This post updated February 26, 2015.
David Wilkening of Travel Mole recently reported on a survey that proves what many have assumed for some time: free hotel Wi-Fi is at the top of the list when guests choose where they will stay.
Thirty-eight percent of travelers reported that free Wi-Fi played a part in their decision as a “must” to stay at a specific hotel, while 35 percent reported it is the simple amenity they want to see more in hotels. Another 31 percent say they wish it would become a standard in all hotels. “Given the explosion of mobile use in the past few years, it is no surprise that travelers are requiring free and fast Wi-Fi,” said Taylor L. Cole, APR, director of public relations and social media for Hotels.com. He added: “Many guests never travel without their tablets, smartphones and laptops. It’s as intuitive as packing a toothbrush.”
Read the full article from Travel Mole here.
I have been working on my own “free Wi-Fi list”–remember, this is a continual work in progress that I hope to update frequently. Any additions or corrections would be appreciated!
Cruises:
American Queen Steamboat: complimentary free ship-wide Wi-Fi
General:
AMResorts (Dreams, Secrets, Now Resorts) offer free Internet access to guests booked in a “Preferred Club” category. Free public Wi-Fi in the lobby is available at some resorts. With the Unlimited Connectivity App on your smart phone or mobile device, guests get free Wi-Fi and free calling while at their resort as part of Unlimited-Luxury® – no additional cost, no VIP upgrade and no Preferred Club room necessary. Download each brand’s mobile app on your smartphone, tablet or mobile device and experience everything Unlimited Connectivity has to offer, without international roaming charges, fees, or service upgrades. This app allows guests to:
- Stay in Touch: create user profiles to keep in touch with other guests at resort
- Stay Social: update your status on Facebook and Twitter
- Room Phone To Go: register your room number to make and receive calls – just like having a portable room phone!
- Vacay Your Way: explore the local attractions, get deals and book excursions
Palace Resorts: free Wi-Fi throughout resort
Riu Resorts: free Wi-Fi in lobby
Hyatt Resorts: effective February 14, 2015, Hyatt has officially begun offering free Wi-Fi in all of its hotels and resorts worldwide
Cancun/Riviera Maya:
Blue Diamond Riviera Maya; free Wi-Fi
Ocean Maya Royale by H10: free Wi-Fi in lobby
Paradisus La Esmeralda: free Wi-Fi throughout all areas of the resort
Paradisus La Perla (adults only): free Wi-Fi throughout all areas of the resort
Jamaica:
Couples Resorts: free Wi-Fi access is available in rooms and most of the public areas of the resort, including the internet cafe, and the lobby. Internet café is open 24 hours a day and has multiple desktop computers, internet access and printers.
Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort, Montego Bay: free Wi-Fi in lobby
Grand Lido Negril Resort & Spa: free Wi-Fi throughout all areas of the resort
Sandals Resorts: Beginning March 15, 2013, free Wi-Fi and complimentary long-distance phone calls for Concierge Rooms and Butler Rooms. For other room categories: most public areas, and all of the rooms, have Wi-Fi coverage for your convenience. Instant access to the Internet may be obtained by simply connecting to the network and charging the service to your room.
The new Riu Palace in Montego Bay will offer free in room Wi-Fi.
Punta Cana:
Paradisus Punta Cana: free Wi-Fi throughout all areas of the resort
Paradisus Palma Real: free Wi-Fi throughout all areas of the resort
Riu Palace Bavaro, Punta Cana: free Wi-Fi in villa category
USA–Las Vegas:
Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, and Mirage, MGM Grand, Monte Carlo, New York-New York, Luxor, Excalibur
USA–Miscellaneous
Super 8: free in-room high speed Internet access
