By Yashwardhan Shah, Business correspondent, Ahmedabad, 5 November 2014

The Taj Group today announced that starting November 15 it will introduce complimentary Wi-Fi connectivity for residential guests across its 125 hotels around the globe. With this the guests at any of the Taj Group of hotels – The Taj, Vivanta by Taj, Gateway Hotels and Ginger will now be able to enjoy free Wi-Fi connectivity for the duration of their stay on up to 3 devices as soon as they check-in to the hotel.

Complimentary Wi-Fi access which will be available for all in-house guests will be ideal for checking e-mails, social-networking and general web browsing at an efficient speed. Guests who require higher bandwidths will need to upgrade to the Premium tier and also connect additional devices at specially designed tariffs.

Commenting on the announcement, Ms. Rakhee Lalvani, Director – Public Relations, Taj Group said “Industry as well as our own research has shown the increasing importance of ‘staying connected’; Travellers world over have ranked free Wi-Fi as one of the most essential and valuable hotel amenities. It is our constant endeavour to raise the standard of personalized service for business and leisure travellers and believe that with this value added service of free Wi-Fi, our guests will enjoy the enhanced experience during their stay at the Taj.”

free wi-FI TRUMPS over comfy beds

According to global research undertaken by SmartBrief, 85 percent travellers wanted free Wi-Fi in hotels and 38 percent stated that Wi-Fi was a key factor while selecting a hotel. Interestingly, 45 percent guests travel with two devices whereas 40 percent travel with three or more. Another study by global hotel consultancy – HVS reveals that the new-age traveller needs to feel ‘at home’ and ‘stay connected’. Furthermore, the millennial generation is increasingly interested in instant storytelling of memorable experiences. Therefore, in order to keep pace with this rapidly changing lifestyle, free Internet access has become essential.