Readers Speak: Helpful Housing Hints

Before attending a tradeshow in a new city, attendees increasingly go to the housing registration page of the event's Web site for answers to their questions.

Assistant Editor Stephanie Corbin asked a few housing registration providers what other information, besides details about the hotel room they've booked, would be helpful for attendees to have on the housing section of a show's Web site.

“We must provide features and benefits to make the booking experience as enjoyable and efficient as possible ... (such as) location and distance of each hotel relative to the convention center or meeting site, ... shuttle bus route information, (and) interactive maps of the participating hotels and the meeting site.”

Tim P. Whorton, General manager, Ambassadors

“Some people are interested in distance from the airport (to the meeting center) and if there is any airport transportation service available, either through the hotel or through transportation providers at the airport, with relative costs.”

Gail Knowles, General manager, RHQ Housing Services

“When attendees are exploring housing options, it's a perfect opportunity to provide additional tools. ... Negotiated flight, car and rail discounts, shuttle bus routes and schedules, and local public transportation information are always helpful. Suggesting cultural and recreational activities outside the convention center walls also helps attendees enjoy their entire trip.”

Derek Britton, Marketing manager, Travel Technology Group