Are Best Western Hotels Good? A Comprehensive Review
If you’re planning a trip and considering a stay at a Best Western hotel, you may be wondering whether they’re a good choice. With so many hotel options available, it can be challenging to decide which one to book.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Yes, Best Western hotels are generally considered good. But let’s take a closer look at what makes them a great option for travelers.
In this article, we’ll review the different aspects of Best Western hotels, including their history, locations, amenities, customer service, and overall value. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect when you book a stay at a Best Western hotel.
History of Best Western
Best Western is a hotel chain that has been operating for over 70 years. The company was founded in 1946 by a group of hoteliers from the western United States who wanted to create a referral system to help travelers find quality accommodations. Today, Best Western is one of the largest hotel chains in the world with over 4,500 hotels in more than 100 countries.
Why Best Western was founded
Best Western was founded with the goal of helping travelers find quality accommodations. At the time, there were very few hotel chains, and most hotels were independently owned and operated. This made it difficult for travelers to know what to expect when they arrived at a new destination. The founders of Best Western believed that by creating a referral system, they could help travelers find hotels that met their standards.
The evolution of Best Western over time
In the early years, Best Western operated as a non-profit organization. The company’s main focus was on providing travelers with referrals to quality hotels. Over time, Best Western began to offer more services to its members, including marketing and advertising support. In the 1960s, Best Western became a for-profit organization and began to expand globally.
Important milestones in the company’s history
- In 1954, Best Western began using its iconic logo, which features a crown and the words “Best Western”.
- In 1963, Best Western opened its first hotel outside of North America, in Sweden.
- In 1976, Best Western launched its Gold Crown Club loyalty program.
- In 2002, Best Western launched its BestRequests program, which allows guests to customize their hotel experience.
- In 2011, Best Western launched its Best Western Premier brand, which offers upscale accommodations.
Today, Best Western continues to innovate and evolve to meet the changing needs of travelers. The company has introduced new brands, such as the Vib and Glo brands, which offer modern and stylish accommodations. Best Western has also invested in technology to make the booking and check-in process more seamless for guests. With its long history and commitment to quality, Best Western is a trusted choice for travelers around the world.
Locations and Types of Best Western Hotels
The different types of Best Western hotels
Best Western Hotels & Resorts is the world’s largest hotel chain with over 4,700 hotels in over 100 countries. The chain offers several types of hotels to cater to different needs and preferences. The types of Best Western hotels include Best Western, Best Western Plus, Best Western Premier, Executive Residency, and BW Signature Collection.
Best Western is the chain’s standard hotel brand. It offers comfortable rooms and essential amenities, including complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking. Best Western Plus hotels have additional features like swimming pools, fitness centers, and larger rooms. Best Western Premier hotels are the brand’s luxury hotels, offering upscale amenities, including on-site restaurants, spas, and high-end decor. Executive Residency hotels cater to travelers on extended stays, offering suites with full kitchens and laundry facilities. BW Signature Collection hotels are boutique hotels offering unique experiences with local flair.
Where Best Western hotels are located
Best Western hotels are located in various destinations worldwide, including major cities, popular tourist destinations, and remote locations. In the United States, Best Western has a strong presence in popular tourist destinations like Las Vegas, New York City, and Orlando. The chain also has hotels in remote locations like Alaska and Hawaii. Best Western hotels are also located in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America.
What to expect from Best Western hotels in different regions
The Best Western hotel experience varies depending on the region. In Europe, Best Western hotels are known for their charming and historic buildings, while in Asia, they offer modern amenities and excellent service. In South America, Best Western hotels are often located in prime locations, such as near the beach or famous landmarks. In Africa, Best Western hotels are known for their unique experiences like safaris and cultural tours.
It’s important to note that each Best Western hotel is independently owned and operated, meaning that the hotel experience can vary within the same brand. However, the chain ensures that each hotel meets specific standards of cleanliness, comfort, and service. So, whether you’re staying at a Best Western, Best Western Plus, or Best Western Premier, you can expect a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Amenities Offered at Best Western
When it comes to finding a comfortable and convenient place to stay while traveling, amenities play a significant role. Best Western hotels are known for their exceptional customer service and a wide range of amenities. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from a Best Western hotel.
The typical amenities found at Best Western hotels
Best Western hotels offer a range of amenities that cater to both business and leisure travelers. Some of the standard amenities you can expect to find at Best Western hotels include:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Complimentary breakfast
- Fitness center
- Swimming pool
- 24/7 front desk service
- Business center
- Laundry facilities
- Pet-friendly rooms
These amenities are designed to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you’ll find everything you need to feel right at home.
Unique amenities offered by Best Western hotels
Best Western hotels also offer some unique amenities that set them apart from other hotel chains. Some of these amenities include:
- Best Western Rewards program
- In-room Keurig coffee makers
- On-site restaurants and bars
- Free parking
- Electric car charging stations
The Best Western Rewards program is a loyalty program that allows members to earn points for their stays, which can be redeemed for free nights, gift cards, and more. The in-room Keurig coffee makers are a nice touch that allows guests to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee in the comfort of their own room. The on-site restaurants and bars offer a convenient dining option, while the free parking and electric car charging stations make it easy for guests with vehicles.
How Best Western hotels compare to other hotel chains in terms of amenities
When it comes to comparing Best Western hotels to other hotel chains in terms of amenities, Best Western comes out on top. According to a survey conducted by J.D. Power, Best Western hotels received the highest customer satisfaction score for the midscale hotel segment in 2021. This is due in part to the exceptional amenities offered by Best Western hotels.
Hotel Chain | Standard Amenities | Unique Amenities |
---|---|---|
Best Western | Free Wi-Fi, Complimentary breakfast, Fitness center, Swimming pool, 24/7 front desk service, Business center, Laundry facilities, Pet-friendly rooms | Best Western Rewards program, In-room Keurig coffee makers, On-site restaurants and bars, Free parking, Electric car charging stations |
Holiday Inn Express | Free Wi-Fi, Complimentary breakfast, Fitness center, Swimming pool, 24/7 front desk service, Business center, Laundry facilities | Pillow menu, On-site convenience store, Free shuttle service |
Hampton Inn | Free Wi-Fi, Complimentary breakfast, Fitness center, Swimming pool, 24/7 front desk service, Business center, Laundry facilities | On-site convenience store, Free shuttle service |
While other hotel chains offer similar amenities, Best Western stands out for its unique amenities and exceptional customer service. So if you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay, Best Western is a great choice.
Customer Service at Best Western
Best Western hotels are known for their exceptional customer service. The hotel chain prioritizes customer service by ensuring that all staff members are trained to provide friendly and efficient service to guests.
How Best Western hotels prioritize customer service
Best Western hotels prioritize customer service by ensuring that their staff members are trained to provide personalized service to guests. The hotel chain has a “service culture” that is focused on making guests feel welcome and ensuring that they have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Best Western hotels also have a customer service hotline that guests can call if they have any issues or concerns during their stay. The hotline is available 24/7 and is staffed by trained customer service representatives who are able to assist guests with any problems they may encounter.
Examples of exceptional customer service experiences at Best Western hotels
Best Western hotels have a reputation for providing exceptional customer service. One example of this is the story of a guest who accidentally left their wedding ring in their hotel room. The guest called the hotel after realizing their mistake and the staff went above and beyond to locate the ring and ship it back to the guest.
Another example of exceptional customer service at Best Western hotels is when a guest’s car broke down in the hotel parking lot. The staff not only helped the guest find a mechanic to fix the car, but also offered to shuttle the guest to nearby attractions while the car was being repaired.
Customer service ratings and reviews for Best Western hotels
Best Western hotels consistently receive high ratings for customer service. According to a survey conducted by J.D. Power in 2020, Best Western hotels ranked the highest in customer satisfaction among midscale hotel chains.
Additionally, online reviews for Best Western hotels often mention the exceptional customer service provided by staff members. Reviews frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the personalized service provided to guests.
Value for Money at Best Western
Best Western hotels are known for offering comfortable accommodations and exceptional service, but how do they compare when it comes to pricing? In this section, we will take a closer look at the value for money offered at Best Western hotels.
How Best Western hotels compare in terms of pricing
Best Western hotels are generally priced in the mid-range, making them a great option for travelers who want comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. Of course, pricing can vary depending on the location and time of year. For example, a Best Western hotel in a popular tourist destination during peak season may be more expensive than one in a less popular area during the off-season.
It’s also worth noting that Best Western offers a rewards program called Best Western Rewards, which can help you save money on future stays. Members earn points for each stay and can redeem them for free nights or other rewards.
What you get for your money when staying at a Best Western hotel
When you stay at a Best Western hotel, you can expect clean, comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Many Best Western hotels offer free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and access to fitness centers and pools. Some locations also have on-site restaurants, bars, and conference facilities.
One thing that sets Best Western apart from other mid-range hotel brands is their commitment to sustainability. Many Best Western hotels have implemented eco-friendly practices such as energy-efficient lighting and water-saving measures.
Tips for getting the best value when booking a Best Western hotel
- Join Best Western Rewards to earn points and save money on future stays.
- Check for special offers and promotions on the Best Western website.
- Book directly through the Best Western website or by calling the hotel to ensure you get the best rate.
- Consider staying at a Best Western hotel during the off-season or on weekdays when rates may be lower.
- Look for Best Western hotels that offer additional amenities such as free breakfast or access to a fitness center.
Overall, Best Western hotels provide good value for money and are a great option for travelers who want comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re considering a stay at a Best Western hotel, you can feel confident that you’ll have a positive experience. With a rich history, a wide range of locations and hotel types, excellent amenities, and a strong focus on customer service, Best Western is a reliable choice for travelers of all kinds.
Of course, like any hotel chain, there will be some variation in terms of quality and experience from one location to another. However, overall, Best Western hotels are a safe bet for those seeking comfortable, clean, and affordable accommodations.
So, go ahead and book your stay at a Best Western hotel with confidence, knowing that you’re making a solid choice for your next trip.