Marriott Hotels has introduced what it claims is a milestone in hotel online booking by allowing users to search for accommodation based on generic keywords as well as location. The new search tool will be rolled out on the dot-com and UK region websites for the chain and produces hotel results relating to a range…
Marriott enhances search tools
Marriott Hotels has introduced what it claims is a milestone in hotel online booking by allowing users to search for accommodation based on generic keywords as well as location.
The new search tool will be rolled out on the dot-com and UK region websites for the chain and produces hotel results relating to a range of keywords such as activities, airports, events, shopping and nightlife.
Alongside a new transparent pricing policy, to give full room rates before booking, Marriott has launched a destination planner service to suggest ideas about local events, such as concerts and exhibitions, plus information about restaurants and entertainment.
Senior vice president for e-commerce at Marriott International, Shafiq Kahn, said: “The new keyword search function on Marriott.com is the most comprehensive in the industry.
“Most hotel websites were originally built for business travellers who know where they need to be and when they need to be there; but leisure travellers have more flexibility. They can choose based on their interests and schedule.”
The move by Marriott comes amid a general ramping up of hotel website services for the sector during 2006 as more consumers book direct.
A string of major hotel chains have introduced consumer-focussed tools in recent months such as podcasts on the Jumeirah website and user generated reviews for Moevenpick.
