A non-smoking hotel environment and environmental responsibility factored highly in the 2007 J.D. Power and Associates North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study released last week. The study is based on responses culled from 47,634 guests who stayed in a hotel between May 2006 and June 2007. Top Hotels In Guest Satisfaction
The study found that although nearly three-fourths of hotel guests willingly participate in programs that promote green initiatives, many guests remain clueless as to whether these types of programs are offered at the hotel property at which they stay. Environmental responsability has become a top trend in the hotel industry, with eco-friendly brands such as Barry Sternlicht's "1".
The study also finds that 82 percent of guests prefer a smoke-free hotel environment, perhaps a reason why Marriott, which banned smoking in all of its North American lodging brands last September, rated highly.
The study says that a high level of guest satisfaction is directly correlated to satisfaction with staff service. Problems with staff attitude and service are among the most common complaints.
As for cuisine, complimentary breakfast is the must-have amenity, regardless of age group. —David Eisen