SVR offering upgraded internet for $$$

[YYJMSP]

Just got our Spring 2013 newsletters for SVR, and I noticed this:

While basic High Speed Wireless Internet access will continue to be complimentary, a new tiered Internet service is now available, offering more bandwidth at the rate of $9.95 per day/$59.95 per week for Owners and $14.95 per day/ $89.95 for guests. Tiered Internet service allows connectivity for up to four devices.

So (I assume) instead of fixing slow internet speeds for everyone, they may have just decided to offer usable speeds for a premium.

I hope this doesn't become something that spreads to the other properties...

 

[Ken555]

Ironically, today I bought a Clear prepaid wireless access device, which supports multiple devices. I bought this to take to WKORV this month just in case the recent reports of Internet issues are accurate (or worse). Doesn't hurt to be prepared... Anyway, I suspect many are requesting more access for more devices with faster speeds, and this is a real cost to the resort. Charging more for those who use more makes sense to me, but if they charge for a premium service all I can say is that it better be worth it. Most that I've used (at SPG properties) that have a tiered offering aren't really worth the extra. $50/mth for unlimited per month on an as needed basis with just $50 for the device will make my decision quite easy.

 

[gravitar]

If you are SPG Platinum you are entitled to the highest speed offered with one exception.

If there are any value added service that are bundled with the higher speed such as, and connect to our video portal with your device to watch movies, etc., with this high speed service you are entitled to a discount on ppv movies, etc., then you must pay for the bundle.

If the verbiage is, use the higher speed to watch movies, etc. then there is no bundle and you are entitled to this at no up charge.

 

[tschwa2]

Ironically, today I bought a Clear prepaid wireless access device, which supports multiple devices. I bought this to take to WKORV this month just in case the recent reports of Internet issues are accurate (or worse). Doesn't hurt to be prepared... Anyway, I suspect many are requesting more access for more devices with faster speeds, and this is a real cost to the resort. Charging more for those who use more makes sense to me, but if they charge for a premium service all I can say is that it better be worth it. Most that I've used (at SPG properties) that have a tiered offering aren't really worth the extra. $50/mth for unlimited per month on an as needed basis with just $50 for the device will make my decision quite easy.

Let us know how you like it. I have been thinking about getting a Clear device/prepaid service too.

 

[YYJMSP]

If you are SPG Platinum you are entitled to the highest speed offered with one exception..

That only applies to hotel stays, not timeshare stays...

 

[Ken555]

Let us know how you like it. I have been thinking about getting a Clear device/prepaid service too.

I know others who are quite happy with it. I won't enable it until/unless I need the service, but I'm going to make it part of my standard travel package from now on (at least when in the USA).

 

[SMHarman]

So (I assume) instead of fixing slow internet speeds for everyone, they may have just decided to offer usable speeds for a premium.

I'd be curious to see how the technology behind this works. I imagine somewhere along the way they will be throttling / QoS enhancing certain IP addresses.

All users / IP addresses will still be accessing the same WiFi and of course that is often a congestion point, to many devices sharing the same radio spectrum in the first instance. In some units many have commented on the success of setting up their own WiFi using the wired connection and a portable router for higher speeds indicating that it is not the bandwith to the buildings that is the problem but the number of devices polling facebook, gmail etc all the time that is sucking the life out of the internet connection there. That would not be fixed by any QoS type fix at the router.

 

[sjsharkie]

I can't speak for SVR, but I can say at most SPG properties (and I've stayed at quite a few), the upgraded internet tier is not worth it. The pipe is only so big, and the speeds are such that you can't rely on it for watching video. It works sometimes, but you can't be sure until you get to the property and try it for yourself.

For business users, the regular tier should be adequate. Or I could always tether to my phone if it was too slow.

In other words, YMMV by property, time of use, etc.

-ryan