The new site is fully branded, resulting in a consistent format throughout. The site emphasizes Best Western's global presence while providing complete information, including full-color photos, easy access to local attractions and convenient real-time reservations for each of the more than 3,800 properties throughout the world.

According to the results of the online focus group, the top two features desired in a Web site were make it easy and fast to find rates and make it easy to find desired information. That is exactly what one will find at Best Western's Web site. The new site lists the most popular programs and makes it quicker to obtain pertinent information. Customers are able to make instant online reservations with a confirmation and retrieve and amend reservations as necessary.

"The rate guessing game is over. Users making online reservations at bestwestern.com have access to the same rates and availability that we provide our own reservation agents," notes Wayne Wielgus, vice president of Worldwide Sales and Marketing.

Another benefit of the site is that each Best Western hotel has a marketable Web address with a consistent naming convention. This allows consumers to input bestwestern.com/hotel name. Even if the complete name of the hotel is not entered, a selection of hotels with the key word will appear on the screen.

Once a location is determined, the useful site will provide updated weather forecasts, a currency converter and a list of area attractions, including an expanded search that lists local businesses with detailed driving instructions and a locator map.

Guests visiting the site can also register to receive e-mail notices on special promotions and packages. Specific property packages, promotions and meeting room pages will be added throughout the first quarter of 1999 and be a regular feature on bestwestern.com.

Real-time reservations capabilities are being provided by Dallas-based Pegasus Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: PEGS).

Best Western International is a membership association of independently owned and operated hotels. it is the world's largest lodging brand with more than 3,800 properties in 78 countries and territories.