Monday, February 17, 2014

Hotels focusing on runners

This CNBC article discusses the trend of hotels catering to runners for big events like marathons.   I typically travel for races and know that hotels can impact race logistics.  The night before a race is full of mental and physical preparation activities which are made more difficult when you are not in your normal environment.   I try to find hotels close to the runners village to have access to transportation drop offs and hopefully local restaurants.

I was lucky enough to stay at the Pentagon City Ritz Carlton before the 2013 Marine Corps Marathon.  The Ritz did a great job welcoming runners with a supportive welcome note and a gift back of water and sport bars.  The hospitality team did a great job preparing runners in the morning with oatmeal and other breakfast options.   Upon returning from the race the staff offered supportive and honest congratulatory remarks about the race.

I hear you all now; "What else do you expect... it is the Ritz!  You will not find that service at the Super 8!".  You are probably right - but it is this type of experience that makes people frequent the Westin and Marriott properties.   I take full advantage of being a business traveler to use rewards program for my race weekend travels. 

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