When these guests return to the hotel, their television greets them by name. A computer system consults a customer data file and heats or cools the guest room to that person's favorite temperature. The most popular phone numbers that were used during your last visit are downloaded into the hotel's phone. Your favorite music and TV channel preferences are also downloaded to the remote.

The smart systems "knows" whether you like the drapes open or closed. It even has housekeeping stock your favorite snacks and beverages in the minibar, monitors consumption, and alerts the maid when the inventory needs replenishment.

Talk about your personalized service ... sheesh ...

For the full text of this story, read the International Herald Tribune Business on-line at:

http://www.iht.com/articles/2005/11/15/business/hotel.php