Information Services offered through the Hotel Web sites. A Comparative study between Cyprous and Greece

Abstract

Information provided through the hotels web sites can serve as a means for improving marketing and eCommerce for tourism companies. The article uses a conceptual framework which categorizes a wide range of offered information services into seven categories: Facilities information, Customer contact information, Reservation-price information, Surrounding area information, Management of the website, Company information and Communication. Also the property of interactivity is taken into account for the study of each category. A case study of hotels in Cyprus and Greece reveals differences in types of information services provided through the hotel web sites between these countries. Greek hotels mainly provide general and contact information while Cypriot hotels lead in providing reservation and area information services. Hotel class and chain membership have an effect on the volume of offered information in both countries but to different degrees.