Wyndham Offers Loyal Guests Complimentary Calls, Copying and Internet Access

Wyndham International today announced it would offer frequent travelers free unlimited local and long distance telephone calls, high-speed Internet access and copying and faxing capabilities, in lieu of receiving points redeemable for future stays.

Effective today, current members of Wyndham's frequent guest ByRequest program already are eligible to receive the new perks, but other travelers must register for ByRequest membership and stay at a Wyndham property by Sept. 30 to be eligible.

Chain officials said immediate perks during a traveler's stay are more effective in attracting new customers and building loyalty than points toward future stays. CEO Fred Kleisner said an internal survey showed that nine of 10 guests consider free long distance and local calls important, and the cost of long distance calls are the most frequent complaint by travelers to the front desk.