Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai goes wireless

"The competition never stands still, a few years ago so long as you had internet access you were ahead of the game, now a days, it's whether it is free or not. At Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai we've gone a step further. We offer complimentary broadband connectivity in the guest rooms and now also offer wireless connectivity in our ballrooms, meeting rooms, business centre, boardrooms, almost all public areas including the lobby and even at the outdoor swimming pool, free of charge," said Sharon Garrett, director of communications, Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai.

According to Garrett, this is presenting its own new challenges.

"Once upon a time, it was sunglasses, hats and books that were left behind. Now it's the laptop and laptop accessories. More and more guests are coming out of their rooms and are attacking that congested email inbox while soaking up the sun poolside. This is the beauty of the electronic age, you can communicate online in a professional manner and no one needs to know you're in sunny Dubai, sipping a fruit juice smoothie, attired in the latest swimwear," she said.

Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai has partnered with 3com (which was founded in 1979) for their wireless solutions.