Best Western International is the world’s largest hotel chain with more than 4,200 hotels in more than 80 countries. In 1946 Merrill K. Guertin began an informal link with other out of state properties, to recommend each other to travelers. By 1962 there were 670 properties in 25 states and Canada. In 1976 Best Western went international with agreements with 411 properties in Australia and New Zealand. In 1978 expansion into European began with hotels in the UK and Ireland. Today there are over 4,100 properties in over 80 countries worldwide, making Best Western the largest hotel chain around the globe. In January 2005, the relationship with Ireland underwent a change with the move from an affiliate run organization to a direct relationship with Best Western International. Best Western currently includes 45 hotels in Belgium in key locations including Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Liege, Mons, Hasselt, the coastal area, the Ardennes, near airports etc.... The hotels are predominantly 3 and 4 star properties, strong in conference and leisure markets. | 
