Connected guests
Today, 95% of people use digital resources when organising a holiday, and 74% state ‘Free Wi-Fi’ is a contributing factor when choosing accommodation; hotels that are unable to offer this service are at a huge disadvantage. Fast and reliable broadband access is crucial to any successful business, especially those in the hospitality industry.
The Challenge
Luxury historic hotel, The Lord Milner is situated in the scenic village of Matjiesfontein in the Central Karoo of South Africa. Due to its remote location, it is beyond the reach of terrestrial fibre broadband. The only internet access was available via dial-up which was slow and unreliable, making it difficult for staff and guests to use.
The solution
Avanti’s HYLAS 2 Ka-band satellite, delivers 100% coverage across South Africa meaning any business can connect to high speed broadband. Through the local Internet Service Provider (ISP), Avanti enables The Lord Milner Hotel to receive always on, fast and reliable internet connectivity, which both staff and guests can use.
The results
Satellite broadband connectivity has substantially streamlined The Lord Milner Hotel’s booking system, which is crucial to the business’s success. Guests can now book online easily and quickly. Staff are able to respond to email enquiries, reviews and feedback promptly and efficiently.
Satellite broadband has also helped The Lord Milner Hotel to increase its marketing activities across digital platforms, driving awareness of its historic name. Reliable internet access throughout the hotel allows guests to keep in touch with the outside world, accessing social media, emails and the news.
An increased number of production and film companies now regularly stay at the hotel thanks to its highly reliable internet connectivity.
“Since being connected, satellite broadband has made our life easier as one needs to be in contact with guests as soon as possible as more and more people are making reservations by email and online bookings. Throughout the entire process, from getting the quotation to the installation, we received great help and recommendations. Our big concern was if it would work due to our location, but I am pleased to say that it is all working and running 100%”.
Johann Dippenaar, General Manager, The Lord Milner Hotel