Worldhotels has launched new 'Recession Buster' initiatives to guide affiliate hotels through the economic crisis.

The initiatives follow hot-on-the-heels of the latest 'dynamic pricing' programme, Global Corporate Select (GCS), a special corporate rate programme designed exclusively for the group’s global key accounts, with Worldhotels guaranteeing a rate five per cent better than the best available rate (BAR) for contracted as well as non-contracted destinations, said an official spokesman.

“With this first revolutionary measure, we entered the realm of corporate dynamic pricing on a global level” said Worldhotels’ vice-president Asia Pacific Roland Jegge.

"The next wave of 'recession buster' initiatives continues to help our affiliate hotels counter the current economic challenges."

Worldhotels’ successful annual global campaign 'Smart Savings, Unique Stays', with superb discounted offers and breakfast included for stays of at least two nights, will be extended for another five months from December to 5 May 2009.

‘Escape’, ‘Suite Dreams’ and ‘Love-is-all packages’, valid until April 14, 2009, are packed with added value ranging from room upgrades to wine, three-course dinners and more.

With the 'Suite Dreams' package, bookings of two consecutive nights over a weekend earn an upgrade to a suite or deluxe room and VIP treatment including a bottle of wine, fruit-basket, local give-away, late check out and in-room breakfast.

The romantic 'Love-is-all' package for couples staying one night includes a three-course dinner and bottle of wine, with such VIP extras as fruit-basket, chocolate treat and a bottle of sparkling wine.

Partner promotions with credit cards and airlines meanwhile allow guests to stretch their dollars, with bonuses ranging from upgrades to breakfast. American Express card members can collect extra Membership Rewards points and guests travelling with SIA presenting a SIA boarding pass or PPS Club membership card on check in receive complimentary breakfast and upgrade to the next highest room category subject to availability.

This joint promotion with Singapore Airlines (SIA) Boarding Pass Privileges Programme  (BPP) and PPS Club, was set up exclusively for all Worldhotels properties in the Asia Pacific and extends from January 2009 to March 31, 2010.

MICE Incentives meanwhile include Amazon vouchers for booking weddings and family reunions, while incentives for booking agents include attractive prizes such as flights and hotel stays.

This MICE promotion applies for all events held between December 2008 and May 5, 2009 at any of the Worldhotels affiliated properties around the globe.

With 500 outstanding hotels in 300 destinations, across 70 countries, Worldhotels is the most established Europe-based global marketing and distribution network for independent hotels and regional hotel brands, with a strong emphasis on properties with character and distinction. 

Worldhotels was recently voted 'Best Independent Hospitality Organisation' in the TravelWeekly (Asia) 2008 Awards. – TradeArabia News Service