Introduction

Today’s ever-expanding global economy has made travel the number one industry, boasting a customer base that is wealthier and more technologically savvy than ever. How can a hotel owner compete for the attention of this growing crowd? A look at the latest trends in hospitality reveals what’s hot – the convenience of technology and a more relaxed use of space. The latest word? Like everywhere else – wireless. Cell phones, laptops, PalmPilots – most of us would be lost without them. For business travelers in particular, access to e-mail and corporate networks is crucial. Generally, this connection is provided through dial-up access, but improvements in virtual private networks are changing that. This book fulfills the long felt necessity of a text dealing with concepts of this subject. It can also prove to be a worthy companion and guide for the students, users and researchers.