Last year, the United Nations declared the internet a right that we are all entitled to as it is “an indispensable tool for realising a range of human rights, combating inequality, and accelerating development and human progress.” For the business traveller, having access to the cyperspace at all time is no longer a luxury – it's a necessity. Unfortunately, the level of instrastructure varies from one country to another, and so does the choice of service providers. That makes it difficult for hotel chains with properties around the globe to offer free wifi across the board. Thankfully, there are some that have jumped through hurdles to offer guests this basic right unconditionally:
Aloft
Starwood’s Aloft brand positions itself as the more affordable version of W Hotels, offering the same trendy atmosphere targeting the growing number of tech-savvy Generation Y travellers. To cater for its target demographic, the hotel brand offers free wifi across all its properties.
In the room: It varies between properties but generally only one gadget can log on at a time.
In public areas? Yes
Andaz 
Hyatt’s answer to the boutique hotel trend, this brand targets the modern day, hyperconnected traveller to whom wifi internet access is as essential as water. The Hyatt group was, in fact, the first to introduce free wifi for loyalty programme members and has now extended the service to all guests at Andaz properties.
In the room: Unlimited access from multiple gadgets; guests will simply be guided to the internet provider’s website to read and agree to terms and conditions.
In public areas? Yes. Even guests who are just dining at the hotel can log on.
Holiday Inn Express
Though this offshoot of the Holiday Inn brand positions itself in the limited services sector, it does offer free wifi, reflecting yet again a shift in mentality from seeing internet as a luxury to considering it a necessity. Wifi is available in all guest rooms.
In the room: One gadget at a time
In public areas? Only some participating hotels offer wifi in public spaces
Shangri-La
Back in 2009, Shangri-La was one of the first luxury hotel brands to offer free wifi internet access for all guests without any conditions. The service is also free at its Traders and Kerry branded properties.
In the room: One gadget at a time
In public areas? Yes
Yotel
The global capsule hotel brand focuses on providing an affordable, hassle-free hotel experience by combining limited services and smart technology. In fact, the brand’s first city hotel in New York consists of a smart “Yobot” (a specially designed robot) that helps with luggage storage during check-in and check-out. Free wifi internet access is an integral part of the brand’s offerings.
In the room: There is no limit on the number of gadgets that can be used at the same time.
In public areas? Yes
This list is not exhaustive and we welcome additions in the comments box below.
Alisha Haridasani
