities, including New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Finally, on Friday, travelers will be offered a “grab bag” of destinations, which includes other top cities in North America.
“While traveling is fun and adventurous, so can be the experience of finding a great deal online at some of the hottest destinations in North America,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales.
For those who visit the site outside of the “countdown to savings” daily promotion, a message will advise when the next offer will be available.
These special Internet-only deals are based on hotel availability. To view them, guests can visit www.bestwestern.com/countdown beginning February 9. Reservations booked through the Countdown will be prepaid, though guests can cancel and obtain refunds seven or more days prior to arrival.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTRODUCES BUSINESS PROGRAM TO BETTER SERVE CORPORATE TRAVELERS
Best Western Business Plus® Provides Amenities and Services to Make “Office Away From Home” Comfortable,Productive and Affordable
PHOENIX (March 18, 2009) – Best Western is helping its business traveler guests remain productive and maximize their travel budgets by offering business amenities and specialized services at more than 500 Best Western hotels in North America. Best Western Business Plus is designed to ensure a consistent Best Western experience for corporate guests at every participating Business Plus property in the U.S. and Canada.
Features of Best Western Business Plus properties include:
•Breakfast
•Express check-out
•Special corporate rates
•Free weekday newspaper
•Free Business Center Access
•A recognition gift to qualified business travelers
•Free high-speed Internet access (both in-room and in all public spaces)
•Free long distance access
•Free local calls under 30 minutes
•In-room coffee/tea makers
•Irons and ironing boards in every room
“Each participating hotel delivers the consistent experience business travelers demand, while providing the comfort and amenities they expect from a Best Western,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We’re committed to enabling corporate travel managers to book Best Western with confidence, and to easing the strain on road warriors of being away from home and family.”
Participating Best Western Business Plus hotels are identified on www.bestwestern.com with a special icon.
The introduction of Best Western Business Plus comes at an important time, as the recession strains business travelers’ wallets. Chris McGinnis, Best Western’s business travel expert and a contributor to youmustbetrippin.com, said the program provides a real value that will go a long way toward impacting the bottom line.
“In the current environment, business travelers want simplicity and no surprises,” he said. “With the Business Plus program, they’ll always receive the business essentials without being hit with extra hidden fees upon check out.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES “BEST WESTERN TV”
The World’s Largest Hotel Chain Unveils the “Worst Summer Job Ever” Video Contest
PHOENIX (July 14, 2008) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, today launched Best Western TV, the hotel chain’s home for online video content, with the “Worst Summer Job Ever” video contest. The contest is a unique way to grant a well-deserved vacation to young folks working in those “offbeat” summer jobs that they will laugh about in years to come.
Now through August 17, entrants, from teens to college students, are encouraged to submit short videos of their worst summer job experience ever. The grand prize winner will receive an all-expense paid vacation, including roundtrip airfare for two, a $1,000 Best Western travel card for hotel accommodations, and a $100 prepaid gas card.
“Best Western TV will become a go-to resource that will connect travelers to their favorite global destinations,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western International’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We hope to nurture an online community where travelers can engage with one another and learn more about our hotel chain.”
In addition to hosting online promotions and contests aimed at the Gen-X and Gen-Y audiences, Best Western’s hotel owners will populate Best Western TV with video tours of the brand’s 4,000 locations globally, establishing the site as a “one-stop shop” for travelers, media and travel agents seeking deeper insight into specific properties.
Best Western TV will also feature videos from exclusive Best Western partners, including NASCAR, Harley-Davidson, AAA, and World Vision, the global child sponsorship organization through which Best Western hotel owners and employees provide food, healthcare and education to children in impoverished communities around the globe.
To watch Best Western TV and to submit a video for the “Worst Summer Job Ever” promotion, visit www.youtube.com/bestwesterntv or www.bestwestern.com/summerjob.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate
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BEST WESTERN PROMOTES RON POHL TO VICE PRESIDENT, BRAND MANAGEMENTAND MEMBER SERVICES
PHOENIX (July 16, 2008) – Best Western International today announced the promotion of Ron Pohl to the newly-formed position of vice president, brand management and member services. Pohl will also serve on the executive committee and as the team leader for Best Western’s International Brand Management Team. Pohl will oversee a number of key departments within the hotel chain including customer care, member care, education & training and international quality assurance.
Pohl, who brings more than 30 years of industry experience to the position, most recently served as vice president of operations. During his tenure, he dramatically improved the customer care department by implementing the Best Western I Care program and a uniform survey system for Best Western properties, thereby increasing overall customer satisfaction scores for the chain.
“Ron’s past experience in hotel operations coupled with his keen understanding of our membership model makes him uniquely suited for this new position,” said David Kong, Best Western’s president and CEO. “We’re very proud and fortunate to have him as part of our team.”
Prior to joining Best Western, Pohl spent more than 20 years with Boykin Management Company, a respected hotel management firm based in Cleveland. While there, he served in a number of senior-level positions in the areas of operations, marketing, sales and revenue management. Pohl earned a bachelor's degree in business from the University of Akron and also holds Certified Hotel Administrator and Certified Rooms Director designations.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN HIRES NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
PHOENIX (July 29, 2008) – Best Western International today announced the hiring of Mark Straszynski as the hotel chain’s chief financial officer. In this role, Straszynski will set strategic financial direction for the iconic brand, overseeing finance, accounting, treasury and risk management. He also sits on the brand’s senior executive team to help shape and execute Best Western’s long-term strategies.
Straszynski brings more than 15 years of financial experience to the position, most recently serving as corporate controller and treasurer at Chicago-based United Plastics Group, Inc. He served as a change agent for the $200 million global contract manufacturing company, executing a successful restructuring and turnaround growth strategy. As a financial executive, Straszynski has extensive experience running a global finance department, and aided in designing and implementing streamlined policies and programs to support growth opportunities.
“Mark is a true financial utility player: He brings a wealth of financial experience, thought leadership and terrific energy to Best Western,” said David Kong, Best Western’s president and CEO. “He will greatly contribute to the needs of our members and our mission of increasing brand equity and member value.”
Straszynski has also served as audit senior manager for Ernst & Young LLP, where he provided audit and advisory services to public and private entrepreneurial and high-growth companies in a variety of industries.
Straszynski earned a Master of Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, and a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Northern Illinois University. Straszynski is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Illinois Certified Public Accountants Society.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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“Ultimate Road Trip” Sweepstakes Prize is Auto Travel Showcase
PHOENIX (August 18, 2008) – This weekend, Best Western International and AAA sent two lucky race fans on the “Ultimate Road Trip.”
As grand prize winners of the Best Western – AAA “Ultimate Road Trip” sweepstakes, Boyd Alldredge and his wife Nancy, of St. Joseph, Mo., began a nine-day road trip from Michigan to North Carolina on Sunday. They are traveling in style – in a street-legal version of the No. 99 Best Western Toyota Camry race car.
The trip began with Sunday’s Sprint Cup Series race at Michigan International Speedway and the Alldredges continue their 1,138-mile journey through August 25, visiting the nation’s top attractions, theme parks and Best Western hotels. Their journey will be guided by a TripTik® Travel Planner provided by AAA.
“This is definitely different than anything we’ve ever done before- we’re huge race fans and are excited about the race in Michigan,” said Alldredge. “We look forward to driving the No. 99 car.”
The road trip concludes August 25 with a visit to Raceworld USA and tours of the Michael Waltrip Racing and Roush Fenway Racing shops near Charlotte, N.C. The Alldredges are also scheduled to appear on two-time Daytona 500 winner Michael Waltrip’s XM Radio show – Michael Waltrip “Out Loud.”
“I can’t wait for Mr. Alldredge to share with my listeners everything that he saw and experienced on the ultimate road trip,” said Michael Waltrip, long-time spokesperson for Best Western. “Everyone here at Waltrip Racing is looking forward to seeing the Best Western car pull in to town.”
The public can view video of the Alldredges as they make their way south, by accessing Best Western’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/bestwesterntv. Trip activities also will be documented through photos and journal entries at www.AAA.com/Motorsports. The winners also received pre-paid gas cards to fuel their tour across the eastern United States. The itinerary includes:
AAA – Best Western “Ultimate Road Trip” Itinerary
Sun., Aug. 17 (59.4 miles) – Attend Sprint Cup Series race in Brooklyn, Mich. Following the race, drive south to Napoleon, Ohio; overnight stay at the Best Western Napoleon Inn & Suites in Napoleon, Ohio.
Mon., Aug. 18 (176.6 miles) - Napoleon, Ohio to Kings Mills (Cincinnati), Ohio. Visit Kings Island theme park; overnight stay at the Best Western Mariemont Inn in Cincinnati.
Tues., Aug. 19 (123.1 miles) - Kings Mills, Ohio to Louisville, Ky. Visit Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom theme park; overnight stay at the Best Western Green Tree Inn in Clarksville, Ind.
Wed., Aug. 20 (92.4 miles) - Clarksville, Ind. to Lexington, Ky. Visit Kentucky Horse Park; overnight stay at the Best Western Parkside Inn in Frankfort, Ky.
Thurs., Aug. 21 (46.0 miles) - In Lexington area, visit the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Georgetown, Ky.; overnight stay at the Best Western Parkside Inn.
Fri., Aug. 22 (312.7 miles) - Lexington, Ky. to Boone, N.C. Stop en route at Cumberland Gap National Park in Kentucky; overnight stay at the Best Western Blue Ridge Plaza in Boone, N.C.
Sat., Aug. 23 (118.9 miles) - Special event in Bristol, Tenn. Overnight stay at the Best Western Blue Ridge Plaza
Sun., Aug. 24 (110.5 miles) – Boone, N.C. to Charlotte, N.C. Visit Carowinds theme park; overnight stay at the Best Western Crown Suites in Pineville, N.C.
Mon., Aug. 25 (44.7 miles) - Visit the race shops in Concord and Cornelius, N.C.; depart via Charlotte-Douglas International Airport.
ABOUT AAA
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN AND DISNEY CHANNEL’S “CAMP ROCK” CELEBRATE SUMMER IN A ROCKIN’ WAY
Gold Crown Club International Best Western RewardsSM Members to Receive Limited Edition $50 Travel Card; AAA/CAA Members Receive Added Value
PHOENIX (June 20, 2008) – Best Western International and the Disney Channel Original Movie, “Camp Rock,” featuring Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato, are banding together with a rockin’ summer promotion that celebrates everything associated with summer – day camps, cool music, memorable vacations and school being out.
From June 20 through August 17, members of the free Best Western RewardsSM program who stay any six nights at a Best Western hotel will receive a collectible $50 (U.S.) Best Western “Camp Rock” Travel Card (Canadian members will receive a $50 CDN Best Western “Camp Rock” Travel Card). AAA/CAA Preferred members will receive the limited-edition travel card after staying any five nights. The “Camp Rock” Travel Card can be used to pay for accommodations and related incidentals, such as room service, at nearly 4,000 Best Western hotels globally.
Additionally, Best Western and Disney Channel’s “Camp Rock” are offering one lucky fan the chance to win a four-day trip for four to anywhere in the U.S., a guitar autographed by Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato and an amp. Entries can be submitted at www.DisneyChannel.com/CampRockGetaway from June 16, 2008 - June 29, 2008.
“As families vacation together this summer, Best Western wants them to enjoy their time together – and save money while doing so,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “We are continuously looking for innovative and fun ways to thank our loyal guests,” Dowling continued, “and we’re confident that travelers will be excited by this creative opportunity to save.”
To be eligible for the summer promotion, guests must reside in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean Islands and be a member of Best Western Rewards, Speed Rewards, Ride Rewards™ or AAA/CAA Preferred programs. Individuals who are not already members may join the program of their choice prior to their first stay. Membership is free. For more information on the promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/summer or call 1-800-WESTERN and mention offer code SUMMER08.
Best Western Rewards program —along with its AAA/CAA Preferred, Speed Rewards and Ride Rewards™ elite levels—represents one of the industry’s few truly international travel clubs. Members across the globe can earn points toward an extensive offering of product and service awards -- including Global Free Room Nights with no blackout dates; dining, shopping and entertainment gift certificates; as well as airline miles – at Best Western hotels throughout North, Central and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and South Africa.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT DISNEY CHANNEL’S “CAMP ROCK”
Starring Platinum-certified recording artists Jonas Brothers (Joe, Kevin and Nick) and singer/songwriter/actress Demi Lovato, "Camp Rock" is a song and dance-filled Disney Channel Original Movie for kids and families. It will premiere on Disney Channel, the ABC Television Network (as part of the Wonderful World of Disney franchise), ABC Family, Radio Disney and Disney.com in Disney XD beginning FRIDAY, JUNE 20 through Monday, June 23. "Camp Rock" is the story of a talented yet unsure teen who yearns to share her songs with the world, and a tempestuous young superstar who's lost his passion for music and is sent packing by his band mates. Together, at a camp for aspiring young music artists, they learn to believe in themselves and to value the freedom to be who they really want to be. It also stars Alyson Stoner ("Cheaper by the Dozen"), Meaghan Jette Martin, Anna Maria Perez de Taglé (of Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana"); Jasmine Richards ("Naturally Sadie"), Maria Canals-Barrera (of Disney Channel's "Wizard of Waverly Place"), Daniel Fathers, Roshon Fegan, Jordan Francis and screenwriter/actress Julie Brown.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL REWARDS TRAVELERS WITH MORE POINTS-EARNING POTENTIAL
Gold Crown Club® International Members Receive up to Triple Points When Paying with a MasterCard®; Bonus Points for Booking Online
PHOENIX (Sept. 16, 2008) – Best Western International, The World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, is rewarding travelers through its 2008 fall promotion.
From September 14 – November 21, members of Best Western’s Gold Crown Club International will earn double points or double miles when they stay two or more nights and pay with a MasterCard® card. Elite program members earn triple points or triple miles regardless of payment method.
In addition, program members who register for the promotion and book their hotel stay online at www.bestwestern.com receive a 250-point bonus when they stay during the promotional period.
“Best Western is doubling and tripling travelers’ points during the busy fall travel season to help our most loyal guests get to their reward faster – whether it’s a free room night over the holidays, a gas card to help offset high prices, holiday gifts or any of our other fun redemption items,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western senior vice president of marketing and sales.
“MasterCard cardholders on the road will not only find comfortable accommodations, but also great value when they book a stay with Best Western,” said Xavier James, senior business leader, U.S. Commerce Development, MasterCard Worldwide. “At a time when consumers are seeking savings, this great program rewards MasterCard cardholders and loyal Best Western guests.”
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Best Western’s Gold Crown Club International program – which will be re-named Best Western RewardsSM later this year – is one of the industry’s most generous rewards programs and one of few that is truly international. With more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries, Best Western makes it easy for members to earn points that can be redeemed for global free room nights with no blackout dates, dining, shopping and entertainment gift cards, gas cards, airline miles and more. Rewards program members can book their award nights and purchase travel at www.bestwestern.com.
To be eligible, guests must register, reside in North America, South America, the Caribbean or Asia and be members of Gold Crown Club International. Individuals who are not already members may join the program prior to or during their first stay. Membership is free. To join Best Western RewardsSM, visit www.bestwesternrewards.com.
For more information on the promotion, visit www.bestwestern.com/fall or call 1-800-WESTERN.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
About MasterCard Worldwide
MasterCard Worldwide advances global commerce by providing a critical economic link among financial institutions, businesses, cardholders and merchants worldwide. As a franchisor, processor and advisor, MasterCard develops and markets payment solutions, processes over 18 billion transactions each year, and provides industry-leading analysis and consulting services to financial institution customers and merchants. Through its family of brands, including MasterCard®, Maestro® and Cirrus®, MasterCard serves consumers and businesses in more than 210 countries and territories. For more information go to http://www.mastercard.com.
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Best Western Voted Asia’s Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand for Third Straight Year
Also wins Best Marketing & Development Efforts Award
PHOENIX (October 13, 2009) – For the third consecutive year, Best Western International has been awarded the Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand award from Asia’s top travel trade newsletter, TTG Asia. The chain also was presented with the publication’s Best Marketing & Development Effort Award.
The awards recognize outstanding performances in the travel industry and are widely accepted as a benchmark for high standards. The awards are determined by votes cast by trade professionals in the magazine’s annual poll and by readers of TTG Asia, TTG China, TTGmice and TTG-BTmice China, all prominent travel trade publications.
“Three years of recognition from TTG as ‘Best Mid-Range Hotel Brand’ is a testament to our outstanding product, service and consistency in Asia,” said David Kong, president and CEO of Best Western International. “We look forward to continued growth and more opportunities to impress customers with our brand.”
“These awards are particularly significant as Best Western was selected by our industry peers, who are among those best placed to appreciate the highest standards these accolades represent,” said Glenn DeSouza, Best Western’s vice president for International Operations – Asia.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world's largest family, as our hotels and staff sponsor children in need around the globe. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Loyalty Program Celebrates 20 Years by Giving Members
the Chance to Win One Million Points, $50,000 and other prizes
PHOENIX (April 16, 2008) - Today, Best Western International kicks off the 20th anniversary celebration of its loyalty program, Gold Crown Club International, with two Web-based contests that offer Best Western RewardsSM members the chance to win one million points or $50,000.
Both contests are housed in an online office break room straight out of the 1980s (www.bestwestern.com/celebrate20), which offers Web surfers a fun break from work or home and pays tribute to the program's founding in 1988.
Points for Free Contest
The Points for Free video contest asks co-workers or individuals to decorate their office water cooler - the center of most office break rooms - in the spirit of the 1980s, film a 30-second video describing the creation and why it deserves to win and upload it to YouTube between now and May 23. A sample video and contest rules are available on the contest Web site.
The winning video, based on creativity, humor, consumer vote and other factors, earns one million Rewards points - which is the equivalent of roughly a hundred free room nights at Best Western's 4,000 hotels worldwide, enough airline miles for nine free round-trip tickets, or 80 adult admissions to SeaWorld. The runner-up prize is 250,000 Rewardssm points.
Rewards Mania Sweepstakes
The Best Western Gold Crown Club Rewards Mania Sweepstakes, which consumers can enter through the virtual break room TV, gives Rewardssm program members the chance to win instant prizes online, including $100 Best Western Travel Cards, or a grand prize of $50,000. Members can play once a day between now and May 29 at www.bestwestern.com/celebrate20.
"Many of Best Western's loyal customers are busy Gen Xers. We've created these contests especially for them -- to thank them for choosing our brand, give them a chance to win and let them have some fun with our 1980s theme," said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western's senior vice president of marketing and sales. "This kicks off a year of rewarding our most loyal customers."
Since its inception in 1988, Gold Crown Club International has been one of the industry's most generous loyalty programs, and one of few programs that is truly international, offering members the chance to earn and spend points at more than 4,000 hotels worldwide. It was the first loyalty program with customized offerings for NASCAR®, AAA / CAA members and Harley-Davidson® riders and enthusiasts. Today, the program has more than 8.5 million members.
Even better, membership is free. To join, visit www.bestwesternrewards.com. Best Western Rewardssm members can earn points toward free hotel stays, dining and entertainment gift certificates, airline miles and more.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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TRAVEL EXECUTIVES HELP VACATIONERS AVOID SUMMER OF DOOM AND GLOOM
Annual Leisure Travel Summit Brings Best Western, AAA and Cheapflights.com Together to Discuss Where to Find Added Value in Increasingly Costly Travel Environment
NEW YORK (June 12, 2008) – As fuel prices continue to soar, airlines cut back on capacity and many hotels sneak in fees on everything from Internet access to local calls, travelers are experiencing more road blocks than ever when booking vacations. Executives from Best Western International, the American Automobile Association (AAA) and Cheapflights.com recently gathered at an annual media conference to address issues and offer ideas for how to still have a great vacation this summer.
“Despite the unprecedented pressures on travelers this year, people need vacations and are looking for ways stretch their budget,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Reservations at our 2,300 properties in the U.S. and Canada remain strong, and we attribute that to our reliable pricing and focus on guest care.”
All North American Best Western properties offer free high-speed Internet access, with ninety percent providing complimentary breakfast. The World’s Largest Hotel Chain’s annual summer promotion, which begins June 20, rewards guests who stay at least six nights with a $50 Best Western Travel Card that can be used at any Best Western hotel worldwide. Members of AAA earn the Travel Card after just five nights.
Families in particular will be changing the way they travel this summer, according to Amy Graff, Best Western’s leisure travel expert. “One-tank trips” and weekend road trips are increasing in popularity as families explore their own backyards. She said people are visiting less well-known amusement parks, zoos and other attractions that are equally as fun but also still affordable.
According to Betsy Sell, AAA’s managing director of travel products, gas prices are impacting travelers and businesses more than ever before, but consumers remain resilient.
“The average price of gasoline has reached more than $4 per gallon for the first time in history. While we predict road travel will decrease this July Fourth holiday weekend as we forecasted for Memorial Day, people still want and deserve to travel,” she said. “Whether they turn to destination options closer to home or will simply take fewer, shorter trips, we are here to help them find options to maximize their travel budgets.
AAA has introduced several programs to help consumers manage their road trips and costs. One such online service is TripTik® Travel Planner, available at AAA.com. TripTik maps out itineraries, spots the location of gas stations in the U.S. that are on the route and provides their fuel prices. A second online tool is the Fuel Cost Calculator, (www.fuelcostcalculator.com) which allows users to enter their starting point, their destination and the make and model of their car to calculate the gallons of fuel needed and the cost for the trip.
“TripTik Travel Planner was designed to map your route to a destination so you can adjust your time on the road accordingly,” said Sell. “It gives you driving directions, estimated drive time, total trip distance and turn-by-turn directions.”
Carl Schwartz, Chief Travel Officer for travel search engine Cheapflights.com, said that with competition growing and airfares increasing, consumers are doing more pre-purchase research than ever before.
“Consumers who once visited one or two Web sites before buying are now reviewing five to six sites,” he said. “They have also become much more flexible with their travel dates—all in an attempt to save money.”
Cheapflights.com caters to people who can be flexible with its destination-based travel search model, which provides deals that aren’t dependent on specific dates to destinations around the world.
“Flexibility is key,” said Schwartz. “With the freedom to build travel plans around the most affordable fares, travelers can control costs. We simplify the process for trip planners by offering deals in real time and in an easy-to-use format.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,0001 independently owned and operated member hotels in 801 countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT CHEAPFLIGHTS.COM
Cheapflights.com is the best place to find cheap flight deals and up-to-date travel information. As a leading U.S. travel search engine, the site publishes one of the largest selections of airfare deals available online from a huge range of flight providers. Every day, travelers can search more than one million flight deals from both traditional and low-cost airlines, as well as smaller specialty-travel providers, plus handpicked deals and flight offers exclusive to Cheapflights.com. The site’s Flight & Travel Info section and Flight News blog are packed with destination travel guides, travel tips, news and information to help flyers enjoy the best possible travel experience, every time they fly.
ABOUT AAA
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 50 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com.
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BEST WESTERN EARNS TOP RANKING IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION FOR MIDSCALE HOTEL SECTOR BY MARKET METRIX HOSPITALITY INDEX
Q1 2008 Survey Results Reflect Success of the “Best Western I Care” Initiative
PHOENIX (June 2, 2008) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, announced today that it has received the highest ranking in customer service for hotels in the midscale hotel sector with food and beverage, according to first quarter results of the 2008 Market Metrix Hospitality Index (MMHI) survey. Best Western’s overall score of 80.3 percent surpassed all midscale hotel brands, including Clarion Hotels & Resorts and Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts.
Based on 35,000 interviews with guests who stayed at surveyed hotels within the past 90-days, this achievement is an indicator of the success of Best Western’s “I Care” employee training, which teaches “heroic hospitality”, or consistently exceeding guest expectations to deliver superior customer service.
“Receiving this honor from Market Metrix in is a testament to our progress toward leading the hotel industry in customer care,” said David Kong, President and CEO of Best Western International. “As part of our five-year plan, we strive to give meaning to each encounter between our staff and our 400,000 nightly guests.”
Best Western launched its customer care training program, “I Care,” in November 2007, to bring innovative customer service training to each of the chain’s North American hotels by the end of 2008. Best Western has also begun to share best customer service practices worldwide, enabling Best Western’s international membership to channel expertise throughout the global brand.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT MARKET METRIX
Market Metrix helps hospitality companies around the world foster loyal customers and engaged employees. Based on award-winning research and breakthrough concepts, our products deliver instant survey results, analysis and management tools for increasing revenue and reducing staff turnover. The benchmarking database, Market Metrix Hospitality Index, MMHI, is the most comprehensive, independent comparison of consumer brand satisfaction in the industry. Our annual MMHI Awards are coveted by lodging and travel enterprises around the world. With clients that include more than 120 brands across 70 countries, Market Metrix has been helping leading hospitality companies turn feedback into performance since 1996. For more information, visit www.marketmetrix.com.
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BEST WESTERN UPGRADES ONLINE GUEST EXPERIENCE WITH NEW FEATURES
Focus Group, Customer Survey Feedback Spurs Enhancements to bestwestern.com
PHOENIX (June 5, 2008) – Best Western International today announced a number of upgrades which have been made to www.bestwestern.com, including enhanced mapping features and expanded search options, to better assist travelers researching destinations and booking hotel rooms.
These enhancements are a combined result of feedback received during Best Western-led focus groups as well as through results from an industry survey that revealed how hotel chains could best communicate with their guests.
“With the overwhelming majority of our 400,000 nightly guests around the world booking their reservations directly through www.bestwestern.com, so each new online feature or enhancement will impact their overall Best Western experience before check-in,” said Karmela Gaffney, managing director of eCommerce and advertising for Best Western International.
Multiple upgrades made to www.bestwestern.com include:
• Enhanced Area Map Graphics – Powered by Microsoft Visual Earth, the interactive map on the Hotel Search Results page lays out the location of each Best Western property in a particular area via a larger, more explicit display.
• Expanded Search Options – As a result of a recent usability study which revealed that travelers did not understand how properties were displayed in a search, Best Western hotels are now listed in order of distance to the city center.
• Expanded Search Radius – The City Search application has been modified so that it now highlights search results within a 100-mile radius from the original search point. This upgrade provides travelers with more property options from which to choose.
• New Amenity Icons – Modified to a monochromatic look, letting visitors easily locate and compare hotel amenities with other Best Western hotels nearby.
• Redesigned Hotel Information Boxes – This modification will better streamline the hotel search results page by increasing the visibility of key property information so that it now combines nightly room rate details with the Check Availability button. This change, which encourages a stronger call to action by the user, is expected to increase the percentage of searches that are turned into actual reservations.
• Upgraded ‘Sort By’ Field Display – A new drop down menu allows travelers to sort by price or distance from the city center, giving them better ability to find the exact property that meets their needs.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL ANNOUNCES SAN FRANCISCO PROPERTY UPGRADES AND RENOVATIONS
The Brand Continues Focus on Improving Hotels in Gateway Cities and Leisure Travel Hotspots
PHOENIX (June 9, 2008) – Best Western International, the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, today announced its members have spent $10.5 million in upgrades and renovations to four top-performing hotels in San Francisco, including the Best Western Hotel Tomo, Best Western Hotel California, Best Western Americania Hotel and the Best Western Carriage Inn. All four hotels will receive upgrades ranging from standard improvements and renovations to complete facelifts in 2008.
Located at 1800 Sutter Street in the heart of Japantown, the Best Western Hotel Tomo features 125 guest rooms and is inspired by Japanese pop-culture. The hotel also features anime murals, as well as glow-in-the-dark blotters. Keeping in mind families traveling with children, the Hotel Tomo has also added gaming suites that include a PlayStation 3, bean bag chairs and six-foot LCD projection screens.
The Best Western Hotel California is a newly renovated 84-room boutique property located at 580 Geary Street in the heart of San Francisco’s theatre district. The hotel is an elegant 96-year-old building and features American maple hardwood floors, leather furniture and California-themed artwork can be found throughout the hotel. Each room comes complete with Beautyrest mattresses and premium linens.
Best Western Americania and Best Western Carriage Inn are located in San Francisco’s SOMA (South of Market Street) district near downtown. The Carriage Inn has received a top-to-bottom renovation with elements that tip a hat to San Francisco’s well-known artists and eccentrics. Each room, designed as ‘bohemian representations’ of a classic San Francisco apartment, will now carry their own titles such as “Herb Caen,” “Mark Twain” and a little rarer, “The Brown Twins.” The Best Western Americania is receiving an equally-extensive renovation by adding quirky and vibrant-colored furniture, linens, artwork and amenities that pay tribute to America’s past. Guests will find checkerboard floors in mint and black, red adornments and artwork featuring famous childhood games. Upon check-in, Jelly-Belly’s will be offered and off the lobby, a large selection of favorite games will be offered for in-room entertainment. The Best Western Americania is located at 121 Seventh Street and the Best Western Carriage Inn is located 140 Seventh Street.
“As we enter the heavy summer travel season, San Francisco continues to be a hot spot for international, business and family travel,” said Mark Williams, vice president, North American development. “We’re very proud of our hotels in San Francisco and believe guests traveling there this year will have a pleasant and lasting experience.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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EXECUTIVES INSTILL OPTIMISM AT ANNUAL LEISURE TRAVEL SUMMIT
Best Western, CAA, Aeroplan Discuss Ways to Cope With Summer of Fare Increases, Flight Decreases, Rising Gas Costs
TORONTO (June 24, 2008) – Despite record fuel costs, a weak U.S. dollar and a drop in cross-border tourism, confidence remains high that the 2008 summer travel season will still thrive, albeit with modifications to the travel patterns of the past few years. Industry experts recently convened at the annual Leisure Travel Summit hosted by Best Western International and moderated by Tony Pollard, president of the Hotel Association of Canada, to address a number of issues and offer suggestions on how to have a great vacation in spite of the challenges. The panel included senior executives representing Best Western, the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) and Aeroplan, as well as travel expert and television personality Rudy Maxa, host of “Rudy Maxa’s World.”
“Canadians are a discriminating group who understand the value of travel and how important it is to their overall well-being,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “The unprecedented challenges facing travelers this summer are not deterring people from taking their vacations. People are simply going to adjust the distance from home that they will travel while also shortening their stays in order to maximize budget.”
Families in particular will be changing the way they travel this summer. “One-tank trips and weekend getaways are increasing in popularity as families explore their own backyards,” Dowling said. “In addition, Best Western is uniquely positioned to provide value-conscious travelers with the amenities they expect without being surprised by extra fees upon check-out.” All North American Best Western properties offer free high-speed Internet access and a breakfast option. The World’s Largest Hotel Chain’s annual summer promotion, which runs through August 17, rewards guests who stay at least six nights with a $50 Best Western Travel Card that can be used at any Best Western hotel worldwide. Members of CAA earn the Travel Card after just five nights.
According to Pat Rotz, CAA Niagara’s vice president of auto club & travel, the weak U.S. dollar and the resulting decline in U.S. visitors crossing the border are among the biggest issues facing the Canadian travel industry this year. However, the summer travel forecast is looking positive as consumers utilize a number of different tools to research and book a cost-effective trip.
“Taking a vacation is seen as a right than rather than a privilege to be given up,” Rotz said. “People who plan ahead and do their homework to find the best values will be rewarded with a trip that will be attainable, within their budget, and most importantly, fun.”
Among the tools CAA offers to help its members manage their road trips and costs is the TripTik® Travel Planner, available at www.caa.ca. TripTik maps out itineraries, spots the location of gas stations that are on the route and provides information on fuel prices at those stations.
“TripTik Travel Planner was designed to map your route to a destination so you can adjust your time on the road accordingly,” Rotz said. “It gives you driving directions, estimated drive time, total trip distance and turn-by-turn directions.”
Members of the Aeroplan loyalty program can leverage their earned miles in a number of different ways beyond just flights that can ultimately have a positive impact on their summer vacations, according to Nathalie Belanger, the company’s general manager of rewards.
“Choice and value are the two most important factors our members look for when redeeming their Aeroplan miles,” Belanger said. “While we know that many members redeem miles for flight rewards, there are also hundreds of additional rewards to take advantage of that can greatly offset travel costs.
With more than 70 corporate partner affiliations that represent more than 150 brands such as Best Western, Avis and Esso, redeeming miles for hotel stays, rental cars, and vacation activities like a round of golf, theatre tickets and gift cards are just some of the ways travelers can benefit from membership,” she said.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,0001 independently owned and operated member hotels in 801 countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT AEROPLAN
Aeroplan Limited Partnership, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aeroplan Income Fund, is dedicated to developing and executing programs designed to engage the loyalty of its prestigious membership. Aeroplan's millions of members earn Aeroplan Miles with its growing network of over 70 world-class partners, representing more than 150 brands in the financial, retail, and travel sectors.
In 2007 alone, approximately 2 million rewards were issued to members - an average of 5,500 per day, or one reward every 16 seconds. Over 1.5 million round-trip flights were issued in 2007. Members can redeem miles for Aeroplan's industry-leading ClassicFlight Rewards, ClassicPlus Flight Rewards, and global Star Alliance Flight Rewards, which offer travel to approximately 965 destinations worldwide. More than 400,000 non-flight rewards were issued in 2007. Members have access to 600 exciting specialty, merchandise, and experiential rewards, as well as hotel and car rental rewards. For more information about Aeroplan, please visit www.aeroplan.com.
ABOUT CAA
CAA is a federation of 9 automobile clubs serving 5 million members through 148 offices across Canada. CAA provides a wide range of member services and works to improve travelling and motoring conditions at home and around the world, including national advocacy efforts on both traffic safety and public policy issues that affect Canadian motorists.
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1980s-Style Water Cooler Earns Video Contest Winner One Million Best Western RewardsSM Points
PHOENIX (June 26, 2008) – What do the 1980s and a water cooler named Corey have in common? For noted YouTube personality and Los Angeles resident Joel Moss Levinson, both helped him win the grand prize in Best Western International’s Points for Free Video Contest.
The contest commemorated the 20th anniversary of the hotel chain’s Best Western RewardsSM program, Gold Crown Club International, and winners were announced today.
Tapping into Gen X office workers’ high school nostalgia, the contest asked entrants to decorate their break room water cooler in the spirit of the 1980s and film a video explaining why it should win them a vacation. Levinson dressed his water cooler in a stonewashed denim jacket and blond wig, and composed an original song about the creation he named Corey.
For his efforts, Levinson won 1 million Best Western RewardsSM points. His prize can be redeemed for the equivalent of up to 100 hotel room nights at Best Western’s 4,000 properties worldwide, Best Western’s Travel Card, airline miles, retail gift cards, merchandise … the list goes on.
Levinson said he will redeem his points for Best Western hotel rooms, and his next trip is to Estonia.
“It’s exciting to know that I can just go to Best Western’s Web site, look up the city I’m headed to, and know I’m going to get a place that’s great – and use points to pay for it! These hotel points will help me see the world, make more videos and enter more contests,” said Levinson.
Jennifer Delano, a teacher from Coon Rapids, Minn., received the runner-up prize. Her video explained that her school’s break room had been turned into a classroom, so she decorated the room’s overhead projector instead. Her punk rock creation danced around the classroom and wished for a vacation.
The videos were judged on creativity, humor and consumer vote, and can be viewed at www.bestwestern.com/celebrate20.
“This contest was a fun way to highlight our generous rewards program,” said Dorothy Dowling, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Best Western International. “Winners will see first-hand the many ways to spend their points – on free room nights, Best Western’s Travel Card, frequent flier miles, merchandise, gift cards and much more.”
Since its inception in 1988, Gold Crown Club International has been one of the industry’s most generous reward programs, and one of few programs that is truly international, offering members the chance to earn and spend points at more than 4,000 hotels worldwide. It was the first loyalty program with customized offerings for NASCAR®, AAA / CAA members and Harley-Davidson® riders and enthusiasts. Today, the program has more than 8.5 million members.
To join the free program, visit www.bestwesternrewards.com. Best Western RewardsSM members can earn points toward free hotel stays, dining and entertainment gift certificates, airline miles and more.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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Best Western Hotels are inviting you to celebrate its 30th birthday this year with an exclusive offer of just £30 per room, per night, for a limited time only!
From 28th June until 6th July members of the public can choose from over 90 selected Best Western hotels across Great Britain* and stay between 21st July until 7th September for just £30. Perfect timing for those summer holidays.
Since its launch back on 4th July 1978, Best Western has seen phenomenal growth with the number of properties across England, Scotland, Wales and the Channel Islands resting at over 280 hotels. Today it is the largest independently owned and managed group of hotels in the UK.
Mikhaila Brentnall, PR manager for Best Western comments: “We have been growing our hotel group carefully for 30 years and we’re very proud to be reaching this great milestone with such success. We really want to celebrate our birthday with our loyal customers and allow those who have not yet experienced Best Western hospitality to be able to do so at the very best price.”
“The success story began with a small group of five hotels in the sixties with the Best Western deal being signed in 1978 - on the bonnet of a car at Heathrow Airport! Even though the group is much larger now we still offer the same hands on friendly service and personal attention we did when the group was founded.”
Best Western hotels are all independently owned and managed, and each one has it’s own individual charm and character. Wherever it is you want to go in Britain, Best Western has a presence, offering a wide variety of holidays and mini-breaks for all types of traveller.
So, whether you keen for a cultural city break in York, a peaceful coastal retreat on the stunning Norfolk and Suffolk coastline, a countryside escape in the Welsh hills, or a relaxing golf break in the North of Scotland, Best Western has the best choice for you.
For more information and or to make a booking please call 0845 313 0113 or visit www.bestwestern.co.uk/30thbirthday.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES NEW ONLINE GAME FOR BUSINESS TRAVELERS
PHOENIX (August 21, 2008) – Best Western International has launched “Taking Care of Business,” a new online game that will allow business travelers across North America to take virtual tours of Best Western guest rooms and win instant prizes.
Now through September 18, 2008, individuals can go online and explore a virtual Best Western guest room. With a mouse, visitors can explore Best Western’s great features and amenities, such as hi-speed Internet access, breakfast, convenient locations around the world and the Best Western Rewards loyalty program.
Players will have the chance to instantly win prizes including free room nights, gas for a year, 50,000 airline miles or a wardrobe makeover. They’ll also earn entries into the grand prize sweepstakes for a chance to win a seven day vacation for four, including accommodations, meals, car rental and gas.
“More than ever, Best Western is a great choice for corporate travelers, thanks to our business-friendly properties in thousands of locations,” said Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. “This game is a fun way to show our appreciation and allow guests to learn more about what Best Western has to offer.”
For official rules and to register, consumers should visit www.bestwestern.com. Some restrictions apply.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN HOTELS OF CALIFORNIA, NEVADA AND HAWAII OFFER CONSUMERS A CHANCE TO SHARE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES ONLINE
PHOENIX (August 19, 2008) – Making vacation plans to California, Nevada or Hawaii? Starting August 15, consumers can log on to state-specific Best Western web sites to post their favorite attractions, photos and stories from each of the three states.
Features on the Web site will include a survey section, snapshot contest and travelogue.
• Survey Section – This feature will allow consumers to report on their favorite attractions and dining experiences and rate their favorite places.
• Snapshot Contest - Is designed to allow visitors to get a candid look at the sights and attractions all over California, Nevada and Hawaii and have the opportunity to post the pictures for the snapshot contest. Photo themes for the contest will include most scenic view, best vacation attraction and funniest vacation snapshot. Winners of the snapshot contest are eligible to win a $50 Best Western Travel Card.
• Travelogue - This will allow visitors to post their short travel stories on their vacation experiences.
“With social media becoming more popular and consumers returning from summer travel armed with photos and stories, this is a great time for travelers to enjoy our new, regional online features,” said Lisa Schmidlap, senior manager of field marketing for Best Western International.
These enhancements will allow visitors to share entertaining ideas during road trips, post fun photos, recommend their favorite locales and win great prizes. The Web sites include:
www.bestwesterncalifornia.com/vacation-attractions
www.bestwesternnevada.com/vacation-attractions
www.bestwesternhawaii.com/vacation-attractions
Consumers can always log onto www.bestwestern.com to find hotels and attractions in their favorite destinations worldwide.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL INTERIOR DESIGNER BECOMES HOTEL CHAIN’S FIRST LEED ACCREDITED PROFESSIONAL
PHOENIX (Oct. 7, 2008) – Best Western International today announced staff interior designer Ciji Hoffman has earned the honor of being the first Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) accredited professional (AP) for the World’s Largest Hotel Chain®. Hoffman’s accreditation allows her to guide the hotel chain’s green building, sustainability and environmental impact initiatives for hotel construction and renovation.
“We’re proud to have a LEED accredited professional on staff that can help our members build and renovate hotels with the environment in mind,” said Rich Bennett, Best Western’s vice president of supply and design. “We have multiple Best Western properties that are interested in LEED certification and Ciji’s commitment to teaching and implementing environmentally friendly solutions will help them attain that goal.”
The Best Western Inn & Suites at Dinosaur Ridge in Golden, Colo. is the first Best Western hotel under construction seeking LEED certification. In addition, properties in Greensburg, Kan. and Alberta, Canada are interested in becoming certified. Hoffman is helping the members with the direction of the design and material selection to ensure that the properties achieve the certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. She resources materials and products that are beneficial to the environment, guests and employees.
“Educating Best Western’s members about LEED certification and its benefits is a really rewarding process,” said Hoffman. “My hope is that as more members realize the benefits, not only for the environment but for themselves, there will be a great increase in properties seeking certification.”
Hoffman earned the accreditation after studying green building basics, benefits and integration for more than six months. She joins more than 57,000 other men and women LEED APs.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, BestWestern has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN TAPS TRAVEL EXPERT
AMY GRAFF TO TALK TRAVEL WITH GENERATION X
Former VIA Magazine Editor to Offer Personal Spin on Leisure Travel for World’s Largest Hotel Chain
PHOENIX (June 5, 2008) – Today Best Western International announced that it is partnering with veteran travel journalist Amy Graff to give vacationers a bird’s-eye view into Gen-X travel, via a blog and regular columns hosted on bestwestern.com.
Amy, 34, will serve as the company’s new leisure travel spokesperson and provide content for bestwestern.com’s “Trip Planner” section. She’ll also write a regular blog titled “On the Go with Amy,” where she’ll share firsthand travel experiences and chronicle her trips. Her first excursion will be a business trip to New York City, with her husband and two kids in tow. Her subsequent adventure will be a great American family road trip, where she’ll conquer Route 66 on a razor-thin budget of $250 a day.
With more than a dozen years as an editor and writer, Amy most recently served as a senior editor at VIA, the travel magazine of the California State Automobile Association that reaches 3 million readers. Prior, she was a contributor to regional lifestyle magazines including Diablo and San Francisco, as well as Sidewalk.com, an early predecessor to CitySearch.
“The moment we met Amy, we knew she perfectly represented Best Western’s customer,” says Dorothy Dowling, Best Western’s senior vice president of sales and marketing. “Best Western is the absolute best choice for those with both leisure and business travel on the brain, particularly in an economy that rewards excellent service above marble bathrooms.”
In addition to serving as a contributing columnist and spokesperson for Best Western, Amy writes for Sunset Custom Publishing and serves as the Community Manager for The San Francisco Chronicle’s new parenting site, “Bay Area Moms,“ for which she writes “The Mommy Files” blog. Amy made her blogging debut with the launch of “The SF K Files,” the story of her search for a kindergarten in San Francisco for her daughter. The SF K Files has received widespread regional and national media attention.
Graff says she has traveled the world and back and is now ready to put her experience and perspective to work for the World’s Largest Hotel Chain: “I caught the chicken pox in Rio de Janeiro, watched the wall tumble down in Berlin, and outran an angry prehistoric bird in Australia’s jungles,” she said. “Best Western has always been a part of my adventures, and I am excited to share my experiences.”
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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BEST WESTERN HOTEL TO OPEN IN KRAKOW IN SEPTEMBER
New Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow will open in Krakow, southern Poland, on the 1st of September. Located four kilometres from the main market square and the old town, the new hotel is well-equipped to host both business and leisure travellers. Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow is also the first Premier level Best Western in Polish market.
Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow has 169 rooms. There are rooms for smoking, non-smoking and disabled guests, four special luxury apartments and also connected rooms. All rooms have among others air-conditioning, satellite-TV, laptop size safes, fridges and high standard room amenities. Buffet breakfast is included.
The hotel welcomes all kind of events and meetings. All eight conference rooms (up to 600 pax) have state-of-the-art meeting equipments with Wi-Fi access. Full range banquette service, Impression Restaurant, Act Café & Bar, 24 hour room service will suit every guest needs.
The hotel has also money exchange office, gift shop, fully-equipped business centre, laundry service, monitored car park as well as shuttle bus service to the city centre and Krakow Balice Airport. Sauna, solarium, massage, fitness and in-door pool as well as lovely private Japanese garden are great spots to relax one’s mind after busy business day or shopping spree. Frequent guests are welcome to join to Best Western’s complimentary Gold Crown Club and collect the points or miles for their stay at Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow.
“Business and holiday travellers are now to enjoy a new gem while visiting Krakow. Best Western Premier hotels are a special group within Best Western with unique style and high-level services. Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow is an elegant addition to this family”, comments Saija Kekkonen, CEO of Best Western Hotels Finland, Baltic States and Poland.
Robert Romanowski, General Manager of Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow comments: “We are very proud to open the first Best Western Premier hotel in Poland. We are strongly convinced that our brand new property’s standards will exceed every guests needs and also that the hotel will be one of the most recognizable hotels in Krakow. We look forward to welcoming our guests.”
About Krakow
Krakow has enchanting history and beautiful architecture to explore and enjoy. The Old Town and Kazimierz with galleries, cafes, pubs and restaurants form a vivid central point. With extra day or two to spend, the Royal Castle at Wawel, the gothic St Mary's Basilica, the historical trade pavilions of the Cloth Hall, the former separate Jewish city of Kazimierz, and even the Nowa Huta district, with its socialist-realist, industrial architecture, are all places worth a visit. For more information about Krakow, please visit http://www.krakow.pl//en/.
About Best Western
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000 independently owned and operated member hotels in 80 countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000 worldwide guests each night. Best Western Finland, Baltic States and Poland is affiliate office of Best Western International with 27 hotels of which 14 are situated in Finland, 1 in Estonia, 3 in Latvia, 3 in Lithuania and now with new Best Western Premier Hotel Krakow 5 hotels in Poland. For more information, please visit www.bestwestern.com or www.bestwestern.fi.
About Best Western Premier®
In 2003, the Best Western introduced the first Best Western Premier® Hotels. Providing international travellers with a higher level of service and amenities, Premier properties must offer additional 27 or more services/amenities above and beyond Best Western worldwide minimum standards. The properties are also subject to unique design requirements and a special quality review. More than 80 Best Western Premier hotels are currently located throughout Europe and Asia. More information about Best Western Premier®, please go to http://www.bestwestern.com/premier/index.asp.
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BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL OPENS FIRST HOTEL IN COLOMBIA
MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA (Sept. 16, 2008) –Today, The World’s Largest Hotel Chain®, announced its first property in Colombia: the Best Western Cyan Suites, located in the Poblado area of Medellin.
“Best Western is known all over the world as a brand that offers friendly service and terrific value. We are excited to bring Best Western to Colombia,” said David Kong, Best Western president and CEO. “South America – especially major cities like Medellin and Bogotá – are important markets for the brand, and we look forward to attracting more properties and customers to Best Western.”
The hotel chain has 35 hotels currently open on the continent, with 50 planned by 2009. The brand’s strategy has been to develop hotels and brand recognition in major markets and popular travel destinations, especially Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Colombia.
The Best Western Cyan Suites is owned and operated by Colombia-based By Collection. Owners Emmanuel Jean and Jorge Londoño are respected leaders in the local community.
The newly-built Best Western Cyan Suites features 34 guestroom suites with 32-inch plasma TVs and free high-speed wireless internet access. Guests also are treated to a free full breakfast.
Guests of the Best Western Cyan Suites can also earn points through Gold Crown Club International, Best Western’s free rewards program. The program is one of the industry’s most generous programs and one of few that is truly international, allowing customers to earn and redeem points at Best Western’s 4,000 hotels in 80 countries. To learn more, visit www.bestwesternrewards.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
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TWO-TIME DAYTONA 500 WINNER MICHAEL WALTRIP TO ‘SWAP’ JOBS WITH WEST TEXAS BUSINESSMAN FOR ONE DAY
Best Western’s “Fan Swap” eBay Auction Generates More Than $4,000 to Benefit World Vision
PHOENIX (OCTOBER 2, 2008) – As an oil man, restaurateur, collector and restorer of classic cars and owner of both a race track and an aircraft maintenance business, Murray Erickson of Odessa, Texas, is a true entrepreneur. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™ driver Michael Waltrip will soon learn just how busy Erickson is when both “swap” jobs for a day.
Erickson outbid others on eBay to earn this one-of-a-kind opportunity to oversee Michael Waltrip Racing for a day with a top bid of $4,193.16. Organized by Best Western International, The Official Hotel of NASCAR®, and Michael Waltrip Racing, the “Fan Swap” charity auction benefited World Vision, Best Western’s official humanitarian partner dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities to tackle the causes of poverty, domestically and internationally.
Waltrip, a two-time Daytona 500 winner, will spend one day working as Erickson would in Odessa – first mentoring aspiring drivers and working Erickson’s race track to ensure it’s in good shape. Later, Waltrip will visit Erickson’s classic car restoration garage to tune-up vintage cars and wash several for display. In return, Erickson will travel to Cornelius, North Carolina, to take part in the inner workings of an official NASCAR team, Michael Waltrip Racing, at the team’s headquarters at Raceworld USA.
“As a racing and car enthusiast, I couldn’t be more excited to work with and learn from a legend in the sport, and know that I’ve contributed to an organization that benefits so many children worldwide,” said Erickson. “While Odessa is best known for its Friday night high school football, our community is excited to host Michael and show our excitement for NASCAR.”
As part of his experience in the Charlotte area, Erickson will receive a ride-along at 180 mph with NASCAR teammate David Reutimann at the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Erickson will also attend a live taping of Michael Waltrip’s Sirius XM Radio show, enjoy lunch with Waltrip and Reutimann and return home with official Michael Waltrip racing gear.
“I thought that managing a NASCAR team and racing for 500 miles on weekends was a hectic career, but Murray may have me beat,” said Waltrip. “After restoring and washing cars, and working at the race track, I’ll enjoy a good night’s sleep.”
For more information on Best Western Racing or to sign up for the Speed Rewards loyalty program, please visit www.bestwesternracing.com.
ABOUT BEST WESTERN INTERNATIONAL
Best Western International is THE WORLD'S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated member hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Best Western's diverse property portfolio, its greatest strength, stems from a business model designed to give owners maximum flexibility to address market-specific needs. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a five-year mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. Since 2004, Best Western has served as the Official Hotel of NASCAR®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.
*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.
ABOUT WORLD VISION
World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. We serve all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. For more information, please visit www.worldvision.org/press.
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