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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sundial Boutique Hotel introduces new web service to enhance guest experience

Guestfolio connects hotel staff with guests before they even enter the lobby

 

Whistler, BC (July 2008) — The Sundial Boutique Hotel, Whistler’s premier boutique hotel known for its outstanding service, today announces it will enhance its concierge and marketing efforts by introducing Guestfolio, an innovative new web service that allows the hotel to communicate with guests prior to their arrival through a personalized web page and customized email communications.

“We are excited to offer this unique service to our guests. It is a natural extension of our hotel’s renowned customer service program,” says Camille Keep, general manager at the Sundial Boutique Hotel. “Guestfolio greets and informs our guests personally after they book their stay and guides them through everything they need to know about Whistler and how to get here—before they even arrive at the front door. No other web service offers that.”

After a booking is made, guests receive a personalized email with a short survey to determine their personal needs and interests. Then, guests are directed to a customized web page that provides information specific to their visit. For example, the web page for those traveling with children will provide details about family-friendly restaurants, parks, playgrounds and children’s activities.

“The inbound guest is anxious for their vacation and wants to be connected to what’s happening. They want to know the weather history, what events are on during their stay, where they can dine and even some tips on what to wear and local customs,” says Duane Hepditch, president of Guestfolio. “Each party’s web page is updated regularly with timely, season-specific information and photos as their arrival date nears.”

Hepditch points out the importance of elevating service standards in the travel industry today. “Although guest surveys continually provide feedback that customer service is considered one of the paramount assets Whistler offers guests, today’s economic climate puts increased pressure on hotels and resort destinations to work harder to service guests with the hope that they will become repeat visitors.”

The Whistler Chamber of Commerce last year announced an aggressive campaign to increase the ‘Whistler Spirit’ by offering workshops and incentives to Whistler employees in order to provide resort guests with engaging and friendly service. “As a world-class destination, Whistler must ensure that a premium level of guest experience is offered in everything that we do,” says Chamber president Louise Lundy.

Guestfolio will also be offered to guests of the Carleton Lodge, sister property to the Sundial Boutique Hotel. The Carleton Lodge, which features five stories of unique and spacious condominium-style suites, is located at the foot of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains adjacent to the Sundial Boutique Hotel.

About the Sundial Boutique Hotel
The Sundial Boutique Hotel combines luxury, location and value to create Whistler Village’s best kept secret in accommodation. The cozy and modern hotel features 49 spacious and generously appointed one and two bedroom suites outfitted with gourmet kitchens and deluxe bathrooms. The hotel features eight private hot tub suites, an in-house spa and Whistler’s only roof top hot tub. Opened in December 2003, the Sundial was the first boutique hotel to open in Whistler and remains the only hotel owned and operated by a Whistler local. With true ski-in/ski-out access, the Sundial is ideal for friends, families or a romantic getaway. For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.sundialhotel com or call 1-800-661-2321.

About Guestfolio
Guestfolio is a revolutionary web service that allows a hotel to communicate with guests prior to their arrival by delivering relevant information through an engaging web portal and timely emails. With Guestfolio a guest can view a custom web page rich with hotel and travel information as well as locals tips on what to do and see. Guestfolio sends emails to guests automatically before and after their stay encouraging them to visit again. More information can be found at www.guestfolio.com or contact Duane Hepditch at 1-604-932-2510.

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For more information, please contact:

Kirstin Hodge, Candlestick Communications Inc.
Media Relations for the Sundial Boutique Hotel
Phone: 604-992-6979
Email: khodge@candlestick.ca

or

Duane Hepditch, President
Guestfolio Communications Inc.
Phone: 604-932-2510