Best Western Plus
Introduction: More Than Just a Hotel
When planning a trip, whether for business or leisure, finding the right accommodation is crucial. It’s not just about having a place to sleep; it’s about finding a space that caters to your needs, offers comfort, and enhances your overall travel experience. Among the many hotel chains available, Best Western Plus stands out as a reliable option, consistently delivering a blend of quality, value, and rewarding experiences. But what exactly sets Best Western Plus apart from its competitors? This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about this popular hotel chain, from its history and amenities to its loyalty program and what makes it a solid choice for your next trip.
Best Western Hotels & Resorts is a globally recognized brand, and Best Western Plus represents a specific tier within that brand, positioned above the standard Best Western hotels. This “Plus” designation indicates a higher level of amenities, service, and overall quality. Think of it as a step up in comfort and convenience without necessarily breaking the bank. This makes it an attractive option for travelers seeking a balance between affordability and a more premium experience. Throughout this article, we will explore the key features that define Best Western Plus and demonstrate why it might be the perfect fit for your travel needs.
A Brief History of Best Western: From Motel Chain to Global Leader
To truly appreciate Best Western Plus, it’s helpful to understand the origins and evolution of its parent company, Best Western Hotels & Resorts. The story begins in 1946, in post-war America, when a visionary hotelier named M.K. Guertin recognized the potential of collaborating with other independent motel owners. At the time, motels were emerging as a popular form of accommodation for travelers on the burgeoning American highway system. Guertin’s idea was simple but revolutionary: create a referral system where motel owners could recommend each other’s properties, thereby increasing occupancy rates and providing travelers with a reliable network of lodging options.
This initial concept led to the formation of Best Western Motels, an informal association of independently owned and operated motels. Unlike traditional hotel chains, Best Western didn’t own or manage the properties directly. Instead, it functioned as a membership organization, providing marketing, branding, and reservation services to its members. This unique business model allowed independent motel owners to retain their autonomy while benefiting from the collective power of a larger network. As the popularity of automobile travel continued to grow, Best Western expanded rapidly, becoming a household name across the United States.
Over the decades, Best Western adapted to changing travel trends and evolving customer expectations. The company expanded internationally, establishing a presence in key markets around the globe. Recognizing the need to offer a wider range of accommodation options, Best Western introduced different tiers of hotels, each catering to specific needs and budgets. This led to the creation of brands like Best Western Plus, Best Western Premier, and others, allowing travelers to choose the level of service and amenities that best suited their preferences. Today, Best Western Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality leader, with a diverse portfolio of brands and a commitment to providing exceptional experiences to its guests.
Defining Best Western Plus: What Makes it Different?
So, what exactly differentiates Best Western Plus from a standard Best Western hotel? The “Plus” designation signifies a commitment to enhanced amenities, superior service, and a more comfortable overall experience. While specific offerings may vary slightly depending on the location and property, there are several key characteristics that generally define Best Western Plus hotels.
Enhanced Amenities: Best Western Plus hotels typically offer a wider range of amenities compared to standard Best Western properties. This might include features like a complimentary hot breakfast, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a business center, and upgraded in-room amenities such as premium bedding, larger televisions, and more spacious work areas. The goal is to provide guests with everything they need to feel comfortable and productive during their stay.
Superior Service: Customer service is a top priority at Best Western Plus hotels. Staff members are generally trained to provide a higher level of attention and assistance to guests, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from check-in to check-out. This might include offering personalized recommendations for local attractions, providing prompt and efficient service for any requests or concerns, and going the extra mile to make guests feel welcome and valued.
Modern Design and Décor: Best Western Plus hotels often feature more modern and stylish design elements compared to standard Best Western properties. This might include updated lobbies, contemporary guest room furnishings, and a more visually appealing overall aesthetic. The goal is to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere that enhances the guest experience.
Consistent Quality Standards: Best Western Hotels & Resorts maintains strict quality standards for all of its properties, and Best Western Plus hotels are expected to meet even higher benchmarks. This includes regular inspections and audits to ensure that properties are well-maintained, clean, and consistently delivering a high-quality experience to guests. This commitment to quality provides travelers with peace of mind, knowing that they can expect a certain level of comfort and reliability when staying at a Best Western Plus hotel.
Value for Money: While Best Western Plus hotels offer a more premium experience compared to standard Best Western properties, they generally remain competitively priced. This makes them an attractive option for travelers who are looking for a balance between quality and affordability. By offering enhanced amenities and superior service at a reasonable price, Best Western Plus provides excellent value for money.
Amenities You Can Expect at a Best Western Plus
One of the main draws of Best Western Plus is the array of amenities designed to make your stay more comfortable and convenient. While specific offerings can vary from property to property, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
Complimentary Hot Breakfast: Start your day off right with a delicious and complimentary hot breakfast. This is a standard amenity at most Best Western Plus hotels and often includes a variety of options such as eggs, bacon, sausage, waffles, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and pastries. This can save you time and money in the morning, allowing you to focus on your travel plans.
Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel. Whether you need to check your email, browse the web, or stream your favorite shows, you can easily stay connected without incurring extra charges. This is especially important for business travelers who need to stay productive while on the road.
Fitness Center: Maintain your workout routine while traveling with access to a well-equipped fitness center. Most Best Western Plus hotels offer a fitness center with a variety of equipment such as treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and free weights. This allows you to stay active and healthy during your stay.
Swimming Pool: Relax and unwind with a refreshing dip in the swimming pool. Many Best Western Plus hotels feature indoor or outdoor swimming pools, providing a great way to cool off and enjoy some leisure time. This is particularly appealing for families traveling with children.
Business Center: Stay productive on the road with access to a business center. This typically includes computers, printers, and fax machines, allowing you to handle any necessary work tasks while away from the office. This is a valuable amenity for business travelers who need to stay connected and productive.
Comfortable Guest Rooms: Enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay in well-appointed guest rooms. Best Western Plus hotels typically feature comfortable beds, premium bedding, spacious work areas, large televisions, and other amenities designed to enhance your comfort. This includes items such as coffee makers, mini-fridges, and in-room safes.
Laundry Facilities: Keep your clothes clean and fresh with access to laundry facilities. Many Best Western Plus hotels offer guest laundry facilities, allowing you to wash and dry your clothes without having to leave the hotel. This is particularly useful for longer trips.
Free Parking: Most Best Western Plus hotels offer complimentary parking for guests. This can save you money on parking fees, especially in urban areas where parking can be expensive. This is a convenient perk for travelers who are driving.
24-Hour Front Desk: Enjoy peace of mind knowing that the front desk is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This ensures that you can always get assistance with any needs or concerns that you may have, no matter the time of day or night.
Finding a Best Western Plus Location: Global Reach
One of the advantages of choosing Best Western Plus is its widespread availability. With locations in numerous countries around the world, you’re likely to find a Best Western Plus hotel in your desired destination. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, domestically or internationally, Best Western Plus offers a convenient and reliable accommodation option.
To find a Best Western Plus location, you can use the official Best Western website or mobile app. These resources allow you to search for hotels by city, state, country, or specific address. You can also filter your search results by amenities, price, and other criteria to find the perfect hotel for your needs. Many online travel agencies (OTAs) also list Best Western Plus hotels, making it easy to compare prices and availability across different platforms.
When choosing a Best Western Plus location, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, transportation options, and the availability of specific amenities that are important to you. For example, if you’re traveling for business, you might want to choose a hotel that’s located near your meeting venue or that offers a business center and free Wi-Fi. If you’re traveling for leisure, you might want to choose a hotel that’s located near popular tourist attractions or that offers a swimming pool and other recreational facilities.
It’s also a good idea to read reviews from other travelers before booking a Best Western Plus hotel. Online review sites such as TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Yelp can provide valuable insights into the quality of the hotel, the service, and the overall guest experience. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of what to expect.
Best Western Rewards: Loyalty Pays Off
Best Western Rewards is the loyalty program offered by Best Western Hotels & Resorts, and it’s a great way to earn points and redeem them for free nights, gift cards, and other rewards. The program is free to join, and members can earn points for every eligible stay at Best Western hotels worldwide. The more you stay, the more points you earn, and the more rewards you can redeem.
There are several ways to earn Best Western Rewards points. The most common way is to simply stay at a Best Western hotel and provide your membership number at check-in. You’ll earn points based on the amount you spend on your room rate. You can also earn bonus points by participating in promotional offers or by using a Best Western Rewards credit card. Additionally, you can earn points by booking through the Best Western website or mobile app.
Once you’ve accumulated enough points, you can redeem them for a variety of rewards. The most popular reward is a free night at a Best Western hotel. The number of points required for a free night varies depending on the location and property. You can also redeem points for gift cards to popular retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Other redemption options include airline miles, car rentals, and charitable donations.
Best Western Rewards also offers elite status levels, which provide members with additional benefits such as bonus points, room upgrades, and priority check-in. The higher your elite status, the more benefits you’ll receive. Elite status is earned by staying a certain number of nights or earning a certain number of points within a calendar year. The tiers are Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Diamond Select. Each tier offers progressively better rewards.
Joining Best Western Rewards is a smart move for anyone who frequently stays at Best Western hotels. By earning points and redeeming them for rewards, you can save money on future travel and enjoy a more rewarding overall experience. The program is free to join, so there’s really no reason not to sign up.
Best Western Plus for Business Travelers
Best Western Plus hotels are often a popular choice for business travelers due to their convenient amenities, comfortable accommodations, and competitive pricing. Many Best Western Plus properties offer business-friendly amenities such as free Wi-Fi, business centers, and meeting rooms, making it easy for business travelers to stay connected and productive while on the road.
Free Wi-Fi is an essential amenity for business travelers, allowing them to check their email, attend virtual meetings, and access important documents. Best Western Plus hotels typically offer complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring that business travelers can stay connected wherever they are.
Business centers provide a convenient place for business travelers to handle any necessary work tasks. These centers typically include computers, printers, and fax machines, allowing business travelers to create documents, print reports, and send faxes without having to leave the hotel.
Meeting rooms are available at many Best Western Plus hotels, providing a professional space for business travelers to conduct meetings and presentations. These rooms are often equipped with audio-visual equipment and other amenities to facilitate successful meetings.
In addition to these business-specific amenities, Best Western Plus hotels also offer comfortable accommodations that can help business travelers relax and recharge after a long day of work. These accommodations typically include comfortable beds, spacious work areas, and large televisions.
The Best Western Rewards program is also beneficial for business travelers. By earning points for every eligible stay, business travelers can redeem them for free nights, gift cards, and other rewards, helping them save money on future travel expenses. The elite status tiers also provide additional benefits such as bonus points and room upgrades.
Best Western Plus for Leisure Travelers
Best Western Plus hotels are also a great choice for leisure travelers seeking comfortable and affordable accommodations. With locations near popular tourist attractions and a variety of amenities designed for relaxation and recreation, Best Western Plus hotels offer a convenient and enjoyable experience for leisure travelers of all ages.
Many Best Western Plus hotels are located near popular tourist attractions, making it easy for leisure travelers to explore their destination. Whether you’re visiting a historic landmark, a theme park, or a natural wonder, you’re likely to find a Best Western Plus hotel nearby.
A variety of amenities are available at Best Western Plus hotels to help leisure travelers relax and unwind. These amenities typically include swimming pools, fitness centers, and complimentary breakfast. Swimming pools provide a refreshing way to cool off and enjoy some leisure time, while fitness centers allow travelers to maintain their workout routine while on vacation.
Complimentary breakfast is a convenient perk for leisure travelers, saving them time and money in the morning. Best Western Plus hotels typically offer a variety of breakfast options, including hot and cold items, to suit every taste.
Comfortable accommodations are essential for a relaxing vacation, and Best Western Plus hotels deliver on this front. These accommodations typically include comfortable beds, spacious rooms, and modern amenities.
Families traveling with children will appreciate the family-friendly amenities offered at many Best Western Plus hotels. These amenities might include cribs, high chairs, and children’s menus. Swimming pools are also a popular amenity for families with children.
The Best Western Rewards program is also beneficial for leisure travelers. By earning points for every eligible stay, leisure travelers can redeem them for free nights, gift cards, and other rewards, helping them save money on future vacations.
Comparing Best Western Plus to Other Hotel Chains
When choosing a hotel, it’s important to consider your options and compare different hotel chains to find the one that best meets your needs and budget. Best Western Plus offers a unique blend of quality, value, and amenities that sets it apart from other hotel chains in the mid-scale segment.
Compared to budget hotel chains, Best Western Plus offers a more premium experience with enhanced amenities and superior service. While budget hotels may be cheaper, they often lack the amenities and comforts that many travelers desire. Best Western Plus strikes a balance between affordability and quality, providing a comfortable and enjoyable stay without breaking the bank.
Compared to upscale hotel chains, Best Western Plus offers a more affordable option without sacrificing too much in terms of quality and amenities. Upscale hotels typically offer luxurious accommodations and a wide range of services, but they also come with a higher price tag. Best Western Plus provides a comfortable and convenient alternative for travelers who are looking for a good value.
When comparing Best Western Plus to other mid-scale hotel chains, it’s important to consider the specific amenities and services that are important to you. Some mid-scale chains may offer slightly different amenities or cater to a different type of traveler. However, Best Western Plus consistently receives positive reviews for its cleanliness, comfort, and value.
Ultimately, the best hotel chain for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, Best Western Plus is a solid choice for travelers who are looking for a comfortable, convenient, and affordable option with a consistent level of quality.
Tips for Booking Your Best Western Plus Stay
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable Best Western Plus experience, here are some helpful tips for booking your stay:
Book in Advance: Booking your hotel in advance is always a good idea, especially during peak travel seasons. This will help you secure the best rates and ensure that you get the room type you prefer.
Check for Deals and Discounts: Before booking, check the Best Western website and other travel websites for deals and discounts. You may be able to save money by booking a package deal or by taking advantage of a promotional offer.
Read Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers before booking your stay. This will give you valuable insights into the quality of the hotel, the service, and the overall guest experience.
Consider Location: Choose a location that is convenient for your travel plans. If you’re visiting a specific attraction, choose a hotel that is located nearby. If you’re traveling for business, choose a hotel that is located near your meeting venue.
Check Amenities: Make sure the hotel offers the amenities that are important to you. If you need free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, or a swimming pool, check that the hotel provides these amenities.
Join Best Western Rewards: Join the Best Western Rewards program to earn points for your stay. You can redeem these points for free nights, gift cards, and other rewards.
Contact the Hotel Directly: If you have any special requests or concerns, contact the hotel directly. The staff will be happy to assist you.
Common Questions About Best Western Plus
Here are some frequently asked questions about Best Western Plus hotels:
What is the difference between Best Western and Best Western Plus? Best Western Plus is a tier above standard Best Western hotels, offering enhanced amenities, superior service, and a more modern design.
Does Best Western Plus offer free breakfast? Most Best Western Plus hotels offer a complimentary hot breakfast.
Does Best Western Plus have free Wi-Fi? Yes, Best Western Plus hotels typically offer complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the property.
Does Best Western Plus have a loyalty program? Yes, Best Western Rewards is the loyalty program offered by Best Western Hotels & Resorts.
Are Best Western Plus hotels pet-friendly? Some Best Western Plus hotels are pet-friendly, but it’s best to check with the specific property before booking.
Does Best Western Plus have a swimming pool? Many Best Western Plus hotels have indoor or outdoor swimming pools.
Does Best Western Plus have a fitness center? Yes, most Best Western Plus hotels offer a fitness center with a variety of equipment.
Conclusion: Why Choose Best Western Plus?
In conclusion, Best Western Plus offers a compelling combination of comfort, value, and convenience, making it a solid choice for a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, domestically or internationally, Best Western Plus provides a reliable and enjoyable accommodation experience. With enhanced amenities, superior service, and a commitment to quality, Best Western Plus goes above and beyond to meet the needs of its guests.
The widespread availability of Best Western Plus hotels around the world makes it easy to find a convenient location for your trip. The Best Western Rewards program allows you to earn points for every eligible stay and redeem them for free nights, gift cards, and other rewards. The business-friendly amenities and comfortable accommodations make Best Western Plus a popular choice for business travelers, while the leisure-focused amenities and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great option for leisure travelers as well.
When comparing Best Western Plus to other hotel chains, it stands out as a strong contender in the mid-scale segment. It offers a more premium experience than budget hotels without sacrificing too much in terms of affordability. It provides a comfortable and convenient alternative to upscale hotels for travelers who are looking for a good value. By choosing Best Western Plus, you can enjoy a rewarding and memorable travel experience without breaking the bank. So, the next time you’re planning a trip, consider Best Western Plus for your accommodation needs. You won’t be disappointed.