Starting Jan. 1, the Westin will ban smoking in all rooms, restaurants, bars and public areas at its 77 U.S., Canadian and Caribbean properties. Guests can continue to light up on balconies or other outdoor areas.
The policy reflects "a demand from guests for a smoke-free hotel experience," says Sue Brush, Westin senior vice president. "Nobody likes to walk into a smoky guest room -- not even smokers."
Westin says its research indicates that 92 percent of its guests request a non-smoking room.
The ban furthers a nationwide trend among cities, restaurants and bars to go smoke-free.
