I’m proud to announce that I’m adding a new feature to the blog: interviews! Each month, I’ll be interviewing the people and places that will help us to travel smart.
After I recently read about a hotel in Napa Valley, CA that combines two of my favorite things, wine and dogs, I decided to reach out to them and connected with Dan Bock, Director of Sales and Marketing for the Westin Verasa.
NH: Many people hate to leave their dogs at home, so tell me what the Westin Verasa does to include our favorite four-legged friends?
DB: Being a dog owner myself I understand how difficult it is leaving man’s best friend behind when I go on vacation. My yellow lab, Kula, loves going on trips and working for a brand that embraces the dog friendly atmosphere, is great. Our property here in Napa has put together a fun itinerary that includes dog friendly wineries and places that locals take their dog. When a guest arrives at any Westin branded hotels they will have the Westin Heavenly Dog bed with duvets by Eloise Pet Accessories and doggie bowls for water and food. Some properties go the extra mile and have a welcome kit for the dogs that include treats and other fun items.
NH: Why is it important for your hotel, and Westin (generally), to be pet-friendly?
DB: It is a strategy of the Westin brand to be pet-friendly. It appeals to many guests and makes for a fun atmosphere in the lobby on a busy weekend when you get several guest checking in with their dogs. The pet-friendly policy also attracts a dedicated following. According to a study of 400 dog owners commissioned by Westin’s parent company Starwood, 76 percent said they would be more loyal to a hotel chain that accepted dogs, even when they weren’t traveling with their pet.
NH: What is unique about your pet program?
DB: Where else in the world can you wine taste with your four-legged friend?
NH: What should travelers know about bringing pets to Napa?
DB: Winters can be wet and summers can be warm so bring plenty of water for you and your dog.
NH: Can you share an insider tip on traveling to Napa?
DB: Just found out that Alpha Omega winery on Hwy 29 (15 minutes from the Westin) is dog-friendly and they might even have a treat for your dog on your next trip to their winery.
The Westin is located just two blocks from Downtown Napa and next door to the Oxbow Public Market, with plenty of café patios from which to take in the scenery. To make trip planning easy for our four-legged friends they put together a list of favorite dog friendly wineries – dog friendly favorites. To plan your next trip to the Westin Verasa Napa, please visit hotels.com.
