In the continuing implementation of its e-business strategy, wireless access is now available at all Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
. Starting July 1, 2002, guests and visitors to Fairmont properties will be able to access the Internet from their laptops from any property in the company`s portfolio of 38 hotels in six countries.

Wireless connectivity will be available in public spaces of the hotels, allowing guests, conference delegates and visitors to the hotel to conveniently access the Internet without worrying about connections. ``For customers who are ready for wireless, we`re deploying it out in our public spaces,`` says Tim Aubrey, vice president, Technology. ``Wireless is ideal for public spaces like lobbies because it enables the visitor to move freely around the space without having to drag an Ethernet cable. It complements the High-speed Ethernet-based Internet access in guest and meeting space that we currently offer our guests.``

To provide wireless network access for visitors in guest rooms and lobbies, Fairmont chose the Cisco Aironet® 350 Series Access Points, part of the Cisco Mobile Office solution, due to its superior security, the fact that it is Wi-Fi compliant, and the advantages of deploying an end-to-end Cisco solution. Currently, Fairmont has an end-to-end Cisco network infrastructure in place, allowing the company to extend high-speed connectivity across its entire resort and city center portfolio in both guestrooms and meeting space.

Service is offered for $9.95 local currency for a 24-hour time period, and can be paid via a credit card interface in most properties.

Gold and Platinum members of Fairmont President`s Club, the hotel company`s frequent guest program, will have complimentary access to wireless, as well as in-room high-speed Internet access. In addition, access to Fairmont hosted sites, such as www.fairmont.com
and the Virtual Concierge and www.theFairmont.net
are complimentary to all users.

The hotels` secure, reliable Cisco network infrastructure gives guests the same business-class network access as they enjoy at the office, whether they connect though the guest room or via a wireless connection. And FairmontÀs company-wide Cisco network infrastructure provides a vehicle that enables Fairmont to communicate with guests via new technologies, delivering on their commitment to enhance guest`s experience by fulfilling their business and personal needs through user-friendly, high-speed internet connectivity in a world-class environment.

Related stories on ITN:

(12/12/2001) Fairmont Hotels Launch E-Business Strategy.

(04/12/2001) Fairmont Expands Deployment of Guest-Tek`s Internet Access Software

(13/11/2001) Cisco To Provide High Speed Connectivity for Fairmont Hotels.

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