Outrigger Laguna Phuket Resort and Villas and O-CE-N Bali by Outrigger have introduced room booking widgets to their Facebook sites. "Outrigger is leading the way in converting the buzz about social media into bookings and rewarding holiday experiences," said Pieter van der Hoeven, Director of Sales & Marketing for Outrigger in Asia. "It is logical that conversations on a hotel's Facebook wall should be supported by a user-friendly booking device."

The widget allows guests to receive instant confirmation for their preferred visit dates. Staff at the resorts are also able to answer any questions about the destination or special requests through the Facebook wall.

The booking feature allows would-be guests to save and compare information for different hotels so that they can make the correct choice when they are ready to book.

Outrigger's Facebook booking feature became available for its Phuket and Bali resorts on 3 June.

"We want to make it a seamless step from social media engagement to joining us for a real holiday," said van der Hoeven. "And yes, we have free wireless internet throughout our properties in Asia. Guests can continue to interact through Facebook while enjoying their vacation with us."